Automated CBCT Parsing Pipeline for Dental Anatomical Localization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) technologies in dental diagnostics are hindered by time consumption and complexity in software usage, requiring specialized training, and existing image interpretation methods are not robust for anatomical localization and condition classification beyond the maxilla and mandible.

Innovation Solution

An automated parsing pipeline system utilizing a V-Net-based fully convolutional neural network for anatomical localization and a DenseNet 3-D convolutional neural network for condition classification, which processes volumetric image data to identify and classify anatomical structures within a defined field of view, employing voxel parsing and pre-processing techniques for accurate localization and classification.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If CBCT technology is used for dental diagnostics, then diagnostic capability is improved, but time consumption and software complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic capabilityVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary automated parsing of CBCT images into anatomical structures before diagnostic interpretation. The voxel parsing engine pre-processes the volumetric data to segment and label anatomical regions, so that when a dentist views the images, the diagnostic work is already partially completed with structures automatically identified and organized, reducing the time needed for manual analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service diagnostics by allowing CBCT images to automatically interpret themselves through the automated parsing pipeline. The voxel-based segmentation and anatomical structure identification occur without human intervention, with the system independently completing the complex task of distinguishing anatomical regions, thereby eliminating the need for extensive specialized training and reducing time consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If CBCT technology is used for dental diagnostics, then diagnostic capability is improved, but software complexity and training requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic capabilityVSAvoidsoftware complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs automated self-parsing of CBCT volumetric data into anatomical structures without requiring operator intervention or specialized knowledge. The voxel parsing engine independently segments the image volume, identifies anatomical boundaries, and classifies structures, allowing any dental professional to utilize advanced CBCT diagnostics regardless of their training level in interpreting complex 3D imaging software.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If automated parsing pipeline is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the complex task of CBCT image interpretation into distinct functional modules: volumetric data reception, voxel parsing, anatomical structure identification, and classification. This modular segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to achieve high diagnostic productivity, making the overall complex system manageable through functional decomposition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10991091B2System and method for an automated parsing pipeline for anatomical localization and condition classification
Publication Date: 2021.04.27 DIAGNOCAT INC
  • US10991091B2 patent drawing
  • US10991091B2 patent drawing
  • US10991091B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An automated parsing pipeline system and method for anatomical localization and condition classification is disclosed. The system comprises an input even source, a memory unit and processor including a volumetric image processor, a voxel parsing engine, localization layer and a detection module. The volumetric image processor is configured to receive volumetric image from the input source and parse the received volumetric image. The voxel parsing engine is configured to assign each voxel a distant anatomical structure. The localization layer is configured to crop a defined anatomical structure with surroundings. The detection module is configured to classify conditions for each defined anatomical structure within the cropped image. The disclosed system and method provide accurate localization of a tooth and detects several common conditions in each tooth.