Colonoscopy Lesion Detection Using Condition-Specific AI Models

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing endoscopic examination systems struggle to accurately detect lesions in the large intestine, particularly when inflammation is present, as they do not adequately consider the varying conditions of the intestine.

Innovation Solution

An endoscopic examination support apparatus equipped with machine learning models to detect lesions in both inflammation and non-inflammation states of the large intestine, allowing for switching between different lesion detectors based on the intestine's condition, and outputting detection results accordingly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a single machine learning model is used for lesion detection, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates when inflammation is present in the large intestine

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelesion detection accuracyVSAvoiddetection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The detection system is segmented into multiple specialized machine learning models: a first model trained on normal large intestine images and a second model trained on inflamed large intestine images. Each model is responsible for detecting lesions in specific intestinal conditions, thereby improving detection accuracy for each segment while managing overall system complexity through modular architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different detection models are applied based on the local condition of the large intestine. The system dynamically selects or switches between the first model (for normal conditions) and the second model (for inflamed conditions) according to the specific intestinal state being examined, ensuring optimal detection quality for each local condition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple machine learning models are used for different intestinal conditions, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection adaptability to intestinal conditionsVSAvoiddetection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements dynamic model selection and switching capability, allowing it to adaptively choose between the first and second machine learning models based on the real-time condition of the large intestine. This dynamic adaptation enables the system to handle varying intestinal conditions (normal, inflamed, or mixed states) while maintaining a manageable complexity level through automated selection logic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The detection system achieves multi-functionality by incorporating multiple machine learning models that can handle different intestinal conditions within a single unified system. The system can detect lesions in normal intestines, inflamed intestines, or switch between modes based on the detected condition, providing universal applicability across various examination scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If lesion detection does not consider the intestinal state, then the ease of operation is improved, but the measurement precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelesion detection accuracyVSAvoiddetection process simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically detecting the intestinal condition and selecting the appropriate machine learning model without requiring manual intervention from the operator. The automated condition assessment and model selection process maintains high detection accuracy while preserving ease of operation, as the system handles the complexity internally without burdening the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the detection process continuously monitors intestinal conditions and adjusts the selected model accordingly. This feedback loop ensures that the most appropriate detection algorithm is applied based on the current intestinal state, maintaining high precision while keeping the operation simple through automated adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12599284B2Endoscopic examination support apparatus, endoscopic examination support method, and recording medium
Publication Date: 2026.04.14 NEC CORP
  • US12599284B2 patent drawing
  • US12599284B2 patent drawing
  • US12599284B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In the endoscopic examination support apparatus, the image acquisition means acquires an endoscopic image taken by an endoscope. The first lesion detection means detects a lesion candidate from the endoscopic image, using a machine learning model that learned a relationship between the lesion candidate and a normal state of a large intestine. The second lesion detection means detects a lesion candidate from the endoscopic image, using a machine learning model that learned a relationship between the lesion candidate and a predetermined state of the large intestine. The output means outputs at least one of a detection result of the first lesion detection means and a detection result of the second lesion detection means.