Depth-Enhanced AR Overlay for Surgical Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional augmented reality systems for surgical guidance face challenges in providing accurate depth perception during surgical procedures, relying on ad-hoc approaches that are not comprehensive enough for optical guidance and photorealistic rendering.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that generates an overlay image of anatomical structures using depth enhancement algorithms, blending it with real-time background images to enhance depth perception, incorporating techniques like color tinting, opacity modulation, and ray tracing for photorealistic rendering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional ad-hoc approaches are used for depth perception, then implementation simplicity is maintained, but depth perception accuracy and photorealistic rendering quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the rendering process into distinct components: generating overlay images from pre-operative data, capturing real-time background images during surgery, and blending these layers with depth enhancement. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while achieving overall photorealistic depth perception.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces depth enhancement algorithms that add a perceived depth dimension to the 2D overlay and background images. By modulating opacity and applying color tinting based on depth information, the system creates a multi-layered visual effect that simulates three-dimensional depth without requiring actual 3D displays.
2Measurement precision
If advanced depth enhancement techniques are implemented, then depth perception accuracy improves, but computational complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary processing of pre-operative imaging data to generate overlay images before the surgical procedure begins. This allows computationally intensive operations like 3D reconstruction and segmentation to be completed in advance, reducing real-time processing requirements during surgery.
Solution Approach 2:
The depth enhancement algorithms apply different processing intensities to different regions of the image. Areas requiring precise depth perception (such as near the surgical site) receive more sophisticated enhancement, while peripheral areas use simpler processing, optimizing the balance between accuracy and computational load.
3Manufacturing precision
If simple overlay visualization is used, then system complexity is reduced, but photorealistic rendering quality and depth information accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies color tinting to the overlay and background images based on depth information. Structures at different depths are rendered with varying color intensities and hues, providing both photorealistic quality and enhanced depth perception. This color modulation is integrated into the blending process without requiring separate visualization systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The final visual output is a composite of multiple image layers (overlay and background) blended together with depth-enhanced opacity modulation. This composite approach combines different data sources and processing techniques to achieve photorealistic rendering while maintaining system modularity and manageability.
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, the invention is related to a computer-implemented method for providing optical guidance during a surgical procedure. The method comprises a step receiving data indicative of an anatomical structure in relation to a surgical procedure. The method further comprises a step of generating an overlay image (306) of the anatomical structure from the received data. The method further comprises a step of determining a background structure (302) serving as a background for the generated overlay image (306) of the anatomical structure. The method further comprises a step of blending the generated overlay image (306) of the anatomical structure by means of a depth enhancement algorithm relative to the determined background structure (302) . The method still further comprises a step of overlaying the blended image (306) of the anatomical structure on the determined (S108) background structure (302).