Eye Imaging Scan Trajectory for Motion-Stable 3D Retinal Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional eye imaging systems face challenges due to eye movement and fluid movement during examination, leading to errors in data combination and reduced image quality.
Innovation Solution
A scanning apparatus and method that employs a scanning trajectory with closed-loop b-scan paths, continuous movement in both x and y directions, and controlled inter-scan time, allowing for high sampling density and reduced inter-scan time, independent field of view, and motion correction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional scanning trajectory is used to cover larger area, then field of view is increased, but image quality deteriorates due to eye movement and fluid movement during examination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static raster scanning pattern to a dynamic spiral scanning trajectory. The scanner continuously moves along a spiral path from the peripheral region toward the central region of the retina, allowing the scanning spot to adapt its position dynamically during each scan. This dynamic approach enables the system to maintain a large field of view while reducing the impact of eye movement and fluid movement on image quality, as the spiral trajectory allows for better temporal distribution of scans across different retinal regions.
2Area of stationary object
If scanning spot moves sequentially through multiple regions, then field of view is increased, but scanning time increases and inter-scan time cannot be controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining the spiral scanning trajectory that starts from the peripheral region and progresses toward the central region. This predetermined path allows the system to optimize the scanning sequence, performing scans in an efficient order that minimizes total scanning time. The spiral trajectory enables the scanner to cover the entire field of view systematically while controlling inter-scan time, as each spiral scan naturally progresses through regions in a time-efficient manner, allowing for better temporal control compared to conventional raster scanning.
3Loss of information
If conventional raster scanning is used, then data coverage is complete, but computational complexity increases and processing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the retinal imaging task into discrete spiral scan segments rather than using a continuous raster scan. Each spiral scan represents a segment of the overall imaging process, where data is collected along concentric circular paths from the periphery toward the center. This segmentation approach simplifies the scanning control logic compared to complex raster patterns, and the segmented spiral scans produce data that is easier to process and register, reducing computational complexity while maintaining complete data coverage of the retinal surface.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides improved image quality by minimizing artifacts, increasing field of view, and enabling quantitative fluid flow analysis, while reducing computational costs and enhancing image stability.
Implementation Method 1
The scanner 1004 illuminates the eye and captures raw image data of the eye... The movement path of scanning spot is called a scanning trajectory. The area of the target object imaged in each scanning spot region is relatively small. Typical image spot size is ~20 μm in ophthalmic imaging. The position of the illuminated spot is scanned by measuring scattered light that covers the imaging target length
Data Source
Figure 1~2A
Figure 2B
Figure 3A
AI summary
A scanning apparatus includes a scanner configured to move a scanning spot along a movement path to capture three-dimensional information of a target object. The movement path includes a plurality of b-scan paths performed along a c-scan path. The scanning apparatus also includes a processing circuit configured as a controller to control the movement path of the scanning spot. An area of the target object covered by the movement path may be independent of a length of the b-scan path. The processing circuit may be configured as an analyzer configured to determine a saturation time for each three-dimensional position within a portion of the target object based on an inter-scan time.