Fundus Observation Apparatus Automated OCT Scan Location Setting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current eye fundus examination methods require cumbersome post-processing to match fluorescent images with OCT images for identifying abnormal sites, and setting measurement locations based on examination results other than fluorescent imaging is also labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A fundus observation apparatus that displays distribution information of examination results, allows movie imaging of the eye fundus, and uses a scanner to form tomographic images, with an analyzer to specify lesion candidate sites and control the scanner for precise OCT measurements based on selected scan patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fluorescent imaging and OCT imaging are performed separately and then manually matched, then comprehensive diagnosis can be achieved, but the post-processing work becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines fluorescent imaging and OCT imaging into a single integrated apparatus, allowing both imaging modes to be performed sequentially without requiring separate devices. The imaging unit switches between fluorescent imaging mode and OCT imaging mode, enabling comprehensive diagnosis while eliminating the need for manual matching of images from separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an image generation unit that automatically generates position-matched fluorescent images and OCT images based on corresponding position information. This intermediary processing automatically aligns the images from both imaging modes, eliminating the need for manual matching while maintaining diagnostic accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If measurement locations are set manually based on examination results, then precise measurement can be achieved, but the setting process becomes labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated measurement location setting function where the image generation unit automatically determines measurement locations based on examination result images. The system analyzes the fluorescent image, identifies abnormal regions, and automatically sets the measurement locations for OCT imaging without requiring manual intervention, thereby maintaining precision while reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary analysis of the fluorescent image to identify abnormal sites and predetermined measurement locations before OCT imaging is executed. The image generation unit generates position information indicating these predetermined locations, allowing the measurement to be performed accurately without requiring manual setting during the actual measurement process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive fundus examination is performed with multiple imaging modes, then diagnostic capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a single imaging unit that can perform multiple imaging functions by switching between fluorescent imaging mode and OCT imaging mode. The same imaging unit uses different light sources and detection methods to achieve both imaging types, reducing the need for completely separate imaging systems while maintaining comprehensive diagnostic capability.
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
Facilitates easy setting of measurement locations for OCT based on examination results, reducing user effort and improving the accuracy of identifying abnormal sites by automating the matching and specification process.
Implementation Method 1
an optical system for generating and detecting interference light by superposing signal light returned from the eye fundus on reference light
Data Source
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AI summary
Technology that enables users to easily set measurement location for OCT based on examination result is provided. A display of a fundus observation apparatus displays distribution information of examination results of an eye fundus acquired by examination carried out in the past. An imaging part carries out movie imaging of the eye fundus. A tomographic image forming part comprises an optical system that generates and detects interference light by superposing signal light returned from the eye fundus on reference light and a scanner that scans the eye fundus with the signal light, and forms a tomographic image of the eye fundus based on the detection results of the interference light acquired by the scanning. A setting part sets a scan-target location of the signal light on the distribution information displayed on the display. A specifying part specifies an image region in a fundus image obtained by the movie imaging that corresponds to the scan-target location. A controller controls the scanner based on the specified image region to carry out the scanning of the signal light. The tomographic image forming part forms a tomographic image from the detection results of the interference light acquired by the scanning of the signal light based on the control.