Fundus Image Vortex Vein Detection and Distribution Center Computation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing technologies lack effective methods for analyzing vortex veins in fundus images, which are crucial for ophthalmic diagnostics.

Innovation Solution

An image processing method and device that detect positions of plural vortex veins in a fundus image and compute the center of their distribution, utilizing a processor and memory to analyze fundus images captured by an ophthalmic device with a wide-angle optical system, enabling detailed imaging of the fundus, including the equatorial portion where vortex veins are present.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional image processing methods are used, then general fundus structures can be visualized, but vortex veins cannot be effectively detected or analyzed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracy of vortex veinsVSAvoiddifficulty of vortex vein detection
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the fundus image processing into distinct functional modules: a vortex vein detection unit that specifically identifies vortex vein positions, and a center computation unit that calculates the distribution center. This segmentation allows specialized processing for vortex veins while maintaining overall system functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary processing step that computes the center of distribution from multiple detected vortex vein positions. This intermediary computation transforms scattered vortex vein detection data into a meaningful diagnostic parameter (the center point), bridging the gap between detection and clinical interpretation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Loss of information

If detailed analysis of vortex veins is implemented, then diagnostic information is enhanced, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation retention of vortex vein characteristicsVSAvoidcomplexity of image processing system
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts only the essential vortex vein position information from the complex fundus image, ignoring unnecessary details. By focusing solely on detecting vortex vein positions and computing their distribution center, the system maintains diagnostic value while avoiding the complexity of comprehensive image analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms the complex spatial distribution of multiple vortex veins into a simplified parameter - the center of distribution. This parameter transformation reduces the complexity of representing vortex vein patterns while preserving the essential diagnostic information about their overall arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12361590B2Image processing method, image processing device, and program
Publication Date: 2025.07.15 NIKON CORP
  • US12361590B2 patent drawing
  • US12361590B2 patent drawing
  • US12361590B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image processing method performed by a processor and including detecting positions of plural vortex veins in a fundus image of an examined eye, and computing a center of distribution of the plural detected vortex vein positions.