GPU Classification Tree Evaluation for Real-Time Tissue Characterization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tissue characterization methods using IVUS or OCT systems are inefficient for real-time classification of tissue types due to the time-consuming evaluation of classification trees, which hampers timely diagnosis and treatment in medical procedures.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a parallel algorithm on GPU architectures, specifically using CUDA for virtual histology processing, which optimizes the evaluation of classification trees by parallelizing the evaluation of each node in the tree for a single sample and reducing the resulting path through the tree in parallel, thereby improving runtime performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If classification trees are evaluated using traditional sequential methods, then classification accuracy is maintained, but processing time increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclassification processing speedVSAvoidtime spent waiting for classification evaluation
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the classification tree evaluation process by dividing the tree into multiple levels and evaluating different branches in parallel. Each processing unit evaluates a specific subset of nodes simultaneously, transforming the sequential evaluation into a parallel process that reduces total processing time while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a new dimension of parallel processing by mapping classification tree nodes to multiple processing units that operate simultaneously. This dimensional transformation from sequential to parallel execution enables significant speedup in classification evaluation without sacrificing accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If classification trees are evaluated in real-time for video processing, then timely response is achieved, but computational resources are overstrained

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereal-time classification throughputVSAvoidcomputational resource requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the computational workload by distributing tree evaluation across multiple processing units, each handling a subset of nodes. This segmentation reduces the computational burden on any single unit while maintaining real-time processing capability through parallel execution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs partial evaluation by having processing units evaluate only the necessary portions of the classification tree based on previous decisions. This partial action approach optimizes resource utilization by avoiding unnecessary evaluation of all tree branches while ensuring timely responses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Speed

If data decomposition methods are used for parallel processing, then processing speed improves, but processor idle time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparallel processing speedVSAvoidprocessor idle time
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamic task assignment where processing units actively select available nodes for evaluation based on current workload distribution. This dynamic approach prevents processor idle time by continuously assigning new tasks as completed units become available, optimizing both speed and resource utilization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent ensures continuous useful action by implementing a work-stealing mechanism where processing units continuously evaluate available nodes without idle periods. The system maintains continuous progress through parallel evaluation while minimizing idle time through proactive task assignment and completion handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS8923631B2Method and device for classifying vascular objects using classification trees evaluated on a graphics processing unit
Publication Date: 2014.12.30 PHILIPS IMAGE GUIDED THERAPY CORP
  • US8923631B2 patent drawing
  • US8923631B2 patent drawing
  • US8923631B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and devices for optimizing classification tree evaluation for online and real-time characterization of tissue by using GPUs are disclosed that give a significant improvement in run time compared to data decomposition. The methods and devices use a parallel algorithm designed for single instruction, multiple data (SIMD) architectures commonly found in GPUs. Various optimizations and their effects are also disclosed.