Image Analysis Device Startup Function Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image analysis devices face increased startup loads and times due to the growing number of analysis functions, even though not all functions are used in every medical examination.

Innovation Solution

An image analysis device with a control unit that determines which analysis functions to start based on the analysis results from a preset function and predefined conditions, allowing only necessary functions to be started, either in the background or fully, depending on the request.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If all analysis functions are started up when the image analysis device is initialized, then the device can handle any examination type, but the startup load increases and startup time becomes long

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapability to handle any examination typeVSAvoidstartup time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary classification of the examination type using examination information (modality, body part, imaging conditions) before starting up analysis functions. This preliminary action allows the system to pre-determine which analysis functions are needed, avoiding the need to start all functions and then select among them, thereby reducing startup time while maintaining full adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system applies different startup configurations based on local examination characteristics. Instead of a uniform approach where all functions are started regardless of examination type, the system tailors the startup behavior to each specific examination type (e.g., cardiac CT vs. abdominal CT), starting only the relevant analysis functions for each local context.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Adaptability or versatility

If all analysis functions are started up, then the device can process any examination, but the processing load increases unnecessarily

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapability to process any examinationVSAvoidprocessing load

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies partial action by starting up only the necessary analysis functions corresponding to the specific examination type rather than all available functions. The classification unit determines the minimum required set of analysis functions based on examination information, avoiding excessive resource consumption while maintaining sufficient processing capability for the given examination.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Reliability

If the system waits for full user input before starting analysis functions, then all necessary functions can be identified, but the responsiveness and efficiency are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of function selectionVSAvoidanalysis efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary classification and determination of necessary analysis functions using available examination information before the user completes all input. This preliminary action provides an initial accurate configuration that can be refined later, ensuring both high reliability in function selection and improved productivity by not waiting for complete user input.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12315123B2Image analysis device, analysis function decision method, and analysis function decision program

Publication Date: 2025.05.27 FUJIFILM CORP

AI summary

The image analysis device includes an analysis unit that analyzes input image data using a preset analysis function, and a control unit that, in a case in which a start-up request is received from an exterior, determines an analysis function to be a start-up target among plural analysis functions based on an analysis result obtained by the preset analysis function and a preset condition, and performs control to start-up the determined analysis function.