Ultrasound Tomographic Image Scaling Correction in IVUS-OCT Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
In imaging apparatuses combining IVUS and OCT functions, errors in ultrasound tomographic image scaling occur due to varying ultrasound propagation velocities of different flushing liquids, affecting the accuracy of the images generated.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes acquisition means for determining ultrasound propagation velocities in different media within the lumen, generation means for creating ultrasound line data based on reflection signal strengths, and conversion means to adjust positional information using the ratio of predetermined and acquired velocities, allowing for the construction of accurate tomographic images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If flushing is performed with different flushing liquids, then the imaging process can be completed, but errors in the scale of the ultrasound tomographic image occur due to different propagation velocities of ultrasounds in different flushing liquids
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by detecting the propagation velocity of ultrasounds in the flushing liquid and using this detected parameter to correct the scale of the ultrasound tomographic image. The image processing unit changes the scaling parameter based on the ratio between the detected propagation velocity and the predetermined propagation velocity, thereby resolving the scale error caused by different flushing liquids
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the detected propagation velocity of ultrasounds in the flushing liquid to adjust and correct the image scale. The detection result feeds back to the image processing unit, which then modifies the tomographic image scaling accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that compensates for variations in flushing liquid properties
2Device complexity
If a fixed propagation velocity is used for image construction, then the imaging process is simple, but errors occur when the actual propagation velocity differs due to different flushing liquids
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting the propagation velocity of ultrasounds in the flushing liquid and using this information to correct its own image output. The imaging apparatus self-adjusts its scaling parameters based on the detected medium properties, eliminating the need for external calibration or manual intervention
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
This approach reduces errors in the scaling of ultrasound tomographic images by accounting for the specific propagation velocities of different flushing liquids, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of the imaging process.
Implementation Method 1
there is a need to perform flushing for replacing blood in a blood vessel by using a flushing liquid. Therefore, in a case of an imaging apparatus for diagnosis in which a function of IVUS and a function of OCT are combined together, ultrasounds output from an ultrasound transmitting and receiving unit are transmitted toward a flushing liquid (not blood). There are various types of flushing liquids, and each of the flushing liquids has a propagation velocity of ultrasounds, which are different from one another.
Implementation Method 2
an optical coherent tomography apparatus for diagnosis (OCT: optical coherence tomography), which are different from one another in characteristics
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging apparatus is disclosed for diagnosis including a plurality of transmitting and receiving units, an error of a scale of a tomographic image to be generated is reduced. The imaging apparatus includes a transmitting and receiving unit comprising a first transmitting and receiving unit configured to perform transmission and reception of an ultrasound signal and a second transmitting and receiving unit configured to perform transmission and reception of an optical signal when rotating in the lumen of the measurement subject body; and a processor configured to: convert positional information of each position outside the range in which the flushing liquid flows regarding the ultrasound line data generated by the processor based on a ratio between the ultrasound propagation velocity in the flushing liquid and the ultrasound propagation velocity in the blood vessel; and construct the first tomographic image using the ultrasound line data which is converted by the processor.