Medical Image Processor Alternating Fluorescence Display

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing medical image processing systems face complexity in superimposing fluorescence images onto visible light images, requiring complicated processing.

Innovation Solution

A medical image processing apparatus that receives and processes first and second image data captured at different times using different wavelength bands, generating and displaying these images in chronological order according to a preset pattern, allowing for simple perception of visible light and fluorescence images.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separately processed fluorescence image is superimposed on visible light image, then both images can be displayed together, but processing becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage display capabilityVSAvoidprocessing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the image display into separate time slots, displaying fluorescence images and visible light images alternately in chronological order rather than superimposing them. This temporal segmentation simplifies processing while maintaining the ability to display both image types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements periodic alternating display of fluorescence images and visible light images based on a preset display pattern. This periodic action allows both image types to be displayed without complex superposition processing, resolving the contradiction between display versatility and processing simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Device complexity

If images are displayed alternately in chronological order, then processing is simplified, but image perception may be affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing simplicityVSAvoidimage perception
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses periodic alternating display with a preset display pattern that rhythmically presents fluorescence and visible light images. This periodic action maintains processing simplicity while the rhythmic display pattern helps preserve image perception effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent ensures continuous display of medical images by alternating between fluorescence and visible light images in chronological order. This continuous action prevents perception gaps while maintaining simple processing, as the display never pauses between image types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

Enables the simple and effective perception of visible light and fluorescence images by alternately displaying them, reducing processing complexity and enhancing image perception.

Implementation Method 1

a first imaging unit that captures an optical image in an excitation light band

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical imaging: Photography

Implementation Method 2

a fluorescence image that illustrates a specific portion acquired by capturing an optical image in an excitation light band

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluorescence: Fluorescence

Data Source

PatentUS11582427B2Medical image processing apparatus and medical observation system
Publication Date: 2023.02.14 SONY OLYMPUS MEDICAL SOLUTIONS
  • US11582427B2 patent drawing
  • US11582427B2 patent drawing
  • US11582427B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A medical image processing apparatus includes an image processor configured to: receive a plurality of first image data captured at different times and generated by illumination of light in a first wavelength band in sequence; receive a plurality of second image data captured at different times and generated by illumination of light in a second wavelength band different from the first wavelength band in sequence; generate first and second images based on the received first and second image data, respectively; and output the generated first image and second image to a display in chronological order of the first and second images and in accordance with a preset display pattern of the first and second images.