Medical Image Processing Apparatus Simplifies Data Retrieval

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional medical image processing systems require complex search formulas and dedicated operation means for retrieving medical data, making it difficult to extract desired data efficiently, especially when dealing with large amounts of medical information.

Innovation Solution

A medical image processing apparatus that uses a graphical user interface (GUI) for inputting retrieval conditions through simple operations, such as drag operations on a display, to generate retrieval keys based on attributes data, allowing for the retrieval of medical data from a database without the need for complex search formulas.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If retrieval conditions are input as character strings using a keyboard, then the system can store and manage large amounts of medical data, but it requires operators to accurately input complex search formulas and learn system-specific methods in advance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveamount of medical dataVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a list box as an intermediary component between the operator and the database retrieval system. Instead of directly inputting complex search formulas, operators interact with pre-defined retrieval condition templates displayed in the list box, selecting and modifying them through simple operations. This intermediary layer translates user-friendly selections into formal search queries, resolving the contradiction between handling large data volumes and maintaining operational simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates copyable templates of retrieval conditions that can be selected and reused. Operators can copy existing retrieval condition patterns from the list box and modify them as needed, rather than constructing new complex search formulas from scratch. This copying mechanism reduces the learning curve and operational complexity while maintaining the ability to query large amounts of medical data.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Ease of operation

If a dedicated operation means for inputting retrieval conditions is displayed on the screen, then operators can designate retrieval conditions through simple operations, but it requires a wide screen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation simplicityVSAvoidscreen area
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the retrieval condition input interface into a compact list box component that can be displayed in a limited screen area. Rather than spreading out multiple dedicated operation means across a wide screen, the retrieval conditions are organized into a condensed, scrollable list that fits within standard display dimensions. This segmentation allows simple operations to be performed without requiring excessive screen real estate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes the vertical dimension of the display by implementing a scrollable list box that can accommodate multiple retrieval conditions vertically. This allows the interface to pack more functionality into a compact horizontal space, effectively trading horizontal screen area for vertical utilization. Operators can access numerous retrieval conditions through vertical scrolling without needing a wide screen.

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

3Measurement precision

If complex search formulas are required for data retrieval, then precise data extraction is possible, but it increases the difficulty of operation and reduces productivity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata extraction precisionVSAvoiddata retrieval efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary action by pre-defining and storing retrieval condition templates in the list box before the operator needs to query the database. These templates encapsulate complex search logic that has already been analyzed and optimized. When operators need to retrieve data, they simply select from these pre-prepared templates rather than constructing complex formulas in real-time, thereby maintaining extraction precision while dramatically improving retrieval efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides self-service by automatically generating and managing retrieval condition templates based on the database structure and common query patterns. The list box is automatically populated with relevant retrieval conditions, and the system handles the translation from user selections to formal search queries. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for operators to manually construct complex search formulas, maintaining precision through automated template generation while boosting productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8941682B2Medical image processing apparatus and information retrieval apparatus
Publication Date: 2015.01.27 TOSHIBA MEDICAL SYST CORP
  • US8941682B2 patent drawing
  • US8941682B2 patent drawing
  • US8941682B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The retrieval of medical data from a database through easy operations without displaying components for retrieval operations on a display screen is realized. The present invention is a medical image processing apparatus comprising a data memory, a display, a position-designating part, a data-list-display controller, and a keyword-generating part. The data memory stores medical data associated with attributes data including patient identification information. The position-designating part designates a position on the display. The data-list-display controller causes the display to display a data list presenting the attributes data in a list. The keyword-generating part generates a retrieval key based on the attributes data in the data list corresponding to the position designated by the position-designating part. Moreover, the data-list-display controller updates the data list based on the results retrieved by the retrieval key.