3D Medical Image Volume Rendering Shape Fidelity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional volume rendering methods fail to maintain the shape of aspect images when synthesizing them with functional images, resulting in pseudo three-dimensional images that are dependent on the shape of the functional image rather than the aspect image.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional image processing method and apparatus that generates mapping images representing subject properties and aspect images, with opacity-based volume rendering to match positions within the mapping and aspect images, ensuring pseudo three-dimensional images are faithful to the shapes of aspect images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If volume rendering is executed by synthesizing aspect images and functional images, then functional information is mapped onto the subject, but the shape of the aspect image cannot be maintained and the generated image depends on the shape of the functional image
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the aspect image data and functional image data into distinct datasets, processing them independently before combining. The aspect image voxel data set and functional image voxel data set are kept separate, allowing the aspect image shape to be preserved while functional information is overlaid, preventing shape distortion that would occur if the datasets were merged prematurely.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary process of generating both aspect images and functional images from separate voxel data sets, then combining them through volume rendering. This intermediary approach allows the system to maintain the geometric integrity of the aspect image while incorporating functional information, solving the contradiction between preserving shape and mapping functional data.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional volume rendering synthesizes aspect images and functional images, then functional mapping is achieved, but the resulting image shape depends on the functional image rather than the aspect image
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the imaging process into separate aspect image generation and functional image generation stages, each using its own voxel data set. This segmentation ensures that the aspect image maintains its original shape characteristics while the functional image provides adaptable functional information mapping, resolving the conflict between shape fidelity and functional adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different quality characteristics to different parts of the imaging system: the aspect image voxel data set preserves geometric accuracy and shape fidelity, while the functional image voxel data set provides functional information adaptability. This local quality differentiation allows each data set to excel at its intended purpose without compromising the other.
Data Source
AI summary
A pseudo three dimensional image is generated, based on an aspect image and a mapping image generated from an original three dimensional image, using a volume rendering method. A mapping image that represents the functions of a subject is generated using first voxel data that constitute an original three dimensional medical image of the subject. An aspect image is generated using second voxel data that constitute an original three dimensional medical image of the subject. A position matching means causes positions within a heart represented by the mapping image to correspond to positions within a heart represented by the aspect image. An image generating means executes volume rendering based on degrees of opacity within the mapping image, to generate the pseudo three dimensional image.