Mixed-Density OCT Imaging Volume Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical coherence tomography (OCT) systems face challenges in acquiring high-resolution images quickly due to the need to balance resolution with rapid acquisition, often resulting in undersampled images that are not optimal for capturing dynamic biological processes without artifacts.
Innovation Solution
The method involves scanning a defined volume at both low-density and high-density sampling rates to generate a mixed-density image set, combining low-density frames with high-density frames to create a complete image set that enhances resolution while minimizing acquisition time, using a data processing system to register and average high-density frames for improved signal-to-noise ratio.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high-density sampling is used throughout the entire volume, then image resolution is improved, but acquisition time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging volume is segmented into different regions with different sampling densities. The patent applies low-density sampling to the majority of the volume while applying high-density sampling only to specific regions of interest, thereby reducing overall acquisition time while maintaining high resolution where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the imaging volume are assigned different sampling densities based on local requirements. The patent implements variable sampling density throughout the volume, with high density in specific regions and low density in others, optimizing the balance between resolution and acquisition time.
2Productivity
If low-density sampling is used to reduce acquisition time, then imaging speed is improved, but image resolution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging volume is divided into regions that are scanned at different densities. The patent uses low-density sampling for rapid imaging of the entire volume while reserving high-density sampling for specific regions where detailed resolution is critical, thus maintaining both speed and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of uniformly applying high-density sampling throughout the entire volume, the patent applies high-density sampling partially only to specific regions of interest. This partial application of excessive sampling (high density) achieves the required resolution where needed without the time penalty across the entire volume.
3Stability of the object's composition
If uniform sampling density is used, then data consistency is maintained, but flexibility to capture dynamic processes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic sampling density adjustment during the imaging process. The sampling density is not fixed but can be adjusted in real-time based on the imaging requirements, allowing the system to adapt to dynamic biological processes while maintaining data consistency through proper registration and alignment.
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 allows for the acquisition of high-resolution images in a shorter time frame, reducing artifacts associated with motion and ensuring measurements are taken from the same location, thereby improving diagnostic efficacy and research quality.
Implementation Method 1
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a technique for imaging into samples, such as tissue, glass and the like
Implementation Method 2
In FD-OCT, the imaging depth may be determined by Fourier transform relationships between the acquired spectrum
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems and computer program products are provided for acquiring an image set using optical coherence tomography (OCT). A first portion of a defined volume is scanned at a low-density sampling rate to obtain a plurality of low-density frames. A second portion of the defined volume is scanned at a high-density sampling rate, higher than the low-density sampling rate, to obtain at least one high-density frame. The low-density frames and the at least one high-density frame are combined to provide a complete mixed-density image set.