Multi-Stage Pathological Image Model for Annotation Efficiency

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Solution Overview

Problem

The labor-intensive and time-consuming process of annotating pathological images for machine learning training data hinders the improvement of diagnostic accuracy in medical imaging.

Innovation Solution

A determination support device employing a multi-stage trained model that facilitates the derivation of diagnostic estimation results by annotating and training on pathological images, utilizing a hierarchical structure and stepwise training approach to enhance annotation efficiency and accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a large amount of training data is used to improve machine learning accuracy, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but the labor and time required for annotation increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic accuracyVSAvoidannotation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The annotation process is segmented into multiple stages with progressively finer granularity. First, rough annotation is performed at a coarse level to cover large areas quickly, then detailed annotation is performed on specific regions of interest. This segmentation allows annotators to efficiently create training data at multiple levels of detail, reducing overall annotation time while maintaining sufficient accuracy for machine learning training.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Manufacturing precision

If detailed annotation is performed to improve training data quality, then machine learning accuracy is improved, but the complexity and time of the annotation process increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining data qualityVSAvoidannotation process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The annotation process is divided into multiple stages with different levels of detail. Rough annotation covers entire regions at a coarse level, while detailed annotation focuses only on specific regions of interest at a fine level. This staged approach reduces annotation complexity by breaking down the task into manageable segments that can be performed systematically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different levels of annotation detail are applied to different regions of the pathological image based on their importance. High-priority regions receive detailed annotation with fine granularity, while low-priority regions receive rough annotation at a coarser level. This local quality approach ensures training data quality where it matters most while reducing overall annotation complexity and time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS20230259816A1Determination support device, information processing device, and training method
Publication Date: 2023.08.17 SONY GROUP CORP
  • US20230259816A1 patent drawing
  • US20230259816A1 patent drawing
  • US20230259816A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Making it possible to improve accuracy of machine learning. A determination support device includes: a derivation unit (100) that derives an estimation result of determination on a first pathological image obtained by imaging a biological sample, the derivation being performed using a multi-stage trained model in which class classification can be set in each stage.