OCT Analysis Region Alignment Across Variable Scanning Ranges

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Solution Overview

Problem

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) systems face challenges in comparing imaging results due to differences in scanning ranges over time, making it difficult to follow-up on changes in the subject eye effectively.

Innovation Solution

An ophthalmologic information analysis apparatus and program that acquires and analyzes OCT data from different scanning ranges, allowing for the specification and display of analysis regions in a comparable manner, regardless of the scanning range differences, enabling efficient follow-up observation of the subject eye.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If the scanning range is widened to capture more of the subject eye, then the coverage area is improved, but the comparability with past imaging data is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescanning rangeVSAvoidcomparability of imaging results
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the OCT data into multiple analysis regions (e.g., macula, optic disc, peripapillary region) and processes each region independently. This segmentation allows the system to maintain comparability within each region while accommodating different scanning ranges across time points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary processing layer that includes image registration, region matching, and data normalization algorithms. This intermediary layer acts as a mediator between the raw OCT data with different scanning ranges and the final analysis, enabling accurate comparison despite variations in scanning parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If the scanning range is unified to maintain comparability, then the comparability of imaging results is improved, but the coverage area is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomparability of imaging resultsVSAvoidscanning range
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the imaging data into multiple analysis regions and processes each region with appropriate scanning parameters. This allows the system to maintain comparability within each region while preserving the benefits of wider scanning ranges when available.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic adjustment of analysis parameters based on the actual scanning range of each OCT dataset. The system adapts its processing methods to match the specific characteristics of each time point's data, enabling both comparability and comprehensive coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If different scanning ranges are used for different time points, then the adaptability to different examination needs is improved, but the difficulty of comparing imaging results is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in scanning range selectionVSAvoidcomparison of imaging results
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces intermediary processing algorithms including image registration and region matching that automatically align different scanning ranges. This intermediary layer handles the complexity of comparison, allowing the system to maintain adaptability while reducing the difficulty of result comparison.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms that automatically adjust analysis parameters based on the scanning characteristics of each OCT dataset. This feedback loop enables the system to adapt to different scanning ranges while maintaining consistent and easy comparison through automated parameter optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11992265B2Ophthalmologic information analysis apparatus and ophthalmologic information analysis program
Publication Date: 2024.05.28 NIDEK CO LTD
  • US11992265B2 patent drawing
  • US11992265B2 patent drawing
  • US11992265B2 patent drawing

AI summary

There are provided an ophthalmologic information analysis apparatus and an ophthalmologic information analysis program capable of efficiently performing follow-up observation of a subject eye. There is provided: a central processing unit configured to: acquire first analysis data obtained by analyzing an analysis region of the subject eye in first OCT data including the analysis region; acquire second OCT data captured on a day different from that of the first OCT data; perform an analysis comprising: specifying the analysis region corresponding to the first analysis data from the second OCT data; and acquiring second analysis data obtained by analyzing the analysis region in the second OCT data; and control a display to display the first analysis data and the second analysis data in a comparable manner.