OCT Dispersion Correction via Parallel Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing OCT systems face sub-optimal dispersion correction, particularly during dynamic changes in the optical medium of the sample, such as during surgical procedures involving gas and fluid exchanges, leading to blurring in images.
Innovation Solution
A processing system that dynamically adapts dispersion coefficients in real-time by performing an optimization process in parallel with image processing, using separate computing units to continually update coefficients based on the latest scan data, ensuring optimal dispersion correction without the need for separate calibration or stopping the acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fixed dispersion correction is used in OCT systems, then initial image quality is acceptable, but image quality deteriorates during dynamic changes in the optical medium (e.g., surgical procedures with gas and fluid exchanges)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptation of dispersion coefficients by continuously optimizing them based on current scan data during the imaging process. Instead of using fixed pre-determined coefficients, the system dynamically adjusts the dispersion correction parameters to match changing optical conditions in real-time, resolving the contradiction between initial image quality and adaptability to dynamic conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where the optimization process uses current scan data to evaluate and adjust dispersion coefficients. The image quality metric serves as feedback to guide the optimization of dispersion parameters, allowing the system to automatically adapt to changing optical conditions while maintaining image quality throughout the imaging process.
2Measurement precision
If separate calibration procedures are performed to optimize dispersion correction, then dispersion correction accuracy is improved, but imaging time is increased due to stopping acquisition for calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous optimization of dispersion coefficients during the imaging process without interrupting the acquisition of scan data. The optimization process operates concurrently with data acquisition, allowing the system to maintain both high dispersion correction accuracy and continuous imaging, thereby eliminating the time loss associated with separate calibration procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary optimization of dispersion coefficients using initial scan data, then continues to refine these coefficients throughout the imaging process. This preliminary action establishes a baseline correction that is subsequently improved in real-time, allowing accurate dispersion correction to be achieved without stopping the imaging acquisition.
3Reliability
If real-time optimization of dispersion coefficients is performed, then image quality is maintained during dynamic conditions, but computational load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a balanced optimization approach where the system performs sufficient optimization iterations to maintain image quality without over-optimizing. By using a metric-based stopping criterion, the system performs just enough computational work to achieve and maintain acceptable image quality, avoiding excessive computational energy consumption while still providing real-time adaptation to dynamic conditions.
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 real-time, high-quality imaging by continuously updating dispersion coefficients, effectively compensating for changes in the optical medium, thereby reducing image blurring and maintaining image clarity during dynamic conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Optical coherence tomography is based on low-coherence interferometry, typically employing near-infrared light
Implementation Method 2
These differences cause an effect known as dispersion where the speed of different wavelengths depends upon the index of refraction of the medium
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a processing system for use with optical coherence tomography imaging means for imaging a subject, the processing system being configured to repeatedly perform an image processing process (300), comprising the following steps: receiving (312) a scan data set from the subject (190) being acquired by means of optical coherence tomography, performing (314) data processing on the scan data set, including applying (316) dispersion correction based on a current set (370) of dispersion coefficients, and providing (318) a dispersion corrected image data set of the subject for an image of the subject to be displayed; and the processing system further being configured to repeatedly perform a dispersion coefficient adapting process (340), at least in part, in parallel to the image processing process (300), comprising the following steps: receiving (342) a scan data set from the subject being acquired by means of optical coherence tomography, adapting (344) dispersion coefficients by means of an optimization process (346) performed on the scan data set, and providing (348) a set (372) of adapted dispersion coefficients to be used to update the current set (370) of dispersion coefficients; and the processing system further being configured to update (350) the current set (370) of dispersion coefficients based on the set (372) of adapted dispersion coefficients, to an optical coherence tomography imaging system and a corresponding method.