OCT Embryo Image Processing via Spherical Coordinate Transformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing embryo culture using three-dimensional images from OCT imaging lack effective methods for presenting and calculating quantitative indices, relying on subjective visual inspection and not fully utilizing the information from tomographic images.
Innovation Solution
An image processing method that converts three-dimensional data from OCT imaging into spherical coordinates, allowing the intensity distribution of signal light to be represented as a two-dimensional map using deflection angles, facilitating the visualization and assessment of the embryo's internal configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If three-dimensional images from OCT imaging are used for embryo assessment, then the internal configuration information is improved, but the ease of operation and information presentation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms three-dimensional OCT image data into a two-dimensional radial intensity distribution map. This dimensionality reduction projects the 3D spatial information onto a 2D plane where the radial direction represents distance from the embryo center and the angular direction represents viewing angle, making the internal configuration easily visible without requiring complex 3D navigation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the three-dimensional embryo data into multiple radial sections emanating from the center. Each radial line represents a profile through the embryo at a specific angle, and these segmented profiles are collectively displayed to show the complete internal structure. This segmentation allows systematic analysis of different regions while presenting manageable 2D information
2Loss of information
If multiple images from various directions are displayed to show internal configuration, then the information completeness is improved, but the device complexity and time to analyze is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple radial profiles from different directions into a single integrated two-dimensional map. The angular dimension of the map naturally organizes multiple viewing directions, combining what would otherwise be separate images into one comprehensive visualization that shows internal configuration from all angles simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the coordinate system parameters from Cartesian (x, y, z) to spherical coordinates (radius, theta, phi), where the two deflection angles theta and phi become the axes of the 2D map. This parameter transformation simplifies the representation of radially symmetric structures and enables efficient processing of rotational data
3Ease of operation
If subjective visual inspection is used for embryo assessment, then the ease of operation is improved, but the measurement precision and objectivity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/subjective process of visual inspection with an automated computational system. The computer automatically processes OCT data, performs coordinate transformations, generates radial intensity maps, and enables quantitative analysis, eliminating subjective bias while maintaining operational simplicity through automated generation of visual aids
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computer-generated two-dimensional radial intensity distribution map as an intermediary between the raw OCT data and the assessor's judgment. This intermediary visualization objectively represents the internal configuration and provides a standardized format for assessment, reducing subjectivity while keeping the assessment process accessible
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 method provides a clear and objective means to assess the embryo's internal configuration, enhancing the ability to evaluate the culture conditions and success rate of fertility treatments by presenting information in a user-friendly format.
Implementation Method 1
acquiring original signal data indicating an intensity distribution of signal light from each position in three-dimensional space including a cultured embryo obtained by optical coherence tomography imaging
Data Source
AI summary
A technique capable of providing a user with information obtained by OCT imaging in a useful way, particularly for assisting in assessment of an embryo effectively. The image processing method includes acquiring original signal data indicating an intensity distribution of signal light from each position in three-dimensional space including a cultured embryo obtained by optical coherence tomography imaging, generating spherical coordinate data based on the original signal data, the spherical coordinate data indicating a relationship between each position in the three-dimensional space represented using spherical coordinates having an origin set inside the embryo and the intensity of the signal light from the position, and outputting the intensity distribution of the signal light as a two-dimensional map based on the spherical coordinate data using two deflection angles of the spherical coordinates as coordinate axes.