OCT En-face Image Depth Range Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In optical coherence tomography (OCT) image processing, generating en-face images for follow-up observations is complicated due to the need to specify identical depth ranges across multiple inspections, which can be time-consuming and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus that acquires information on layer boundaries in tomographic structures, determines a depth range for current en-face images based on past en-face image data, and generates en-face images using data within this determined range from three-dimensional data, facilitating efficient comparison and follow-up observations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the depth range is manually specified for each inspection to generate en-face images, then the accuracy of follow-up observation is improved, but the operation time and labor intensity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically determining the depth range for the current inspection based on the depth range from the past inspection. The determination unit retrieves the previously specified depth range and applies it to the current three-dimensional data, eliminating the need for manual re-specification and significantly reducing operation time while maintaining accuracy consistency
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses copying by replicating the depth range specification from the past inspection to the current inspection. The determination unit copies the depth range parameters (such as retinal layer boundaries) from previous data and applies them to generate the current en-face image, ensuring consistent depth ranges across inspections without requiring manual intervention
2Measurement precision
If the depth range is manually specified for each inspection to generate en-face images, then the accuracy of follow-up observation is improved, but the operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by enabling the determination unit to automatically determine the depth range without user intervention. The system retrieves past depth range information, applies it to current three-dimensional data, and generates en-face images autonomously, making the operation simple and intuitive while maintaining high accuracy through automatic depth range consistency
Solution Approach 2:
The preliminary determination of depth range based on past inspection data eliminates the need for complex manual specification procedures. The system has already established the depth range parameters from previous inspections, and these pre-determined parameters are automatically applied to current data, significantly reducing operation complexity
3Stability of the object's composition
If the same depth range is specified across multiple inspections for comparison, then the consistency of follow-up observation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The determination unit copies the depth range specification from past inspection data and applies it to current three-dimensional data. This copying mechanism ensures that the same depth range (such as between the same retinal layers) is used across multiple inspections, maintaining consistency for accurate follow-up observation while keeping the processing logic simple and straightforward
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 accurate and efficient generation of en-face images, enhancing the accuracy of follow-up observations by ensuring consistent depth ranges across inspections, thereby simplifying the comparison process.
Implementation Method 1
light is radiated onto an object to cause interference between reflected light, which returns from different depths of the object depending on wavelengths of the radiated light, and reference light
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an image processing apparatus, including: an acquisition unit configured to acquire information on a layer boundary in tomographic structure of a current subject to be inspected; a determination unit configured to determine a depth range relating to a current en-face image of the subject to be inspected based on information indicating a depth range relating to a past en-face image of the subject to be inspected and the information on the layer boundary; and a generation unit configured to generate the current en-face image through use of data within the depth range relating to the current en-face image among pieces of three-dimensional data acquired for the current subject to be inspected.