Optic Nerve Head Shape Classification Using Adaptive Image Quality Assessment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for classifying optic nerve head shapes in glaucoma diagnosis are subjective and lack precision due to variability in fundus image quality, making automation challenging and inaccurate.

Innovation Solution

An ophthalmic information processing system that utilizes morphological data from eye fundus images and background data, employing machine learning techniques such as neural networks, gradient boosting decision trees, support vector machines, and Bayes classifiers to automate optic nerve head shape classification with improved accuracy and precision.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If fundus images are used for optic nerve head shape classification, then the classification can be performed, but the image quality is greatly affected by photographing conditions making quantification difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequantification of optic nerve head shape parametersVSAvoidimage quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary processing system that includes image quality assessment and adaptive parameter selection. The system evaluates photographing conditions and selects or adjusts classification parameters accordingly, acting as a mediator between the variable image quality and the classification process. This allows reliable classification even when image quality varies due to different photographing conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If only fundus images are used for classification, then the processing is simple, but the classification accuracy and precision are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclassification accuracyVSAvoidprocessing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the classification process into multiple independent modules: image quality assessment module, parameter selection module, classification execution module, and result interpretation module. Each module handles a specific aspect of the classification task, allowing the system to incorporate multiple data sources (fundus images, OCT data, patient history) without creating a monolithic complex system. This modular approach improves accuracy while managing complexity through clear separation of functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Measurement precision

If all available ophthalmic information is considered for classification, then the classification accuracy may improve, but the processing becomes complicated and requires enormous resources

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveclassification accuracyVSAvoidprocessing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically changes parameters based on image quality assessment and clinical context. Instead of always processing all available ophthalmic information, the system adjusts the set of parameters to be processed based on the assessed quality of input data and the specific clinical scenario. This selective parameter processing maintains high classification accuracy when needed while improving processing efficiency by avoiding unnecessary computation when certain parameters are not critical or when image quality is insufficient.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10765316B2Ophthalmic information processing system, ophthalmic information processing method, and recording medium
Publication Date: 2020.09.08 RIKEN CO LTD
  • US10765316B2 patent drawing
  • US10765316B2 patent drawing
  • US10765316B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An ophthalmic information processing system according to an embodiment includes a receiver and a processor. The receiver receives morphological data of an eye fundus of a subject. In addition, the receiver receives background data of the subject. The processor executes optic nerve head shape classification based on the morphological data and the background data received by the receiver.