3D Pathology Sample Imaging System for Automated Registration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for handling and analyzing biopsy samples in pathology labs are prone to errors regarding sample origin and expose staff to infectious or poisonous materials, and lack efficient automation for sample treatment and examination.
Innovation Solution
A sample imaging system that generates a 3D model of samples using sensors and data processing to automate sample treatment, registration, and examination, allowing for accurate estimation of sample features without physical intrusion, and includes a slice imaging system for generating cross-sectional views.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual handling and examination of biopsy samples is performed, then staff can directly observe and process samples, but errors regarding sample origin occur and staff are exposed to infectious or poisonous materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital 3D copy of the physical biopsy sample through optical scanning and image processing. This digital replica allows pathologists to examine sample features, measure dimensions, and perform analysis without physically handling the original sample, thereby eliminating exposure to infectious materials while maintaining examination accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling of samples with an automated optical imaging system. The system uses cameras, light sources, and computer processing to capture and analyze sample characteristics, substituting the mechanical interaction between staff and samples with a non-contact optical measurement system.
2Productivity
If manual sample processing is performed, then staff can handle samples directly, but the process is time-consuming and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated system where the imaging device automatically captures images, processes data, generates 3D models, and provides measurements without requiring manual intervention at each step. The system performs self-measurement and self-analysis functions that would otherwise require skilled staff time and attention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides immediate digital feedback about sample characteristics, including automated measurements of sample dimensions, volume calculations, and visual representation of sample features. This instant feedback loop eliminates delays associated with manual measurement and reduces errors by providing objective, repeatable data.
3Measurement precision
If physical measurement of sample features is performed, then direct observation is possible, but sample intrusion and damage may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital 3D replica of the sample that preserves all external features, dimensions, and visual characteristics without requiring physical contact with the original sample. This digital copy allows for repeated measurement and analysis while the original sample remains undisturbed and intact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary system that captures sample features through light reflection and image processing. Instead of directly touching and measuring the sample with physical tools, the system uses light as an intermediary to transfer information about sample dimensions and features to the digital domain.
4Extent of automation
If traditional sample registration processes are used, then samples can be logged in the laboratory information system, but the process is manual and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system automatically generates and transmits sample registration data to the laboratory information system without requiring manual data entry. The system self-extracts relevant sample information from images and automatically populates registration fields, eliminating human intervention in the data transfer process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the sample imaging function with the sample registration function into an integrated workflow. The same optical system that captures sample images also extracts and processes registration data, combining two previously separate processes into a unified automated system.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and a method for generating a combined 3D model (95) of a sample comprising a sample imaging system (1) configured to generate a first 3D model (25) of the sample, a slice imaging system (2) configured to generate a second 3D model (615) of the sample, and a combiner engine (90) configured to generate a combined 3D model (95) based on the first 3D model and the second 3D model of the sample.