Digital Pathology Scanning Interface with Configurable Settings

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Solution Overview

Problem

The manual examination of biological samples in histopathology and cytopathology is cumbersome and time-consuming, limiting efficiency and accuracy in diagnosis and treatment decisions.

Innovation Solution

A digital pathology scanning system that allows users to select and modify configurable scanning settings dynamically, providing real-time image data and scanning operation status, enabling the acquisition of high-resolution images that meet specific criteria for pathologist preferences or assay requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual examination of biological samples is performed, then pathologists can visually locate and confirm cells of interest, but the process is cumbersome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic accuracyVSAvoidexamination time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical examination under microscopes with automated digital imaging systems. The slide scanning device captures digital images of biological samples, and computer algorithms automatically analyze these images to identify cells of interest, eliminating the need for manual visual inspection while maintaining diagnostic accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service through automated image analysis algorithms that independently examine digital slides, identify potential abnormal cells, and prioritize regions for further review. This automation allows the system to perform preliminary analysis without continuous human intervention, significantly reducing examination time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If high-resolution digital images are obtained using specialized imaging hardware, then image quality improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage resolutionVSAvoidscanning system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The slide scanning device is designed as a multi-functional system that combines automated slide loading, digital image capture, image processing, and analysis capabilities in a single integrated platform. This universal device replaces multiple separate instruments (microscopes, cameras, computers, analysis software) that would otherwise be needed to achieve the same functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If digital pathology scanning is implemented, then productivity and efficiency increase, but the initial system setup and operation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescanning speedVSAvoidsystem operation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the computer algorithm analyzes digital images, identifies cells of interest, and automatically adjusts scanning parameters or prioritizes regions for detailed examination. This feedback loop enables the system to adapt to different sample types and diagnostic requirements without requiring manual reconfiguration, simplifying operation while maintaining high productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11656446B2Digital pathology scanning interface and workflow
Publication Date: 2023.05.23 VENTANA MEDICAL SYSTEMS INC
  • US11656446B2 patent drawing
  • US11656446B2 patent drawing
  • US11656446B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed herein is a method of acquiring a high-resolution scan of a biological sample disposed on a substrate with a scanning device, the method comprising: receiving, on a graphical user interface, a first user input corresponding to user configurable scanning settings; receiving, on a graphical user interface, a second user input to initiate scanning based on the received series of user inputs corresponding to user configurable scanning settings; and displaying, on the graphical user interface, a visualization of one or more placeholders populated with one or more of scanning operation status information, image data, and at least a portion of the user configurable scanning settings.