Quasiperiodic Grid Image Correction for Microscopy Registration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image correction methods for geometric distortions and registration of multiple images are cumbersome and inefficient, particularly in microscopy applications, as they often require complex test patterns and are time-consuming, especially when dealing with varying magnifications and multiple spectral bands or cameras.

Innovation Solution

The use of a quasiperiodic lattice pattern of dots, which allows for accurate geometric transformation and alignment of images by determining the expected positions of dots within the pattern, enabling correction of distortions and registration across different magnifications and camera views using a single pattern.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a periodic lattice pattern is used for image registration and correction, then the grid density can be maintained, but registration errors by a grid period may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveregistration accuracyVSAvoidregistration error avoidance
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry by using a quasiperiodic lattice pattern instead of a periodic lattice. The quasiperiodic pattern lacks translational symmetry, which eliminates the ambiguity of period-based registration errors while maintaining sufficient dot density for accurate geometric transformation and image correction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Adaptability or versatility

If a single test pattern is used for multiple magnifications, then the correction process is simplified, but the pattern must work across varying scales

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-magnification compatibilityVSAvoidpattern recognition accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements universality by designing a quasiperiodic lattice pattern that functions across multiple magnifications. The pattern's self-similar structure and scale-invariant properties allow it to serve as a reliable reference for geometric correction at different magnification levels without requiring separate test patterns.

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

3Measurement precision

If complex test patterns are used for image correction, then correction accuracy may improve, but the process becomes tedious and time consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecorrection accuracyVSAvoidcorrection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a simplified dot pattern copy that can be easily imaged and processed. Instead of complex test patterns requiring manual analysis, the quasiperiodic dot pattern enables automated detection and geometric transformation calculation, significantly reducing correction time while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple cameras are used to capture different spectral bands, then comprehensive sample imaging is achieved, but the images may be in bias with respect to each other

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-camera imaging capabilityVSAvoidinter-camera alignment accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a quasiperiodic lattice pattern as an intermediary reference that all cameras image simultaneously. This common reference frame serves as a mediator to establish accurate geometric relationships between multiple camera views, enabling precise registration and elimination of inter-camera bias.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3373239B1Method and system for image correction using a quasiperiodic grid
Publication Date: 2019.07.24 PERKINELMER CELLULAR TECH GERMANY GMBH
  • EP3373239B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3373239B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3373239B1 patent drawingFigure 3A

AI summary

Described herein is a method for adjusting one or more images of a sample to correct geometric distortions and/or to properly align the one or more images using a pattern of dots, e.g., a quasiperiodic grid.