Anterior Segment OCT Scleral Spur Positioning Automation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional anterior segment three-dimensional image processing apparatuses require significant time and effort from operators to identify scleral spur positions in multiple two-dimensional tomographic images, making them inefficient for clinical use in angle analysis using optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Innovation Solution

An apparatus and method that automate the identification of scleral spur positions by specifying at least three positions in representative images, calculating a reference true circle, and adjusting spatial coordinates, allowing for automatic identification of positions in other images, reducing the need for manual input and increasing processing efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the operator manually inputs scleral spur positions in each two-dimensional tomographic image, then the accuracy of angle analysis is maintained, but the time required for processing increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of scleral spur position identificationVSAvoidtime required to create ITC charts
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary automatic identification of scleral spur positions using image processing algorithms. By pre-processing the images to detect and mark candidate positions, the system reduces the manual workload while maintaining accuracy through subsequent verification steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service by automatically identifying scleral spur positions without requiring operator intervention in each image. The image processing apparatus autonomously analyzes the tomographic images, detects anatomical features, and generates ITC charts, making the system self-sufficient for routine processing tasks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If the operator manually identifies scleral spur positions in multiple images, then processing accuracy is maintained, but the complexity of the operation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of angle analysisVSAvoidease of creating ITC charts
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically identifying scleral spur positions and generating ITC charts without requiring complex manual operations. The image processing algorithms handle feature detection, position identification, and chart generation autonomously, simplifying the operator's role to oversight and verification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces manual mechanical operations with automated image processing mechanisms. Instead of requiring operators to visually inspect and manually mark positions in multiple images, the system uses computational algorithms to detect anatomical features and generate results, substituting human effort with automated processing.

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

3Productivity

If automatic identification methods are used to reduce manual input, then processing time is reduced, but the precision of scleral spur position identification may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing speed of ITC chart creationVSAvoidaccuracy of scleral spur position identification
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the automatic identification results are verified and refined. The image processing apparatus uses iterative algorithms that compare detected positions with expected anatomical patterns, providing feedback to correct errors and improve accuracy while maintaining high processing speed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses advanced image processing mechanisms including edge detection, feature matching, and pattern recognition algorithms to automatically identify scleral spur positions with high precision. These computational mechanisms replace manual identification while maintaining or exceeding the accuracy of human operators through consistent algorithmic application.

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

Data Source

PatentEP2865324B1Anterior segment three-dimensional image processing apparatus, and anterior segment three-dimensional image processing method
Publication Date: 2016.06.15 TOMEY CORP
  • EP2865324B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2865324B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2865324B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3B

AI summary

A processing apparatus is provided that receives and processes an anterior segment three-dimensional image of a subject's eye. The apparatus includes a first SS position specifying unit that accepts identification of at least three SS positions indicating a spatial coordinate position of a scleral spur (SS) of the subject's eye, using at least two representative images from among two-dimensional tomographic images constituting the three-dimensional image, a true circle calculating unit that calculates a reference true circle passing through the at least three SS positions, and a second SS position specifying unit that identifies the SS positions in non-representative images other than the representative images, based on the reference true circle.