3D Serial Section Reconstruction Using Automated Image Registration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods do not provide an automated way to visualize serial sections of tissue blocks, requiring users to mentally overlay multiple images for visualization.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a slide scanner, image sensor, stage, processor, and memory that automates the creation of three-dimensional (3D) stack views by aligning and registering serial slide section images using feature extraction algorithms, allowing for the generation and display of 3D representations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual overlay of multiple images is used for visualization, then users can visualize tissue blocks, but the process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic image registration and 3D reconstruction without requiring manual user intervention. The processor automatically aligns serial section images using feature extraction algorithms, and the system self-generates 3D stack views, eliminating the need for users to manually overlay multiple images.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of overlaying images with an automated computational system. The processor uses feature extraction algorithms to automatically register and align images, substituting human manual operations with automated image processing and computational geometry methods.
2Productivity
If automated feature extraction and registration is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processor is designed to perform multiple functions: feature extraction, image registration, alignment transformation, and 3D reconstruction. This multi-functional approach consolidates what could be separate complex systems into a single integrated processing unit, improving productivity while managing device complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces intermediate processing steps including feature extraction algorithms and alignment transformations as mediators between the input serial section images and the final 3D stack view. These intermediaries break down the complex task into manageable computational stages, enabling automation without requiring an overly complex monolithic system.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus an method for generating three-dimensional representations of serial sections, wherein the method includes creating a plurality of slide images using a slide scanner, the slide scanner comprising an image sensor and a stage, receiving, using at least a processor, the plurality of slide images from the slide scanner, extracting, using the at least a processor, a plurality of features from the plurality of serial slide section images using a feature extraction algorithm, registering, using the at least a processor, the plurality of serial slide section images as a function of the plurality of feature, generating, using the at least a processor, a three-dimensional (3D) stack view, wherein the 3D stack view comprises the plurality of serial slide section images, and displaying the 3D stack view through a display device.