Ultrasound Image Centroid Detection and Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current ultrasound imaging technologies face challenges in accurately centering anatomical structures within the image frame, which can lead to reduced image quality and inaccuracies in clinical calculations, particularly when the structure is not positioned centrally.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus with processing circuitry that receives ultrasound images, determines the location of specific points on anatomical structures, such as the centroid or the point farthest from edge points, and displays indicators like symbols or lines to help center the structure within the image frame, using statistical models and algorithms for precise positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If automated algorithms and statistical models are used to determine the location of specific points on anatomical structures, then positioning accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs automated centroid calculation and positioning using algorithms that process ultrasound images independently, without requiring manual intervention. The processing circuitry automatically identifies anatomical structures, calculates centroids, and generates alignment indicators, enabling the system to serve itself in the positioning task.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Manual positioning methods are replaced with automated computational algorithms. The processing circuitry uses statistical models and mathematical algorithms to determine specific points on anatomical structures, substituting the mechanical/manual adjustment process with electronic image processing and automated feedback systems.

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

2Manufacturing precision

If real-time feedback indicators are displayed to guide structure centering, then image quality is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage qualityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system displays real-time alignment indicators (such as alignment lines or markers) on the ultrasound image that provide visual feedback to the operator about the position of the anatomical structure. This feedback loop allows continuous monitoring and adjustment of structure centering, improving image quality through guided positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

Visual indicators serve as an intermediary between the raw ultrasound image and the operator's positioning actions. The alignment indicators translate complex positioning information into simple visual cues that guide the operator in centering the anatomical structure, bridging the gap between image data and user action.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20240386557A1Methods and apparatuses for guiding collection of ultrasound images
Publication Date: 2024.11.21 BFLY OPERATIONS INC
  • US20240386557A1 patent drawing
  • US20240386557A1 patent drawing
  • US20240386557A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Aspects of the technology described herein relate to receiving an ultrasound image, automatically determining a location of a specific point on an anatomical structure depicted in the ultrasound image, and displaying an indicator of the location of the specific point on the anatomical structure on the ultrasound image. In some embodiments, the anatomical structure is a bladder. In some embodiments, the specific point is the centroid. In some embodiments, a statistical model determines the specific point. The indicator may be, for example, a symbol located at the specific point, a horizontal line extending through the specific point from one edge of the anatomical structure to another, and/or a vertical line extending through the specific point from one edge of the anatomical structure to another.