Enhanced Functional OCT Data Processing

The present inventive concept relates to an enhanced system and method for processing functional OCT image data, providing improved accuracy and efficiency in generating indications of retinal responses to light stimuli.

The original patent, 'Functional OCT Data Processing,' addressed the need for processing functional OCT image data to generate indications of retinal responses to light stimuli. However, the patent's limitations included the use of simple correlation calculations, which may not accurately capture the complex relationships between the OCT image data and stimulus indicators. The present inventive concept solves this problem by introducing advanced correlation calculation methods, such as machine learning algorithms, Fourier transforms, multi-scale approaches, and sparse representation, to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the processing system.

The enhanced system comprises a receiver module to receive OCT image data and stimulus data, a correlation calculator module to calculate a rolling window correlation between the OCT image data and stimulus data using one of the advanced methods, and a response indicator module to generate an indication of a response of the retina to the light stimulus based on the calculated correlation. The correlation calculator module can be configured to use a machine learning algorithm to learn patterns in the OCT image data and stimulus indicators, a Fourier transform to analyze the frequency components of the data, a multi-scale approach to capture correlations at different scales, or a sparse representation of the OCT image data to reduce computational complexity.

The present inventive concept introduces a novel approach to processing functional OCT image data by incorporating advanced correlation calculation methods, which provide improved accuracy and efficiency compared to the original patent's simple correlation calculations. The inventive step lies in the application of these advanced methods to the specific problem of processing functional OCT image data, resulting in a system and method that is better, faster, safer, or more efficient.

Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept may include the use of other advanced correlation calculation methods, such as wavelet transforms or neural networks, or the integration of additional data sources, such as electroretinography (ERG) data, to further enhance the accuracy of the system. Variations of the system may also include the use of different types of OCT imaging devices or the application of the system to other medical imaging modalities.

The enhanced system and method for processing functional OCT image data have significant commercial potential in the medical imaging industry, particularly in the diagnosis and monitoring of retinal diseases. The system's improved accuracy and efficiency make it an attractive solution for ophthalmologists, optometrists, and medical researchers, and its potential applications extend to other medical imaging modalities, such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).