Methods, systems, and apparatuses for managing transducer array placement

Abstract

Methods are described including generating a three-dimensional (3D) model of a portion of a subject's body; determining a plurality of transducer array layouts based on the 3D model and a plurality of simulated electric field distributions; determining one or more sets of transducer array layouts from the plurality of transducer array layouts, where each set of transducer array layouts represents at least two transducer array layouts with non-overlapping positions in a plurality of pairs of positions for transducer array placement, where the at least two transducer array layouts satisfy a criterion; and causing display of the one or more sets of transducer array layouts.

Description

[0001] Cross-referencing of related patent applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 842,674, filed May 3, 2019, and U.S. Application No. 16 / 866,417, filed May 4, 2020, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Background Technology

[0003] Tumor therapeutic fields, or TTFields, are low-intensity (e.g., 1-3 V / cm) alternating electric fields in the mid-frequency range (100-300 kHz). This non-invasive treatment targets solid tumors and is described in U.S. Patent No. 7,565,205, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. TTFields disrupt cell division during mitosis through physical interactions with key molecules. TTFields therapy is an approved monotherapy for recurrent glioblastoma and an approved combination therapy with chemotherapy for newly diagnosed patients. These electric fields are non-invasively sensed by an array of transducers (i.e., an electrode array) placed directly on the patient's scalp. TTFields also appear to be beneficial for treating tumors in other parts of the body.

[0004] The efficacy of TTFields therapy increases with increasing electric field strength. Changing the positioning of the transducer array on the patient's scalp (and / or other parts of the body) affects the electric field strength in the target area. Determining how the positioning of the transducer array can be altered while maintaining the target electric field strength in the target area is a difficult, labor-intensive, and time-consuming process. Summary of the Invention

[0005] A method is described, including generating a three-dimensional (3D) model of a part of a subject's body; determining a plurality of transducer array layouts based on the 3D model and a plurality of simulated electric field distributions; determining one or more sets of transducer array layouts from the plurality of transducer array layouts, wherein each set of transducer array layouts represents at least two transducer array layouts having non-overlapping positions among a plurality of pairs of positions for transducer array placement, wherein the at least two transducer array layouts satisfy criteria; and displaying the one or more sets of transducer array layouts.

[0006] The method also describes methods including generating a three-dimensional (3D) model of a part of a subject's body; determining a plurality of transducer array layouts based on the 3D model and a plurality of simulated electric field distributions; receiving a selection of a first transducer array layout from the plurality of transducer array layouts, wherein the first transducer array layout satisfies a criterion; determining one or more associated transducer array layouts from the plurality of transducer array layouts, wherein each associated transducer array layout includes a transducer array placement location that does not overlap with the transducer array placement location of the first transducer array layout, wherein each associated transducer array layout satisfies a criterion; receiving a selection of a second transducer array layout from the plurality of associated transducer array layouts; and causing the first transducer array layout and the second transducer array layout to be displayed.

[0007] The method also describes generating a three-dimensional (3D) model of a part of a subject's body; determining multiple transducer array layouts based on the 3D model and multiple simulated electric field distributions; receiving a selection of a first transducer array layout and a second transducer array layout from the multiple transducer array layouts; determining an overlap condition based on the first transducer array layout and the second transducer array layout; and displaying the overlap condition.

[0008] Additional advantages will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be learned by practice. These advantages will be realized and obtained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It will be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and illustrative only, and not limiting. Attached Figure Description

[0009] For ease of identification of any particular element or behavior in the discussion, the most significant digits in the reference number refer to the figure number in which the element was first introduced.

[0010] Figure 1 An example device for electrotherapy is shown.

[0011] Figure 2 An example transducer array is shown.

[0012] Figure 3A and Figure 3B The illustration shows an example application of a device used for electrotherapy.

[0013] Figure 4A An array of transducers placed on a patient's head is shown.

[0014] Figure 4B An array of transducers placed on a patient's abdomen is shown.

[0015] Figure 5A A transducer array placed on the patient's torso.

[0016] Figure 5B An array of transducers placed on a patient's pelvis is shown.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a block diagram of a system used to manage the placement of transducer arrays.

[0018] Figure 7 The figure shows the electric field amplitude and distribution (in V / cm) as shown in the coronal view from the finite element method simulation model.

[0019] Figure 8A A three-dimensional array layout diagram 800 is shown.

[0020] Figure 8B The placement of the transducer array on the patient's scalp is shown.

[0021] Figure 9 A shows an axial T1 sequence slice containing the topmost image, including tracks used to measure head size.

[0022] Figure 9 B shows a coronal T1 sequence slice of an image selected at the level of the ear canal for measuring head size.

[0023] Figure 9 C shows a contrast-enhanced T1 axial image, which shows the maximum enhanced tumor diameter used to measure the tumor location.

[0024] Figure 9 D shows a contrast-enhanced T1 coronal image, which shows the maximum enhancing tumor diameter used to measure the tumor location.

[0025] Figure 10 An example system for managing the placement of transducer arrays is shown.

[0026] Figure 11A-11D A sample user interface for managing the placement of transducer arrays is shown.

[0027] Figure 12 An example method for managing the placement of transducer arrays is shown.

[0028] Figure 13 An example method for managing the placement of transducer arrays is shown.

[0029] Figure 14 An example method for managing the placement of transducer arrays is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Before disclosing and describing this method and system, it will be understood that the method and system are not limited to a particular method, a particular component, or a particular implementation. It will also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0031] As used in the specification and appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly specifies otherwise. A range may be expressed herein as from “about” a particular value, and / or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from one particular value and / or to another particular value. Similarly, when a value is expressed as an approximation using the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. It will be further understood that each endpoint of a range is significant relative to and independent of the other endpoint.

[0032] "Optional" or "optionally" means that the event or situation described below may or may not occur, and the description includes instances where the event or situation occurs and instances where the event or situation does not occur.

[0033] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word "comprise" and variations thereof, such as "comprising" and "comprises," mean "including but not limited to" and are not intended to exclude, for example, other components, integrals, or steps. "Exemplary" means "an example of..." and is not intended to convey indications of preferred or ideal embodiments. "Like" is not used in a limiting sense but for illustrative purposes.

[0034] Components that can be used to implement the disclosed methods and systems are disclosed herein. These and other components are disclosed herein, and it should be understood that while specific references to combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc., of these components may not be explicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and described herein for all methods and systems. This applies to all aspects of this application, including but not limited to the steps in the disclosed methods. Therefore, if multiple additional steps are available, it should be understood that each of these additional steps can be implemented using any particular embodiment or combination of embodiments of the disclosed method.

[0035] The method and system can be more readily understood by referring to the following detailed description of preferred embodiments and the examples included therein, as well as the accompanying drawings and their preceding and following description.

[0036] As those skilled in the art will understand, the methods and systems may take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, the methods and systems may take the form of a computer program product on a computer-readable storage medium having computer-readable program instructions (e.g., computer software) embodied therein. More particularly, the methods and systems may take the form of network-implemented computer software. Any suitable computer-readable storage medium may be utilized, including hard disks, CD-ROMs, optical storage devices, or magnetic storage devices.

[0037] Embodiments of methods and systems are described below with reference to block diagrams and flowcharts illustrating methods, systems, apparatuses, and computer program products. It will be understood that each block in the block diagrams and flowcharts, as well as combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowcharts, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be loaded onto a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create components for implementing the functions specified in one or more flowchart blocks.

[0038] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to operate in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of writing comprising computer-readable instructions for implementing the functions specified in one or more flowchart blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus, thereby producing a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions, which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus, provide steps for implementing the functions specified in one or more flowchart blocks.

[0039] Therefore, the boxes in the block diagrams and flowcharts support combinations of components for performing a specified function, combinations of steps for performing a specified function, and program instruction components for performing a specified function. It will also be understood that each box in the block diagrams and flowcharts, as well as combinations of boxes in the block diagrams and flowcharts, can be implemented by a dedicated hardware-based computer system or a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions that performs the specified function or steps.

[0040] TTFields (also referred to herein as alternating electric fields) have been developed as an anti-mitotic cancer therapy because they interfere with proper microtubule assembly during metaphase and ultimately destroy cells during telophase and cytokinesis. Efficacy increases with increasing field strength, and the optimal frequency depends on the cancer cell line, with 200 kHz being the frequency at which TTFields induce the highest growth inhibition in glioma cells. For cancer treatment, non-invasive devices with capacitively coupled transducers have been developed, placed directly in the skin region close to the tumor, for example, for patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most common primary malignant brain tumor in humans.

[0041] Because the effect of TTFields is directional, cells dividing parallel to the field are more affected than cells dividing in other directions, and because cells divide in all directions, TTFields are typically delivered by two pairs of transducer arrays that generate a vertical field within the tumor being treated. More specifically, one pair of transducer arrays may be located on the left and right sides of the tumor (LR), while another pair may be located on the front and back sides of the tumor (AP). A cyclic field between these two directions (i.e., LR and AP) ensures targeting the widest possible range of cell orientations. Other locations of the transducer arrays are envisioned beyond the vertical field. In an embodiment, an asymmetric positioning of three transducer arrays is envisioned, where one pair of the three transducer arrays can deliver an alternating electric field, and then another pair of the three transducer arrays can deliver an alternating electric field, while the remaining pair of the three transducer arrays can deliver an alternating electric field.

[0042] In vivo and in vitro studies have shown that the efficacy of TTFields therapy increases with increasing electric field strength. Therefore, optimizing array placement on the patient's scalp to increase intensity in areas of brain lesions is standard practice with the Optune system. Array placement optimization can be performed using measurements that describe the geometry of the patient's head, tumor size, and / or tumor location (e.g., placing the array on the scalp as close to the tumor as possible). Measurements used as input can be derived from imaging data. Imaging data is intended to include any type of visual data, such as, for example, single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) image data, x-ray computed tomography (x-CT) data, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data, positron emission tomography (PET) data, data that can be captured by optical instruments (e.g., photographic cameras, charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras, infrared cameras, etc.), and the like. In some implementations, image data may include 3D data (e.g., point cloud data) obtained from or generated by a 3D scanner. Optimization can rely on an understanding of how the electric field is distributed within the head as a function of array location, and in some respects, takes into account variations in the distribution of electrical properties within the head of different patients. Multiple transducer array diagrams can be determined that indicate the optimal positioning of the transducer array on the patient's body, satisfying various criteria such as providing minimum and / or maximum electric field intensity within the region of interest (ROI), power density within the ROI, etc.

[0043] Since the positioning of the transducer array on the patient's scalp (and / or other parts of the body) affects the electric field strength in the ROI and / or target region, a transducer array pattern can be determined that allows the positioning of the transducer array to be changed while maintaining the target electric field strength in the ROI and / or target region.

[0044] Figure 1 An example device 100 for electrotherapy is shown. Generally, device 100 may be a portable, battery- or power-operated device that generates an alternating electric field within the body by means of a non-invasive surface transducer array. Device 100 may include an electric field generator 102 and one or more transducer arrays 104. Device 100 may be configured to generate tumor therapeutic fields (TTFields) (e.g., at 150 kHz) via the electric field generator 102 and deliver the TTFields to regions of the body via one or more transducer arrays 104. The electric field generator 102 may be a battery- and / or power-operated device. In one embodiment, the one or more transducer arrays 104 are uniformly shaped. In another embodiment, the one or more transducer arrays 104 are not uniformly shaped.

[0045] The electric field generator 102 may include a processor 106 that communicates with the signal generator 108. The electric field generator 102 may include control software 110 configured to control the performance of the processor 106 and the signal generator 108.

[0046] Signal generator 108 can generate one or more electrical signals in waveform or pulse train shape. Signal generator 108 can be configured to generate AC voltage waveforms (e.g., TTFields) at frequencies ranging from about 50 kHz to about 500 kHz (preferably from about 100 kHz to about 300 kHz). The voltage is such that the electric field strength in the tissue to be treated is in the range of about 0.1 V / cm to about 10 V / cm.

[0047] One or more outputs 114 of the electric field generator 102 may be coupled to one or more conductive leads 112, one end of which is attached to the signal generator 108. The opposite ends of the conductive leads 112 are connected to one or more transducer arrays 104 activated by an electrical signal (e.g., a waveform). The conductive leads 112 may include a standard insulating conductor with a flexible metallic shield and may be grounded to prevent the electric field generated by the conductive leads 112 from spreading. The one or more outputs 114 may operate sequentially. Output parameters of the signal generator 108 may include, for example, field strength, wave frequency (e.g., treatment frequency), and the maximum permissible temperature of the one or more transducer arrays 104. The output parameters may be set and / or determined by control software 110 in conjunction with processor 106. After determining the desired (e.g., optimal) treatment frequency, the control software 110 may cause the processor 106 to send a control signal to the signal generator 108, which causes the signal generator 108 to output the desired treatment frequency to the one or more transducer arrays 104.

[0048] One or more transducer arrays 104 can be configured in various shapes and positions to generate an electric field of desired configuration, orientation, and intensity at a target volume for focused therapy. One or more transducer arrays 104 can be configured to deliver two perpendicular field directions through the volume of interest.

[0049] One or more transducer arrays 104 may include one or more electrodes 116. The one or more electrodes 116 may be made of any material having a high dielectric constant. The one or more electrodes 116 may include, for example, one or more insulating ceramic discs. The electrodes 116 may be biocompatible and coupled to a flexible circuit board 118. The electrodes 116 may be configured to avoid direct contact with the skin, as the electrodes 116 are separated from the skin by a layer of conductive hydrogel (not shown) (similar to the one found on an electrocardiogram pad).

[0050] Electrodes 116, hydrogel, and flexible circuit board 118 can be attached to a hypoallergenic medical adhesive bandage 120 to hold one or more transducer arrays 104 in proper position on the body and in continuous direct contact with the skin. Each transducer array 104 may include one or more thermistors (not shown), such as eight thermistors (accuracy ±1°C), to measure the skin temperature beneath the transducer array 104. The thermistors can be configured to measure skin temperature periodically (e.g., every second). The thermistors can be read by control software 110 when TTFields are not being delivered to avoid any interference with temperature measurements.

[0051] If, between two subsequent measurements, the measured temperature is below the preset maximum temperature (Tmax), for example, 38.5-40.0℃ ± 0.3℃, the control software 110 can increase the current until it reaches the maximum therapeutic current (e.g., 4 amps peak-to-peak). If the temperature reaches Tmax + 0.3℃ and continues to rise, the control software 110 can decrease the current. If the temperature rises to 41℃, the control software 110 can shut down the TTFields therapy and trigger an overheat alarm.

[0052] One or more transducer arrays 104 may vary in size and may include a varying number of electrodes 116 based on the patient's body size and / or the different therapeutic treatments. For example, against the backdrop of a patient's chest, small transducer arrays may each include 13 electrodes, and large transducer arrays may each include 20 electrodes, wherein the electrodes are interconnected in series in each array. For example, as... Figure 2 As shown in the background of the patient's head, each transducer array may include nine electrodes, with the electrodes interconnected in series in each array.

[0053] The status and monitored parameters of device 100 can be stored in a memory (not shown) and can be transmitted to a computing device via a wired or wireless connection. Device 100 may include a display (not shown) for displaying visual indicators such as power on, treatment on, alarm, and low battery.

[0054] Figure 3A and Figure 3BAn example application of device 100 is illustrated. Transducer arrays 104a and 104b are shown, each incorporated into hypoallergenic medical adhesive bandages 120a and 120b, respectively. The hypoallergenic medical adhesive bandages 120a and 120b are applied to skin surface 302. Tumor 304 is located beneath skin surface 302 and bone tissue 306, and within brain tissue 308. Electric field generator 102 causes transducer arrays 104a and 104b to generate an alternating electric field 310 within brain tissue 308, which disrupts the rapid cell division exhibited by cancer cells in tumor 304. Alternating electric field 310 has been shown in non-clinical trials to inhibit tumor cell proliferation and / or destroy tumor cells. The use of alternating electric field 310 takes advantage of the specific characteristics, geometry, and rate of dividing cancer cells, making them susceptible to the effects of alternating electric field 310. Alternating electric fields 310 change their polarity at mid-frequency intervals (on the order of 100-300 kHz). The frequency used for a specific treatment can be specific to the cell type being treated (e.g., 150 kHz for MPM). Alternating electric fields 310 have been shown to disrupt microtubule assembly in mitotic spindles and cause dielectrophoretic misalignment of intracellular macromolecules and organelles during cytokinesis. These processes lead to physical disruption of the cell membrane and programmed cell death (apoptosis).

[0055] Because the effect of the alternating electric field 310 is directional, cells dividing parallel to the field are more affected than cells dividing in other directions, and because cells divide in all directions, the alternating electric field 310 can be delivered by two pairs of transducer arrays 104 that generate a vertical field within the treated tumor. More specifically, one pair of transducer arrays 104 may be located on the left and right sides of the tumor (LR), while another pair of transducer arrays 104 may be located on the front and back sides of the tumor (AP). Cycling the alternating electric field 310 between these two directions (e.g., IR and AP) ensures targeting the widest range of cell orientations. In one embodiment, the alternating electric field 310 can be delivered according to a symmetrical arrangement of the transducer arrays 104 (e.g., a total of four transducer arrays 104, two matching pairs). In another embodiment, the alternating electric field 310 can be delivered according to an asymmetrical arrangement of the transducer arrays 104 (e.g., a total of three transducer arrays 104). The asymmetric arrangement of the transducer array 104 can engage two of the three transducer arrays 104 to deliver the alternating electric field 310, and then switch to another two of the three transducer arrays 104 to deliver the alternating electric field 310, and so on.

[0056] In vivo and in vitro studies have shown that the efficacy of TTFields therapy increases with increasing electric field strength. The described methods, systems, and devices are configured to optimize array placement on a patient's scalp to increase intensity in areas of brain lesions.

[0057] like Figure 4A As shown, the transducer array 104 can be placed on the patient's head. Figure 4B As shown, the transducer array 104 can be placed on the patient's abdomen. Figure 5A As shown, the transducer array 104 can be placed on the patient's torso. Figure 5B As shown, the transducer array 104 can be placed on the patient's pelvis. Placing the transducer array 104 on other parts of the patient's body (e.g., arms, legs, etc.) is specifically envisioned.

[0058] Figure 6 This is a block diagram depicting a non-limiting example of a system 600 including a patient support system 602. The patient support system 602 may include one or more computers configured to operate and / or store an electric field generator (EFG) configuration application 606, a patient modeling application 608, and / or imaging data 610. The patient support system 602 may include, for example, a computing device. The patient support system 602 may include, for example, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a mobile phone (e.g., a smartphone), a tablet, and the like.

[0059] The patient modeling application 608 can be configured to generate a three-dimensional model (e.g., a patient model) of a part of a patient's body based on imaging data 610. Imaging data 610 can include any type of visual data, such as, for example, single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) image data, x-ray computed tomography (x-ray CT) data, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data, positron emission tomography (PET) data, data that can be captured by optical instruments (e.g., photographic cameras, charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras, infrared cameras, etc.), and the like. In some implementations, the image data can include 3D data obtained from or generated by a 3D scanner (e.g., point cloud data). The patient modeling application 608 can also be configured to generate a three-dimensional array layout map based on the patient model and one or more electric field simulations.

[0060] To properly optimize array placement on a portion of the patient's body, imaging data 610 (such as MRI imaging data) can be analyzed by a patient modeling application 608 to identify regions of interest, including tumors. Against the backdrop of the patient's head, to characterize how the electric field manifests and distributes within the human head, a modeling framework based on an anatomical head model can be used, which employs the finite element method (FEM) for simulation. These simulations produce realistic head models based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurements and delineate tissue types within the head, such as skull, white matter, gray matter, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Dielectric properties, including relative conductivity and dielectric constant, can be assigned to each tissue type, and simulations can be run to apply different transducer array configurations to the surface of the model to understand how an externally applied electric field at a preset frequency will distribute throughout any part of the patient's body, such as the brain. These simulation results using paired array configurations, constant current, and a preset frequency of 200 kHz have shown that the electric field distribution throughout the brain is relatively non-uniform, and that electric field strengths exceeding 1 V / cm are generated in most tissue compartments, except for the CSF. These results were obtained under the assumption that the total current at the transducer array-scalp interface has a peak-to-peak value of 1800 mA. This electric field strength threshold is sufficient to inhibit cell proliferation in glioblastoma cell lines. Furthermore, by manipulating the configuration of paired transducer arrays, it is possible to achieve... Figure 7 The electric field strength in the specific brain region shown is almost three times that of the brain. Figure 7 The figure shows the electric field amplitude and distribution (in V / cm) as shown in a coronal view from a finite element method simulation model. The simulation uses a left-right paired transducer array configuration.

[0061] In one aspect, the patient modeling application 608 can be configured to determine the patient's desired (e.g., optimal) transducer array layout based on the location and extent of the tumor. For example, using axial and coronal views, an initial morphological determination of head size can be made from a T1 sequence of brain MRI. Contrastive axial and coronal MRI slices can be selected to indicate the maximum diameter of the enhancing lesion. Using measures of head size and distance from a pre-determined benchmark to the tumor margin, variations and combinations of paired array layouts can be evaluated to generate a configuration that delivers maximum electric field intensity to the tumor site. Figure 8A As shown, the output can be a three-dimensional array layout diagram 800. Patients and / or caregivers can use the three-dimensional array layout diagram 800 (e.g., a transducer array layout diagram) in situations such as... Figure 8B The array shown is arranged on the scalp during a normal TTFields treatment procedure.

[0062] In one aspect, the patient modeling application 608 can be configured to determine a three-dimensional array layout diagram of the patient. MRI measurements of the patient portion to receive the transducer array can be determined. As an example, the MRI measurements can be received via a standard medical digital imaging and communication (DICOM) viewer. The determination of MRI measurements can be performed automatically, for example, through artificial intelligence technologies, or it can be performed manually, for example, by a physician.

[0063] Manual MRI measurements may include receiving and / or providing MRI data via a DICOM viewer. The MRI data may include scans of the portion of the patient containing the tumor. As an example, against the backdrop of the patient's head, the MRI data may include scans of the head including one or more of a right frontotemporal tumor, a right parietotemporal tumor, a left frontotemporal tumor, a left parieto-occipital tumor, and / or a multifocal midline tumor. Figure 9 A, Figure 9 B. Figure 9 C and Figure 9 D shows example MRI data illustrating a patient's head scan. Figure 9 A shows an axial T1 sequence slice containing the topmost image, including tracks used to measure head size. Figure 9 B shows a coronal T1 sequence slice of an image selected at the level of the ear canal for measuring head size. Figure 9 C shows a contrast-enhanced T1 axial image, which shows the maximum enhanced tumor diameter used to measure the tumor location. Figure 9 D shows a contrast-enhanced T1 coronal image, which illustrates the diameter of the largest enhancing tumor used to measure tumor location. MRI measurements can begin with a reference marker at the outer edge of the scalp and extend tangentially from the right, anterior, and superior origin. Morphological determination of head size can be estimated from axial T1 MRI sequences, the selection of which still includes the topmost image of the track (or the image directly above the upper edge of the track).

[0064] In one aspect, MRI measurements may include one or more of, for example, head size measurements and / or tumor measurements. In another aspect, one or more MRI measurements may be rounded to the nearest millimeter and may be provided to a transducer array placement module (e.g., software) for analysis. The MRI measurements may then be used to generate a three-dimensional array layout map (e.g., three-dimensional array layout map 800).

[0065] MRI measurements may include one or more head size measurements, such as: maximum anterior-posterior (AP) head size, measured from the outer edge of the scalp; maximum head width perpendicular to the AP measurement: the lateral distance from right to left; and / or the distance from the rightmost edge of the scalp to the anatomical midline.

[0066] MRI measurements may include one or more head size measurements, such as coronal head size measurements. Coronal head size measurements can be obtained on T1 MRI sequences of images selected at the level of the ear canal. Figure 9 B). Coronal head size measurements may include one or more of the following: a vertical measurement from the apex of the scalp to an orthogonal line depicting the lower edge of the temporal lobe; the maximum right-to-left transverse head width; and / or the distance from the rightmost edge of the scalp to the anatomical midline.

[0067] MRI measurements can include one or more tumor measurements, such as tumor location measurements. Tumor location measurements can be performed using T1-contrast post-MRI sequences, first indicating the diameter of the maximum enhancing tumor on axial images (…). Figure 9 C). Tumor location measurements may include one or more of the following: the largest AP head size excluding the nose; the largest right-to-left transverse diameter perpendicular to the AP distance measurement; the distance from the right edge of the scalp to the anatomical midline; the distance from the right edge of the scalp to the nearest tumor edge, parallel to the right-to-left transverse distance and perpendicular to the AP measurement; the distance from the right edge of the scalp to the farthest tumor edge, parallel to the right-to-left transverse distance and perpendicular to the AP measurement; the distance from the front of the head to the nearest tumor edge, parallel to the AP measurement; and / or the distance from the front of the head to the farthest tumor edge, parallel to the AP measurement.

[0068] One or more tumor measurements may include coronal view tumor measurements. Coronal view tumor measurements may include post-contrast T1 MRI slices characterized by the maximum diameter of tumor enhancement. Figure 9 D). Coronal view tumor measurements may include one or more of the following: the maximum distance from the apex of the scalp to the lower edge of the brain. In anterior sections, this will be marked by a horizontal line drawn at the lower edge of the frontal or temporal lobe, and in posterior sections, it will extend to the lowest level of the visible canopy; the maximum right-to-left transverse head width; the distance from the right edge of the scalp to the anatomical midline; the distance from the right edge of the scalp to the nearest tumor edge, measured parallel to the right-to-left transverse distance; the distance from the right edge of the scalp to the farthest tumor edge, measured parallel to the right-to-left transverse distance; the distance from the apex of the head to the nearest tumor edge, measured parallel to the superior apex-to-inferior cerebral line; and / or the distance from the apex of the head to the farthest tumor edge, measured parallel to the superior apex-to-inferior cerebral line.

[0069] Other MRI measurements can be used, especially when the tumor is located in another part of the patient's body.

[0070] Patient modeling application 608 can use MRI measurements to generate a patient model. The patient model can then be used to determine a 3D array layout diagram (e.g., 3D array layout diagram 800). Continuing with the example of a tumor within a patient's head, a healthy head model can be generated, which serves as a deformable template from which the patient model can be created. When creating the patient model, the tumor can be segmented from the patient's MRI data (e.g., one or more MRI measurements). The segmented MRI data identifies the tissue type in each voxel, and electrical properties can be assigned to each tissue type based on empirical data. Table 1 shows the standard electrical properties of tissues that can be used for simulation. The tumor region in the patient's MRI data can be masked, and a non-rigid registration algorithm can be used to register the remaining region of the patient's head to a 3D discrete image of the deformable template representing the healthy head model. This process produces a non-rigid transformation that maps the healthy portion of the patient's head to the template space, and an inverse transformation that maps the template to the patient space. The inverse transformation is applied to the 3D deformable template to produce an approximation of the patient's head in the absence of a tumor. Finally, the tumor (called the region of interest (ROI)) is implanted back into the deformable template to produce the complete patient model. A patient model can be a digital representation of a patient's body parts in three-dimensional space, including internal structures such as tissues, organs, and tumors.

[0071]

[0072] Then, the patient modeling application 608 can use a patient model to simulate the delivery of TTFields. The simulated electric field distribution, dosimetry, and simulation-based analysis are described in the publications of U.S. Patent Publication No. 20190117956 A1 and Ballo et al. (2019), “Correlation of Tumor treating Fields Dosimetry to Survival Outcomes in Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma: A Grand-Scale Numerical Simulation-based Analysis of Data from the Phase 3 EF-14 randomized Trial,” which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0073] To ensure the systematic localization of the transducer array relative to the tumor location, a reference coordinate system can be defined. For example, the lateral plane can initially be defined by the conventional LR and anterior-posterior (AP) localization of the transducer array. The left-right direction can be defined as the x-axis, the AP direction as the y-axis, and the head-to-tail direction orthogonal to the xy-plane as the z-axis.

[0074] After defining the coordinate system, the transducer array can be virtually placed on the patient model, with the center and longitudinal axis of the transducer array in the xy-plane. A pair of transducer arrays can be systematically rotated about the z-axis of the head model (i.e., from 0 to 180 degrees in the xy-plane), thus (through symmetry) covering the entire circumference of the head. The rotation interval can be, for example, 15 degrees, corresponding to a translation of approximately 2 cm, giving a total of 12 different positions within the 180-degree range. Other rotation intervals are envisioned. The electric field distribution can be calculated for each transducer array position relative to the tumor coordinates.

[0075] The electric field distribution in the patient model can be determined using the finite element (FE) approximation of potential in the patient modeling application 608. Generally, the quantities defining a time-varying electromagnetic field are given by the complex Maxwell equations. However, in biological tissue and at low to mid-frequency TT Fields (f = 200 kHz), the electromagnetic wavelength is much larger than the size of the head, and the dielectric constant ε is negligible compared to the real-valued conductivity σ, i.e., where... It is the angular frequency. This implies that electromagnetic propagation effects and capacitance effects within the tissue are negligible, therefore the scalar potential can be well expressed by the static Laplace equation. To approximate, appropriate boundary conditions are applied at the electrodes and skin. Therefore, the complex impedance is treated as resistive (i.e., reactance is negligible), and thus the current flowing within the volume conductor is primarily free (ohmic) current. The FE approximation of the Laplace equation can be calculated using software such as SimNIBS (simnibs.org). The residual requirement for calculations based on the Galerkin method and the conjugate gradient solver is < 1E-9. Dirichlet boundary conditions are used, where the potential is set to a (arbitrarily chosen) fixed value at each electrode array assembly. The electric (vector) field can be calculated as the numerical gradient of the potential, and the current density (vector field) can be calculated from the electric field using Ohm's law. The potential difference between the electric field value and the current density can be linearly scaled to ensure that the total peak-to-peak amplitude for each 1.8 A array pair is calculated as the (numerical) surface integral of the normal current density component over all triangular surface elements on the active electrode disk. The "dose" of TTFields can be calculated as the intensity (L2 norm) of the field vector. We can assume that the modeled current is supplied by two separate, sequentially activated sources, each connected to a pair of 3×3 transducer arrays. In the simulation, the left and rear arrays can be defined as sources, while the right and front arrays are the corresponding sinks. However, because TTFields uses alternating fields, this choice is arbitrary and will not affect the results.

[0076] The average electric field strength generated by the transducer array placed at multiple locations on the patient can be determined by patient modeling application 608 for one or more tissue types. In one aspect, the transducer array location corresponding to the highest average electric field strength in one or more tumor tissue types can be selected as the patient-desired (e.g., optimal) transducer array location.

[0077] In some cases, transducer array placement can be determined, such as optimized transducer array placement, for effective and / or optimized TTFields treatment and / or therapy. For example, one or more users (e.g., physicians, nurses, assistants, staff, physicists, dosimeters, etc.) can use a user interface to determine and / or generate transducer array layout diagrams (e.g., 3D array layout diagrams, etc.) for positioning the transducer array on the body (e.g., head, torso, etc.) of a person (e.g., patient, subject, etc.), which will optimize TTFields treatment and / or therapy while avoiding and / or limiting skin toxicity. For example, multiple sets of transducer array layout diagrams (e.g., groups, compilations, etc.) can be determined, each including a transducer array layout diagram that satisfies one or more criteria. Criteria may include the potential amplitude of the electric field distributed within a region of interest (ROI) associated with the person (e.g., patient, subject, etc.), the potential power density associated with the electric field distributed within the ROI, and an estimate of skin toxicity associated with a part of the person's body (e.g., head, torso, etc.), and / or any other criteria. A set of multiple transducer array layout diagrams can be identified, comprising two or more transducer array layout diagrams, including non-overlapping locations for transducer array placement. This set of multiple transducer array layout diagrams can, for example, be displayed to a user, and / or can be selected, for example, via a user interface. The user interface can be used to select a transducer array layout diagram, and based on that selection, a set of multiple transducer array layout diagrams associated with the selected transducer array layout diagram is presented (e.g., based on criteria, based on non-overlapping locations, overlapping locations, etc.).

[0078] An example method may include presenting multiple images of an anatomical volume to at least one user, and receiving from the at least one user a selection of which images of the anatomical volume should be used to generate multiple transducer array layout maps. The method may include generating a model (3D model) of the electrical properties of the anatomical volume based on the selected images, and determining multiple transducer array layouts. Then, based on the created model, it may evaluate which of the determined transducer array layouts satisfies at least one criterion. The method may include presenting multiple transducer array layout maps satisfying at least one criterion to at least one user, and receiving from the at least one user a selection of one of the transducer array layouts presented to the at least one user. A report describing the selected transducer array layout may be generated. In some instances, the model may also be based on at least one additional image. In some instances, generating the model may include performing segmentation based on input received from at least one user. In some instances, at least one user may include a first user and a second user. The method may also include receiving input from the first user identifying a region of interest and outputting data describing the region of interest to the second user. In some instances, generating the model may include performing segmentation based on input received from the second user. In some instances, the method may include accepting input from a first user identifying a coarse segmentation and outputting data describing the coarse segmentation to a second user. In some instances, the generative model may include performing segmentation based on input received from the second user. In some instances, the method may include accepting at least one note from a first user and outputting that at least one note to the second user. In some instances, the generative model may include performing segmentation based on input received from the second user. In some instances, the method may include accepting input from a first user identifying avoidance regions and outputting data describing the avoidance regions to the second user. In some instances, the generative model may include performing segmentation based on input received from the second user.

[0079] Figure 10This is a block diagram depicting an example system 1000 for managing the placement of transducer arrays. In some instances, components of system 1000 may be implemented as single devices and / or similar. In some instances, components of system 1000 may be implemented as individual devices / components and / or collectively communicating. System 1000 and / or components of system 1000 may be implemented as hardware, software, or a combination of both. In one aspect, some or all steps of any of the methods described herein may be performed on and / or via components of system 1000. System 1000 may be used to determine the placement of a transducer array on the body of a person (e.g., a patient, subject, etc.). The location (position) of the transducer array placement may be indicated by one or more transducer array layout diagrams. Users (e.g., doctors, nurses, assistants, staff, physicists, dosimeters, etc.) may use system 1000 to generate and / or evaluate multiple transducer array layout diagrams. System 1000 enables users (who may be higher-cost and / or highly skilled personnel, such as physicians) to provide guidance and / or instructions to lower-cost personnel (such as dosimeters, physicists, etc.) for determining and / or generating transducer array layout diagrams. For example, image data (e.g., one or more images associated with CT, MRI, ultrasound, SPECT, X-ray CT, PET, etc.) can be segmented via a user device, and the segmented image data can be sent to another user device for analysis to generate a three-dimensional (3D) model and / or to generate multiple transducer array layout diagrams. The determined and / or generated transducer array layout diagrams can be reviewed and / or selected to generate reports that can be used for effective TTFields treatment and / or therapy.

[0080] System 1000 may include a patient support module 1001. Patient support module 1001 may include a processor 1008. Processor 1008 may be a hardware device for executing software (particularly software stored in memory 1010). Processor 1008 may be any custom or commercially available processor, a central processing unit (CPU), an auxiliary processor among several processors associated with patient support module 1001, a semiconductor-based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip or chipset), or generally any device for executing software instructions. When patient support module 1001 is running, processor 1008 may be configured to execute the software stored in memory 1010, transfer data to and from memory 1010, and generally control the operation of patient support module 1001 according to the software.

[0081] I / O interface 1012 can be used to receive user input from and / or provide system output to one or more devices or components, such as user equipment 1020 and 1030. User input can be provided via, for example, a keyboard, mouse, data / information communication interface, and / or the like. I / O interface 1012 may include, for example, a serial port, a parallel port, a Small Computer System Interface (SCSI), an IR interface, an RF interface, and / or a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface.

[0082] Network interface 1014 can be used to send and receive data / information from patient support module 1001. Network interface 1014 may include, for example, a 10BaseT Ethernet adapter, a 100BaseT Ethernet adapter, a LAN PHY Ethernet adapter, a token ring adapter, a wireless network adapter (e.g., WiFi), or any other suitable network interface device. Network interface 1014 may include address, control, and / or data connections to enable appropriate communication.

[0083] The memory 1010 (memory system) may include any one or a combination of volatile memory elements (e.g., random access memory (RAM, such as DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.)) and non-volatile memory elements (e.g., ROM, hard drive, magnetic tape, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, etc.). Furthermore, the memory 1010 may incorporate electronic, magnetic, optical, and / or other types of storage media. In some instances, the memory system 1010 may have a distributed architecture, where various components are located far apart from each other but can be accessed by the processor 1008.

[0084] The memory 1010 may include one or more software programs, each software program including an ordered list of executable instructions for implementing logical functions. For example, the memory 1010 may include an EFG configuration application 606, a patient modeling application 608, and imaging data 610 (such as...). Figure 6 (As described in the document) and a suitable operating system (O / S) 1018. The operating system 1018 can essentially control the execution of other computer programs and provide scheduling, input / output control, file and data management, memory management, and communication control and related services.

[0085] For illustrative purposes, applications and other executable program components such as operating system 1018 are illustrated herein as discrete blocks, although it is recognized that such programs and components may reside in different storage components of patient support system 104 at different times. Implementations of EFG configuration application 606, patient modeling application 608, imaging data 610, and / or control software 110 may be stored on or transferred across some form of computer-readable medium. Any disclosed method may be performed by computer-readable instructions embodied on a computer-readable medium. A computer-readable medium may be any available medium accessible by a computer. By way of example and not intended to be limiting, a computer-readable medium may include "computer storage medium" and "communication medium." A "computer storage medium" may include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Exemplary computer storage media may include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile disc (DVD) or other optical storage devices, cassette tape, magnetic tape, disk storage devices or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired information and can be accessed by a computer.

[0086] System 1000 may include user equipment 1020 and 1030. User equipment 1020 and 1030 may be electronic devices capable of communicating with patient support module 1001, such as computers, smartphones, laptops, tablets, and / or the like. Although only user equipment 1020 and 1030 are included, system 1000 may include multiple devices.

[0087] User devices 1020 and 1030 may include interface module 1022. Interface module 1022 may provide a user with an interface to interact with user devices 1020 and 1030 and / or patient support module 1001. Interface module 1022 may include one or more input devices / interfaces, such as a keyboard, pointing device (e.g., computer mouse, remote control), microphone, joystick, scanner, tactile sensing and / or tactile input device and / or the like.

[0088] Interface module 1022 may include one or more interfaces for presenting and / or receiving information, such as user feedback, to / from a user (e.g., a doctor, nurse, assistant, staff, physicist, dosimeter, etc.). Interface module 1022 may include any software, hardware, and / or interfaces for providing communication between the user and one or more of user devices 1020 and 1030, patient support module 1001, and / or any other components of system 1000 and / or any other components associated therewith. Interface module 1022 may include one or more displays (e.g., monitor, head-up display, head-mounted display, liquid crystal display, OLED display, active-matrix OLED display, stereo display, etc.) for displaying / presenting information to the user. Interface module 1022 may include one or more audio devices (e.g., stereo speakers, loudspeakers, microphones, etc.) for capturing / acquiring and transmitting audio information, such as audio information captured / acquired from and / or transmitted to the user. Interface module 1022 may include a graphical user interface (GUI), a web browser (e.g., Internet Explorer®, Mozilla Firefox®, Google Chrome®, Safari®, or similar), or an application / API. Interface module 1022 may request and / or query various files from local and / or remote sources (such as patient support module 1001).

[0089] Interface module 1022 can transmit / send data / information to local and / or remote devices / components of system 1000, such as patient support module 1001 and / or another user device (e.g., user device 1020, user device 1030, etc.). User devices 1020 and 1030 may include communication module 1023. Communication module 1023 enables user devices 1020 and 1030 to communicate with components of system 1000 (such as patient support module 1001 and / or another user device) via wired and / or wireless communication technologies. For example, communication module 1023 can utilize any suitable wired communication technology, such as Ethernet, coaxial cable, fiber optic, and / or the like. Communication module 1023 can utilize any suitable long-range communication technology, such as WiFi (IEEE 802.11), BLUETOOTH®, cellular, satellite, infrared, and / or the like. Communication module 1023 can utilize any suitable short-range communication technology, such as BLUETOOTH®, near-field communication, infrared, and the like.

[0090] As described, system 1000 can be used to determine the placement (location) of a transducer array on the body of a person (e.g., a patient, subject, etc.). The placement (location) of the transducer array can be indicated by one or more transducer array layout diagrams. Users (e.g., doctors, nurses, assistants, staff, physicists, dosimeters, etc.) can use system 1000 to generate and / or evaluate multiple transducer array layout diagrams. System 1000 enables users (who may be higher-cost and / or highly skilled personnel (e.g., doctors, etc.)) to provide guidance and / or instructions to lower-cost personnel (e.g., dosimeters, physicists, etc.) for determining and / or generating transducer array layout diagrams. For example, higher-cost and / or highly skilled personnel can use user device 1020 to provide guidance and / or instructions to lower-cost personnel (e.g., dosimeters, physicists, etc.) for determining and / or generating transducer array layout diagrams, said lower-cost personnel may be users of user device 1030.

[0091] Figure 11A-11D A screen is shown illustrating an example interface (e.g., interface module 1022, etc.) for managing the placement of the transducer array. For example, one or more images of a part of the subject's / patient's body (e.g., head, torso, anatomical volume, etc.) from image data 610 can be segmented and used to generate a three-dimensional (3D) model. Figure 11A An example screen 1101 of the user interface 1100 is shown. Screen 1101 may include subject / patient identification information 1102. Identification information 1102 may identify the subject / patient associated with one or more images used to generate the 3D model. Progress through the user interface 1100 may be enabled and / or indicated by interactive elements 1103 (e.g., labels, etc.). As indicated by interactive elements 1103, screen 1101 may be used for segmentation of image data.

[0092] Screen 1101 allows a user (e.g., a user of user devices 1020 and 1030, etc.) to import and examine one or more images of a part of a subject's / patient's body (e.g., head, torso, anatomical volume, etc.) and determine whether the images should be used to generate a 3D model. Images can be imported, for example, from patient support module 1001, by interacting with interactive element 1104 (e.g., buttons, etc.). Interaction with interactive element 1104 can open a menu that allows the user to search for and / or upload relevant images. After images have been imported, for example, from image data 610, a representation of the images can be shown in panel 1105. Figure 11BAn example screen 1101 of the user interface 1100 is shown when an image has been imported and is represented by image 1106 in panel 1105. The user can view and examine the imported image 1106, for example, by using interactive elements (e.g., a mouse, a small touchpad, etc.), and drag one or more images 1106 to one or more windows 1107 of screen 1101. The user can identify the image most suitable for a TTFields treatment plan (e.g., one or more images, an image set, etc.). Figure 11B As shown, one or more images 1106 are displayed in window 1107.

[0093] After viewing / inspecting image 1106, the user can select an image or image set to be segmented and used to generate a 3D model. In some instances, the user of user device 1020 can select an image or image set, and user device 1020 can send the selected image or image set (e.g., information associated with the selected image or image set, etc.) to user device 1030 for segmentation and 3D model generation. In some instances, the user of user device 1030 can select an image or image set, and user device 1030 can send the selected image or image set (e.g., information associated with the selected image or image set, etc.) to user device 1020 for segmentation and 3D model generation. When an image or image set is selected, the image can be labeled with element 1108 (such as an "anchor" icon), which indicates that the image is the primary ("anchor") image to be used to generate the computed 3D model and / or transducer array layout diagram. Other images can be labeled as "auxiliary images" to indicate that the user has optionally selected images to assist in generating the 3D model and / or transducer array layout diagram. Auxiliary images can be registered with the main image to improve the accuracy of the 3D model. In some instances, the quality of the 3D model and / or transducer array layout can be proportional to the number of images used to generate the 3D model and / or transducer array layout.

[0094] The user can select an image represented in one or more windows 1107. After an image has been selected, it can be segmented to identify / determine / select features and / or regions of interest (ROIs) within the image, such as represented tumors and / or abnormal tissue structures. The user interface 1100 can be configured with segmentation tools (e.g., semi-automatic segmentation tools, manual segmentation tools, etc.) and / or algorithms that enable the user to label features, structures, and / or ROIs within the image. For example, a segmentation tool may enable the user to label image regions as enhanced tumors, necrotic cores, resection cavities, craniotomy sites, and / or the like. Region 1109 of screen 1101 shows examples of structures in the image that can be defined by the user, such as tissue types, ROIs, and avoidance structures / regions. Avoidance structures / regions can be any area on the subject's / patient's body surface where a transducer array should not be placed, such as scar tissue, implanted medical devices, and / or the like.

[0095] As described, users can assign tissue types to images used to generate 3D models and / or transducer array layout diagrams. When a user assigns a tissue type to a specific voxel in an image, the corresponding voxel in the 3D model is assigned the same tissue type dielectric and / or electrical properties associated with that tissue type. A unique label can be assigned to each ROI determined and / or selected by the user. User interface 1100 allows any determined and / or selected ROI to be optionally labeled on the image used to generate 3D models and / or transducer array layout diagrams. In some instances, electric field distribution simulation and / or optimization algorithms can use any determined and / or selected ROI to generate transducer array layout diagrams. In some instances, ROIs can be imported from external sources (e.g., third-party software used for radiotherapy planning, etc.) into system 1000. After the user completes segmentation editing of the image, they can interact with and / or select interactive element 1110 to generate the 3D model.

[0096] Figure 11C An example screen 1111 of the user interface 1100 is shown. Screen 1111 can be a progress screen of screen 1101. As shown, interactive element 1103 is set to "model" to indicate the progress of the user interface 1100. Screen 1111 can display any abnormal tissue indicated on screen 1101 and any normal body tissue within the image (e.g., gray matter, white matter, skull, scalp, and CSF). The user interface 1100 can be configured to automatically add and / or include any normal body tissue when generating a 3D model.

[0097] The generated 3D model can model any electrical properties at every point in space within a part of the subject / patient's body (e.g., head, torso, anatomical volume, etc.). For example, system 1000 can map electrical properties to a 3D model. Mapping electrical properties to a 3D model can be based on diffusion tensor imaging MRI data (DTI), hydroelectric property computed tomography (wEPT), machine learning, and / or any other methods / techniques used to correlate electrical properties with tissue type based on image data. Once the 3D model is generated, user interface 1100 enables the user to position the simulated transducer array at various locations on the 3D model, simulate the application of AC voltage to the simulated transducer array, and perform simulations to determine the electric field distribution and / or power density obtained at each point within the subject / patient's body part (e.g., head, torso, anatomical volume, etc.) represented by the 3D model. The 3D model can be displayed to the user. If the user is not satisfied with the displayed model, interactive element 1112 "view splitting" can be used, for example, to return to a previous screen, such as the split input screen of user interface 1100. If the user is satisfied with the displayed model, interactive element 1113 "Creation Plan" can be used to proceed to the next screen of user interface 1100.

[0098] Figure 11DAn example screen 1114 of the user interface 1100 is shown. A user can interact with the interactive element 1103 "planning," for example, progressing to screen 1114. For example, screen 1114 can be used to analyze, evaluate, and / or select a TTfields treatment plan. For example, after generating a 3D model and determining multiple simulated electric field distributions based on the 3D model, multiple transducer array layout diagrams can be generated. In some instances, system 1000 can determine multiple transducer array layouts, for example, from a library, record, corpus, and / or the like of standard transducer array layouts. In some instances, system 1000 can determine multiple transducer array layouts, for example, enabling a user to use the user interface 1100 to change the position of one or more arrays to converge on a transducer array layout diagram that provides the desired and / or optimal (e.g., best suited to meet criteria, etc.) results. Based on the positional changes of one or more arrays as described, system 1000 can determine one or more transducer array layout diagrams (e.g., a set of transducer array layout diagrams, etc.) from a plurality of transducer array layout diagrams that optimize the electric field distribution within a target ROI while also satisfying constraints associated with the transducer array placement imposed by the avoidance structure. For example, one or more sets of transducer array layout diagrams can be determined from a plurality of transducer array layout diagrams (e.g., automatically, manually selected, etc.), each transducer array layout diagram representing at least two transducer array layout diagrams with non-overlapping positions and / or satisfying criteria. As described, criteria may include the magnitude of the simulated electric field distribution within the ROI associated with the 3D model, the power density associated with the simulated electric field distribution within the ROI, and / or the like. In some instances, criteria may be based on estimates of skin toxicity associated with a portion of the subject / patient's body and / or the avoidance area where the transducer arrays are to be placed.

[0099] The optimal transducer array layout for the desired TTFields treatment plan can be determined to generate composite data (e.g., reports, plans, summaries, etc.). For example, the composite data may include information associated with the transducer array layout and the associated simulated electric field distribution. The composite data may be displayed, for example, via user interface 1100. Return to Figure 11DScreen 1114 can display the electric field distribution (e.g., represented as one or more color maps) associated with each of the multiple transducer array layout diagrams. For example, interactive element 1115 can be used to view the electric field distribution of each transducer array layout diagram by interacting with the corresponding TAL element (e.g., TAL 1 through TAL 5). As shown, TAL 1 of interactive element 1115 is selected, and the color map of the electric field distribution and the associated transducer array layout diagram are displayed in areas 1116 and 1117, respectively. A table summarizing the electric field dose delivered to the target ROI for each of the multiple transducer array layout diagrams can be displayed to allow the user to select a TTFields treatment plan. In some instances, a total score for each of the multiple transducer array layout diagrams and / or the set of transducer array layout diagrams can be determined and displayed. The score can represent the degree of satisfaction of the associated transducer array layout diagram with one or more criteria. Scores can be color-coded (e.g., green for the highest score, yellow for the medium score, and red for the low score). Multiple transducer array layout diagrams and / or a set of multiple transducer array layout diagrams can be ordered according to any method, algorithm, and / or criterion, and this order can be displayed to the user.

[0100] User interface 1100 enables multiple transducer array layout diagrams and / or sets of transducer array layout diagrams to be evaluated, for example, by a user. The evaluation of the transducer array layout diagrams is based on and / or determines the quality of the 3D model used to generate the transducer array layout diagram (e.g., TTFields treatment plans, etc.). Users can evaluate and select one or more transducer array layout diagrams and / or sets of transducer array layout diagrams from among the multiple transducer array layout diagrams.

[0101] Figure 12A flowchart of a method 1200 for managing transducer array placement is shown. One or more of the following described herein: device 100, patient support system 602, patient modeling application 608, system 1000, and / or any other device / component, may be configured to perform method 1200, which includes generating a three-dimensional (3D) model of a part of a subject's body at 1210. The generation of the 3D model may be based on image data from any imaging modality, such as one or more images associated with CT, MRI, ultrasound, SPECT, x-ray CT, PET, combinations thereof, and / or the like. In some instances, one or more user devices may display multiple images of the subject's body part. Selection of one or more images from the multiple images may be received based on a region of interest (ROI), and a 3D model may be generated based on one or more images. For example, the ROI may be based on features and / or structures within one or more images, such as enhanced tumors, necrotic cores, resection cavities, craniotomy, and / or the like. In some instances, reception information associated with the ROI can be received from a first user device in one or more user devices, and selection of one or more images can be received from a second user device in one or more user devices.

[0102] At 1220, multiple transducer array layouts are determined based on a 3D model and multiple simulated electric field distributions. Determining the multiple transducer array layouts may include determining multiple pairs of locations for transducer array placement based on the 3D model. In some instances, the multiple pairs of locations for transducer array placement may be determined from a library, record, corpus, and / or similar sources of standard transducer array layouts. In some instances, multiple pairs of locations for transducer array placement may be determined and / or selected to avoid one or more regions within the 3D model (e.g., avoidance regions, etc.), and / or similar sources. For each pair of locations, simulated electric field distributions among multiple simulated electric field distributions may be determined. Determining the simulated electric field distribution for each pair of locations may include simulating a first electric field generated by a first transducer array at a first location in the pair, and simulating a second electric field generated by a second transducer array at a second location in the pair. The second location may be opposite the first location. In some instances, a third electric field generated by the first transducer array can be simulated at a third location, and a fourth electric field generated by the second transducer array can be simulated at a fourth location opposite the third location. Based on the third and fourth electric fields, a simulated electric field distribution can be determined. The simulated electric field distribution can be determined based on the first and second electric fields and / or the third and fourth electric fields. Multiple transducer array layouts can be determined based on multiple simulated electric field distributions.

[0103] At 1230, one or more sets of transducer array layouts are determined from multiple transducer array layouts, wherein each set of transducer array layouts represents at least two transducer array layouts having non-overlapping locations among multiple pairs of locations for transducer array placement, wherein the at least two transducer array layouts satisfy criteria. These criteria may include the amplitude of a simulated electric field distribution among multiple simulated electric field distributions within a region of interest (ROI) associated with a 3D model, the power density associated with the simulated electric field distributions among multiple simulated electric field distributions within the ROI, and an estimate of skin toxicity associated with a body part of the subject.

[0104] At 1240, one or more transducer array layout sets are displayed. These sets can be displayed via interfaces of one or more user equipment. Selection of a transducer array layout set from the one or more sets can be received, for example, via the interfaces of one or more user equipment. Composite data (e.g., reports, plans, summaries, etc.) can be generated based on the selected transducer array layout set. The composite data may include information associated with the selected transducer array layout set and simulated electric field distributions from multiple simulated electric field distributions associated with the selected transducer array layout set. The composite data can be sent to one or more user equipment.

[0105] Figure 13 A flowchart of method 1300 for managing transducer array placement is shown. One or more of the following described herein: device 100, patient support system 602, patient modeling application 608, system 1000, and / or any other device / component, may be configured to perform method 1300, which includes generating a three-dimensional (3D) model of a part of a subject's body at 1310. The generation of the 3D model may be based on image data from any imaging modality, such as one or more images associated with CT, MRI, ultrasound, SPECT, x-ray CT, PET, combinations thereof, and / or the like. In some instances, one or more user devices may display multiple images of the subject's body part. Selection of one or more images from the multiple images may be received based on a region of interest (ROI), and the 3D model may be generated based on one or more images. For example, the ROI may be based on features and / or structures within one or more images, such as enhanced tumors, necrotic cores, resection cavities, craniotomy, and / or the like. In some instances, reception information associated with the ROI can be received from a first user device in one or more user devices, and selection of one or more images can be received from a second user device in one or more user devices.

[0106] At 1320, multiple transducer array layouts are determined based on a 3D model and multiple simulated electric field distributions. Determining the multiple transducer array layouts may include determining multiple pairs of locations for transducer array placement based on the 3D model. In some instances, the multiple pairs of locations for transducer array placement may be determined from a library, record, corpus, and / or similar sources of standard transducer array layouts. In some instances, multiple pairs of locations for transducer array placement may be determined and / or selected to avoid one or more regions within the 3D model (e.g., avoidance regions, etc.), and / or similar sources. For each pair of locations, simulated electric field distributions among multiple simulated electric field distributions may be determined. Determining the simulated electric field distribution for each pair of locations may include simulating a first electric field generated by a first transducer array at a first location in the pair, and simulating a second electric field generated by a second transducer array at a second location in the pair. The second location may be opposite the first location. In some instances, a third electric field generated by the first transducer array can be simulated at a third location, and a fourth electric field generated by the second transducer array can be simulated at a fourth location opposite the third location. Based on the third and fourth electric fields, a simulated electric field distribution can be determined. The simulated electric field distribution can be determined based on the first and second electric fields and / or the third and fourth electric fields. Multiple transducer array layouts can be determined based on multiple simulated electric field distributions.

[0107] At 1330, selection of a first transducer array layout among multiple transducer array layouts is received, wherein the first transducer array layout satisfies criteria. The selection of the first transducer array layout can be received from one or more user equipments. The criteria may include the amplitude of a simulated electric field distribution among multiple simulated electric field distributions within a region of interest (ROI) associated with a 3D model, the power density associated with the simulated electric field distributions within the ROI, and an estimate of skin toxicity associated with a body part of the subject.

[0108] At 1340, one or more associated transducer array layouts are determined from a plurality of transducer array layouts. Each associated transducer array layout may include a transducer array placement location that does not overlap with the transducer array placement location of the first transducer array layout. In some instances, each associated transducer array layout may meet certain criteria.

[0109] At 1350, a selection of a second transducer array layout is received from one or more associated transducer array layouts.

[0110] At 1360, the first and second transducer array layout diagrams are displayed. In some instances, composite data (e.g., reports, plans, summaries, etc.) may be generated based on the first and second transducer array layout diagrams. The composite data may include, for example, information associated with the first and second transducer array layout diagrams, and simulated electric field distributions from multiple simulated electric field distributions associated with the first and second transducer array layout diagrams.

[0111] Figure 14 A flowchart of method 1400 for managing transducer array placement is shown. One or more of the device 100, patient support system 602, patient modeling application 608, system 1000, and / or any other device / component described herein can be configured to perform method 1300, which includes generating a three-dimensional (3D) model of a part of a subject's body at 1410. The generation of the 3D model can be based on image data from any imaging modality, such as one or more images associated with CT, MRI, ultrasound, SPECT, x-ray CT, PET, combinations thereof, and / or the like. In some instances, one or more user devices can display multiple images of the subject's body part. Selection of one or more images from the multiple images can be received based on a region of interest (ROI), and a 3D model can be generated based on one or more images. For example, the ROI can be based on features and / or structures within one or more images, such as enhanced tumors, necrotic cores, resection cavities, craniotomy, and / or the like. In some instances, reception information associated with the ROI can be received from a first user device in one or more user devices, and selection of one or more images can be received from a second user device in one or more user devices.

[0112] At 1420, multiple transducer array layouts are determined based on a 3D model and multiple simulated electric field distributions. Determining the multiple transducer array layouts may include determining multiple pairs of locations for transducer array placement based on the 3D model. In some instances, the multiple pairs of locations for transducer array placement may be determined from a library, record, corpus, and / or similar sources of standard transducer array layouts. In some instances, multiple pairs of locations for transducer array placement may be determined and / or selected to avoid one or more regions within the 3D model (e.g., avoidance regions, etc.), and / or similar sources. For each pair of locations, simulated electric field distributions among multiple simulated electric field distributions may be determined. Determining the simulated electric field distribution for each pair of locations may include simulating a first electric field generated by a first transducer array at a first location in the pair, and simulating a second electric field generated by a second transducer array at a second location in the pair. The second location may be opposite the first location. In some instances, a third electric field generated by the first transducer array can be simulated at a third location, and a fourth electric field generated by the second transducer array can be simulated at a fourth location opposite the third location. Based on the third and fourth electric fields, a simulated electric field distribution can be determined. The simulated electric field distribution can be determined based on the first and second electric fields and / or the third and fourth electric fields. Multiple transducer array layouts can be determined based on multiple simulated electric field distributions.

[0113] At 1430, the selection of a first transducer array layout and a second transducer array layout from a plurality of transducer array layouts is received. The selection of the first transducer array layout and the second transducer array layout can be received via an interface of one or more user equipments.

[0114] At 1430, an overlap condition is determined based on the first and second transducer array layout diagrams. Each of the multiple transducer array layout diagrams may include one or more pairs of locations among multiple pairs of positions for transducer array placement. The overlap condition may indicate that the first transducer array layout diagram includes one or more pairs of locations that overlap with one or more pairs of locations associated with the second transducer array layout diagram. For example, the first transducer array layout diagram may include the positions of the transducer arrays at the same locations indicated on the 3D model (e.g., overlapping, etc.) or the positions at locations indicated on the 3D model that satisfy a distance threshold and / or are within tolerance positioning ranges relative to each other (e.g., substantially overlapping, etc.).

[0115] At 1430, the overlap status is displayed. One or more user devices may display the overlap status, for example via an interface, display, and / or similar means. In some instances, the overlap status may be indicated by audible sound and / or notification.

[0116] In view of the described apparatuses, systems, and methods and their variations, certain more specifically described embodiments of the invention are described below. However, these specifically described embodiments should not be construed as having any limiting effect on any different claims that incorporate the different or more general teachings described herein, or as limiting the “specific” embodiments in any way other than the inherent meaning of the language used literally therein.

[0117] Example 1: A method comprising: generating a three-dimensional (3D) model of a part of a subject's body; determining a plurality of transducer array layouts based on the 3D model and a plurality of simulated electric field distributions; determining one or more sets of transducer array layouts from the plurality of transducer array layouts, wherein each set of transducer array layouts represents at least two transducer array layouts having non-overlapping positions among a plurality of pairs of positions for transducer array placement, wherein the at least two transducer array layouts satisfy a criterion; and causing the display of the one or more sets of transducer array layouts.

[0118] Example 2: As in any of the preceding examples, the criteria include the amplitude of the simulated electric field distribution among multiple simulated electric field distributions within a region of interest (ROI) associated with the 3D model, the power density associated with the simulated electric field distribution among multiple simulated electric field distributions within the ROI, and an estimate of skin toxicity associated with the subject's body part.

[0119] Example 3: As in any of the preceding examples, it further includes receiving a selection of a set of transducer array layout patterns from one or more sets of transducer array layout patterns.

[0120] Example 4: As in Example 3, it further includes generating composite data based on the selected set of transducer array layout diagrams.

[0121] Example 5: As in Example 4, wherein the composite data includes information associated with the selected set of transducer array layout diagrams and simulated electric field distributions in multiple simulated electric field distributions associated with the selected set of transducer array layout diagrams.

[0122] Example 6: As in Example 4, it further includes sending composite data to the user equipment.

[0123] Example 7: As in any of the preceding examples, generating a 3D model includes: displaying multiple images of a subject's body parts on one or more user devices; receiving a selection of one or more images from the multiple images based on a region of interest (ROI); and generating a 3D model based on the one or more images.

[0124] Example 8: As in the example of Example 7, it further includes receiving information associated with the ROI from a first user equipment among one or more user equipments, and wherein receiving a selection of one or more images includes receiving a selection of one or more images from a second user equipment among one or more user equipments.

[0125] Example 9: As in any of the preceding examples, determining the multiple transducer array layout diagrams includes: determining multiple pairs of positions for transducer array placement based on a 3D model; for each pair of positions, determining a simulated electric field distribution in multiple simulated electric field distributions; and determining multiple transducer array layout diagrams based on multiple simulated electric field distributions.

[0126] Example 10: As in Example 9, wherein determining the simulated electric field distribution of each pair of positions in a plurality of pairs of positions includes: simulating a first electric field generated by a first transducer array at a first position in the pair of positions; simulating a second electric field generated by a second transducer array at a second position in the pair of positions, wherein the second position is opposite to the first position; and determining the simulated electric field distribution based on the first electric field and the second electric field.

[0127] Example 11: A method comprising: generating a three-dimensional (3D) model of a portion of a subject's body; determining a plurality of transducer array layouts based on the 3D model and a plurality of simulated electric field distributions; receiving selection of a first transducer array layout from the plurality of transducer array layouts, wherein the first transducer array layout satisfies a criterion; determining one or more associated transducer array layouts from the plurality of transducer array layouts, wherein each associated transducer array layout includes a transducer array placement location that does not overlap with a transducer array placement location of the first transducer array layout, wherein each associated transducer array layout satisfies a criterion; receiving selection of a second transducer array layout from the one or more associated transducer array layouts; and causing the first transducer array layout and the second transducer array layout to be displayed.

[0128] Example 12: As in the example of Example 11, wherein the criteria include the amplitude of the simulated electric field distribution in a region of interest (ROI) associated with the 3D model, the power density associated with the simulated electric field distribution in a region of interest (ROI) associated with the ROI, and an estimate of skin toxicity associated with the body part of the subject.

[0129] Example 13: As in any of the examples in Examples 11-12, it further includes generating composite data based on the first transducer array layout diagram and the second transducer array layout diagram.

[0130] Example 14: As in Example 13, wherein the composite data includes information associated with the first transducer array layout and the second transducer array layout, and a simulated electric field distribution among multiple simulated electric field distributions associated with the first transducer array layout and the second transducer array layout.

[0131] Example 15: An example of any of Examples 11-14, wherein generating a 3D model includes: displaying multiple images of a subject's body parts on one or more user devices; receiving a selection of one or more images from the multiple images based on a region of interest (ROI); and generating a 3D model based on the one or more images.

[0132] Example 16: As in the example of Example 15, it further includes receiving information associated with the ROI from a first user equipment among one or more user equipments, and wherein receiving a selection of one or more images includes receiving a selection of one or more images from a second user equipment among one or more user equipments.

[0133] Example 17: As in any of Examples 11-16, determining the layout of multiple transducer arrays includes: determining multiple pairs of positions for placing the transducer arrays based on a 3D model; determining a simulated electric field distribution in multiple simulated electric field distributions for each of the multiple pairs of positions; and determining multiple transducer array layouts based on the multiple simulated electric field distributions.

[0134] Example 18: As in Example 17, wherein determining the simulated electric field distribution of each pair of positions in a plurality of pairs of positions includes: simulating a first electric field generated by a first transducer array at a first position of the pair of positions; simulating a second electric field generated by a second transducer array at a second position of the pair of positions, wherein the second position is opposite to the first position; and determining the simulated electric field distribution based on the first electric field and the second electric field.

[0135] Example 19: A method comprising: generating a three-dimensional (3D) model of a part of a subject's body; determining a plurality of transducer array layouts based on the 3D model and a plurality of simulated electric field distributions; receiving a selection of a first transducer array layout and a second transducer array layout from the plurality of transducer array layouts; determining an overlap condition based on the first transducer array layout and the second transducer array layout; and displaying the overlap condition.

[0136] Example 20: As in the example of Example 19, each of the plurality of transducer array layout diagrams includes one or more pairs of positions for placing the transducer array, wherein the overlap condition indicates that the first transducer array layout diagram includes one or more pairs of positions that overlap with one or more pairs of positions associated with the second transducer array layout diagram.

[0137] Example 21: A method comprising: presenting to at least one user multiple images of an anatomical volume; receiving from the at least one user a selection of which images of the anatomical volume should be used to generate a transducer array layout; creating an electrical characteristic model of the anatomical volume based on the selected images; determining multiple transducer array layouts; evaluating, based on the created model, which of the determined transducer array layouts satisfies at least one criterion; presenting to the at least one user multiple transducer array layouts satisfying the at least one criterion; receiving from the at least one user a selection of one of the transducer array layouts presented to the at least one user; and generating a report describing the selected transducer array layout.

[0138] Example 22: As in Example 21, the electrical properties model of the anatomical volume is also based on at least one additional image.

[0139] Example 23: An example of any of Examples 21-22, wherein creating a model includes performing segmentation based on input received from the at least one user.

[0140] Example 24: As in any of Examples 21-23, wherein the at least one user includes a first user and a second user, and wherein the method further includes (a) receiving input from the first user identifying a region of interest, and (b) outputting data describing the region of interest to the second user.

[0141] Example 25: As in Example 24, wherein creating the model includes performing segmentation based on input received from a second user.

[0142] Example 26: As in any of Examples 21-25, wherein the at least one user includes a first user and a second user, and wherein the method further includes: receiving an input of a total segmentation of an identifier from the first user; and outputting data describing the total segmentation to the second user.

[0143] Example 27: As in Example 26, wherein creating the model includes performing segmentation based on input received from a second user.

[0144] Example 28: As in any of Examples 21-27, wherein the at least one user includes a first user and a second user, and wherein the method further includes (a) receiving at least one note from the first user, and (b) outputting the at least one note to the second user.

[0145] Example 29: As in Example 28, the model creation includes performing segmentation based on input received from a second user.

[0146] Example 30: As in any of Examples 21-29, wherein the at least one user includes a first user and a second user, and wherein the method further includes (a) receiving input from the first user identifying the avoidance region, and (b) outputting data describing the avoidance region to the second user.

[0147] Example 31: As in Example 30, wherein creating the model includes performing segmentation based on input received from a second user.

[0148] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is not intended that any method described herein require its steps to be performed in a particular order. Therefore, no inference is made in any respect of the order in which the method claims do not actually describe the order in which the steps are followed, or where the claims or description do not otherwise specify that the steps are limited to a particular order. This applies to any basis for possible non-explicit interpretation, including: logical questions concerning the arrangement of steps or the flow of operations; simple meanings derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; and the number or type of embodiments described in the specification.

[0149] Although methods and systems have been described in conjunction with preferred embodiments and specific examples, this is not intended to limit the scope to the specific embodiments illustrated, as the embodiments herein are intended in all respects to be illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0150] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is not intended that any method described herein require its steps to be performed in a particular order. Therefore, no inference is made in any respect of the order in which the method claims do not actually describe the order in which the steps are followed, or where the claims or description do not otherwise specify that the steps are limited to a particular order. This applies to any basis for possible non-explicit interpretation, including: logical questions concerning the arrangement of steps or the flow of operations; simple meanings derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; and the number or type of embodiments described in the specification.

[0151] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the scope or spirit. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the specification and practice disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered exemplary only, and that the true scope and spirit are indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. A method for managing the placement of a transducer array, comprising: Generate a three-dimensional (3D) model of a part of the subject's body; Based on 3D models and multiple simulated electric field distributions, multiple transducer array layout diagrams were determined. Each transducer array layout diagram includes: The first pair of positions for placing the first transducer array and the second transducer array; and The second pair of positions is used to place the third and fourth transducer arrays; One or more sets of transducer array layouts are determined from multiple transducer array layouts, wherein each set of transducer array layouts represents at least two transducer array layouts that satisfy a criterion, wherein the first pair of positions and the second pair of positions of any transducer array layout in the set are not located at the same positions on the 3D model as the first pair of positions and the second pair of positions of any other transducer array layout in the set; and Display the set of layout diagrams for the one or more transducer arrays.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the criteria include the amplitude of the simulated electric field distribution among multiple simulated electric field distributions within a region of interest (ROI) associated with the 3D model, the power density associated with the simulated electric field distribution among multiple simulated electric field distributions within the ROI, and an estimate of skin toxicity associated with a part of the subject's body.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving a selection of a set of transducer array layout patterns from one or more sets of transducer array layout patterns.

4. The method of claim 3, further comprising generating composite data based on the selected set of transducer array layout diagrams.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the composite data includes information associated with the selected set of transducer array layout diagrams and simulated electric field distributions among a plurality of simulated electric field distributions associated with the selected set of transducer array layout diagrams.

6. The method of claim 4, further comprising sending composite data to a user equipment.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein generating the 3D model comprises: Enables one or more user devices to display multiple images of parts of a subject's body; Receive selection of one or more images from a plurality of images based on the region of interest (ROI); as well as Generate a 3D model based on one or more of the images.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising receiving information associated with the ROI from a first user device among the one or more user devices, and wherein receiving a selection of the one or more images includes receiving a selection of the one or more images from a second user device among the one or more user devices.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the plurality of transducer array layout diagrams comprises: Based on the 3D model, multiple pairs of positions for the placement of the transducer array are determined; For each pair of positions, determine the simulated electric field distribution among multiple simulated electric field distributions; and Based on multiple simulated electric field distributions, multiple transducer array layouts were determined.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein determining the simulated electric field distribution for each of the plurality of pairs of locations comprises: At the first position in the pair of positions, a first electric field generated by the first transducer array is simulated; A second electric field generated by a second transducer array is simulated at a second position in the pair of positions, wherein the second position is opposite to the first position; as well as The simulated electric field distribution is determined based on the first and second electric fields.

11. An apparatus for managing the placement of a transducer array, comprising: One or more processors; and A memory storing processor-executable instructions, which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the device to perform the following operations: Generate a three-dimensional (3D) model of a part of the subject's body; Based on 3D models and multiple simulated electric field distributions, multiple transducer array layout diagrams were determined. Each transducer array layout diagram includes: The first pair of positions for placing the first transducer array and the second transducer array; and The second pair of positions is used to place the third and fourth transducer arrays; One or more sets of transducer array layouts are determined from multiple transducer array layouts, wherein each set of transducer array layouts represents at least two transducer array layouts that satisfy a criterion, wherein the first pair of positions and the second pair of positions of any transducer array layout in the set are not located at the same positions on the 3D model as the first pair of positions and the second pair of positions of any other transducer array layout in the set; and Display the set of layout diagrams for the one or more transducer arrays.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the criteria include the amplitude of a simulated electric field distribution among a plurality of simulated electric field distributions within a region of interest (ROI) associated with a 3D model, the power density associated with the simulated electric field distributions among a plurality of simulated electric field distributions within the ROI, and an estimate of skin toxicity associated with a body part of the subject.

13. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the processor executable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, further cause the apparatus to receive a selection of a set of transducer array layout patterns from the one or more sets of transducer array layout patterns.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the processor-executable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, further cause the apparatus to generate composite data based on a selected set of transducer array layout diagrams.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the composite data includes information associated with a selected set of transducer array layout diagrams and a simulated electric field distribution among a plurality of simulated electric field distributions associated with the selected set of transducer array layout diagrams.

16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the processor-executable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, further cause the apparatus to send composite data to the user equipment.

17. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the processor-executable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the apparatus to generate a 3D model, further causing the apparatus to perform the following operations: Enables one or more user devices to display multiple images of parts of a subject's body; Receive selection of one or more images from a plurality of images based on the region of interest (ROI); as well as Generate a 3D model based on one or more of the images.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the processor-executable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, further cause the apparatus to receive information associated with the ROI from a first user equipment among the one or more user equipments, and wherein receiving a selection of the one or more images includes receiving a selection of the one or more images from a second user equipment among the one or more user equipments.

19. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the processor-executable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the apparatus to determine a plurality of transducer array layout diagrams, further causing the apparatus to perform the following operations: Based on the 3D model, multiple pairs of positions for the placement of the transducer array are determined; For each pair of positions, determine the simulated electric field distribution among multiple simulated electric field distributions; and Based on multiple simulated electric field distributions, multiple transducer array layouts were determined.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the processor is executable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the apparatus to determine the simulated electric field distribution of each of a plurality of pairs of locations, and further cause the apparatus to perform the following operations: At the first position in the pair of positions, a first electric field generated by the first transducer array is simulated; A second electric field generated by a second transducer array is simulated at a second position in the pair of positions, wherein the second position is opposite to the first position; as well as The simulated electric field distribution is determined based on the first and second electric fields.

21. A non-transitory computer-readable medium configured to store information; a processor coupled to the non-transitory computer-readable medium configured to: Generate a three-dimensional (3D) model of a part of the subject's body; Based on 3D models and multiple simulated electric field distributions, multiple transducer array layout diagrams were determined. Each transducer array layout diagram includes: The first pair of positions for placing the first transducer array and the second transducer array; and The second pair of positions is used to place the third and fourth transducer arrays; One or more sets of transducer array layouts are determined from multiple transducer array layouts, wherein each set of transducer array layouts represents at least two transducer array layouts that satisfy a criterion, wherein the first pair of positions and the second pair of positions of any transducer array layout in the set are not located at the same positions on the 3D model as the first pair of positions and the second pair of positions of any other transducer array layout in the set; and Display the set of layout diagrams for the one or more transducer arrays.

22. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the criteria include the amplitude of a simulated electric field distribution among a plurality of simulated electric field distributions within a region of interest (ROI) associated with a 3D model, the power density associated with the simulated electric field distributions among a plurality of simulated electric field distributions within the ROI, and an estimate of skin toxicity associated with a body part of the subject.

23. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the processor coupled to the non-transitory computer-readable medium is further configured to receive selection of a set of transducer array layout diagrams from one or more sets of transducer array layout diagrams.

24. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 23, wherein the processor coupled to the non-transitory computer-readable medium is further configured to generate composite data based on a selected set of transducer array layout diagrams.

25. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 24, wherein the composite data includes information associated with a selected set of transducer array layout diagrams and a simulated electric field distribution among a plurality of simulated electric field distributions associated with the selected set of transducer array layout diagrams.

26. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 24, wherein the processor coupled to the non-transitory computer-readable medium is further configured to send composite data to a user equipment.

27. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the processor coupled to the non-transitory computer-readable medium is further configured to: Enables one or more user devices to display multiple images of parts of a subject's body; Receive selection of one or more images from a plurality of images based on the region of interest (ROI); and Generate a 3D model based on one or more of the images.

28. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 27, wherein the processor coupled to the non-transitory computer-readable medium is further configured to receive information associated with the ROI from a first user equipment among the one or more user equipments, and wherein receiving a selection of the one or more images includes receiving a selection of the one or more images from a second user equipment among the one or more user equipments.

29. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 21, wherein the processor coupled to the non-transitory computer-readable medium, configured to determine a plurality of transducer array layout diagrams, is further configured to: Based on the 3D model, multiple pairs of positions for the placement of the transducer array are determined; For each pair of positions, determine the simulated electric field distribution among multiple simulated electric field distributions; and Based on multiple simulated electric field distributions, multiple transducer array layouts were determined.

30. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 29, wherein the processor coupled to the non-transitory computer-readable medium, configured to determine the analog electric field distribution of each of a plurality of pairs of locations, is further configured to: At the first position in the pair of positions, a first electric field generated by the first transducer array is simulated; A second electric field generated by a second transducer array is simulated at a second position in the pair of positions, wherein the second position is opposite to the first position; as well as The simulated electric field distribution is determined based on the first and second electric fields.

31. A method for managing the placement of a transducer array, comprising: Generate a three-dimensional (3D) model of a part of the subject's body; Based on 3D models and multiple simulated electric field distributions, multiple transducer array layout diagrams were determined. Each transducer array layout diagram includes: The first pair of positions for placing the first transducer array and the second transducer array; and The second pair of positions is used to place the third and fourth transducer arrays; Receive selection of a first transducer array layout from a plurality of transducer layouts, wherein the first transducer array layout satisfies criteria. One or more associated transducer array layouts are determined from multiple transducer array layouts, wherein the first pair of positions and the second pair of positions of each associated transducer array layout are not at the same positions on the 3D model as the first pair of positions and the second pair of positions of the first transducer array layout, wherein each associated transducer array layout satisfies the criteria. Receive selection of a second transducer array layout from the one or more associated transducer array layouts; and Display the layout diagram of the first transducer array and the layout diagram of the second transducer array.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the criteria include the amplitude of a simulated electric field distribution among a plurality of simulated electric field distributions within a region of interest (ROI) associated with a 3D model, the power density associated with the simulated electric field distributions among a plurality of simulated electric field distributions within the ROI, and an estimate of skin toxicity associated with a body part of the subject.

33. The method of claim 31, further comprising generating composite data based on the first transducer array layout diagram and the second transducer array layout diagram.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein the composite data includes information associated with the first transducer array layout and the second transducer array layout, and a simulated electric field distribution among a plurality of simulated electric field distributions associated with the first transducer array layout and the second transducer array layout.

35. The method of claim 31, wherein generating the 3D model comprises: Enables one or more user devices to display multiple images of parts of a subject's body; Receive selection of one or more images from a plurality of images based on the region of interest (ROI); as well as Generate a 3D model based on one or more of the images.

36. The method of claim 35, further comprising receiving information associated with the ROI from a first user equipment among the one or more user equipments, and wherein receiving a selection of the one or more images includes receiving a selection of the one or more images from a second user equipment among the one or more user equipments.

37. The method of claim 31, wherein determining the plurality of transducer array layout diagrams comprises: Based on the 3D model, multiple pairs of positions for the placement of the transducer array are determined; For each pair of positions, determine the simulated electric field distribution among multiple simulated electric field distributions; and Based on multiple simulated electric field distributions, multiple transducer array layouts were determined.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein determining the simulated electric field distribution for each of the plurality of pairs of locations comprises: At the first position in the pair of positions, a first electric field generated by the first transducer array is simulated; A second electric field generated by a second transducer array is simulated at a second position in the pair of positions, wherein the second position is opposite to the first position; as well as The simulated electric field distribution is determined based on the first and second electric fields.

39. An apparatus for managing the placement of a transducer array, comprising: One or more processors; and A memory storing processor-executable instructions, which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the device to perform the following operations: Generate a three-dimensional (3D) model of a part of the subject's body; Based on 3D models and multiple simulated electric field distributions, multiple transducer array layout diagrams were determined. Each transducer array layout diagram includes: The first pair of positions for placing the first transducer array and the second transducer array; and The second pair of positions is used to place the third and fourth transducer arrays; Receive selection of a first transducer array layout from a plurality of transducer layouts, wherein the first transducer array layout satisfies a criterion. One or more associated transducer array layouts are determined from multiple transducer array layouts, wherein the first pair of positions and the second pair of positions of each associated transducer array layout are not at the same positions on the 3D model as the first pair of positions and the second pair of positions of the first transducer array layout, wherein each associated transducer array layout satisfies the criteria. Receive selection of a second transducer array layout from the one or more associated transducer array layouts; and Display the layout diagram of the first transducer array and the layout diagram of the second transducer array.

40. The apparatus of claim 39, wherein the criteria include the amplitude of a simulated electric field distribution among a plurality of simulated electric field distributions within a region of interest (ROI) associated with a 3D model, the power density associated with the simulated electric field distributions among a plurality of simulated electric field distributions within the ROI, and an estimate of skin toxicity associated with a body part of the subject.

41. The apparatus of claim 39, wherein the processor-executable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, further cause the apparatus to generate composite data based on the first transducer array layout diagram and the second transducer array layout diagram.

42. The apparatus of claim 41, wherein the composite data includes information associated with the first transducer array layout and the second transducer array layout, and a simulated electric field distribution among a plurality of simulated electric field distributions associated with the first transducer array layout and the second transducer array layout.

43. The apparatus of claim 39, wherein the processor-executable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the apparatus to generate a 3D model, further causing the apparatus to perform the following operations: Enables one or more user devices to display multiple images of parts of a subject's body; Receive selection of one or more images from a plurality of images based on the region of interest (ROI); as well as Generate a 3D model based on one or more of the images.

44. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the processor-executable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, further cause the apparatus to receive information associated with the ROI from a first user equipment among the one or more user equipments, and wherein receiving a selection of the one or more images includes receiving a selection of the one or more images from a second user equipment among the one or more user equipments.

45. The apparatus of claim 39, wherein the processor-executable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the apparatus to determine a plurality of transducer array layout diagrams, further causing the apparatus to perform the following operations: Based on the 3D model, multiple pairs of positions for the placement of the transducer array are determined; For each pair of positions, determine the simulated electric field distribution among multiple simulated electric field distributions; and Based on multiple simulated electric field distributions, multiple transducer array layouts were determined.

46. ​​The apparatus of claim 45, wherein the processor executable instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the apparatus to determine the simulated electric field distribution of each of a plurality of pairs of locations, further causing the apparatus to perform the following operations: At the first position in the pair of positions, a first electric field generated by the first transducer array is simulated; A second electric field generated by a second transducer array is simulated at a second position in the pair of positions, wherein the second position is opposite to the first position; as well as The simulated electric field distribution is determined based on the first and second electric fields.

47. A non-transitory computer-readable medium configured to store information; a processor coupled to the non-transitory computer-readable medium configured to: Generate a three-dimensional (3D) model of a part of the subject's body; Based on 3D models and multiple simulated electric field distributions, multiple transducer array layout diagrams were determined. Each transducer array layout diagram includes: The first pair of positions for placing the first transducer array and the second transducer array; and The second pair of positions is used to place the third and fourth transducer arrays; Receive selection of a first transducer array layout from a plurality of transducer layouts, wherein the first transducer array layout satisfies a criterion. One or more associated transducer array layouts are determined from multiple transducer array layouts, wherein the first pair of positions and the second pair of positions of each associated transducer array layout are not at the same positions on the 3D model as the first pair of positions and the second pair of positions of the first transducer array layout, wherein each associated transducer array layout satisfies the criteria. Receive selection of a second transducer array layout from the one or more associated transducer array layouts; and Display the layout diagram of the first transducer array and the layout diagram of the second transducer array.

48. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 47, wherein the criteria include the amplitude of a simulated electric field distribution among a plurality of simulated electric field distributions within a region of interest (ROI) associated with a 3D model, the power density associated with the simulated electric field distribution among a plurality of simulated electric field distributions within the ROI, and an estimate of skin toxicity associated with a body part of the subject.

49. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 47, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium is further configured to generate composite data based on a first transducer array layout diagram and a second transducer array layout diagram.

50. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 49, wherein the composite data includes information associated with the first transducer array layout and the second transducer array layout, and a simulated electric field distribution among a plurality of simulated electric field distributions associated with the first transducer array layout and the second transducer array layout.

51. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 47, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium configured to generate a 3D model is further configured to: Enables one or more user devices to display multiple images of parts of a subject's body; Receive selection of one or more images from a plurality of images based on the region of interest (ROI); and A 3D model is generated based on the one or more images.

52. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 51, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium is configured to receive information associated with an ROI from a first user equipment among the one or more user equipments, and wherein receiving a selection of the one or more images includes receiving a selection of the one or more images from a second user equipment among the one or more user equipments.

53. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 47, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium configured to determine a plurality of transducer array layout diagrams is further configured to: Based on the 3D model, multiple pairs of positions for the placement of the transducer array are determined; For each pair of positions, determine the simulated electric field distribution among multiple simulated electric field distributions; and Based on multiple simulated electric field distributions, multiple transducer array layouts were determined.

54. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 53, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium configured to determine the simulated electric field distribution of each of a plurality of pairs of locations is further configured to: At the first position in the pair of positions, a first electric field generated by the first transducer array is simulated; A second electric field generated by a second transducer array is simulated at a second position in the pair of positions, wherein the second position is opposite to the first position; as well as The simulated electric field distribution is determined based on the first and second electric fields.

Images