Medical information visual imaging system based on terahertz

Abstract

The invention discloses a medical information visual imaging system based on terahertz, and the system comprises a terahertz radiation module which generates broadband high-intensity terahertz waves based on the nonlinear optical effect of a nanometer antenna array, and is used for irradiating a detection body in the range of the terahertz waves; the terahertz wave band composite FSS band-pass filter is arranged between the terahertz radiation module and the detection body and is used for gating terahertz waves; the detection module is used for receiving terahertz waves carrying optical information of a detection body; and the image processing module is electrically connected with the detection module and is used for carrying out digital image processing on the terahertz waves carrying the optical information of the detection body to obtain a terahertz medical image of the detection body. Thus, the broadband high-intensity terahertz radiation source generated based on the nano antenna array and the nonlinear optical effect is combined with the terahertz waveband composite FSS band-pass filter, and three-dimensional real-time non-destructive living body medical imaging and objective case detection are achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of medical imaging technology, and in particular to a medical information visual imaging system based on terahertz. Background Art

[0002] Research on terahertz imaging and spectroscopy in the medical field has covered many aspects such as tissue, cell, skin imaging, and detection and analysis of traditional Chinese medicine. Compared with traditional medical methods, terahertz wave technology shows significant advantages such as strong broadband spectral analysis capabilities, high resolution and low energy consumption. In medical diagnosis, terahertz detection is expected to be used as a supplement to existing imaging and pathology for early diagnosis of tumors and determination of surgical margins, but its current application is still in its early stages and research results are limited. At the same time, although research on terahertz sources, detection methods and algorithms is diverse, it has not yet formed a clear technical advantage. Medical diagnostic applications are mostly phenomenon observations, lacking research on pathological mechanisms. In addition, due to the limitations of broadband terahertz sources, current research is mostly concentrated in the low-frequency band, and the spectral characteristics of the high-frequency band are still unclear. Therefore, it is still a challenge to achieve three-dimensional real-time non-destructive in vivo medical imaging and objective case detection. Summary of the invention

[0003] The embodiments of the present application provide a terahertz-based medical imaging system, thereby solving the problem that the prior art cannot achieve three-dimensional real-time non-destructive in vivo medical imaging and objective case detection.

[0004] In order to achieve the above object, the technical solution of the embodiment of the present invention is:

[0005] The embodiment of the present invention provides a medical information visual imaging system based on terahertz, comprising: a terahertz radiation module, which generates a wide-band high-intensity terahertz wave based on the nonlinear optical effect of a nanoantenna array, and is used to irradiate a detection object within the range of the terahertz wave; a terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter, which is arranged between the terahertz radiation module and the detection object and is used to select the terahertz wave; a detection module, which is used to receive the terahertz wave carrying the optical information of the detection object; and an image processing module, which is electrically connected to the detection module and is used to perform digital image processing on the terahertz wave carrying the optical information of the detection object to obtain a terahertz medical image of the detection object.

[0006] In some possible implementations, the terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter is also used to perform spatial domain filtering, frequency domain filtering, high-pass filtering, and Gaussian convolution noise reduction on the terahertz medical image of the test object to obtain a terahertz medical image after noise reduction and enhancement.

[0007] In some possible implementations, a terahertz radiation device includes: a femtosecond laser, a beam splitter, a time delay system, and a terahertz transmitter with a nanoantenna array; the femtosecond laser generated by the femtosecond laser is divided into a detection pulse and a pump pulse under the action of the beam splitter; after the pump pulse passes through the time delay system, it acts on the terahertz transmitter to generate a wide-band high-intensity terahertz wave; wherein the time delay system is used to control the time delay between the pump pulse and the detection pulse; the detection pulse is incident on a detection module to drive the detection module to receive the terahertz wave carrying the optical information of the detection object.

[0008] In some possible implementations, a terahertz transmitter having a nano-antenna array includes an insulating substrate and a plurality of conductive nano-antennas arranged in an array on the insulating substrate.

[0009] In some possible implementations, the center frequency of the bandpass filter is 0.338 THz, and the bandpass filter includes a three-pole unit; wherein each pole unit includes a frequency selective surface of a two-dimensional planar structure composed of one or more metal patterns; and the bottom of each frequency selective surface is supported by a dielectric substrate.

[0010] In some possible implementations, the image processing module is further used to compare and differentiate the terahertz medical image of the test object with the terahertz medical image of a preset normal tissue to obtain a medical image comparison result.

[0011] One or more technical solutions provided in the embodiments of the present invention have at least the following technical effects or advantages:

[0012] The medical information visual imaging system based on terahertz provided by the present invention comprises a terahertz radiation module, which generates a wide-band high-intensity terahertz wave based on the nonlinear optical effect of a nano-antenna array, and is used to irradiate a detection object within the range of the terahertz wave; a terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter, which is arranged between the terahertz radiation module and the detection object, and is used to select the terahertz wave; a detection module, which is used to receive the terahertz wave carrying the optical information of the detection object; and an image processing module, which is electrically connected to the detection module, and is used to perform digital image processing on the terahertz wave carrying the optical information of the detection object, and obtain a terahertz medical image of the detection object. In this way, by combining a wide-band high-intensity terahertz radiation source generated by a nano-antenna array and a nonlinear optical effect with a terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter, three-dimensional real-time non-destructive in vivo medical imaging and objective case detection can be achieved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings required for use in the embodiments of the present invention will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other accompanying drawings can be obtained based on these accompanying drawings without paying any creative work.

[0014] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a terahertz-based medical information visual imaging system provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0015] Figure 2a A schematic diagram of the structure of a terahertz transmitter with a nano-antenna array;

[0016] Figure 2b This is the main view of a unit of the nanoantenna;

[0017] Figure 3a It is a front view of a single pole unit of the terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] Figure 3b It is a schematic diagram of the structure of the three-level subunit;

[0019] Figure 4 It is a structural schematic diagram of a terahertz-based medical information visual imaging system scanning a sample in an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be described clearly and completely below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are part of the embodiments of the present application, rather than all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without creative work are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0021] In the relevant description of this embodiment, the terms "including, containing, having" and the like are open terms and are generally understood to include but not be limited to; the term "at least one" is generally understood to mean one or more, where "plurality" refers to two or more; the term "at least one of the following" or similar expressions refers to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items, for example, "at least one of a, b or c", or "at least one of a, b and c", can all represent: a, b, c, ab (i.e., a and b), ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, c can be single or multiple, respectively; the symbol "A / B" is used to describe the selection relationship of associated objects, generally indicating an "or" relationship before and after.

[0022] In the following description of the present embodiment, the terms used in the embodiments of the present application are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments, and are not intended to limit the present application. The singular forms "a" and "the" used in the embodiments of the present application and the appended claims are also intended to include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates other meanings.

[0023] Those skilled in the art should understand that in the following description of the embodiments of the present application, the order of serial numbers does not mean the order of execution, some or all of the steps can be executed in parallel or sequentially, and the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of the present application.

[0024] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the numerical ranges in the embodiments of the present application are to be construed as also specifically disclosing each intermediate value between the upper and lower limits of the scope. Each smaller range between the intermediate value in any stated value or stated range and any other stated value or intermediate value in the range is also included in the present invention. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may be independently included or excluded in the scope.

[0025] Unless otherwise specified, the technical / scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as those generally understood by those skilled in the art to which this application belongs. Although this application only describes preferred methods and materials, any methods and materials similar or equivalent to these may also be used in the implementation or testing of this application. All documents mentioned in this specification are incorporated by reference to disclose and describe methods and / or materials related to the documents. In the event of a conflict with any incorporated document, the content of this specification shall prevail.

[0026] In order to illustrate the technical solution of the present invention, specific embodiments are provided below for illustration.

[0027] Terahertz imaging and spectroscopy research in the medical field has covered tissue, cell, skin imaging, and traditional Chinese medicine detection and analysis. Compared with traditional medical methods, terahertz wave technology has significant advantages such as strong broadband spectral analysis capabilities, high resolution, and low energy consumption.

[0028] Terahertz (THz) waves usually refer to electromagnetic waves with a frequency range of 0.1 to 10 THz, which is in the transition zone between macroscopic electronics and microscopic photonics. For a long time, research progress in this frequency band was slow, and it was once called the "THz gap". It is the only spectrum resource in the electromagnetic spectrum that needs to be fully developed. With the vigorous development around the world, terahertz source and detection technology have made breakthrough progress, and the application research of terahertz technology has rapidly expanded to more and more fields. For example, biomedicine is one of its most important application areas. Terahertz waves are electromagnetic waves with a wavelength of 0.03 to 3 mm and a wave number of 3.33 to 333 cm. This band is between millimeter waves and infrared. Terahertz technology combines the characteristics of the two major fields of photons and electronics, covering different disciplines such as materials engineering, optics, chemistry and physics, and is an interdisciplinary subject.

[0029] In recent years, with the continuous in-depth research of terahertz technology by scholars at home and abroad, this technology has been widely used in communications and military fields. At the same time, it has also achieved many results in the medical field. In medical diagnosis, terahertz detection is expected to be used as a supplement to existing imaging and pathology for early diagnosis of tumors and determination of surgical margins, but its application is still in its early stages and the research results are limited. At the same time, although the research on terahertz sources, detection methods and algorithms is diverse, it has not yet formed a clear technical advantage. Medical diagnosis applications are mostly phenomenon observations, lacking research on pathological mechanisms. Limited by broadband terahertz sources, current research is mostly concentrated in the low-frequency band, and the spectral characteristics of the high-frequency band are still unclear. Therefore, it is still a challenge to achieve three-dimensional real-time non-destructive in vivo medical imaging and objective case detection.

[0030] Based on this, an embodiment of the present invention provides a medical information visual imaging system based on terahertz, which solves the problem that the prior art cannot achieve three-dimensional real-time non-destructive living medical imaging and objective case detection.

[0031] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a terahertz-based medical information visualization system provided by an embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. Figure 1 As shown, the above system may include:

[0032] A terahertz radiation module 11, which can generate a wide-band high-intensity terahertz wave through the nonlinear optical effect of the nano-antenna array inside it, and can be used to irradiate a detection object within the range of the terahertz wave;

[0033] In some embodiments, the terahertz waves generated by the nanoantenna array have a broadband characteristic, which can cover a wide frequency range. This broadband characteristic enables terahertz waves to be used to detect many different types of materials and structures, not just a specific type. In addition, high intensity can ensure the accuracy and sensitivity of detection, and effective detection can be performed even for trace substances. At the same time, due to the penetrating nature of terahertz waves, it can penetrate some materials that are opaque to visible light or infrared rays, such as paper, plastic, and certain types of cloth.

[0034] It is understandable that when terahertz waves interact with matter, specific absorption and scattering patterns are generated, and these patterns can be used to identify and analyze the composition and structure of the matter. Therefore, the above-mentioned terahertz radiation module 11 can be used to perform characteristic analysis on the detection object within the range of terahertz waves, such as identification of chemical components, detection of biological tissues, and detection of material defects.

[0035] In some implementations, the terahertz radiation module 11 may include: a femtosecond laser, a beam splitter, a time delay system, and a terahertz emitter having a nanoantenna array;

[0036] The femtosecond laser generated by the femtosecond laser is divided into a detection pulse and a pump pulse under the action of a beam splitter;

[0037] After passing through the time delay system, the pump pulse acts on the terahertz emitter to generate a wide-band high-intensity terahertz wave; wherein the time delay system is used to control the time delay between the pump pulse and the detection pulse;

[0038] The detection pulse is incident on the detection module 13, and is used to drive the detection module 13 to receive the terahertz wave carrying the optical information of the detection object.

[0039] Among them, the structural design of the terahertz transmitter with a nanoantenna array is the key to generating wide-band, high-intensity terahertz waves. Figure 2a to Figure 2b is a schematic diagram of the structure of a nano-antenna array in an embodiment of the present invention, wherein: Figure 2a Schematic diagram of the structure of a terahertz transmitter with a nanoantenna array. Figure 2b This is the main view of a unit of the nanoantenna. Figure 2a The coordinate axes x, y, and z are the Cartesian coordinate system of the terahertz transmitter. Figure 2a to Figure 2b As shown, the terahertz transmitter with a nano-antenna array includes an insulating substrate 21 and a plurality of conductive nano-antennas 22 arranged in an array on the insulating substrate. Figure 2a Where lx and ly are the length and width of the conductive nanoantenna 22, respectively, and Px and Py are the length and width of the insulating substrate 21, respectively.

[0040] It should be noted that the insulating substrate 21 in the terahertz radiation module 11 can not only support the nanoantenna array, but also maintain the stability and durability of the overall structure. When selecting the insulating material of the insulating substrate 21, factors such as its insulation performance, mechanical strength, thermal stability and processing performance need to be considered. For example, quartz, as an excellent insulating material, has high thermal stability, high mechanical strength and good chemical stability, and is therefore very suitable as an insulating substrate for the terahertz radiation module. Of course, in addition to quartz, the material of the insulating substrate 21 can also be selected from other different materials according to demand, such as ceramics or some polymers such as polytetrafluoroethylene. The specific material selected to make the insulating substrate 21 can be selected based on the needs of the actual application process.

[0041] The conductor nano-antenna 22 is a core component of the terahertz radiation module 11, which is used to convert light energy into terahertz wave energy. The material of the conductor nano-antenna 22 can be selected based on the actual application requirements. For example, gold metal has attracted widespread attention due to its excellent electrical conductivity and stability. The chemical properties of gold are stable and it is not easily oxidized or corroded. Using gold as the material for the conductor nano-antenna 22 can ensure the reliability of the antenna for long-term use. In addition, gold metal also has good optical properties and can effectively convert light energy into terahertz waves. Of course, the conductor nano-antenna 22 can also be other metal materials, such as silver, copper, etc.

[0042] For example, taking quartz as the insulating substrate 21 and gold as the conductor nano-antenna 22, the excellent performance of the quartz substrate enables the module to work in harsh environments such as high temperature and high humidity, thus broadening its application range. Secondly, the high conductivity and stability of the gold nano-antenna ensure the efficiency and reliability of the module, enabling it to maintain stable terahertz wave output for a long time.

[0043] Specifically, the relative dielectric constant of quartz is 7.2. The optical coordinate system and the geometric coordinate system in the embodiment of the present invention can be used as follows: Figure 2a The Cartesian coordinate system shown in . The nanoantenna is along the x direction, the thickness of the substrate is 200nm, the length and width of the gold antenna are 480nm and 70nm respectively, and the thickness is 20nm; the period of the array in the x and y directions is P x =500nm and P y =340nm.

[0044] In some embodiments, the efficiency and intensity of terahertz wave generation can be improved by optimizing the shape, size and arrangement of the conductor nanoantenna 22 in the terahertz transmitter. For example, nanoimprinting technology or electron beam etching technology can be used to accurately manufacture nanoantenna arrays to achieve higher nonlinear optical effects.

[0045] In the embodiment of the present invention, the terahertz radiation module 11 with a nano-antenna array is designed based on the plasma resonance response characteristics in the nano-antenna array. By using Maxwell's equations and the kinetic equations of metal plasma, the generation process of terahertz time-domain signals of the nano-antenna array under pulsed laser excitation can be studied. In addition, based on the designability and easy integration of the nano-antenna array, it shows a broad application prospect in the field of integrated terahertz source devices. This feature enables the nano-antenna array to easily adapt to various miniaturized and integrated application requirements.

[0046] In some embodiments, by precisely adjusting the shape, size, arrangement and materials of the nanoantennas, precise control of the generation and transmission characteristics of terahertz waves can be achieved. And the easy integration of the nanoantenna array allows it to be easily embedded in various electronic devices and systems. By combining with micro-nano processing technology, circuit integration technology, etc., the nanoantenna array can be seamlessly integrated with other functional modules to build a powerful and compact integrated terahertz source device.

[0047] A terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter 12 is arranged between the terahertz radiation module 11 and the detection object, and is used to select the terahertz wave;

[0048] Among them, the terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter 12, based on the principle of utilizing the special design of the frequency selective surface, can achieve the passage of high-frequency waves within a specific terahertz frequency range while suppressing the transmission of other frequency components.

[0049] In some embodiments, the terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter 12 is composed of periodic metal patterns or structures, which are precisely designed to produce the required frequency response. When the terahertz wave is irradiated onto the bandpass filter, its special electromagnetic properties enable it to achieve high transmittance within a specific frequency range, while exhibiting higher reflection or absorption characteristics in other frequency ranges. The bandpass filter is arranged between the terahertz radiation module 11 and the detection object, which can ensure that only the terahertz waves within a specific frequency range can reach the detection object, thereby improving the accuracy and sensitivity of the detection. At the same time, the bandpass filter can also effectively suppress the influence of environmental noise and other interference signals, and improve the signal-to-noise ratio of the entire system.

[0050] In some embodiments, the center frequency of the terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter 12 is 0.338 THz, and it can be composed of three-pole units. Each pole unit includes a frequency selective surface of a two-dimensional planar structure composed of one or more metal patterns; and the bottom of each frequency selective surface is supported by a dielectric substrate.

[0051] For example, Figure 3a to Figure 3bSchematic diagram of the structure of the terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter 12 in the implementation of the present invention. Figure 3a 1 is a front view of a single pole unit of the terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter 12 in an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3b is a schematic diagram of the structure of the three-level subunit. Figure 3a to Figure 3b As shown, each pole unit includes a frequency selection surface 31, and the frequency selection surface 31 is arranged on a dielectric substrate 32. The center of each frequency selection surface 31 has a same pattern ( Figure 3a to Figure 3b The triangular shape shown in FIG. 3 may also be any other shape).

[0052] In an embodiment of the present invention, the terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter 12 can optimize the performance of the filter through the interaction and coupling between the pole units of different layers. This design enables the bandpass filter to achieve high transmittance and low loss in a wider frequency range while maintaining good stability and reliability. Moreover, cascading the bandpass filter in three layers can achieve the effect of broadband filtering. In addition, cascading the FSS structure in three layers can achieve the effect of broadband filtering. In order to ensure impedance matching between layers, according to the theoretical layer spacing of the transmission line, λ0 / 4 can be taken as 221.89um. At the same time, in order to make the reflection coefficient the same, the geometric parameters of each layer of FSS can be kept consistent.

[0053] A detection module 13, used for receiving terahertz waves carrying optical information of the detection object;

[0054] In some embodiments, the design and performance of the detection module 13 directly affect the whole system's ability and accuracy to acquire information about the object being detected. The detection module 13 may have the characteristics of high sensitivity and high resolution to ensure that weak signals and detailed information in the terahertz wave can be accurately captured. It may include a series of precision optical components and electronic devices for focusing, filtering and amplifying the received terahertz wave signals. After receiving the terahertz wave carrying the optical information of the object being detected, the detection module 13 will convert these signals into electrical signals for subsequent data processing and analysis. This conversion process needs to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the signal to restore the optical properties of the object being detected to the greatest extent possible.

[0055] In some embodiments, the detection module 13 may also have intelligent functions such as automatic calibration, noise suppression and signal enhancement to improve the stability and reliability of the system. These functions enable the detection module to work in complex environmental conditions and effectively deal with various interference factors.

[0056] Among them, in the terahertz wave carrying the optical information of the detection object, the optical information of the detection object refers to the response characteristics of the detection object in the terahertz band, which can be detected by the terahertz wave and converted into analyzable data. For example, the optical information of the detection object may include optical characteristics such as absorption characteristics, transmission characteristics, reflection characteristics, and scattering characteristics.

[0057] Specifically, the absorption degree of the detection object to the terahertz wave of a specific frequency can reflect the material composition and structural characteristics inside it. Different substances have different absorption spectra in the terahertz band, so the type and concentration of the substance can be identified by analyzing the absorption characteristics. The transmission intensity of the terahertz wave after passing through the detection object can also provide information about the internal structure and composition of the detection object. The transmission characteristics are affected by factors such as scattering, absorption and refraction inside the detection object, so the optical properties and geometric structure of the detection object can be inferred by analyzing the transmission signal. The intensity, phase and polarization state of the terahertz wave reflected on the surface of the detection object can also reflect the surface properties and internal structure of the detection object. By analyzing the reflection signal, information about parameters such as the surface roughness, coating thickness, and material refractive index of the detection object can be obtained. When the terahertz wave is scattered inside or on the surface of the detection object, the intensity and direction distribution of the scattered signal can also provide information about the internal microstructure of the detection object. By analyzing the scattered signal, information such as particle distribution, defects and interfaces inside the detection object can be understood.

[0058] In the detection module 13, the optical information of the detected object can be converted into electrical signals and extracted through signal processing and analysis techniques. These analyses can include spectrum analysis, time domain analysis, polarization analysis, etc., so as to more comprehensively understand the properties and status of the detected object.

[0059] The image processing module 14 is electrically connected to the detection module 13 and is used to perform digital image processing on the terahertz wave carrying the optical information of the detection object to obtain a terahertz medical image of the detection object.

[0060] Specifically, the image processing module 14 receives electrical signals from the detection module 13, which carry the optical information of the test object in the terahertz band. Through digital image processing technology, the image processing module 14 can convert these signals into visual terahertz medical images, and directly display the medical imaging information of the whole or part of the internal tissue of the test object in a visual way for doctors to perform diagnosis and analysis.

[0061] In some embodiments, the image processing module 14 may also be used to compare and differentiate the terahertz medical image of the test object with the terahertz medical image of a preset normal tissue, thereby obtaining a medical image comparison result.

[0062] It can be understood that after obtaining the terahertz medical image of the test object, in order to determine whether the test object has any abnormality, the image processing module 14 can automatically perform a depth comparison and distinction between the terahertz medical image of the test object and the terahertz medical image of a preset normal tissue, thereby realizing rapid confirmation of whether the test object has any abnormality.

[0063] Specifically, first, the image processing module 14 can make a detailed comparison of the basic morphology and texture features in the image to find subtle differences between the two. Then, the image brightness, contrast, color distribution and other parameters can be further analyzed to capture abnormal information that may be hidden in routine observations. In addition, advanced algorithms and techniques, such as machine learning or deep learning, may be used to perform higher-level analysis and processing of the image to extract more useful diagnostic information. After this series of complex processing and analysis, the image processing module 14 can eventually generate a detailed medical image comparison result. This result not only contains the specific differences between the test object and normal tissue in the image, but also provides a detailed explanation of the cause, nature and severity of these differences. For doctors, this comparison result will be a very valuable diagnostic tool to help them more accurately understand the health status of the test object and formulate a more precise treatment plan.

[0064] In some embodiments, the image processing module 14 can be a high-performance computer device or a dedicated image processor. It has powerful computing power and professional image processing algorithms, and can quickly and accurately process and analyze input electrical signals. By using advanced image processing algorithms and distance measurement methods, the image processing module 14 can extract key features of the test object in the terahertz image, such as shape, size, position, etc., so as to generate high-quality terahertz medical images.

[0065] In some embodiments, the image processing module 14 may also have a rich interface and expansion capabilities, can be seamlessly connected with the detection module 13, and can interact and share data with other medical devices or systems. It can also support multiple image processing modes and parameter settings to meet different application scenarios and diagnostic requirements.

[0066] It should be noted that in the terahertz medical imaging system, the image processing module 14 converts the terahertz wave signal carrying the optical information of the test object captured by the detection module 13 into a medical image with practical diagnostic significance. These images can show the overall structure of the test object or focus on a specific tissue area, providing doctors with rich diagnostic information.

[0067] Exemplarily, taking the detection object as a human body as an example, the system can capture the optical information of the internal tissue of the human body by emitting terahertz waves and receiving the reflected or transmitted signals after passing through the human body. Subsequently, these information are converted into electrical signals after preliminary processing by the detection module 13, and then transmitted to the image processing module 14. After receiving these electrical signals, the image processing module 14 will use advanced digital image processing technology to perform refined analysis and processing on the signals. This process may include steps such as signal amplification, filtering, enhancement, and three-dimensional reconstruction, aiming to extract key information related to the internal structure of the human body and remove noise and interference. After processing, the image processing module 14 can generate terahertz medical images of the human body. These images can be holistic, showing the overall appearance and internal structure of the human body; or they can be local, focusing on a specific tissue area, such as the lungs, abdomen or legs. Through careful observation and analysis of these images, doctors can understand the internal structure, tissue distribution and possible pathological conditions of the detection object, thereby providing a strong basis for the diagnosis of the disease.

[0068] In addition, due to the characteristics of strong penetration and sensitivity to water, terahertz waves have lower photon energy compared to traditional X-rays, which can avoid the side effects of X-ray medical imaging. In addition, because water molecules have strong absorption of terahertz waves, terahertz spectroscopy can be used in medicine to observe the difference between the water content in tumor tissue and normal cells, so as to judge the development of the tumor. At the same time, the amount of water content can also be used to distinguish normal tissue from inflamed skin tissue.

[0069] In summary, terahertz waves show unique advantages in medical imaging systems, especially in detecting soft tissues, tissues with high water content, and early lesions. This makes it have broad application prospects in the medical field and can provide important technical support for early detection, accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of diseases. For example, in early screening for lung cancer, terahertz waves can be used to accurately detect abnormal changes in lung tissues, such as the formation and spread of tumors, so as to achieve early detection and intervention. In addition, terahertz waves can also be used for soft tissue imaging, such as muscle and fat, to help doctors diagnose soft tissue-related diseases more accurately. At the same time, because terahertz waves are very sensitive to water content, they can be used to monitor the water content in human tissues and provide effective evaluation methods for dehydration, kidney disease, etc. During the treatment of diseases, terahertz waves can also monitor the changes in biological tissues in real time, provide doctors with accurate evaluation of treatment effects, and thus optimize treatment plans. Therefore, clearer medical images can be quickly obtained through terahertz waves, thereby realizing rapid screening of lesions and other conditions in the medical field.

[0070] In some embodiments, after obtaining the terahertz medical image of the test object through the above-mentioned image processing module 14, the terahertz medical image of the test object can also be subjected to spatial domain filtering, frequency domain filtering, high-pass filtering and Gaussian convolution noise reduction through the above-mentioned terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter 12 to obtain a terahertz medical image after noise reduction and enhancement.

[0071] It is understandable that in the terahertz medical imaging system, when the image processing module 14 successfully converts and presents the terahertz medical image of the test object, although it provides rich diagnostic information, it often contains some noise and interference components. These noises may come from environmental interference, equipment errors or non-uniformity of the test object itself during the detection process. In order to further improve the quality and clarity of the image so that the doctor can more accurately identify and analyze the internal structure of the test object, it is necessary to further reduce noise and enhance the original image.

[0072] In the embodiment of the present invention, in addition to the previously mentioned function of selecting terahertz waves of specific frequencies, the terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter 12 can also be used as a key tool in image processing to perform spatial domain filtering, frequency domain filtering, high-pass filtering, and Gaussian convolution noise reduction on terahertz medical images.

[0073] Among them, spatial domain filtering is to perform filtering operations directly in the pixel space of the image, and remove noise and details in the image through convolution operations. Frequency domain filtering converts the image from the spatial domain to the frequency domain, and reduces noise or enhances specific structures by modifying the frequency components. High-pass filtering focuses on the high-frequency components in the image, namely edges and details, which helps to highlight the structural information in the image. Gaussian convolution noise reduction is a commonly used smoothing filtering method. It convolves the image with a Gaussian function to reduce noise while retaining the main features of the image. After these filtering processes, the noise and interference components in the terahertz medical image are effectively removed, while retaining the main features and structural information of the image. In this way, doctors can observe the internal structure of the test object more clearly, identify the lesion area and abnormal tissue more accurately, and provide a more reliable basis for the diagnosis and treatment of the disease.

[0074] The following is a specific example to illustrate the terahertz-based medical information visualization system provided by the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a structure of a medical information visual imaging system based on terahertz in an embodiment of the present invention scanning a sample. Figure 4As shown, the sample is placed in the imaging system, and the femtosecond laser 1 emits a femtosecond laser 2, which is divided into a pump pulse 4 and a detection pulse 5 under the action of a beam splitter 3. After passing through a time delay system 6, the pump pulse acts on the above-mentioned terahertz transmitter with a nanoantenna array to emit a terahertz wave 7. After passing through a correspondingly arranged reflector 8 and a parabolic mirror 9, the detection pulse 5 and the terahertz wave 7 can scan the entire sample.

[0075] The medical information visual imaging system based on terahertz provided by the present invention comprises a terahertz radiation module, which generates a wide-band high-intensity terahertz wave based on the nonlinear optical effect of a nano-antenna array, and is used to irradiate a detection object within the range of the terahertz wave; a terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter, which is arranged between the terahertz radiation module and the detection object, and is used to select the terahertz wave; a detection module, which is used to receive the terahertz wave carrying the optical information of the detection object; and an image processing module, which is electrically connected to the detection module, and is used to perform digital image processing on the terahertz wave carrying the optical information of the detection object, and obtain a terahertz medical image of the detection object. In this way, by combining a wide-band high-intensity terahertz radiation source generated by a nano-antenna array and a nonlinear optical effect with a terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter, three-dimensional real-time non-destructive in vivo medical imaging and objective case detection can be achieved.

[0076] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, and the same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referenced to each other. Each embodiment focuses on the differences from other embodiments.

[0077] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, rather than to limit the present application. Although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, a person of ordinary skill in the art should understand that the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments may still be modified, or some or all of the technical features thereof may be replaced by equivalents. However, these modifications or replacements do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the present application.

Claims

1. A medical information visual imaging system based on terahertz, characterized in that: include: A terahertz radiation module, which generates a wide-band high-intensity terahertz wave based on the nonlinear optical effect of the nanoantenna array, and is used to irradiate a detection object within the range of the terahertz wave; A terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter, arranged between the terahertz radiation module and the detection object, for selecting the terahertz wave; A detection module, used for receiving terahertz waves carrying optical information of the detection object; The image processing module is electrically connected to the detection module and is used to perform digital image processing on the terahertz wave carrying the optical information of the detection object to obtain a terahertz medical image of the detection object.

2. The imaging system according to claim 1, characterized in that The terahertz band composite FSS bandpass filter is also used to perform spatial domain filtering, frequency domain filtering, high-pass filtering and Gaussian convolution noise reduction on the terahertz medical image of the detection object to obtain a terahertz medical image after noise reduction and enhancement.

3. The imaging system according to claim 2, characterized in that The terahertz radiation module comprises: Femtosecond lasers, beam splitters, time delay systems, and terahertz emitters with nanoantenna arrays; The femtosecond laser generated by the femtosecond laser is divided into a detection pulse and a pump pulse under the action of the beam splitter; After passing through the time delay system, the pump pulse acts on the terahertz transmitter to generate a wide-band high-intensity terahertz wave; wherein the time delay system is used to control the time delay between the pump pulse and the detection pulse; The detection pulse is incident on the detection module to drive the detection module to receive the terahertz wave carrying the optical information of the detection object.

4. The imaging system according to claim 3, characterized in that The terahertz transmitter with a nano-antenna array comprises an insulating substrate and a plurality of conductive nano-antennas arranged in an array on the insulating substrate.

5. The imaging system according to claim 4, characterized in that: The center frequency of the bandpass filter is 0.338 THz, and the bandpass filter includes a tripole unit; Each pole unit includes a frequency selective surface of a two-dimensional planar structure composed of one or more metal patterns; the bottom of each frequency selective surface is supported by a dielectric substrate.

6. The imaging system according to claim 5, characterized in that: The image processing module is also used to compare and distinguish the terahertz medical image of the test object with the terahertz medical image of a preset normal tissue to obtain a medical image comparison result.

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