Accelerometer Array for Non-Invasive Stroke Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic methods for stroke, such as CT scans, MRI, and angiography, are invasive, costly, and limited in early detection of ischemic versus hemorrhagic strokes, and do not allow for continuous monitoring of vascular conditions, leading to delayed treatment and potential complications.
Innovation Solution
A non-invasive method using an array of accelerometers to record blood flow pressure wave signals from the head, which are analyzed using basis functions and artificial neural networks to localize vascular features and provide clinically relevant data for differentiating ischemic from hemorrhagic strokes and monitoring vascular conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If CT scans, MRI, and angiography are used for stroke diagnosis, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but the procedures are invasive, costly, and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical imaging systems (CT scanners, MRI machines, angiography equipment) with a simplified accelerometer-based detection system. The accelerometer array mounted on the head records blood flow pressure wave signals, which are then processed through signal conditioning circuits and analyzed by a microprocessor to diagnose stroke type and location, substituting heavy mechanical diagnostic equipment with a lightweight sensor system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces accelerometers as intermediary sensors that indirectly detect vascular conditions through blood flow pressure waves. Instead of directly imaging blood vessels or brain tissue, the system uses accelerometers to capture mechanical vibrations from blood flow, which are then processed to infer vascular pathology, serving as an intermediary between the physiological condition and the diagnostic readout.
2Measurement precision
If CT scans and MRI are used for stroke detection, then vascular conditions can be identified, but early detection of ischemic versus hemorrhagic strokes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary analysis of blood flow pressure wave characteristics continuously before clinical symptoms fully manifest. The accelerometer system records baseline vascular signals and processes them in real-time to detect early deviations indicating ischemic or hemorrhagic conditions, enabling differentiation before traditional imaging would show changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous monitoring of blood flow pressure waves through the accelerometer array, providing uninterrupted vascular assessment. The system continuously records, conditions, and analyzes signals to maintain real-time detection capability, allowing immediate identification of stroke type as it develops, rather than relying on periodic imaging snapshots.
3Reliability
If traditional imaging methods are used, then vascular structure can be visualized, but continuous monitoring of vascular conditions is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous vascular monitoring through the accelerometer system that continuously records blood flow pressure waves. The signal conditioning circuit and microprocessor continuously process these signals, providing ongoing assessment of vascular health over extended periods, unlike intermittent imaging studies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a self-monitoring system where the accelerometer array continuously assesses vascular conditions without requiring external intervention. The embedded microprocessor automatically analyzes the recorded signals and provides diagnostic information, enabling the system to monitor itself and provide continuous vascular assessment without repeated hospital visits or additional imaging procedures.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables early and continuous non-invasive detection of vascular conditions, facilitating timely and appropriate treatment by providing localized, clinically useful information on cerebral vasculature, improving patient outcomes by differentiating stroke types and monitoring blood flow effectively.
Implementation Method 1
record blood flow pressure wave signals from the head
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
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AI summary
Vascular conditions are detected non-invasively in the human body using a collection of pressure wave/motion stimulation information from small local regions of the vasculature. An array of accelerometers or other sensors are attached to the head or other points of interest of a patient and blood flow sounds are recorded. Vibration signatures of vessel structures such as branches, aneurysms, stenosis, etc. using random, periodic, band limited or transient analysis provides a library for further processing. The signature library is used to localize the origin of the recognized vascular feature, and the localized feature is presented to the physician in a clinically relevant manner.