Acoustic-Assisted Wavefront Optimization for Deep Tissue Focusing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical methods for imaging and treatment in deep tissues face significant challenges due to tissue scattering, which leads to reduced resolution and increased energy requirements, causing tissue damage and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
The method combines acousto-optic interaction with wavefront optimization to controllably focus light in deep tissues by using an acoustic field to define a target, detecting frequency-shifted EM radiation, and iteratively modifying the wavefront to achieve a focused beam, allowing for precise light delivery and minimization of tissue damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optical methods are used for deep tissue imaging and treatment, then non-ionizing and versatile treatment is achieved, but tissue scattering causes reduced resolution and increased energy requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an iterative feedback mechanism where the detected signal from frequency-shifted EM radiation is used to modify the wavefront in subsequent iterations. The wavefront is continuously adjusted based on feedback from detected signals to progressively improve focusing precision at the target location within deep tissue.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the wavefront parameters (phase, amplitude, or shape) iteratively to optimize light focusing. By modifying these parameters in each iteration based on detected feedback, the system achieves precise focus at deep tissue targets despite scattering effects.
2Illumination intensity
If light energy is increased to penetrate deep tissues, then imaging and treatment capability is improved, but tissue damage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The acoustic field acts as an intermediary that enables selective interaction with light at the target location. The acoustic field modulates the EM radiation, creating frequency-shifted light that can be detected and used for feedback, allowing precise energy delivery without requiring high overall light intensity that would cause tissue damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses acoustic field interaction to enable precise spatial control of light energy delivery. Instead of relying on high intensity light alone, the system uses acoustic modulation to create a focused interaction zone, replacing the need for high overall light intensity with a more controlled acoustic-optic interaction mechanism.
3Measurement precision
If iterative wavefront optimization is performed, then focused light delivery at deep tissue is achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses detected frequency-shifted EM radiation as feedback to iteratively optimize the wavefront. This feedback mechanism, while adding complexity, enables automatic adaptation to tissue scattering conditions and achieves precise focusing without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The optimization process is performed iteratively in periodic cycles, where the wavefront is modified and then re-evaluated through detection. This periodic iteration allows the system to progressively improve focusing precision through multiple cycles of modification and detection.
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
This approach enables focused light delivery at any location within deep tissues, enhancing imaging and treatment capabilities such as Raman spectroscopy and photodynamic therapy while minimizing damage to non-target tissue areas.
Implementation Method 1
detecting an amount of frequency shifted EM radiation, wherein at least some of the input EM radiation that passes through the acoustic field at the target is shifted in frequency by the acoustic field
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus, and article of manufacture for irradiating one or more targets within a sample with electromagnetic (EM) radiation. One or more targets within the sample are controllably defined with an acoustic field. The sample is irradiated with input EM radiation having an input wavefront. An amount of frequency shifted EM radiation is detected, wherein at least some of the input EM radiation that passes through the acoustic field at the targets is shifted in frequency to form the frequency shifted EM radiation. The input wavefront is modified, using feedback comprising the amount of the frequency shifted EM radiation that is detected, into a modified wavefront. The sample is irradiated using the input EM radiation comprising the modified wavefront, and the process is repeated as desired.