AI Ultrasonic Transducer Positioning for Skull-Refraction Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing focused ultrasound systems face challenges in accurately and efficiently applying ultrasound to a desired focal point within a biological tissue, particularly when traversing regions with different physical properties such as the skull, and require prolonged procedures or fail to account for refraction and intensity variations.
Innovation Solution
An ultrasonic transducer position setting device and program utilizing artificial intelligence, specifically a deep neural network, to predict and guide the position of an ultrasonic transducer, accounting for refraction through the skull, with high accuracy and in real-time, by using trained data from simulations and actual skull models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If magnetic-resonance-guided focused ultrasound is used to visualize ultrasound, then temperature variation can be detected, but the procedure requires a long time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the magnetic resonance imaging system with an optical tracking system that uses visible light and cameras to track the ultrasonic transducer position in real-time. This substitution eliminates the need for lengthy MRI procedures while providing continuous position information during the ultrasound treatment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual representation or 'copy' of the ultrasonic transducer position through optical tracking, allowing operators to see where the transducer is pointing without requiring time-consuming thermal or magnetic resonance imaging. This visual copy enables real-time adjustment of transducer position.
2Measurement precision
If image-guided focused ultrasound with real-time optical tracking is used, then focal point position can be displayed, but the effect of variations caused by skull refraction cannot be taken into consideration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors the actual focal point position through optical tracking and compares it with the intended focal point. This feedback loop allows real-time correction for skull refraction effects, ensuring the ultrasound energy is delivered to the correct target despite variations in skull thickness and density.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the transducer position parameters based on real-time optical tracking data and skull characteristics. By changing the position parameters in response to detected variations, the system compensates for refraction effects and maintains accurate focal point delivery through the skull.
3Adaptability or versatility
If low-intensity focused ultrasound is used for transcranial treatment, then brain stimulation can be achieved, but temperature variation is relatively small making MRgFUS difficult to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces temperature-based detection methods with optical tracking that detects transducer position through light reflection. This substitution allows the system to work with low-intensity ultrasound where temperature changes are minimal, providing position information without relying on thermal effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical tracking as an intermediary measurement system that does not depend on temperature changes. Instead of directly measuring temperature (which is difficult at low intensities), the system uses optical tracking to infer transducer position, providing a reliable measurement method for low-intensity transcranial treatments.
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 precise and efficient application of ultrasound to a desired focal point within a biological tissue, particularly through the skull, with high accuracy and in real-time, overcoming the limitations of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
the control unit outputs position data of an ultrasonic transducer, which allows the ultrasound to be applied to the input focal point position of the ultrasound... by reflecting that refraction occurs as the ultrasound passes through the skull
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an ultrasonic transducer position setting device, an ultrasonic transducer position setting program, and a method for implementing ultrasonic transducer position setting artificial intelligence. The ultrasonic transducer position setting device includes: an input/output unit for allowing a user to input data, and outputting the data in a form that is recognizable by the user; a memory for storing an ultrasonic transducer position setting program; and a control unit for executing the ultrasonic transducer position setting program to derive result data according to the data input through the input/output unit, wherein, when a focal point position of ultrasound, which is set to a region where a brain is positioned inside a skull in a living body, is input, the control unit outputs position data of an ultrasonic transducer, which allows the ultrasound to be applied to the input focal point position of the ultrasound.