Electrical Impedance Tomography for Micro Bio-Channel Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrical impedance tomography (EIT) methods are inadequate for accurately locating micro bio-channels under the skin, as they fail to detect subtle variations in electrical impedance properties with sufficient sensitivity, especially at the micro-scale.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the collection of electrical impedance data at different locations using a transfer function of an assumed electrical model, followed by constructive combination of selected impedance properties to generate parametric impedance values that highlight spatial variations, allowing for the precise identification of micro bio-channels and other morphological features like meridians and acupuncture points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional EIT methods are used to measure electrical impedance, then the measurement process is simple, but the sensitivity to detect subtle variations in micro bio-channels is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms raw electrical impedance measurements into derived parametric impedance values by analyzing variations across multiple frequencies. This parameter transformation enhances the sensitivity to detect subtle micro bio-channel variations while systematically managing the complexity through structured mathematical relationships between frequency-dependent impedance measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediate processing layer that derives parametric impedance values from raw impedance measurements. This intermediary transformation layer acts as a mediator between the simple measurement process and the detection of subtle variations, enabling enhanced sensitivity without directly modifying the measurement hardware.
2Manufacturing precision
If raw electrical impedance data is used directly for imaging, then the processing is straightforward, but the resolution for locating micro bio-channels is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent derives parametric impedance values from frequency-dependent impedance measurements, transforming the raw data into enhanced parameters that highlight subtle variations. This parameter transformation improves the resolution for locating micro bio-channels by emphasizing the characteristic impedance variations associated with these structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the impedance analysis into distinct frequency-dependent components, measuring impedance at multiple frequencies and analyzing their variations separately. This segmentation allows the system to isolate and detect subtle micro bio-channel signals from the overall impedance profile, improving localization resolution.
3Measurement precision
If a single frequency measurement is used, then the measurement process is simple, but the ability to detect subtle impedance variations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent measures electrical impedance at multiple frequencies and analyzes the variations in impedance parameters across the frequency spectrum. This multi-frequency approach transforms the detection capability by capturing frequency-dependent impedance characteristics, enabling the system to detect subtle variations that are not apparent at a single frequency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic variation of the measurement frequency to probe the impedance characteristics at different rates. By systematically varying the frequency and analyzing the periodic response patterns, the system enhances its ability to detect subtle impedance variations associated with micro bio-channels.
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 enhances the sensitivity of EIT by creating parametric impedance values that are more readily detectable, enabling accurate localization of micro bio-channels and other morphological features, improving the resolution and accuracy of EIT imaging.
Implementation Method 1
obtaining electrical impedance data for the object at different locations; analysing the obtained electrical impedance data using a transfer function of an assumed electrical model to determine a variation of a plurality of electrical impedance properties for the object with location
Data Source
AI summary
A method for locating a variation in one or more electrical impedance properties of an object, the method comprising the steps of : (i) obtaining electrical impedance data for the object at different locations; (ii) analysing the obtained electrical impedance data using a transfer function of an assumed electrical model to determine a variation of a plurality of electrical impedance properties for the object with location; and (iii) identifying a location identified by a variation of one or more of the plurality of electrical impedance properties.