Naturally Fermented Ultrasound Coupling Agent for Low-Irritation Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasound coupling agents contain high concentrations of known irritants and estrogen mimics, such as propylene glycol and parabens, which are not environmentally friendly and sustainable, posing health and environmental risks.
Innovation Solution
A coupling agent composition comprising non-toxic components derived from organic natural resources, primarily water, water-soluble polyols like propanediol, pentylene glycol, and butylene glycol, with a thickening agent and minimal incidental impurities, manufactured through fermentation and enzymatic synthesis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional coupling agents containing propylene glycol and parabens are used, then effective ultrasound transmission is achieved, but health and environmental risks increase due to irritants and estrogen mimics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes harmful substances (propylene glycol and parabens) from the coupling agent formulation while retaining the essential functionality of ultrasound transmission. This extraction of toxic components resolves the contradiction by eliminating health risks without sacrificing acoustic performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters by substituting conventional irritants with alternative substances that provide similar acoustic coupling properties but without the harmful effects. This parameter change allows maintaining transmission effectiveness while reducing skin irritation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If synthetically derived coupling agents are used, then consistent acoustic properties are achieved, but environmental sustainability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the source material parameter from synthetic petroleum-based chemicals to naturally derived plant-based ingredients. This substitution maintains acoustic consistency through careful formulation while achieving environmental sustainability through renewable resource usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by selecting specific plant-derived ingredients with particular acoustic properties that match the requirements for ultrasound transmission. This targeted selection ensures consistent performance while maintaining environmental friendliness.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If naturally derived coupling agents are used, then environmental sustainability is improved, but acoustic transmission effectiveness may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the concentration and combination parameters of naturally derived ingredients to achieve acoustic properties equivalent to conventional agents. Through precise parameter control, the formulation maintains effective ultrasound transmission while utilizing sustainable plant-based materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite formulation combining multiple plant-derived ingredients (such as aloe vera, chamomile, and other natural components) to achieve the necessary acoustic coupling properties. This composite approach allows leveraging the strengths of different natural materials to match synthetic performance.
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
The composition provides a safe, sustainable, and effective medium for ultrasound imaging with consistent acoustic properties, minimizing signal attenuation and skin irritation, while adhering to environmental regulations.
Implementation Method 1
A gel providing excellent acoustics is a necessity in order to produce the appropriate reflection of sound waves useful to a valid diagnosis
Implementation Method 2
A piezoelectric transducer that generates sound waves at a frequency in the range of 2.25 to 7.0 MHZ is placed in the gel and moved across the abdomen to form images
Implementation Method 3
A piezoelectric transducer that generates sound waves at a frequency in the range of 2.25 to 7.0 MHZ
Implementation Method 4
The gel lubricates the abdomen and prevents the sound waves from being trapped or reflected by air pockets that might distort the image
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling agent composition is provided and includes a plurality of non-toxic components in an amount equal to or greater than 97 weight percent (wt %). The coupling agent composition includes a carrier of water, at least one water soluble polyol selected from the group consisting of propanediol, pentylene glycol, and butylene glycol in an amount of from about 1.0 to about 20.0 wt %, a thickening agent in an amount of about 0.05 to about 5.00 wt %, and a balance of incidental impurities.