Ultrasound Fetal Imaging System with Acceleration Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fetal imaging technologies, particularly ultrasound methods, are not suitable for home use due to the need for trained operators and high energy exposure, and lack effective monitoring for nuchal cords, which can be life-threatening if not detected promptly.
Innovation Solution
A fetal imaging system utilizing an ultrasound transducer with an acceleration sensor to guide user movement for reduced exposure, combined with image processing to detect fetal body parts and control ultrasound emission, enabling accurate fetal weight estimation and nuchal cord detection without extensive training or high energy use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional ultrasound methods are used for fetal imaging, then accurate fetal weight estimation can be achieved, but the system requires trained operators and high energy exposure making it unsuitable for home use
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables untrained users to perform fetal imaging independently through automated guidance. The microprocessor controls the ultrasound transducer movement and image processing automatically, allowing the device to serve itself and the user without requiring external expert intervention or training.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with automated electronic control. The microprocessor substitutes for the trained operator's manual control of the transducer, using electronic signals to control movement, focusing, and image processing, thereby eliminating the need for operator expertise.
2Measurement precision
If traditional ultrasound methods are used for fetal imaging, then accurate fetal weight estimation can be achieved, but the high energy exposure makes it unsafe for frequent or home use
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses intermittent, periodic ultrasound pulses rather than continuous high-energy exposure. The microprocessor controls the timing and duration of ultrasound emissions, activating the transducer only when needed for specific measurements and allowing rest periods, thereby reducing cumulative energy exposure to the fetus.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies ultrasound energy partially and selectively only to the specific fetal parameters being measured, rather than continuous full-field exposure. The automated control ensures ultrasound is directed precisely at the required anatomical structures for measurement, minimizing unnecessary energy exposure to other areas.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If automated transducer control is implemented to reduce exposure, then ultrasound energy exposure is reduced, but the system becomes more complex requiring image processing and control algorithms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the ultrasound transducer, acceleration sensor, and microprocessor into an integrated system. The microprocessor merges multiple functions including transducer control, motion detection processing, image processing, and measurement calculation into a single coordinated unit, reducing overall system complexity despite the added automation capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The acceleration sensor acts as an intermediary between the transducer movement and the microprocessor control. It provides real-time motion data that mediates the control loop, enabling the microprocessor to adjust ultrasound emissions based on actual transducer position and movement, thereby simplifying the overall control architecture.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manual scanning is used by trained operators, then comprehensive fetal assessment including nuchal cord detection can be performed, but the system is not suitable for home use by untrained users
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs comprehensive fetal assessment automatically without requiring user expertise. The microprocessor independently controls the transducer to scan for multiple parameters including nuchal cord detection, processes the images, and provides results, enabling the device to serve itself and untrained users equally effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated system provides multiple fetal assessment functions including weight estimation, nuchal cord detection, and other biometric measurements through a single device. The microprocessor coordinates the transducer to perform various scanning patterns sequentially, making the system universally capable of multiple assessments that previously required different specialized techniques.
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 system allows for safe, accurate fetal weight estimation and nuchal cord detection in a home setting, reducing ultrasound exposure and empowering untrained users to perform these critical assessments effectively.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasound transducer for transmitting ultrasonic waves into a maternal body to generate images of a fetus
Implementation Method 2
an acceleration sensor for generating an acceleration signal relating to movement of the ultrasound transducer
Data Source
AI summary
An ultrasound fetal imaging system uses an acceleration sensor (16) for generating an acceleration signal relating to movement of the ultrasound transducer (10). A user is guided in how or where to move the ultrasound transducer based on the results of image processing of the ultrasound images. The user can thus be guided to move the transducer in a certain direction so as to achieve a complete scan of a fetus in a shortest possible time. This limits exposure of the expectant mother to the ultrasound energy. The fetal image obtained may be used to determine a fetal weight, for example using regression analysis based on some of the parameters derived from the obtained image.