Handheld Optoacoustic Imager with 2D Curved Detector Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optoacoustic imaging systems are complex and not suitable for handheld applications due to the need for rotation or translation of transducer arrangements, which complicates the setup and limits the efficient collection of three-dimensional images.
Innovation Solution
A handheld device with a two-dimensional array of detector elements arranged along a surface, allowing for efficient collection of acoustic waves without the need for movement relative to the object, and a control unit that forms three-dimensional images using pulses of electromagnetic radiation, enabling real-time high-resolution imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a sparse arrangement of transducer elements spaced apart from one another is used, then the device structure is simplified, but it becomes impossible to efficiently collect three-dimensional optoacoustic images without rotating or translating the apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional linear array of transducers to a two-dimensional curved surface array. This dimensional expansion allows the detector elements to cover a broader angular range and capture optoacoustic signals from multiple directions simultaneously, enabling efficient 3D image collection without mechanical movement while maintaining a simplified static structure
2Adaptability or versatility
If rotation or translation of transducer arrangements is implemented, then three-dimensional optoacoustic images can be collected, but the setup becomes complex and unsuitable for handheld applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection surface into multiple discrete detector elements arranged in a two-dimensional curved array. Each element independently detects optoacoustic signals from different spatial locations, collectively providing complete 3D imaging coverage without requiring mechanical rotation or translation of the entire apparatus
Solution Approach 2:
By expanding the transducer arrangement from one-dimensional to two-dimensional curved surface geometry, the system achieves omnidirectional 3D imaging capability in a static configuration, eliminating the need for complex mechanical positioning systems while maintaining full volumetric imaging capability
3Measurement precision
If a two-dimensional array of detector elements arranged along a curved surface is used, then angular coverage and signal detection are maximized, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a curved surface geometry for the two-dimensional detector array, where detector elements are arranged along an arc or spherical segment. This curvature naturally provides optimized angular coverage for detecting optoacoustic waves propagating from the object, maximizing signal detection accuracy while maintaining a compact and manufacturable structure
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 real-time three-dimensional imaging with reduced motion-related and limited-view artifacts, facilitating the monitoring of dynamic biological processes and improving image quality by maximizing signal detection and angular coverage.
Implementation Method 1
Optoacoustic imaging is based on the photoacoustic effect, according to which ultrasonic waves are generated due to absorption of electromagnetic radiation by an object, e.g. a biological tissue, and a subsequent thermoelastic expansion of the object.
Implementation Method 2
a detector unit for detecting acoustic, in particular ultrasonic, waves generated in the object upon irradiation with electromagnetic radiation
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a handheld device (1) for optoacoustic imaging of an object (10) and a corresponding method comprising an irradiation unit (6) for irradiating the object (10) with electromagnetic radiation, in particular light, and a detector unit (3, 4) for detecting acoustic, in particular ultrasonic, waves which are generated in the object (10) upon irradiation with electromagnetic radiation. In order to enable three-dimensional multispectral imaging in real-time, which allows not only imaging of dynamic anatomical, functional and molecular phenomena in the object (10) but also avoids multiple motion- and limited-viewrelated image artifacts and thus facilitates quantitative image acquisition, the detector unit (3, 4) comprises a two-dimensional array of a plurality of detector elements (4) which are arranged along a first surface (3).