Head EMT Scanner Calibration Using Matching Media and Lid Model
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electromagnetic tomography (EMT) faces challenges in accurately imaging human brain tissues due to high dielectric contrast shielding by the skull, requiring improved hardware and software for precise EM signal measurement and processing.
Innovation Solution
An electromagnetic tomographic system with a cylindrical or semispherical imaging chamber, multiple rings of antennas, and dedicated antenna controllers using superheterodyne technology-based architecture, RF transceiver circuitry, and integrated image processing for simultaneous data measurement and accurate EM field calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electromagnetic tomography is used to image brain tissues, then non-invasive assessment of functional and pathological conditions is achieved, but high dielectric contrast shielding by the skull reduces measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces matching media as an intermediary substance placed in the imaging chamber to compensate for the high dielectric contrast caused by the skull. The matching media has dielectric properties that bridge the gap between air and brain tissue, allowing EM signals to penetrate the skull more effectively and improving measurement precision without sacrificing imaging reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs iterative algorithms that dynamically adjust measurement parameters and reconstruction parameters to compensate for skull shielding effects. By changing parameters such as frequency, power, and reconstruction weights based on measured data, the system overcomes the dielectric contrast barrier and improves both measurement precision and imaging accuracy
2Productivity
If multiple rings of antennas with dedicated controllers are used, then data acquisition speed is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the antenna system into multiple independent rings, each with its own dedicated controller. This segmentation allows simultaneous data acquisition from multiple antenna elements, dramatically improving productivity. Each controller handles a specific ring, distributing the computational load and managing complexity through modular architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs universal antenna controllers that can operate in multiple modes (transmit, receive, calibrate) and support different antenna configurations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized hardware for each function, improving data acquisition speed while keeping device complexity manageable through software-based control
3Loss of time
If simultaneous data measurements are performed, then imaging time is reduced, but signal processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous data acquisition where multiple antennas transmit and receive signals simultaneously without interruption. This continuous operation eliminates idle time between measurements, reducing total imaging time. The system processes signals in real-time using pipelined algorithms that maintain continuous operation while managing processing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the signal processing problem from time-domain to frequency-domain using Fourier transforms and other spectral methods. This dimensional change allows simultaneous processing of multiple frequency components, reducing the effective processing time while managing complexity through well-established signal processing 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
Enhances the accuracy and precision of EMT imaging by overcoming the high dielectric contrast issue, allowing for detailed imaging of brain tissues with improved signal processing and data acquisition times.
Implementation Method 1
a first electromagnetic field is generated at a first location within the imaging chamber... a second electromagnetic field is generated at a second location within the imaging chamber
Implementation Method 2
dedicated antenna controllers using superheterodyne technology-based architecture, RF transceiver circuitry, and integrated image processing
Data Source
AI summary
An electromagnetic tomographic scanner, for use in imaging a live human body part, includes an imaging chamber, a plurality of antennas, a controller, a lid, and a quantity of matching media. The imaging chamber is supported on the base, defines an imaging domain in that receives the head, and has an open end. The antennas are supported by the imaging chamber and encircle the imaging domain. The controller controls one or more antenna. The lid is attachable to the open end and includes a hollow boundary model that mimics a part of human anatomy that is outside the imaging domain. The matching media fills the interior of the model while an empty field measurement is carried out. Various tensors may be produced.