HIFU Control Device Misalignment Detection and Position Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
During HIFU treatment, patient movement can cause misalignment between the irradiation position and the target position, leading to unintended ultrasound exposure.
Innovation Solution
A control apparatus with a misalignment detection unit and a control unit that detects and corrects misalignment between the irradiation position and the target position, either by stopping irradiation or adjusting the position to match the target, using a combination of ultrasound imaging and robotic control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If the patient's body moves during treatment, then the treatment can continue without interruption, but the irradiation position becomes misaligned from the target irradiation position
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the position of the irradiation unit relative to the target irradiation position using ultrasound imaging, and automatically adjusts the irradiation position based on detected body movement. This closed-loop feedback mechanism maintains irradiation accuracy despite patient movement during treatment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts to changing conditions by continuously tracking patient body movement and adjusting the irradiation position in real-time. The automatic position adjustment capability allows the system to maintain treatment accuracy while accommodating patient movement without requiring treatment interruption.
2Manufacturing precision
If the irradiation position is continuously monitored and adjusted, then the irradiation accuracy is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ultrasound diagnostic probe serves multiple functions: it provides both imaging for visualizing the target irradiation position and position detection for monitoring the irradiation unit's location. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated sensors and simplifies the overall control system architecture while maintaining irradiation accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own imaging capability (ultrasound diagnostic probe) to perform both treatment visualization and position monitoring functions. By leveraging existing components for multiple purposes, the system achieves continuous irradiation position accuracy without requiring additional complex external monitoring equipment.
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
Ensures accurate and targeted ultrasound delivery by preventing irradiation to areas outside the intended target, even when the patient moves during treatment, thereby maintaining treatment efficacy and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a HIFU (High Intensity Focused Ultrasound) treatment system includes an irradiation unit that irradiates the ultrasound
Implementation Method 2
irradiation triggers of ultrasonic waves are generated by the pressure change of an ultrasonic wave propagation medium inside an applicator detected by a pressure sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
A control apparatus (3) includes a misalignment detection unit and a control unit. The misalignment detection unit detects a misalignment between an irradiation position of a transdermal treatment device (5, 33) and a target irradiation position. When the misalignment detecting unit detects the misalignment, the control unit stops irradiation of the transdermal treatment device or moves the irradiation position closer to the target irradiation position.