Lithotripter Neural Network Kidney Stone Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lithotripsy systems face challenges in accurately localizing and detecting kidney stones and other concrements within the body during extracorporeal shock wave or ultrasound therapy, requiring improved precision and automation for effective treatment.
Innovation Solution
Integration of an ultrasound imaging sensor connected to a video processor with a neural network that processes X-ray or ultrasound images to detect and mark kidney stones and kidneys, coupled with a hexapod drive for flexible positioning of the shock wave or ultrasound source, enabling automatic targeting and enhanced ergonomics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual localization methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and productivity are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic localization of kidney stones using integrated ultrasound imaging sensors and neural networks, eliminating the need for manual localization by the operator. The system self-services the detection and positioning function, improving precision while the automated nature manages complexity internally.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical localization methods with an automated system using ultrasound imaging sensors, video processors, and neural networks. This substitution of mechanical/manual operations with electronic and computational systems achieves higher measurement precision.
2Productivity
If automatic positioning is implemented, then productivity and positioning speed improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses real-time ultrasound imaging feedback processed by neural networks to automatically adjust and position the shock wave source. The feedback loop continuously monitors the kidney stone position and updates the positioning system, enabling fast automatic positioning while managing complexity through iterative refinement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary localization and characterization of kidney stones using ultrasound imaging before the actual treatment. This preliminary action allows the system to pre-position the shock wave source accurately, improving productivity and positioning speed through advance preparation.
3Loss of time
If imaging processing is performed in real-time, then latency is reduced, but processing power and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously processes ultrasound imaging data in real-time during the treatment procedure, maintaining constant monitoring and adjustment. This continuous action eliminates delays and ensures low latency while the ongoing processing manages energy consumption through sustained operational efficiency.
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 solution significantly improves detection accuracy and positioning speed, allowing for precise targeting of kidney stones with low latency, enhancing the effectiveness of lithotripsy treatments by automating the localization and positioning of the therapy system.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasound imaging sensor (300) connected to a video processor (310) and configured to delivering ultrasound imaging data to the video processor (310)
Implementation Method 2
Lithotripters which generate high energy pulses to disintegrate concrements in a human body may have shock wave and/or ultrasound sources within a reflector
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
A shock wave and/or ultrasound therapy system has an ultrasound and/or shockwave source with an ultrasonic transducer for ultrasonic imaging or an X-ray imaging system which is configured for providing a video signal, and which is coupled to a video processor. The video processor includes a neural network and is configured for detecting in the video signal at least one kidney stone and/or at least one kidney itself, which are marked in the video signal and displayed on a display. Further, position and/or orientation data of the at least one kidney stone and/or at least one kidney are delivered to a system controller for positioning the ultrasound and/or shockwave source.