Wearable Matrix-Array TUS for Closed-Loop Target Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transcranial ultrasound (TUS) systems face challenges in accurately delivering ultrasound stimulation to small and deep anatomical targets like the amygdala due to the skull's curvature and thickness variation, and there is a need for wearable systems that can be used outside clinical settings for wellness applications, requiring reductions in power, size, and weight.
Innovation Solution
A wearable TUS system utilizing a matrix array transducer with ASIC and MEMS technologies for power, size, and weight reductions, coupled with closed-loop operation for real-time target locking and ultrasound beam control, incorporating EEG measurements for stimulation timing, and including safeguards for at-home use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional TUS systems are used to treat deep anatomical targets like the amygdala, then the skull's curvature and thickness variation cause poor targeting accuracy, but reducing skull effects requires complex clinical equipment that cannot be made wearable
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the ultrasound delivery into multiple independent transducer elements arranged in a matrix array, allowing individual control of each element to synthesize focused beams at different locations, thereby achieving accurate targeting of deep structures like the amygdala while maintaining a wearable form factor
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary skull mapping and acoustic property characterization before treatment delivery, using the matrix array to measure and model the patient's specific skull geometry and acoustic properties, then uses this pre-acquired data to calculate optimal beamforming parameters for accurate targeting
2Reliability
If TUS systems are designed for clinical controlled usage with accurate targeting, then the system achieves reliable anatomical target delivery, but the system size, weight, and power consumption increase preventing wearable use
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple functions into a single integrated wearable device: the matrix array transducer serves both for skull mapping and treatment delivery, the processing electronics are miniaturized and embedded within the wearable headband, and the control system operates autonomously without requiring bulky external clinical equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters dynamically based on real-time feedback, adjusting beam focusing depth, intensity, and duration according to the patient's anatomy and treatment response, allowing reliable targeting with optimized energy delivery that reduces overall power consumption
3Measurement precision
If TUS systems use matrix array transducers for volume data acquisition and accurate targeting, then targeting precision improves, but power consumption and device size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic pulse sequences for both skull mapping and treatment delivery, with intermittent operation between mapping and treatment phases, and between treatment bursts, allowing the high-power matrix array to operate in short controlled intervals that reduce average power consumption while maintaining targeting precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system acquires partial volume data sets sufficient for treatment planning rather than complete high-resolution volumetric imaging, using the matrix array to obtain the minimum necessary information for accurate targeting and skull characterization, thereby reducing the total energy required for data acquisition
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 reliably targets anatomical structures, remains locked during use, and ensures safe operation at home or in clinics, enabling various wellness protocols and medical treatments with precise ultrasound delivery.
Implementation Method 1
transcranial ultrasound (TUS) systems
Implementation Method 2
ultrasound beam control
Implementation Method 3
MEMS (micro-electromechanical system) technologies
Implementation Method 4
incorporating EEG measurements for stimulation timing
Data Source
AI summary
A TUS (transcranial ultrasound) system with a matrix array transducer in a wearable format is disclosed. The TUS system uses ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit) and MEMS (micro-electromechanical system) technologies to achieve power, size, and weight reductions, allowing the device to be worn. In an embodiment, the TUS system can reliably find a target anatomical structure and remain locked onto the target throughout usage. All real-time tasks are controlled locally within the TUS system for a closed-loop operation. Safeguards enable subjects to use the system at home for medical treatment and wellness usage, as well as in a clinic. A method for using the system is disclosed.