Neuroimaging Optical Element Alignment via Iterative Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current neuroimaging techniques, such as diffuse optical imaging and near-infrared spectroscopy, rely on indirect indicators like cerebral blood flow to monitor brain activity, which may not provide reliable or comprehensive information about neuronal activity.
Innovation Solution
A method for preparing a neuroimaging system by iteratively adjusting the arrangement of optical elements on the scalp to optimize the signal-to-noise ratio, using sensors to detect angular offsets and capacitance/impedance, ensuring a better fit and alignment of light sources and detectors for improved measurement quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical elements are placed on the subject's scalp to provide source-detector pairs for neuroimaging, then the ability to measure brain tissue properties is enabled, but the measurement quality is degraded due to poor alignment and fit between optical elements and scalp
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing an iterative optimization process before actual neuroimaging measurements. The system initially places optical elements on the scalp, then repeatedly adjusts their positions and orientations based on reference measurements to achieve optimal alignment. This preliminary optimization ensures that when actual brain tissue measurements are taken, the optical elements are already properly aligned, thereby improving measurement quality without compromising reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through an iterative optimization loop where the system continuously monitors the alignment quality of optical elements using reference light sources and detectors. The system obtains reference measurements, compares them against desired criteria, and adjusts the optical element positions accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that alignment issues are detected and corrected, simultaneously improving both measurement precision and reliability by ensuring consistent, repeatable results.
2Manufacturing precision
If an iterative optimization process is implemented to adjust optical element arrangement, then the alignment accuracy is improved, but the preparation time and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the optimization process into distinct, manageable stages. The system first establishes initial positions for optical elements, then performs iterative adjustments in a systematic manner, separating the optimization into discrete steps that can be independently controlled and monitored. This segmentation reduces the perceived complexity by breaking down the intricate optimization process into manageable phases, while still achieving high alignment accuracy through cumulative improvements.
3Measurement precision
If iterative adjustment of optical elements is performed, then the signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but the time required for system preparation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by concentrating the time-consuming iterative optimization during the system preparation phase before actual measurements begin. By performing all alignment adjustments and reference measurements in advance, the system ensures that when actual neuroimaging measurements are taken, the optical elements are already optimally positioned. This approach improves signal-to-noise ratio through thorough optimization while minimizing time loss during the actual measurement process, as no iterative adjustments are needed during data collection.
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
This approach enhances the accuracy and reliability of neuroimaging by providing a more direct and precise measurement of brain tissue properties, allowing for better analysis of neural activity beyond haemodynamic effects.
Implementation Method 1
a light source on the subject's scalp is arranged to emit light towards the subject's brain tissue
Implementation Method 2
a detector on the subject's scalp is arranged to detect scattered light from the subject's brain tissue which was emitted from that light source
Implementation Method 3
The sensor may comprise a capacitance sensor configured to sense a capacitance associated with the optical element and/or the subject's scalp
Implementation Method 4
The sensor may comprise an impedance sensor configured to sense an impedance associated with the optical element and/or the subject's scalp
Data Source
AI summary
A method of preparing a neuroimaging system for neuroimaging and analysis of a subject's brain tissue, the neuroimaging system comprising a plurality of optical elements, wherein each optical element comprises one of: (i) a light source for emitting light towards the subject's brain tissue, or (ii) a light detector for detecting scattered light from the subject's brain tissue, the method comprising: placing optical elements on the subject's scalp to provide at least one source-detector pair where a light source on the subject's scalp is arranged to emit light towards the subject's brain tissue and a detector on the subject's scalp is arranged to detect scattered light from the subject's brain tissue which was emitted from that light source: wherein placing an optical element on the subject's scalp comprises: first, arranging said optical element at a selected location on the subject's scalp for providing at least one source-detector pair; and then, performing an iterative optical element arrangement adjustment process comprising: obtaining a measurement signal indicative of a goodness of fit for said optical element as arranged on the subject's scalp; and re-arranging said optical element at, or proximal to, the selected location on the subject's scalp based on the indication of goodness of fit for said optical element; wherein said iterative optical element arrangement adjustment process is repeated until a said measurement signal indicates a goodness of fit for said optical element which satisfies a threshold criterion.