Photoacoustic Computed Tomography Volumetric Detector Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current photoacoustic imaging systems for breast cancer detection face limitations in penetration depth, spatial resolution, temporal resolution, limited-view artifacts, and sensitivity, particularly in radiographically dense breasts, and often require ionizing radiation or exogenous contrast agents.
Innovation Solution
A photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT) system employing a 1064-nm light source, a full-ring ultrasonic transducer array with unfocused elements, and a scanning mechanism that allows for deep penetration, high spatial and temporal resolution imaging without ionizing radiation or exogenous contrast agents, using donut-shaped illumination and panoramic acoustic detection to achieve detailed angiographic structures and tumor detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If conventional photoacoustic imaging systems are used, then imaging can be performed, but penetration depth is limited and spatial resolution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional planar detector arrays to a volumetric 3D detector array configuration. This dimensional change enables simultaneous acquisition of photoacoustic signals from multiple depths and angles, achieving both deep penetration (up to 10 cm) and high spatial resolution (sub-millimeter) by sampling the acoustic field in three dimensions rather than two dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The detector array is segmented into multiple independent sensor elements arranged in a 3D configuration. Each detector element independently captures photoacoustic signals from specific spatial regions, allowing parallel acquisition of data from different depths and locations, thereby achieving both deep penetration and high resolution through distributed sensing.
2Measurement precision
If higher spatial resolution is achieved, then imaging detail improves, but temporal resolution deteriorates due to longer acquisition times
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous 3D detector array enables simultaneous (parallel) acquisition of photoacoustic signals from the entire imaging volume in a single laser pulse event. This eliminates the need for sequential scanning of different regions, achieving both high spatial resolution (through full-volume sampling) and high temporal resolution (through single-shot acquisition), thereby capturing dynamic physiological processes without temporal aliasing.
Solution Approach 2:
The 3D detector array is pre-configured to cover the entire imaging volume before the photoacoustic event occurs. This preliminary positioning of all detectors allows immediate capture of signals from all spatial locations simultaneously, eliminating the time delay associated with sequential detector positioning or scanning, thus achieving both high spatial and temporal resolution.
3Device complexity
If conventional imaging geometries are used, then system complexity is reduced, but limited-view artifacts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a 3D volumetric detector array that surrounds the imaging target in three dimensions, providing omnidirectional coverage of photoacoustic wavefronts. This volumetric geometry captures acoustic signals from all possible angles simultaneously, eliminating limited-view artifacts that plague conventional 2D planar detector configurations, while the modular array design keeps system complexity manageable through standardized sensor elements.
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 PACT system achieves high sensitivity and specificity in breast cancer detection with deep penetration, high spatial resolution, and minimal motion artifacts, effectively addressing the limitations of existing systems by providing detailed angiographic structures and tumor visualization without the risks associated with ionizing radiation or contrast agents.
Implementation Method 1
causing at least one pulsed light source to generate one or more light pulses configured to illuminate a specimen being imaged
Implementation Method 2
an ultrasonic transducer array comprising unfocused transducer elements
Data Source
AI summary
Among the various aspects of the present disclosure is the provision of systems and methods of imaging using photoacoustic computed tomography.