Pulser-Antenna-Sampler Assemblies for Real-Time Neural Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microwave medical imaging systems lack the sensitivity and signal collection efficiency to detect real-time, deep brain structures and functional changes due to neuronal or vascular activity, and are limited by insufficient signal-to-noise ratio and the need for large, expensive equipment, making them unsuitable for portable, millisecond-scale neural activity studies.
Innovation Solution
A configuration of interconnected, low-cost assemblies that send rapid sequences of custom-shaped microwave pulses and detect the resulting energy using pulser-antenna-sampler (PAS) assemblies, enhancing signal collection efficiency and signal-to-noise ratio through heterodyning and averaging techniques, allowing for non-invasive, real-time imaging of neural and vascular activity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If swept sine wave microwave imaging using Vector Network Analyzers is used, then structural images of body regions can be obtained, but the signal-to-noise ratio is insufficient and real-time detection of functional changes is not achievable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs pulsed microwave signals instead of continuous swept sine waves. The pulsed nature allows for time-domain sampling of reflected signals, enabling real-time detection of functional changes while improving signal-to-noise ratio through coherent integration of multiple pulses. The periodic pulsing at controlled repetition rates facilitates both structural imaging and dynamic functional monitoring.
2Adaptability or versatility
If broadband antennae are used to transmit microwave energy, then wide frequency coverage is achieved, but the equipment size becomes large and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the broadband frequency coverage into multiple narrowband frequency segments, each handled by a separate Vector Network Analyzer channel. This segmentation allows each channel to operate at optimized narrowband frequencies while collectively providing wide broadband coverage. The modular channel architecture reduces individual component complexity and enables scalable system design.
3Measurement precision
If the number of concurrently active TDR or Vector Network Analyzer channels is increased to improve signal collection efficiency, then signal-to-noise ratio improves, but the expense and size of cabling and equipment increases prohibitively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple VNA channels into a unified pulsed microwave imaging system where channels operate cooperatively rather than independently. The synchronized pulsing and sampling across multiple channels enable signal coherent integration, improving signal-to-noise ratio without requiring proportionally increased cabling or equipment size. The merged system architecture shares common timing and control resources.
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
Enables high-resolution, real-time imaging of brain activity, including motor and speech functions, with the ability to control external devices and detect vascular abnormalities, providing a portable and sensitive imaging modality for neural and vascular activity.
Implementation Method 1
send rapid sequences of custom-shaped microwave pulses and detect the resulting energy
Implementation Method 2
reflect off of various internal tissue boundaries that constitute an interface between different dielectric permittivities
Implementation Method 3
interface between different dielectric permittivities
Implementation Method 4
enhancing signal collection efficiency and signal-to-noise ratio through heterodyning and averaging techniques
Data Source
AI summary
Biomedical images of both anatomical structure and real-time changes in neuronal, metabolic, positional, and vascular function in humans and animals is described. Ultra-wideband (UWB) pulse or square wave generators and electrical samplers, implemented using integrated circuits are used to make arrays of miniaturized microwave modules that are placed around the portion of interest in the body or head, allowing images to be made through either time-domain transmission of these pulsed waves through the body, or time domain reflectivity of the waves from internal structures, or their combination. Signal processing separate and extract the time-varying functional information from the static structural image data. The time-varying functional information from certain brain regions can be interpreted in order to control prosthetics, Brain-Machine-Interfaces and the like.