Piezoelectric Sensor Array for Infrasonic Arterial Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infrasonic sensors and sensor arrays for detecting blood flow and arterial conditions are difficult to use, prone to signal noise, and require complex setup, making them less effective for quick and non-invasive diagnosis of stenosis, occlusion, or aneurysms.
Innovation Solution
A sensor array with a touch panel PC system that passively detects infrasonic signals using a highly sensitive acoustic capturing device, adjustable to fit different anatomies, and includes disposable gel pads for non-invasive, non-emitting, and non-invasive data analysis, capable of calibrating and filtering signals to determine the severity of stenosis or occlusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing infrasonic sensors and sensor arrays are used to detect arterial conditions, then detection capability is achieved, but the device complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is divided into separate functional modules: disposable sensor pads containing piezoelectric elements, reusable sensor arrays with positioning capabilities, and a processing system. This segmentation allows the complex detection function to be separated from the simple disposable pad, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
A coupling medium is introduced between the sensor pad and the skin to improve acoustic signal transmission. This intermediary substance facilitates better contact and signal transfer, reducing the complexity of achieving reliable sensor attachment while maintaining detection reliability.
2Loss of information
If existing sensors are used for arterial detection, then diagnostic information can be obtained, but signal noise and spikes disrupt proper analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The piezoelectric elements in the sensor pad convert mechanical vibrations from blood flow into electrical signals. By properly coupling the sensor through a coupling medium and using appropriate signal processing, the system converts potentially noisy mechanical vibrations into clean, analyzable electrical signals, transforming a potential harm into a benefit.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates signal processing and analysis capabilities that provide feedback on signal quality. This allows for real-time assessment and adjustment, ensuring that only high-quality signals are used for diagnosis while filtering out noise and spikes that would disrupt analysis.
3Measurement precision
If complex sensor setup procedures are used, then accurate signal detection is achieved, but the time required for procedure completion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor pads are pre-assembled with piezoelectric elements and coupling medium in a ready-to-use configuration. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex assembly procedures during patient examination, reducing setup time while maintaining detection accuracy through pre-optimized sensor configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
Disposable sensor pads are used instead of reusable complex sensors requiring calibration and maintenance. These single-use pads are pre-configured for accurate detection and can be quickly applied and removed, significantly reducing setup time and procedural complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
4Reliability
If reusable sensors with complex configuration are used, then detection functionality is achieved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the complex reusable sensor array (which provides detection functionality) from the simple disposable pads (which are easy to apply). This segmentation allows non-expert users to easily apply the disposable pads while the sophisticated detection capabilities remain in the reusable array, improving ease of operation without sacrificing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The disposable sensor pads are designed to be self-contained and ready-to-use, requiring no calibration, configuration, or complex handling. Users can simply apply the pads to the skin and connect them to the sensor array, making the system easy to operate while the reusable array handles the complex detection and processing functions automatically.
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 quick, easy, and accurate detection of stenosis, occlusion, or aneurysms without requiring certification, providing a reliable and user-friendly method for medical professionals and patients to assess arterial conditions without disrupting blood circulation.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor array with a touch panel PC system that passively detects infrasonic signals using a highly sensitive acoustic capturing device
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor, sensor pad and sensor array for detecting infrasonic signals in a living organism is provided. The sensor, sensor pad and/or array can be utilized for detecting, determining and/or diagnosing level of stenosis, occlusion, or aneurysm in arteries, or other similar diagnosis. The sensor can include unique circuitry in the form of a piezoelectric plate or element sandwiched between two conductive O-rings.