Remotely Controlled Ultrasound Transducer Array for Catheter Imaging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasonic imaging technologies for minimally invasive medical procedures are limited by the need for large, cumbersome equipment and the inability to remotely control transducers, which restricts operator mobility and increases patient discomfort.
Innovation Solution
Development of a wireless or wired remotely controlled ultrasonic transducer array that can be affixed to a patient's body, allowing for remote manipulation and control of imaging data transmission, enabling mobility for the operator and improved access to internal body cavities through image-guided catheters or sheaths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional hand-held ultrasonic transducers are used, then imaging capability is achieved, but operator mobility is restricted and patient comfort is reduced due to large equipment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the ultrasonic imaging function into separate components: a small implantable catheter with transducer array inside the body, and an external controller unit that can be positioned remotely. This segmentation allows the operator to move freely while the imaging function remains distributed between internal and external components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless communication as an intermediary between the implantable catheter and external controller, eliminating the need for physical cable connections. This allows the operator to control the transducer array remotely without being constrained by cable management or close proximity requirements.
2Measurement precision
If multiple transducer elements are used for multi-planar imaging, then imaging precision is improved, but device complexity and control difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates real-time feedback loops where the external controller receives imaging data from the implantable catheter and automatically adjusts transducer element activation, timing, and positioning to optimize image quality. This feedback mechanism simplifies the control of multiple transducer elements by allowing automated adaptation rather than manual configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of the transducer array where different elements are activated sequentially or in specific patterns based on real-time imaging requirements. The system can dynamically adjust which elements are active, their timing, and their spatial configuration to achieve multi-planar imaging without requiring all elements to be controlled simultaneously, thereby reducing control complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the catheter is made smaller for minimally invasive access, then patient comfort is improved, but transducer array integration becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places the transducer array and associated electronics within the lumen or structure of the catheter itself, nesting the imaging components inside the delivery device. This allows the transducer elements to be integrated into the catheter wall or positioned within its internal volume, maintaining a compact overall size that enables minimally invasive access while accommodating the necessary imaging components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses flexible substrates and thin-film fabrication techniques to create the transducer array on flexible circuits that can be conformally attached to the catheter structure. This approach allows integration of multiple transducer elements on flexible materials that can be accommodated within small-diameter catheters, making the manufacturing process more feasible despite the size constraints.
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
Facilitates minimally invasive medical procedures by providing high-resolution, multi-planar imaging with reduced operator presence, enhancing procedural efficiency and patient comfort while allowing for real-time monitoring and therapeutic interventions.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic array for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves and generating imaging data
Implementation Method 2
The advent of piezocomposite material comprising a piezoelectric ceramic and a polymer has improved performance of commonly used ultrasonic arrays
Data Source
AI summary
A remotely manipulatable ultrasound transducer element or transducer array permits an operator of an ultrasound system to be remotely located from a patient and yet remotely control the location of the element or array on a patient's body such as on the skin surface or within a body cavity. The transducer element or transducer array associated with motors and control circuits comprises an assembly within a housing for fixation to or within a human body. The transducer assembly may be fixed to a ring surrounding an image guided catheter and may rotate about the image guided catheter or move along its length to an anchoring position proximate the surface skin. Two embodiment systems for pericardial access may comprise surface and internal vision or ultrasound guidance systems that are wireless or wired one operating on suction and another on mechanical grasping of the pericardial lining.