RFID Catheter Intelligence for Virtual Histology Classification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) systems require separate Virtual Histology classification trees for each catheter operating frequency and type, making it challenging to accurately identify and characterize vascular tissue, as data from catheters operating at different frequencies or using different transducer types yields distinct spectral characteristics.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip on the catheter to store and transmit information about the catheter's operating frequency, type, and performance characteristics to an operation console, allowing for the selection of the appropriate Virtual Histology classification tree and optimizing catheter performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate Virtual Histology classification trees are used for each catheter operating frequency and type, then accurate tissue characterization is achieved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The catheter automatically identifies itself to the operation console by transmitting its unique ID and characteristics. The console automatically selects the appropriate classification tree based on the catheter's transmitted information, eliminating manual selection and reducing operational complexity while maintaining accurate tissue characterization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automatic feedback where the catheter transmits its identification and characteristics to the console, which then automatically configures the appropriate classification tree. This closed-loop system ensures the correct classification tree is used without requiring manual intervention, resolving the contradiction between accuracy and complexity.
2Device complexity
If manual catheter identification methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability of tissue characterization decrease
Solution Approach 1:
An RFID chip serves as an intermediary component embedded in the catheter, storing and transmitting identification information automatically. This intermediary enables reliable automatic identification without requiring complex manual procedures, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical identification methods with an automated electronic RFID-based system. The RFID chip automatically transmits catheter characteristics to the console, eliminating manual identification steps while improving identification accuracy and reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If RFID chip with extensive catheter information is implemented, then adaptability and measurement precision improve, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID chip serves multiple functions: storing catheter ID, transmitting characteristics, and enabling automatic classification tree selection. This multi-functional component improves adaptability without requiring separate systems for each function, managing the complexity increase through consolidation.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID chip contains a digital copy of the catheter's identification and characteristic information. This copied information enables the console to automatically identify and configure the appropriate classification tree without requiring the physical catheter properties to be manually measured or identified.
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 accurate identification and characterization of vascular tissue by ensuring the correct classification tree is used based on the catheter's specific characteristics, improving data analysis and reducing manual errors in catheter identification.
Implementation Method 1
The implementation of a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip on the catheter to store and transmit information about the catheter's operating frequency, type, and performance characteristics to an operation console
Data Source
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Figure 2B
AI summary
A method and system is provided for using backscattered data and known parameters to characterize vascular tissue. Specifically, methods and devices for identifying information about the imaging element used to gather the backscattered data are provided in order to permit an operation console having a plurality of Virtual Histology classification trees to select the appropriate VH classification tree for analyzing data gathered using that imaging element. In order to select the appropriate VH database for analyzing data from a specific imaging catheter, it is advantageous to know information regarding the function and performance of the catheter, such as the operating frequency of the catheter and whether it is a rotational or phased-array catheter. The present invention provides a device and method for storing this information on the imaging catheter and communicating the information to the operation console. In addition, information related to additional functions of the catheter may also be stored on the catheter and used to further optimize catheter performance and/or select the appropriate Virtual Histology classification tree for analyzing data from the catheter imaging element.