Intraluminal Sensor Acoustic Matching Layer Thickness Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Intraluminal sensing devices, such as intravascular sensors, face inconsistent performance due to variations in the dimensions of the acoustic matching layer, which affects the accuracy and precision of physiological data acquisition.
Innovation Solution
The acoustic matching layer's thickness is defined by the distance between the sensor's distal surface and the distal end of the housing, ensuring a fixed relationship between the sensor and the housing components, thereby maintaining consistent performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the acoustic matching layer thickness is not controlled, then manufacturing is easier, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is designed with a pre-defined distal end position that establishes the acoustic matching layer thickness before the layer is applied. The sensor is positioned within the housing such that the distance from the distal surface to the distal end of the housing defines the required thickness, allowing the matching layer to be applied to a predetermined thickness rather than requiring precise control during application
Solution Approach 2:
The housing acts as an intermediary structure that defines the acoustic matching layer thickness through its distal end. This intermediary component provides a physical reference that ensures consistent thickness across multiple devices without requiring direct measurement or control during the layer application process
2Reliability
If the acoustic matching layer thickness varies, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The housing serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, positions the sensor, and defines the acoustic matching layer thickness through its distal end. This multi-functionality ensures consistent layer thickness without adding separate complexity-defining components
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure itself provides the thickness definition through its pre-existing distal end geometry. The housing 'self-services' by providing the thickness reference without requiring additional adjustment mechanisms or complex assembly steps
Data Source
AI summary
An intraluminal sensing device may include an elongate member, a sensor, an acoustic matching layer, and a housing. The elongate member may be configured to be positioned within a body lumen of a patient. The sensor may be configured to obtain physiological data while positioned within the body lumen and may include a proximal surface and an opposite, distal surface. The acoustic matching layer may be disposed on the distal surface. The housing may be positioned at a distal portion of the elongate member and may terminate at a distal end. The housing may include a hollow interior with a planar surface, and the sensor may be positioned within the hollow interior such that the proximal surface of the sensor is disposed on the planar surface. A thickness of the acoustic matching layer may be defined by a distance between the distal surface and the distal end.