Shear Wave Viscosity Index Without Viscoelastic Models
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for evaluating the viscoelasticity of tissues in the human body rely on physical models, which can lead to variable results due to model dependencies.
Innovation Solution
An ultrasound diagnosis apparatus that calculates an index value indicating viscosity within a tissue by analyzing the frequency dependency of the velocity of a shear wave propagating through the tissue, without relying on any physical model related to viscoelasticity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If physical models (Maxwell model, Voigt model, three-element model, multi-dimensional Maxwell model) are used to evaluate viscoelasticity, then viscosity index can be calculated, but the evaluation results vary due to model dependencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the viscosity evaluation from model-dependent approaches and creates a model-independent method. By using shear wave propagation velocity measurements at different frequencies and applying mathematical relationships without requiring physical model assumptions, the invention removes the source of variability introduced by different physical models while maintaining the ability to calculate viscosity index.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the evaluation parameters from model-based viscosity calculations to frequency-dependent shear wave propagation velocity measurements. By measuring propagation velocities at multiple frequencies and using the relationship between frequency and velocity to determine viscosity, the method transforms the evaluation approach to eliminate model dependency while preserving measurement accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If model-based methods are used for viscoelasticity evaluation, then viscosity can be estimated, but the complexity of selecting and applying appropriate models increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex model selection and application process from the viscosity evaluation system. By extracting the essential measurement (shear wave propagation velocity at different frequencies) and using a model-independent mathematical relationship, the invention simplifies the system while maintaining viscosity estimation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical model-based calculation system with an acoustic measurement system. Instead of applying mechanical models to interpret tissue behavior, the invention uses acoustic shear wave propagation characteristics directly to determine viscosity, eliminating the need for model selection and application complexity.
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 evaluation of tissue viscosity in the human body, providing a qualitative index that is not dependent on physical models, thus improving the reliability of viscoelasticity assessments.
Implementation Method 1
a Shear Wave Elastography (SWE) process by which displacements based on a shear wave are caused by applying an acoustic radiation force to a tissue in a human body
Implementation Method 2
propagation velocity of the shear wave is calculated by chronologically measuring the displacements that were caused
Data Source
AI summary
An analyzing apparatus according to an embodiment includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to detect a shear wave propagating in an object. The processing circuitry is configured to calculate an index value that indicates viscosity within the object and that is not dependent on any physical model related to viscoelasticity, by analyzing the detected shear wave.