SRR-Based Applicator Array for Skin Cancer Detection and Hyperthermia
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current skin cancer detection and treatment technologies, such as microwave/millimeter wave probes and metamaterial structures, face challenges in cost, efficiency, and resolution for large-area imaging and effective lesion detection.
Innovation Solution
A compact applicator array using split-ring resonators (SRRs) fabricated on FR-4 PCBs, operating between 8-15 GHz, providing local sensing regions as small as a fraction of a millimeter and capable of both non-invasive imaging and hyperthermia treatment, with a dual-mode handheld device for early skin cancer management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If single open-ended waveguide/probes are used for detecting malignancies, then detection capability is achieved, but manufacturing costs are high and contact area is small making thorough imaging inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sensing function into multiple independent resonator elements arranged in an array configuration. Each resonator can independently sense tissue properties, allowing parallel detection across multiple locations simultaneously, thereby improving imaging efficiency while maintaining detection precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-point probing to a two-dimensional array of resonators, enabling area-wide imaging rather than sequential point-by-point scanning. This dimensional expansion allows thorough imaging of large skin areas to be completed efficiently in a single contact
2Measurement precision
If antenna-like probes for remote sensing are used, then sensing capability is achieved, but constant distance maintenance is required reducing clinical usability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sensing function with direct tissue contact, eliminating the need for distance maintenance. The resonator array is designed to be placed in direct contact with the skin surface, combining the advantages of close coupling for enhanced sensing with the operational simplicity of contact-based measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical distance-maintenance requirement with an electromagnetic field-based sensing approach. The resonators are designed to sense tissue properties through direct contact without requiring precise positioning or distance control, substituting mechanical precision requirements with electromagnetic field interaction
3Adaptability or versatility
If SRR based sensing array operating at 1 GHz is used, then sensing function is achieved, but low frequency and large sensor size prevent sufficient resolution for actual skin cancer lesions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating frequency parameter from 1 GHz to higher frequencies (2-18 GHz range), which enables smaller resonator dimensions and improved spatial resolution. This parameter change allows the sensing array to resolve actual skin cancer lesions while maintaining versatile sensing functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from large-scale low-frequency sensing to compact high-frequency operation, effectively reducing the spatial dimension of each sensing element. This dimensional reduction at higher frequencies enables resolution of small skin lesions while maintaining the versatility of array-based sensing
4Area of stationary object
If microwave/millimeter wave probes are used for large area imaging, then detection coverage is achieved, but manufacturing costs and small contact area make the process less economical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging function into multiple identical, simple resonator elements that can be manufactured using standard PCB techniques. This segmentation allows large-area imaging to be achieved through array expansion rather than complex single-element design, reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining coverage area
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fabrication approach from custom microwave probe manufacturing to standard PCB technology, significantly reducing manufacturing costs. This parameter change in the fabrication process enables economical production of large-area imaging arrays using conventional, low-cost manufacturing methods
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
The SRR-based system offers affordable, accessible, and effective early detection and treatment of skin cancers, enabling primary care physicians to manage skin cancers with high sensitivity and ease of use, while reducing manufacturing costs and improving resolution.
Implementation Method 1
compact resonators comprise split-ring resonators (SRRs), fabricated using modern PCB technology on FR-4, and that operate between 8-15 GHz (unloaded)
Implementation Method 2
due to their highly focused field for sensing, they have also been used in permittivity extraction for dielectric and biological materials
Implementation Method 3
capable of treating local lesions with hyperthermia
Data Source
AI summary
In an illustrative embodiment, a dual mode, high-sensitivity, and low-cost applicator array based on split-ring resonators (SRR) and microstrip coupled lines serves as both an imaging and treatment tool for skin cancers. The applicator array consists of 3×3 unit cells, in which each unit in a row is tuned to a separate frequency, ranging from 8 to 15 GHz (unloaded). Via fences surrounding the unit cells provide E-field shielding and enhance resonance. The excitation is coupled magnetically from microstrip to SRRs and generates strong E-fields across the gap between SRR loop terminals. By observing the resonance shift and attenuation under different material under test (MUT), skin in one case, permittivity differences can be analyzed to distinguish malignancies from healthy tissue. Using the same applicator array, hyperthermia capability requires less than 5 W of power to cause significant temperature elevation.