Multi-mode Ultrasound Device with Switchable Probe Coupler
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasound devices for bone assessment are limited by their ability to evaluate only specific skeletal sites, provide limited parameters, have poor repeatability, and are operator-dependent, lacking flexibility and considering the coupling effect of soft tissue in measurements.
Innovation Solution
An ultrasound device capable of switching between axial and transverse modes, equipped with dual frequency bands and pressure sensors, allowing for comprehensive bone assessment by deriving parameters that account for soft tissue coupling and improving accuracy through multiple measurement points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single-mode ultrasound device is used for bone assessment, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different skeletal sites and measurement modes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The ultrasound device is designed to perform multiple functions by supporting both axial transmission mode and transverse transmission mode measurements. The device includes a bracket that can be positioned in different orientations and a pedal that can accommodate different foot placements, enabling the same device to assess various skeletal sites including the heel pad, tibia, and other bones. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by allowing one device to replace multiple specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable components, including a bracket that can be positioned at different angles and a pedal that can accommodate different foot placements. The coupler connecting the two probes can be adjusted to maintain proper alignment in different measurement modes. This dynamic adjustability enables the device to adapt to different skeletal sites and measurement requirements without requiring multiple fixed-configuration devices.
2Measurement precision
If measurement is taken at a single point, then the measurement process is simple, but the accuracy and reliability of bone assessment is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement process is divided into multiple discrete measurement points across different skeletal sites. The device enables systematic measurement at multiple locations including the heel pad, tibia, and other bones by adjusting the bracket and pedal configuration. This segmentation approach improves assessment accuracy by providing a comprehensive view of bone health across multiple sites rather than relying on a single measurement point.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates sensors that detect the position and orientation of the probes and provide feedback to ensure proper alignment during measurement. The system can identify when the probes are correctly positioned and guide the operator through the measurement process, ensuring consistent and accurate measurements across multiple points while maintaining operational simplicity.
3Measurement precision
If the coupling effect of soft tissue is not considered, then the measurement process is simple, but the measurement accuracy is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The device introduces soft tissue thickness measurement as an intermediary parameter to account for the coupling effect of soft tissue between the ultrasound probes and the bone. By measuring and compensating for the soft tissue layer thickness, the system improves measurement accuracy without requiring complex direct bone contact, as the soft tissue characteristics are measured and factored into the calculations.
4Reliability
If the device is operator-dependent, then the device structure is simple, but the repeatability of measurements is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates automated features including sensors that detect probe positioning, automatic calculation of bone parameters from the collected data, and standardized measurement protocols. The system guides the operator through the measurement process and automatically processes the results, reducing dependence on operator expertise and experience while improving measurement repeatability. The device performs calculations and assessments automatically based on the collected ultrasound data.
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 device enhances flexibility and accuracy in bone assessment by supporting both axial and transverse modes, providing a more comprehensive evaluation of bone characteristics while minimizing operator influence and accounting for soft tissue effects.
Implementation Method 1
a first ultrasound probe having a first face to be brought into contact with skin of the subject and configured to transmit an ultrasound signal to the bone
Implementation Method 2
a second ultrasound probe having a second face to be brought into contact with skin of the subject and configured to receive the ultrasound signal from the bone
Implementation Method 3
the coupler being configured to be switched to a first configuration in the first mode and to a second configuration in the second mode, wherein the first face and the second face are oriented in substantially a same direction in the first configuration, and in substantially an opposite direction in the second configuration
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of this invention provides an ultrasound device that assesses a bone of a subject in at least two modes comprising a first mode and a second mode. The ultrasound device comprises: a selecting unit configured to select a mode from the at least two modes; a first ultrasound probe configured to transmit an ultrasound signal to the bone; a second ultrasound probe configured to receive the ultrasound signal from the bone; an assessing unit configured to derive a first parameter of the bone based on the selected mode and the ultrasound signal received by the second ultrasound probe; and a coupler being configured to be switched to a first configuration in the first mode and to a second configuration in the second mode. The ultrasound probes are oriented in substantially a same direction in the first configuration, and in substantially an opposite direction in the second configuration.