Next-Generation Hybrid Ultrasound and Thermoacoustic Imaging System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A revolutionary imaging system integrating ultrasound and thermoacoustic modalities for real-time, high-resolution, and multi-modal imaging of biological tissues, enabling unprecedented insights into tissue structure and function.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a serial architecture and energy-saving methods for ultrasound and thermoacoustic systems, but it had limitations in terms of resolution, speed, and multi-modality capabilities. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing a hybrid computing architecture, machine learning algorithms, and advanced transducer arrays to enable real-time, high-resolution imaging and monitoring of biological tissues.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The next-generation hybrid ultrasound and thermoacoustic imaging system consists of a transducer array for generating and detecting ultrasound and thermoacoustic signals, a hybrid computing architecture for processing and integrating said signals in real-time, and machine learning algorithms for generating 3D images and analyzing tissue structure and function. The system can be integrated into wearable, implantable, or injectable devices for real-time monitoring, or into cloud-based platforms for remote analysis and interpretation. The system enables non-invasive, real-time monitoring of brain activity and neural function, and has potential applications in cancer diagnosis, cardiovascular disease monitoring, and neurology.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a paradigm shift in imaging technology by combining ultrasound and thermoacoustic modalities in a single system, and by leveraging machine learning algorithms and hybrid computing architectures to enable real-time, high-resolution imaging and monitoring. The inventive concept's novelty lies in the integration of these components and the resulting capabilities, which are not obvious from the original patent or prior art.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in transducer array design, computing architecture, and machine learning algorithms. Additionally, the system could be adapted for use in different medical specialties, such as cardiology, oncology, or neurology, or for use in non-medical applications, such as material inspection or food safety monitoring.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The next-generation hybrid ultrasound and thermoacoustic imaging system has significant commercial potential in the medical imaging market, with potential applications in cancer diagnosis, cardiovascular disease monitoring, and neurology. The system could also be adapted for use in non-medical industries, such as material inspection or food safety monitoring, offering a broad market potential.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Biomedical imaging technologies, specifically ultrasound and thermoacoustic signal processing and detection systems, requiring advanced electrical engineering, signal processing, and medical instrumentation expertise
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A skilled practitioner with a PhD or MS in electrical engineering, biomedical engineering, or medical physics, with expertise in signal processing, transducer design, and medical imaging technologies, familiar with advanced computing architectures and machine learning techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill would recognize that the PTD's hybrid imaging system represents a predictable combination of known ultrasound and thermoacoustic imaging techniques with emerging machine learning and computing technologies. The integration of multiple signal detection modalities and real-time processing architectures follows established engineering design principles for medical imaging systems. The proposed variations represent incremental improvements that would be obvious to a skilled practitioner familiar with contemporary biomedical imaging research and development.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,291 |
|---|---|
| Title | Serial architecture and energy saving methods for ultrasound and thermoacoustic systems |
| Assignee(s) | PhotoSound Technologies Inc. |