Enhanced Multi-Frequency Harmonic Acoustography for Target Identification and Border Detection
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept improves the original multi-frequency harmonic acoustography method by introducing adaptive frequency modulation, pulse width modulation, and machine learning algorithms to enhance signal quality, accuracy, and speed.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent for multi-frequency harmonic acoustography faces limitations in terms of signal-to-noise ratio, image resolution, and detection accuracy. The new inventive concept addresses these limitations by incorporating advanced modulation techniques, improved transducer design, and intelligent data analysis to provide more accurate and efficient target identification and border detection.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced multi-frequency harmonic acoustography system comprises a focused confocal transducer with an adaptive frequency modulation module that optimizes harmonic generation based on target tissue properties. The system also employs pulse width modulation to modulate the first and second ultrasonic waves, enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio. Additionally, a compact hydrophone with a built-in amplifier and filter reduces noise and increases sensitivity. The system utilizes machine learning algorithms to analyze acoustic responses and identify the boundary between different tissue types. Furthermore, a high-speed signal processor and a dedicated graphics processing unit enable fast image formation and display, facilitating real-time multi-frequency harmonic acoustography.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept introduces novel improvements to the original patent, including adaptive frequency modulation, pulse width modulation, and machine learning algorithms, which provide a significant enhancement in signal quality, accuracy, and speed. These advancements are non-obvious and provide a distinct inventive step over the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include using different modulation techniques, such as amplitude modulation or frequency sweep modulation, or incorporating additional sensors to provide complementary data. Variations of the system could also be designed for specific applications, such as cancer detection or cardiovascular imaging.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced multi-frequency harmonic acoustography system has significant commercial potential in the medical imaging industry, particularly in cancer diagnosis, cardiovascular imaging, and tissue characterization. The system's improved accuracy, speed, and resolution make it an attractive solution for hospitals, research institutions, and medical device manufacturers.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B8/485 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/085 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/4494 |
| B | B06 | B06B1/0622 |
| G | G01 | G01S7/52038 |
| G | G01 | G01S15/8913 |
| G | G01 | G01S15/8922 |
| G | G01 | G01S15/8952 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/5207 |
| G | G01 | G01S7/5203 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical ultrasound imaging and diagnostic technologies, specifically multi-frequency harmonic acoustography for tissue characterization and border detection, requiring expertise in signal processing, transducer design, and medical imaging techniques
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical imaging specialist with advanced degrees in electrical engineering or biomedical engineering, proficient in ultrasound signal processing, transducer design, machine learning, and signal enhancement techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the PTD's proposed enhancements represent predictable variations of the source patent's core multi-frequency harmonic acoustography method. The proposed adaptive frequency modulation, pulse width modulation, and machine learning algorithms are well-established techniques in signal processing that would naturally occur to a skilled practitioner seeking to improve the original imaging technique's performance and resolution.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,373 |
|---|---|
| Title | Multi-frequency harmonic acoustography for target identification and border detection |
| Assignee(s) | The Regents of the University of California |