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Sample Project: Method & System for Tracking Ultrasound Imagery

Overview

Anesthesiologists use a device to stabilize an ultrasound image during regional blocking procedures. In addition to enabling a steady image, the device provides the opportunity to perform ultrasound guided blocks to private practice clinicians for whom the cost of hiring additional staff to use ultrasound technology is prohibitive.

The first iteration of this device which has recently gone to market is manually controlled and relies on friction in ball and socket joints to maintain a "locked" configuration when the target image is acquired. Even when locked, the device is able to accommodate tiny "tilt" and "rotate" motions, which are crucial in ultrasound image optimization. With this implementation, it is easy to ensure that the device holds a fixed position in space and can capture meaningful imagery.

However, it may be more desirable for some medical procedures to fix the ultrasound transducer to acquire an image of a moving target, such as a catheter tip, or a hard lesion, as it is manipulated through less dense tissue. This would require a truly "hands-free" solution, wherein the device and its corresponding transducer can track a target image over the course of a procedure.

A plurality of robotic arms exist for medical purposes, however, at the time of writing this proposal, none have been specifically designed to assist regional blocking procedures.

Goals

It is our long term goal to, using existing technology, create a system that allows clinicians to indicate a target image, then track that image over the duration of a procedure, wherein the ultrasound transducer is always over the target image.

Deliverables

Identify, rank and source relevant visual image acquirement and tracking systems
Identify, rank and source potential robotic arm technology OR Design and prototype a robotic arm that has the "sweep", "tilt" and "rotate" functionality necessary to performing a regional block
Create a system for a robotic arm which can track an image generated by an ultrasound system

Knowledge Areas Needed for Project

Machine design
Control systems
Signal processing
Electromagnetics
Software engineering
Biomedical engineering
Statics and dynamics
Product design
Engineering graphics (CAD/CAM)

Proprietary Information and Confidentiality Requirements

Confidentiality required for sponsor-provided information
Intellectual property ownership rights retained by sponsor
Sponsor accepts responsibility to discuss IP ownership directly with the student project team and project advisor