Intelligent Automation, Inc. — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: SB173-001

Description

Medical Ultra Sound (US) technology, and associated hardware, software, algorithms, and systems have seen great development over the last decade, and field portable US transducer and imaging systems are readily available. However, key shortcomings remain that limit their application: 1) Need for operator control of wand pose, 2) Need for human expert interpretation of resulting US images, 3) Large Size, Weight, and Power, and 4) Seamless integration of imaging and treating capabilities such asthe ability to deliver focused acoustic energy with the aim of modulating organ/tissue function. Given the tremendous potential of US treatment to (non-invasively) modulate neuron and tissue behavior, provide detailed images and powerful diagnostic capabilities, a novel US imaging, diagnostic, and treatment system is needed to overcome these key shortcomings. To address this critical need, Intelligent Automation Inc. (IAI), along with its partners,proposes to develop CUAIT, a Conformal Ultrasonic Aperture for Imaging and Treatment. The key innovation is to combine novel Micro-machined Ultrasonic Transducer, (CMUT) arrays, advanced algorithms for image formation and measurement of tissue mechanical properties, temperature distribution, and motion, with IAIs expertise in system, software, and hardware development, and understanding of both ultrasound technology and transition of technology to the (DoD) market place.