Systems and Methods for Enabling Noncontact Laser Ultrasound

Conventional ultrasound technology requires physical contact with the subject, which can sometimes be inconvenient or even risky depending on the condition of the patient. There is a recognized need in the medical community for noncontact imaging technology that would eliminate these challenges and provide a safer, more versatile option for imaging. Existing approaches in the field of medical imaging either require physical contact or are not robust enough to provide detailed and high-quality images for diagnostic purposes. Current technologies can also be time-consuming and inefficient, and often require professional technicians for adjustments, impeding the fast-paced nature of healthcare settings.

Technology Description

This technology is a system and method for image reconstruction that uses noncontact ultrasound. With this system, maps or ultrasound images can be generated without any physical contact with the subject. Optimizations can be made to the photoacoustic excitation system such as beam shaping, surface modifications, or closed-loop automated adjustments. The 2D and 3D spatial positioning of source and receiver lasers provides a spatial reference position for ultrasound image reconstruction in a clinically beneficial way. This technology differentiates itself by its noncontract ultrasound capacity, which breaks the boundaries of traditional ultrasound methods. It employs point tracking, surface profile characterization, laser adjustments, and/or surface enhancements, all of which actively contribute to the facilitation of image reconstruction. By leveraging automated adjustments and integrating both 2D and 3D spatial references, it establishes a comprehensive solution that guarantees optimized and detailed imaging.