Methods and devices for membrane characterization with ultrasound and optical illumination
US12156765B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 31, 2021 |
| Grant date | Dec 3, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 31, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B2562/0247
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A device for measuring reflected ultrasound and optical signals may include: an optical source; an optical assembly comprising at least one lens, configured to focus reflected optical illumination from a target onto a detector; and an ultrasound transducer aligned to transmit and receive ultrasound radiation co-axially with the reflected optical illumination and wherein the ultrasound transducer at least partially obstructs a path of the reflected optical illumination. An obstruction may be distant from a focal spot of the optical assembly. The device for measuring reflected ultrasound and optical signals may be particularly useful for characterizing fluid behind an ear drum to diagnose otitis media.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.