Research

Stretchable MRI Coils

MRI relies on the use RF coils to detect signals from the imaging volume.

 

Most commercial coils are made to accommodate a wide range of dimensions by being rigid and having a fixed size, increasing the distance between the coil and the anatomy, which reduces signal-to-noise ratio. 

 

My current research is on stretchable coil designs, with a focus on conductive threads through embroidery machines on fabric. This allows for lightweight and stretchable coils that conform to all surfaces of the body. Imaging quality is not compromised in in vivo imaging of anatomies of various curvature and flexion angles.

 

The stretchable coil design allows for high stretchable, flexible, and conformal patient-centered coils that allow for increased imaging quality, greater comfort, and can be rapidly produced.

Stretchable coils concept

Stretchable coil picture and embroidery process

Phantom Imaging and SNR map of stretchable coils

Rehabilitation Tools for Vestibular Balance Disorder Patients

The Active Balance and Mobility device is a balance testing, training, and rehabilitation device that uses a novel automatic balance sensor and a mechanical safety harness. 

 

The patented pressure pad sensor uses a Velostat pressure-sensitive conductive sheet that can precisely map the pressure distribution. The system has a factor of safety of 6, and has been thoroughly tested to balance between safety, strength, and size. 

 

In collaboration between the engineering team and the health sciences team, the system has been developed as a patient-centric system to monitor and improve anterior-posterior balance, and diagonal/medial-lateral balance through the use of games and rehabilitation treatment.

 

There is a 45-fold cost reduction from a competing commercial system, providing benefits to the elderly and communities in need for balance rehabilitation and telemedicine monitoring. 

 

Active Balance and Mobility

Example of Active Balance usage

Active Balance Games