URGENT UPDATE: A revolutionary wearable ultrasound sensor has been developed by a research team at KAIST, paving the way for noninvasive medical treatments. This breakthrough, led by Professor Hyunjoo Jenny Lee, addresses previous limitations in conventional ultrasound devices, particularly in power output and structural stability.
The team has created a flexible sensor that boasts a statically adjustable curvature, significantly enhancing its ability to capture precise images and deliver therapeutic ultrasound energy. This technology, which is detailed in a recent publication in npj Flexible Electronics, has the potential to change the landscape of wearable medical devices.
Conventional ultrasound sensors have typically been hindered by low elastic modulus and poor curvature control, which resulted in insufficient acoustic power and blurred images. The new sensor, using a unique “flex-to-rigid (FTR)” capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer (CMUT) design, circumvents these issues. The innovative structure combines a rigid silicon substrate with a flexible elastomer bridge, achieving both high performance and flexibility.
What’s groundbreaking is the incorporation of a low-melting-point alloy (LMPA) within the device. When an electric current is applied, the alloy melts, allowing the sensor to mold into a desired shape. Upon cooling, it solidifies, fixing the sensor’s curvature. This dynamic adjustment means the sensor can automatically focus ultrasound energy on specific body areas without needing separate beamforming electronics.
This technology is not just theoretical. Animal model experiments have shown that the device’s acoustic output can reach levels of low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU), which stimulates tissues noninvasively, reducing inflammation and improving mobility in arthritis models. These promising results suggest that the sensor could significantly enhance therapeutic applications in medical practice.
The implications of this development are vast. The research team plans to expand this technology into a two-dimensional (2D) array structure, which would allow for simultaneous high-resolution imaging and therapeutic applications. This advancement could pave the way for a new generation of smart medical systems, offering enhanced treatment options that are both effective and user-friendly.
Moreover, the sensor’s compatibility with semiconductor fabrication processes means it can be mass-produced and adapted for both wearable and home-use ultrasound systems, making this technology accessible to a broader audience.
As this research evolves, it is clear that the future of noninvasive treatment is on the brink of transformation. The KAIST research team, including co-first authors Sang-Mok Lee and Xiaojia Liang, is at the forefront of this exciting advancement.
Stay tuned for more updates as this technology develops and could soon revolutionize how we approach medical treatment. The journey from lab to practical application is ongoing, and the potential for improved patient outcomes is immense.
