Miniature forward-looking ultrasound imaging mechanism enabled by local shape memory alloy actuator

摘要

The present invention relates to a new forward-looking ultrasound device including a local actuator embedded inside an elongate member such as a guide wire or catheter. The present invention includes an ultrasound transducer element configured to engage with the local actuator and rotate about an axis of rotation at least when the ultrasound transducer element and the local actuator are engaged. Also disclosed are methods of using the same.

主权项

1. A method, comprising:
providing an elongate body having a longitudinal axis, a proximal end portion, and a distal end portion; coupling a local actuator to the elongate body adjacent the distal end portion, the local actuator including:
a first element that is fixedly secured to the elongate body when coupling the local actuator to the elongate body;a first shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator coupled to the first element, wherein the first SMA actuator is configured to switch between an activated state and a deactivated state; anda movable element coupled to the first SMA actuator, wherein the movable element is configured to move longitudinally substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongate body between a first position and a second position in response to the first SMA actuator switching between the activated and deactivated states; and coupling an ultrasound transducer element to the elongate body adjacent to the local actuator such that the ultrasound transducer is configured to rotate between a primary position and a secondary position about an axis of rotation that is normal to the longitudinal axis of the elongate body; and wherein the movable element is configured to intermittently engage the ultrasound transducer element when moving between the first position and the second position so as to cause the ultrasound transducer element to rotate about the axis of rotation.