PROJECT OUTREACH SUMMARY

ANTICIPATED TECHNICAL MERITS

Due to the extensive rotational movement and pressure the wrist takes when scanning a patient with an ultrasound probe, there is a high rate of carpal tunnel and other wrist injuries in sonographers. The focus of this design is to transfer the rotational movement of the wrist to the ultrasound probe. With minimal effort by the sonographer, the rotation of the probe head must be isolated to the probe itself.

REQUIREMENTS

One requirement of this probe is for the probe head to be able to rotate about the X and Y axis 100 degrees. Another Requirement is the probe head must be able to withstand a force of 40 pounds due to the vertical pressure that is expended by the ultrasound technician.

OPTIMIZATION OPORTUNITIES

An aspect of optimization in this project is to build the driver structure separate to the probe. Ultrasound probes have lines connecting the probe to the ultrasound machine so we can use this to our advantage when designing the rotational motion aspect of the probe. Drive lines can exit the probe to create a less crowded probe handle.

KNOWN CHALLENGES

A challenge that will present itself in this project is the lack of space within the probe handle. The success of this project will also be based on the ability of the probe to withstand the pressure whilst at the same time isolating the rotation movement to the probe head to successfully perform an ultrasound exam.

HELP NEEDED FROM INDUSTRY

Some materials needed from industry are as follows;

• Ultrasound Probe

• Materials for 3D Printing/ Probe Housing

• Servos/ Power

• Aluminum for Turning Wheels/ Rotational Structure