Located in the Mark Engineering Center in Stark Learning Center, the Bio-Electromagnetics and Antenna Measurement Lab supports advanced research in microwave imaging, electromagnetics and AI-enhanced biomedical applications.
Lab Details
The lab now houses cutting-edge equipment, including:
- Cylindrical Microwave Imaging Chamber: This prototype is equipped with 24 Vivaldi antennas and high frequency switch designed for microwave tomography. The chamber allows precise scanning and data acquisition for biomedical imaging applications, particularly in brain and breast imaging.
- Elliptical Microwave Imaging Chamber: This prototype features Dielectric Resonator Antennas (DRAs) and an elliptical geometry specifically designed to enhance imaging resolution through focused microwave signals. The elliptical design allows for improved focusing of microwave energy, concentrating the signals at key points within the imaging area. This optimized geometry significantly improves the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in microwave tomography setups, leading to more precise and higher-resolution imaging results.
- Automated Patient Bed: The lab is equipped with an automated patient bed capable of moving in x, y, and z directions, allowing precise positioning of the subject within the microwave imaging chambers. This enables high-resolution, 3D breast imaging without the need for manual repositioning.
- RF Shielded Fully Anechoic Chamber: A state-of-the-art facility for antenna measurement, soon to be installed as part of an NSF-MRI grant awarded to Dr. Sabouni and colleagues. This addition will further enhance the lab’s capabilities in testing and optimizing antenna designs for biomedical applications.
- In-house MRI Segmentation Software: The lab has developed an MRI segmentation tool based on Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM) to convert MRI images into dielectric property maps. This tool is critical for generating training datasets for AI models using MRI data from real human subjects. By mapping MRI images to corresponding dielectric properties, the software provides a robust way to create multiple imaging scenarios for AI training, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of the AI models used in microwave imaging.
- In-house Fast Forward Numerical Solver: The lab has developed a fast forward numerical solver based on both the Finite Element Method (FEM) and Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) for solving Maxwell’s equations. This solver is optimized for high-performance computing through the Message Passing Interface (MPI) framework, allowing for efficient parallelization of complex electromagnetic simulations. By significantly accelerating the modeling and simulation of intricate microwave imaging setups, this solver plays a crucial role in generating high-quality data. The output from these simulations will be extensively used for AI training, contributing to the development of robust and accurate machine learning models for microwave tomography and other biomedical applications.
- Keysight P5028A Streamline USB Vector Network Analyzer (53 GHz, 2-port) and N469D ECal Module (67 GHz, 4-port) for high-frequency data acquisition.
- Agilent E5071C Vector Network Analyzer (300 kHz - 20 GHz) and E5062A 2-port Network Analyzer for high-speed parallel data acquisition.
- Agilent 85070E Dielectric Probe Kit for measuring dielectric properties of biological tissues.
- Rohde & Schwarz Signal Generators and Spectrum Analyzers, ETS Lindgren Standard Gain Horn Antennas, several power amplifiers and ETS 3115 Double-Ridged Horn Antenna (1-18 GHz) for signal processing and testing microwave imaging systems.
- 40 GHz Probe Station (EPS150RF) and Thorlabs Nexus Breadboard and Frame Holder for precision device testing and positioning.
- FESTO Antenna Training System and KEYSIGHT N8973B Noise Figure Analyzer for signal analysis and training purposes.
- Magstim M2002 with 8 figure coil: This setup capable of generating a 1 Tesla (T) magnetic field for brain Stimulation.
- Wireless Dual-Probe Ultrasound Vscan Air CL: This wireless ultrasound system is used for obtaining ultrasound images of the mimicking material and for comparison with microwave tomography results. It enhances multimodal imaging capabilities by providing additional data for validating the microwave imaging techniques.
- Robotic Surgery Setup: A robotic surgery training system designed to provide hands-on experience for students in minimally invasive surgical techniques. This setup is ideal for training students in advanced medical technologies and complements the biomedical focus of the lab.
- Embroidery Machine for Printing Antennas on Fabric: This machine enables the fabrication of flexible antenna structures by printing antennas directly onto fabric. It is used for developing wearable and flexible antenna designs for biomedical applications, providing an innovative approach to creating lightweight, flexible, and durable antennas.
- Microwave Ablation Setup: This system is used for testing various antenna designs with microwave power supply for catheter-based procedures and tumor ablation. It allows researchers to evaluate the efficacy of microwave antennas in delivering targeted energy for tumor destruction, optimizing antenna design for use in minimally invasive therapeutic applications.
- Prototype Dense Phase Array Coil Array for Deep Brain Stimulation and Brain Mapping: This prototype is designed for high resolution and real time deep brain stimulation and brain mapping applications. The coil array allows precise targeting and stimulation of deep brain regions, providing crucial data for understanding brain activity and enhancing therapeutic techniques in neurology.
Additionally, the lab has access to five professional licenses of Computer Simulation Technology (CST) commercial software. This software is used to validate the in-house FEM/FDTD code, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the simulation results. The combination of in-house solvers and commercial CST tools provides a comprehensive environment for rigorous simulation and validation of microwave imaging systems.