Novel Device for 3D Anatomical Landmarks Localisation

A device for anatomical landmark localisation is being developed. This device will use ultrasonic signals to estimate the position of landmarks in three dimensions by embedding miniature ultrasonic microphones in the fingertips of a glove which can be worn by a clinician during postural assessment.

This device is being developed to aid in postural assessment of individuals with severe musculoskeletal problems. Existing anthropometric measurement methods are ill-suited to the task as they require lengthy procedures, high costs or exposure to radiation. [1]

The current focus of research is on developing signal processing algorithms to allow for accurate positioning of an ultrasonic microphone while mitigating against environmental noise and disturbances. This is essential for a device that will need to operate in a clinical environment where there will be many noise sources, acoustically reflective materials and objects that obstruct the ultrasonic signals being transmitted.

Experiments have been performed to test these algorithms in situations were there are multiple obstructions and acoustically reflective surfaces to generate interference similar to that which would be encountered in a clinical environment.

The results of testing show that the algorithms developed are sufficiently robust to allow the device to accurately estimate the position of the receiving microphone even in situations with strong interference. These results suggest ultrasonic positioning will suitable for capturing anatomical landmark data in the clinical environment.