SIGNAL AND IMAGE PROCESSING
Ultrasound imaging techniques and beamforming algorithms
Our research activities in the medical imaging field are mainly focused on ultrasound diagnostic imaging. We work on signal processing and imaging methods for ultrasound B-mode image reconstruction, such as non-linear, coherence-based beamforming algorithms, high-frame rate imaging techniques, micro-beamforming strategies for 4D imaging. The objective is to study and develop novel advanced beamforming methods able to generate ultrasound images with a higher quality for an enhanced diagnosis, also improving the frame rate at the same time e.g. for cardiac applications.
Design of new probes for 3D ultrasound imaging in MRI-guided neuronavigation
In the framework of the European project DeNeCoR, we are involved in the design of novel advanced probes for 3D ultrasound imaging of the brain, with transducers based on the emerging CMUT (Capacitive Micromachined Ultrasonic Transducers) technology. We are also working on the desing of experimental protocols for the testing of such probes, including the development of procedures for US brain images acquisition with motion tracking systems, and fusion with MR images (in cooperation with the Computer Vision and Multimedia Lab-University of Pavia, University of Florence, University Roma Tre and STM).
Analyses and simulations for the design of 3D/4D ultrasound imaging systems
These research activities aim at developing software tools to support the design of the front-end electronics integrated in new probes for 3D/4D ultrasound imaging, based on 2D arrays of transducers. Such tools allow the designers to further analyze how design parameters influence the generated ultrasound-beam shape and image quality, providing a precious system-level feedback through simulations.
Microwave imaging for breast cancer detection
Tho main objective of activity is to develop a novel imaging system based on the use of micro/millimeter-waves for the detection of breast cancer. This research is carried out in cooperation with the European Institue of Oncology and Microwae Lab. – University of Pavia. Our focus is maily on sytem-level simulation analyses, development and testing of image reconstruction algorithms.
FUNDED PROJECTS:
- University of Pavia Blue Sky Research project MULTIWAVE
- European ENIAC Project DeNeCoR “Devices for NeuroControl and NeuroRehabilitation”, Coordinator: Philips Healthcare, 21 industrial/academic/clinical partners from 7 European countries
MAIN COLLABORATIONS:
- STMicroelectronics, Technology R&D Unit, Castelletto (Milan)
- European Institute of Oncology (IEO), Radiology Division, Milan
- ACULAB, Dept. of Engineering, University Roma Tre
- MSDLAB, Dept. of Information Engineering, University of Florence
- Microwave Lab., Dept. of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia
- Analog Integrated Circuits Lab., Dept. of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia
- Computer Vision and Multimedia Lab., Dept. of Electrical, Computer and Biomedical Engineering, University of Pavia