Physics

Finite element method

Microwave imaging

Stroke (engine)

Mathematics

Structural engineering

Engineering

Mathematical analysis

Antenna (radio)

Acoustics

Fidelity

Electronic engineering

Geometry

Microwave

Computer science

Numerical analysis

Conformal map

Simulation

Computer simulation

Telecommunications

Mechanical engineering

IEEE Journal of Electromagnetics RF and Microwaves in Medicine and Biology

This work presents the outcomes of a numerical analysis based on a 3-D high fidelity model of a realistic microwave imaging system for the clinical follow-up of brain stroke. The analysis is meant as a preliminary step towards the full experimental characterization of the system, with the aim of assessing the achievable results and highlight possible critical points. The system consists of an array of twenty-four printed monopole antennas, placed conformal to the upper part of the head; each monopole is immersed into a semi-solid dielectric brick with custom permittivity, acting as coupling medium. The whole system, including the antennas and their feeding mechanism, has been numerically modeled via a custom full-wave software based on the finite element method. The numerical model generates reliable electromagnetic operators and accurate antenna scattering parameters, which provide the input data for the implemented imaging algorithm. In particular, the numerical analysis assesses the capability of the device of reliably monitoring the evolution of hemorrhages and ischemias, considering the progression from a healthy state to an early-stage stroke.

Assessing a Microwave Imaging System for Brain Stroke Monitoring via High Fidelity Numerical Modelling