Textile-based shape-conformable and breathable ultrasound imaging probe

This paper presents a shape-conformable and breathable ultrasound (US) imaging probe fabricated by sandwiching US elements between two woven polyester textiles with copper electrodes formed through electroless plating. The air gaps in the textiles are partially filled with copper at the electrode parts, enabling high US wave penetration, while retaining breathability in non-electrode areas. The probe demonstrates low flexural rigidity and high air permeability, successfully imaging human neck blood vessels (common carotid artery and internal jugular vein) for 24 hours, showcasing potential for long-term health monitoring and early disease detection.

Takumi Noda, Seiichi Takamatsu, Michitaka Yamamoto, Naoto Tomita, Toshihiro Itoh, Takashi Azuma, Ichiro Sakuma, Naoki Tomii