SIRIUS is a breast cancer scanner using ultra-sensitive infrared thermal imaging technology. It detects minute increases in surface temperature caused by chemical and blood vessel build-up surrounding cancerous tissue. The design aims to further enhance the technology’s advantages to improve both the user experience in breast cancer screening, and the ease of deployment and maintenance. SIRIUS is currently undergoing clinical trials in hospitals.
The use of ultra-sensitive infrared thermal imaging technology to detect breast cancer has obvious advantages over mammography. There is no need for uncomfortable compression of the breast for X-ray, there is no decrease in effectiveness on younger women with dense breasts, there is no risk of radiation exposure to either patients or technicians, and there is a lower deployment cost since lead-protected screening rooms are not necessary.
Development work on SIRIUS focused on the following key areas to maximise its potential of being a commercially successful product:
1. Great user experience
SIRIUS has been designed to allow easy access for wheelchair-bound patients. Air vents provide air circulation for comfort while blocking external ambient lights that may interfere with scanning. Soft LED lighting provides a relaxing environment and helps visual orientation when the access door is closed for scanning. A clear indicator on the floor panel helps the patient to position their body to the camera.
2. Efficient deployment
A height-adjustable thermal camera allows for anthropometric differences in different geographical regions, even in the seated position. The scanner has been designed within a two-metre cube space for transportation and deployment flexibility. A concealed computer and video monitor are designed to be easily replaceable from common retail sources. This reduces replacement costs and operation down time that could result from component malfunction.
3. Ease of maintenance
Internal components are enclosed within a well-ventilated space to prevent overheating without the use of a fan. Components that may require regular access are easily accessible through external doors without disturbing the patient during scanning.
4. Cost-effective manufacturing
Only flat or simple curve profiles have been used in the design to allow for low-volume and low-cost production. |
