INCITE-Intelligent Catheters in Advanced Systems for Interventions
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Silex Microsystems AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 3 729 600 |
| Project duration | March 2014 - August 2017 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
Miniature systems provide new opportunities for minimal invasive surgery & smart catheters. Within the INCITE project, new technologies have among others been developed within MEMS / MUT sensors, with first prototypes of integrated intelligent MIS catheters. These new instruments aim to speed up new treatment methods of cardiovascular disease. Silex sub-projects within INCITE to establish and develop new materials & production methods for producing advanced PZT-based ultrasonic sensors (p-MUTs) have been achieved and validated experimentally.
Expected results and effects
A new technology for the production of high-frequency and high-resolution pMUTs for medical imaging within the heart coronary arteries Manufacturing technology of new piezo electrical material has been established in both Silex factories in Järfälla first as a research project (6 ") and then as a development process (8") A lab setup of new components has been used to validate the sensor functionality of the new concept Various ultrasonic p-MUTs were tested within INCITE. Functional lab tested devices at TRL level <5 has been established with manufacturing technology at trl level 7.>
Planned approach and implementation
The INCITE consortium was organized around 5 work packages and Silex led one WP and participated actively in the management team. For technology development of new sensors Silex act as task leader in another WP. 22 experienced Semicon/ MEMS suppliers, materials & packaging specialists and Silex collaborated tight with 6 of these Int´l partners. Thanks to open collaboration with market-leading catheter manufacturers and world-class medtech companies/institutes, Silex has gained a deeper understanding of new smart catheters for the treatment of cardiovascular disease.