Computational tools and algorithms for impedance imaging

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Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT) calculates internal images from body surface electrical measurements. Such images provide useful information in medical imaging (ie. blood and air flow), geophysics (ie. mineral localization), and industrial process monitoring. The applicant has established an expertise in innovative and applied EIT algorithms and data analysis to manage practical issues such as poor electrode connections and boundary movement. These contributions have been disseminated in journal papers and book chapters (42 during previous grant term), and through an open source software package (EIDORS.org) which has become the most widely used in the field. Work will focus on two streams: first, an Algorithms and Software stream (funded by this grant), and, using the core technologies developed, an Applications stream (primarily funded by industrial partners and collaborators). Core technical developments will focus on image reconstruction algorithms which are more robust against sources of data error and artefacts; finite element models to describe anisotropy and body deformations (with posture and breathing); and electrode error compensation and optimized measurement strategies. Key areas of focus for applications are: 1) in medical imaging, where EIT is used to non-invasively monitor the distribution of air in the lungs of mechanically ventilated patients, and then to guide individualized lung-protective therapy; and 2) in mining technology, in which EIT can locate rock layers and ground water, which can then be used to optimize blast patterns and yield. This research program will develop technologies which improve efficiency and help save lives by improved patient monitoring.