Computational Analysis
The Computational Analysis pillar provides the numerical foundation of BrainStimMap, developing time-explicit models to predict acoustic wave propagation in complex biological structures, with a focus on high-frequency ultrasound in the brain.
Why it matters for industry
The main objective is to reduce uncertainty in non-invasive neuromodulation, enabling accurate prediction of transmission, focalization, and energy deposition before experimental or clinical implementation.
Reduces trial-and-error during device development
Enables virtual prototyping and treatment planning
Improves safety margins and targeting accuracy
Numerical Models
Numerical simulations are implemented in COMSOL Multiphysics using time-explicit formulations, allowing direct resolution of transient and nonlinear wave phenomena without frequency-domain simplifications.
The framework supports:
Complex, layered biological geometries
High-frequency regimes (0.5–5 MHz)
Multiphysics coupling
Nonlinear wave propagation
Fig. 1 — 2D axisymmetric geometry used for time-explicit acoustic simulations, including biological sample, absorbing layer, pressure input and reception boundaries.
Fig. 3 — 3D schematic of focused ultrasound transmission through the skull toward the brain.
Fig. 4 — Axi-symmetric human head model implemented in COMSOL Multiphysics for transcranial ultrasound simulations.
Signal Definition & Frequency
Ultrasound input signals are defined and analyzed in both time and frequency domains, enabling accurate assessment of nonlinear effects and harmonic generation across 0.5–5 MHz.
This ensures reproducibility between numerical, phantom-based, and biological studies.
Fig. 2 — Time- and frequency-domain representation of an ultrasonic signal used to compute the nonlinearity parameter (B/A).
Key Results & Predictive Value
The models enable:
• Estimation of frequency-dependent attenuation parameters across biological tissues;
• Identification of dominant attenuation mechanisms in fluid-rich tissues;
• Prediction of focal zones, transmission losses, and skull-induced distortions.
Fig. 6 — Time-explicit simulation showing focal zone formation during ultrasound propagation.
Industrial relevance
• Estimation of frequency-dependent attenuation parameters across biological tissues;
• Identification of dominant attenuation mechanisms in fluid-rich tissues;
• Prediction of focal zones, transmission losses, and skull-induced distortions.
Fig. 6 — Time-explicit simulation showing focal zone formation during ultrasound propagation.
Model Validation & Homogenization
Material behaviour is systematically compared against:
• Numerical predictions;
• Literature reference values for biological tissues;
• Experimental measurements across multiple modalities.
This validation ensures traceability and consistency across the BrainStimMap pipeline.
Fig. 9 — Six independent load cases applied to the RUC for homogenization, including normal and shear load cases.
Publications & Scientific Validation
The Materials pillar is supported by peer-reviewed publications, doctoral theses, and supervised research projects, ensuring scientific rigor and long-term reproducibility.
From Simulation to Application
By combining biomimetic material design, controlled fabrication processes, and systematic experimental characterization, the Materials pillar delivers reliable and reproducible testing environments for stimulation technologies.
Challenge us to develop tissue-mimicking materials tailored to your application.