| dc.description.abstract | The advancements in modern medicine emphasize the necessity for precision in healthcare. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) must also progress with the times. A major critique of TCM is its lack of quantifiable data, particularly in areas such as pulse diagnosis where terms like superficial, moderate, deep, surging, and wiry pulses are difficult to quantify. This thesis attempts to address this issue by using probes to detect the potential differences on the skin caused by pulsations, thereby quantifying the pulse characteristics. Additionally, it explores the feasibility of using probes for meridian localization in TCM.
This study records the potential differences at each point within an area using an array of probes, thereby mapping the three-dimensional shape of the pulse. Sixteen probes arranged in an array were used, with a test voltage of 100mV. The probe array was placed over the pulse to detect the potential differences caused by the skin′s elevations and depressions due to pulsations, which were then used to create a three-dimensional map to observe the meridian′s position, intensity, and shape.
The results showed that: (1) Observing the pulse under a microscope, the maximum and minimum elevations were approximately 0.0025mm, with a corresponding maximum voltage change of 0.008mV. Thus, each millimeter of pulse elevation corresponds to a voltage change of approximately 3.2mV. (2) The voltage detection error between the probe′s hot wire and ground wire was approximately 0.00009568mV per centimeter. (3) The distance error between the pulse centerline drawn by the probe matrix and the actual pulse centerline drawn by hand was less than 1mm.
Based on the results, the following conclusions were drawn:
(1) The precision of detecting pulse elevations relative to the voltage is 3.2mV/mm. This voltage can be easily measured by general instruments, allowing for a clear depiction of the pulse elevations.
(2) The voltage detection error between probes is 0.00009568mV per centimeter, which is very small and thus has a negligible impact on the accuracy of pulse position mapping.
(3) The error in depicting the pulse shape is less than 1mm, which is more accurate than current practical methods in TCM.
Future research can focus on enhancing measurement precision, applying this method to more meridian and acupuncture points in TCM, and integrating artificial intelligence technology for automated analysis and diagnosis, thus promoting the modernization of TCM. | en_US |