Ultrasonic transducer device and ultrasonic imaging system

Abstract

The present application discloses an ultrasonic transducer device, which includes multiple ultrasonic transducers and a flexible integrated circuit; the ultrasonic transducer is used to transmit ultrasonic waves and receive ultrasonic echoes; the rear ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers are arranged in an array form on the flexible integrated circuit; the front ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers are attached to the detection surface, so that the ultrasonic transducer device is provided in a wearable form on the detection surface of the detection object. By using the ultrasonic transducers and the flexible integrated circuit included in the ultrasonic transducer device, the multiple ultrasonic transducers are attached to the detection surface, that is, the ultrasonic transducers are worn on the detection surface of the detection object, and ultrasonic detection is achieved, which reduces the threshold and difficulty of using the ultrasonic probe, so that it can be operated in a variety of environments. The present application also discloses an ultrasonic imaging system with the above beneficial effects.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of ultrasonic imaging equipment, and in particular to an ultrasonic transducer device and an ultrasonic imaging system. Background Art

[0002] With the continuous development of information technology, a variety of detection technologies have emerged in the field of medical technology. Among them, ultrasonic testing technology uses the reflection and attenuation patterns of various organs and tissues in the human body as ultrasound waves propagate through the body. Ultrasonic waves have excellent directionality. When propagating through the body, they encounter tissues and organs of varying densities, resulting in reflection, refraction, and absorption. The distance, strength, and number of echoes displayed on the oscilloscope, as well as the degree of attenuation, can reveal the activity and function of certain organs and accurately identify whether tissues and organs contain fluid, gas, or are solid tissue.

[0003] In related ultrasonic testing technologies, technicians typically hold a handheld ultrasonic detection probe and probe the subject's body to obtain the corresponding ultrasound image. However, due to the limited detection angle of existing probes, other operators are usually required to hold the probe in their hands and constantly adjust the position and angle during operation to obtain the required ultrasound image data. This requires additional technicians to operate the probe and a high level of professionalism. This increases the threshold and difficulty of using the ultrasound probe, making it difficult to operate in a variety of environments.

[0004] Therefore, how to lower the threshold for using ultrasound probes is a key issue that technicians in this field are concerned about. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this application is to provide an ultrasonic transducer device and an ultrasonic imaging system. Through the ultrasonic transducers and flexible integrated circuits included in the ultrasonic transducer device, multiple ultrasonic transducers can be adhered to the detection surface, that is, the ultrasonic transducers are worn on the detection surface of the detection object, and ultrasonic detection is realized, which reduces the threshold and difficulty of using the ultrasonic probe so that it can be operated in a variety of environments.

[0006] To solve the above technical problems, the present application provides an ultrasonic transducer device, which includes a plurality of ultrasonic transducers and a flexible integrated circuit; the ultrasonic transducer is used to transmit ultrasonic waves and receive ultrasonic echoes;

[0007] The rear ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers are arranged in an array form on the flexible integrated circuit; the front ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers are attached to the detection surface, so that the ultrasonic transducer device is arranged on the detection surface of the detection object in a wearable form.

[0008] Optionally, the flexible integrated circuit is a CMOS-ASIC flexible integrated circuit; the CMOS-ASIC flexible integrated circuit includes a CMOS-ASIC flexible substrate and an interconnection layer arranged in the CMOS-ASIC flexible substrate; the multiple ultrasonic transducers are arranged on the interconnection layer; accordingly, the CMOS-ASIC flexible integrated circuit is used to control the ultrasonic detection process and process the ultrasonic echo.

[0009] Optionally, the ultrasonic transducer is a capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer.

[0010] Optionally, the flexible integrated circuit is a modular and detachable flexible integrated circuit.

[0011] Optionally, a flexible dielectric layer is further included; the flexible integrated circuit is placed in the flexible dielectric layer.

[0012] Optionally, a fixing device is further included; the flexible medium layer is placed in the fixing device; and the fixing device is used to fix the ultrasonic transducer device to the object to be detected.

[0013] Optionally, the fixing device is a nylon hook and loop strap with adjustable length.

[0014] Optionally, also include:

[0015] The motion detection device is connected to the flexible integrated circuit and is used to determine whether the ultrasonic transducer device is correctly fixed to the motion detection device of the detected object.

[0016] Optionally, also include:

[0017] A wireless communication module is connected to the flexible integrated circuit and is used for wirelessly transmitting the ultrasonic signal data and the ultrasonic echo data.

[0018] The present application also provides an ultrasound imaging system, comprising:

[0019] An ultrasonic transducer device as described above;

[0020] A display device connected to the ultrasonic transducer device for displaying ultrasonic image data.

[0021] Optionally, the display device is a virtual reality device.

[0022] The present application provides an ultrasonic transducer device, which includes multiple ultrasonic transducers and a flexible integrated circuit; the ultrasonic transducers are used to send ultrasonic waves and receive ultrasonic echoes; the rear ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers are arranged in an array form on the flexible integrated circuit; the front ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers are attached to the detection surface, so that the ultrasonic transducer device is set in a wearable form on the detection surface of the detection object.

[0023] By including multiple ultrasonic transducers and a flexible integrated circuit in the ultrasonic transducer device, and arranging the rear ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers in the flexible integrated circuit in an array form, the front ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers can be attached to the detection surface during use, thereby expanding the detection area and detection angle of the ultrasonic transducer device, and reducing the difficulty and threshold of using the ultrasonic transducer device; further, the ultrasonic transducer device can be set in a wearable form on the detection surface of the detection object, that is, the detection object can use the ultrasonic transducer device in a wearable form, which reduces the threshold of use and improves the experience of the detection object in using the ultrasonic transducer device.

[0024] The present application also provides an ultrasonic imaging system having the above beneficial effects, which will not be described in detail here. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present application or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without any creative work.

[0026] Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of an ultrasonic transducer device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0027] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an array of ultrasonic transducer devices provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0028] Figure 3 Another schematic diagram of an array of ultrasonic transducer devices provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0029] Figure 4 A schematic structural diagram of an ultrasound imaging system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0030] Figure 5 A schematic structural diagram of another ultrasound imaging system provided in an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] The core of this application is to provide an ultrasonic transducer device and an ultrasonic imaging system. Through the ultrasonic transducers and flexible integrated circuits included in the ultrasonic transducer device, multiple ultrasonic transducers can be adhered to the detection surface, that is, the ultrasonic transducers are worn on the detection surface of the detection object, and ultrasonic detection is realized, which reduces the threshold and difficulty of using the ultrasonic probe so that it can be operated in a variety of environments.

[0032] To make the purpose, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application more clear, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of this application. Obviously, the described embodiments are part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0033] In the relevant ultrasonic detection technology, technicians usually hold the ultrasonic detection probe and perform detection on the object's body in order to obtain the corresponding ultrasonic image. However, due to the limited detection angle of the probe in the prior art, other operators are usually required to hold it and operate it, and constantly adjust the position and angle during the operation to obtain the required ultrasonic image data. In addition to requiring other technicians to operate it, a high level of professionalism is also required. This increases the threshold and difficulty of using the ultrasonic probe, which is not conducive to operation in various environments. It can be seen that the probe used in the ultrasonic detection technology in the related art has a small detection angle due to its limited detection area. Therefore, during the specific operation process, the technician needs to hold the probe in his hand to determine the correct detection angle and detection position on the detection surface of the object being detected.

[0034] Therefore, the present application provides an ultrasonic transducer device, which includes multiple ultrasonic transducers and a flexible integrated circuit, and the rear ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers are arranged in the flexible integrated circuit in an array form, so that during use, the front ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers can be attached to the detection surface, thereby expanding the detection area of ​​the ultrasonic transducer device and the detection angle of the transducer device, and reducing the difficulty and threshold of using the ultrasonic transducer device; further, the ultrasonic transducer device can be set in a wearable form on the detection surface of the detection object, that is, the detection object can use the ultrasonic transducer device in a wearable form, which reduces the usage threshold and improves the experience of the detection object in using the ultrasonic transducer device.

[0035] An ultrasonic transducer device provided by the present application is described below through an embodiment.

[0036] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of an ultrasonic transducer device provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0037] In this embodiment, the ultrasonic transducer device includes a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 11 and a flexible integrated circuit 12; the ultrasonic transducer 11 is used to transmit ultrasonic waves and receive ultrasonic echoes;

[0038] The rear ends of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 11 are arranged in an array on the flexible integrated circuit 12; the front ends of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 11 are attached to the detection surface, so that the ultrasonic transducer device is arranged on the detection surface of the detection object in a wearable form.

[0039] Among them, in the technical field of this invention, ultrasonic transducer devices are generally used to transmit ultrasonic waves and receive ultrasonic echoes. In the related art, a probe-type ultrasonic transducer device is generally used. The ultrasonic transducer device is generally only provided with a single ultrasonic transducer, which makes the detection area and angle of the probe small. Therefore, during use, the operator needs to operate the probe to determine the correct detection position. However, this will result in an extremely high threshold for use, and the operator must cooperate, which increases the cost of use. Therefore, the ultrasonic transducer device in this embodiment may include a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 11 and a flexible integrated circuit 12 for connecting the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 11.

[0040] Among them, the function of the ultrasonic transducer 11 is to convert the input electrical power into mechanical power (i.e. ultrasonic waves) and then transmit it out, while consuming a very small part of the power itself. The types of ultrasonic transducers 11 can be divided into CMUT (Capacitive Micromachined Ultrasonic Transducers, electronic micro ultrasonic transducers) transducers, ceramic piezoelectric transducers, etc. according to different conversion methods. Different types of ultrasonic transducers 11 have different sizes and advantages and disadvantages, and can be used in different transduction scenarios. Among them, the structure of the ultrasonic transducer 11 is divided into the front end and the back end. Among them, the front end is generally the part that fits with the detection surface, and the back end is the circuit end, which is used to connect the circuit.

[0041] The ultrasonic transducer 11 can be used to transmit ultrasonic waves and receive ultrasonic echoes. In this embodiment, the process of transmitting ultrasonic waves and receiving ultrasonic echoes by the ultrasonic transducer 11 can be controlled by a controller. The controller can control the ultrasonic transducer 11 using any of the ultrasonic transducer 11 control methods, which will not be described in detail here.

[0042] Furthermore, when the ultrasonic transducer device includes multiple ultrasonic transducers 11, each ultrasonic transducer 11 is connected to a circuit so that each ultrasonic transducer 11 can operate normally. Furthermore, the multiple ultrasonic transducers 11 can be connected directly through a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) or a cable. To further enhance the use scenario and make the ultrasonic transducer 11 fit the detected object, the ultrasonic transducer device can be further integrated by connecting the multiple ultrasonic transducers 11 through a flexible integrated circuit 12.

[0043] The flexible integrated circuit 12 can be a highly reliable, highly flexible printed circuit board made from a polyimide or polyester film substrate. It features high wiring density, light weight, thin thickness, and excellent bendability. This flexible integrated circuit can be bent and folded freely, is lightweight, compact, has excellent heat dissipation, and is easy to install. The flexible circuit structure can be composed of insulating film, conductors, and adhesives.

[0044] The arrangement of the multiple ultrasonic transducers 11 can be regular or irregular. When an irregular arrangement is used, the irregular arrangement can be determined according to the distribution pattern of various organs in the object type used by the ultrasonic transducer device. For example, in a scenario where the main purpose is to detect abdominal organs, the ultrasonic transducers can be arranged in a circular shape to accommodate the protrusion of the abdomen, better adapt to the specific detection situation, and improve the accuracy and precision of the detection process.

[0045] When using a regular arrangement, multiple ultrasonic transducers 11 can be arranged in a rectangular shape. Furthermore, the spacing of the arrangement can be determined based on the reflectivity and reflection characteristics of the tissue of the target object, as well as the power, transmission angle, and area of ​​the ultrasonic transducers 11. To further improve the transmission effect of the multiple ultrasonic transducers 11, the ultrasonic transducers 11 can be formed into a transmission array, that is, multiple ultrasonic transducers 11 are arranged in an array.

[0046] Therefore, in order to improve the integration of the ultrasonic transducer device, enhance the experience of using the ultrasonic transducer 11, and improve the imaging effect of the ultrasonic transducer device, in this embodiment, the rear ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers 11 in this embodiment can be arranged in the form of an array on the flexible integrated circuit 12. Among them, the number of horizontal rows and vertical rows of the multiple ultrasonic transducers 11 arranged in the form of an array, as well as the spacing between each ultrasonic transducer 11, can be determined according to the design size, usage scenario, and usage method of the ultrasonic transducer device. For example, if the design size of the ultrasonic transducer device is large, and / or it is used in a stable scene, and / or the usage method is to cover a large area of ​​the detection object, the number of horizontal rows and vertical rows of the ultrasonic transducer device can be set to a larger number, and the corresponding spacing can be determined according to the power parameters of the ultrasonic transducer 11. If the power is large, the spacing is set to be larger, and if the power is small, the spacing is set to be larger. When the ultrasonic transducer device is designed to be small in size, and / or is used in unstable scenarios, and / or is used to cover a small area of ​​the detection object, the number of horizontal and vertical rows of the ultrasonic transducer device can be set to a smaller number, and the corresponding spacing can be determined based on the power parameters of the ultrasonic transducer 11. If the power is higher, the spacing is set to be larger, and if the power is lower, the spacing is set to be larger.

[0047] Please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 2 An array schematic diagram of an ultrasonic transducer device provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0048] Please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is another array schematic diagram of the ultrasonic transducer device provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0049] It is conceivable that the number of horizontal rows and vertical rows can also be set according to the power of the ultrasonic transducer 11. Figure 2 When determining the size of the ultrasonic transducer device, the greater the power of the ultrasonic transducer 11, the smaller the number of horizontal and vertical rows; please refer to Figure 3 As the power of the ultrasonic transducer 11 decreases, the number of horizontal and vertical rows increases. Clearly, the specific arrangement of the ultrasonic transducers 11 within the flexible integrated circuit 12 in this embodiment is not exclusive. This arrangement can be tailored to the specific application environment, usage scenario, and device power, and is not specifically limited here.

[0050] Based on the above description, the rear ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers 11 are arranged in an array on the flexible integrated circuit 12. Therefore, the position of each ultrasonic transducer 11 can change as the flexible integrated circuit 12 bends. Furthermore, when the ultrasonic transducer device is close to an irregular detection object, such as a human body, the flexible integrated circuit 12 can bend along with the uneven surface of the human body, further allowing each ultrasonic transducer 11 to conform to its corresponding detection surface. In other words, the ultrasonic transducer device can be placed on the detection surface of the detection object in a wearable manner.

[0051] Among them, the ultrasonic transducer 11 can be rigidly fixed to the flexible integrated circuit to maintain the stability of the ultrasonic transducer 11. The ultrasonic transducer 11 can also be detachably fixed to the flexible integrated circuit 12, and the ultrasonic transducers can be arranged in different ways for different detection objects. For example, when the detection object is a pregnant woman, the ultrasonic transducer 11 can be arranged in an arrangement suitable for the physical condition of the pregnant woman. Furthermore, the ultrasonic transducer 11 can be arranged in a circular manner. Furthermore, the ultrasonic transducer device can be placed in a direction with the transmitting end of the ultrasonic transducer facing downward, and the ultrasonic transducer device can be covered on the abdomen of the pregnant woman. The ultrasonic transducer device can also be fixed to the abdomen of the pregnant woman using a fixing device 14, and the size of the fixing device 14 can be adjusted to an appropriate size.

[0052] Obviously, each ultrasonic transducer 11 in this embodiment can emit corresponding ultrasonic waves and receive ultrasonic echoes. This is equivalent to combining multiple ultrasonic transducers 11 into a larger detection device. Due to the increased number of ultrasonic transducers 11, the detection area and detection angle of the ultrasonic transducer device are significantly improved. Furthermore, during use, the corresponding detection operation can be completed by a single person, eliminating the need for an operator. This reduces the threshold and difficulty of using the ultrasonic transducer device.

[0053] In order to further improve the integration of the ultrasonic transducer device in this embodiment, reduce the weight of the ultrasonic transducer device, and make the device more portable, the ultrasonic transducer 11 in this embodiment may be a capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer.

[0054] A capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer is a phased array ultrasonic transducer, consisting of multiple transducers forming a large array. Each transducer emits an ultrasonic signal and receives the echo in the form of sound waves. Integrating this array of multiple transducers with a dedicated integrated circuit (ASIC) chip creates a highly efficient 2D phased array sensor. This capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer offers increased sensitivity, reduced manufacturing complexity, a smaller size, and improved imaging quality. It can also be packaged with an ASIC, further improving the integration level of the ultrasonic transducer device.

[0055] Furthermore, in order to increase the application scope of the ultrasonic transducer device, reduce the cost of the ultrasonic transducer device, and enable the ultrasonic transducer 11 to be used in various environmental scenarios, the flexible integrated circuit 12 in this embodiment can be a modular and detachable flexible integrated circuit 12.

[0056] In other words, the flexible integrated circuit 12 in this embodiment can be a modular, detachable flexible integrated circuit, meaning that the circuit structure can be changed as the flexible integrated circuit is removed. Furthermore, the number of ultrasonic transducers 11 in the flexible integrated circuit 12 can change as the flexible integrated circuit 12 is removed, and the size of the ultrasonic transducer device can also change as the flexible integrated circuit 12 is removed. For example, when a large area of ​​the detection object needs to be detected, or when detection is performed in a relatively stable environment, multiple modular, detachable flexible integrated circuits can be installed to increase the number of ultrasonic transducers 11 and increase the area of ​​the ultrasonic transducer device. When a small area of ​​the detection object needs to be detected, or when detection is performed in a relatively unstable environment, or when detecting a limb, multiple modular, detachable flexible integrated circuits can be removed to reduce the number of ultrasonic transducers 11 and reduce the area of ​​the ultrasonic transducer device.

[0057] It can be seen that not only can the application range of a single ultrasonic transducer device be increased, but the production cost of the ultrasonic transducer device can also be reduced. At the same time, the energy consumption of the ultrasonic transducer device can also be saved, so as to be applicable to different working states.

[0058] Furthermore, in order to improve the integration level of the ultrasonic transducer device, reduce energy consumption, and improve the portability of the ultrasonic transducer device, so that the ultrasonic transducer device can undertake part of the data processing work and the ultrasonic transducer device can be directly connected to a mobile device, the flexible integrated circuit 12 in the ultrasonic transducer 11 can be a CMOS-ASIC flexible integrated circuit;

[0059] The CMOS-ASIC flexible integrated circuit may include a CMOS-ASIC flexible substrate and an interconnection layer arranged in the CMOS-ASIC flexible substrate; multiple ultrasonic transducers 11 are arranged on the interconnection layer; accordingly, the CMOS-ASIC flexible integrated circuit is used to control the ultrasonic detection process and process the ultrasonic echo.

[0060] CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor)-ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) flexible integrated circuits are application-specific integrated circuits designed for CMOS. These are integrated circuits designed and manufactured to meet specific user requirements and the needs of specific electronic systems. To further improve device integration and reduce the cost of ultrasonic transducer devices, ASIC design can be performed using CPLDs (Complex Programmable Logic Devices) and FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays). Both devices are user-programmable and support boundary scan technology.

[0061] The CMOS-ASIC flexible integrated circuit may include a CMOS-ASIC flexible substrate and an interconnection layer disposed in the CMOS-ASIC flexible substrate. The interconnection layer is a structural layer for transmitting electrical signals, and a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 11 may be disposed on the interconnection layer.

[0062] Since the ultrasonic transducer 11 is integrated and packaged using an ASIC circuit, the integration level of the ultrasonic transducer device is further improved, making the ultrasonic transducer device more convenient and applicable to a variety of environments.

[0063] Furthermore, due to the use of an ASIC circuit, the CMOS-ASIC flexible integrated circuit has a certain data processing capability. Furthermore, the CMOS-ASIC flexible integrated circuit can be used to control the ultrasonic detection process and process ultrasonic echoes. The control of the ultrasonic detection process and the processing of ultrasonic echoes can be performed using any control or processing method provided by the prior art, and are not specifically limited here.

[0064] To further enhance the integration of the ultrasonic transducer device and diversify its functionality, the device in this embodiment may also include a wireless communication module connected to the flexible integrated circuit 12 for wirelessly transmitting imaging data, eliminating the need for cable connections and further enhancing ease of use. Furthermore, the device may also include a battery connected to the flexible integrated circuit 12 for powering the device, eliminating the need for external circuitry, adapting to diverse usage scenarios and enhancing the ease of use of the ultrasonic transducer device.

[0065] In summary, this embodiment uses multiple ultrasonic transducers and a flexible integrated circuit included in the ultrasonic transducer device, and arranges the rear ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers in the flexible integrated circuit in an array form, so that the front ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers can be attached to the detection surface during use, thereby expanding the detection area of ​​the ultrasonic transducer device and the detection angle of the transducer device, and reducing the difficulty and threshold of using the ultrasonic transducer device; further, the ultrasonic transducer device can be set in a wearable form on the detection surface of the detection object, that is, the detection object can use the ultrasonic transducer device in a wearable form, which reduces the threshold of use and improves the experience of the detection object in using the ultrasonic transducer device; and, by adopting a CMOS-ASIC flexible integrated circuit, the integration of the ultrasonic transducer device is further improved, making the ultrasonic transducer device more portable and improving wearability.

[0066] This further avoids contact between the circuit and the circuit structure and the detection object, thereby improving the user experience of the detection process.

[0067] The ultrasonic transducer device provided by the present application is further described below through another embodiment.

[0068] In this embodiment, the device is based on the ultrasonic transducer device in the above embodiment. The ultrasonic transducer device in this embodiment may further include a flexible dielectric layer 13 ; the flexible integrated circuit 12 is disposed in the flexible dielectric layer 13 .

[0069] The flexible dielectric layer 13 can be a skin-friendly material layer, a fabric layer, or a skin-like material layer. Regardless of the structure of the flexible dielectric layer 13, it can protect the subject being detected, prevent the flexible integrated circuit 12 from directly contacting the subject's skin, and improve the subject's user experience.

[0070] Furthermore, the flexible integrated circuit 12 is placed in the flexible dielectric layer 13. Alternatively, two flexible dielectric layers 13 may be provided, with the flexible integrated circuit 12 placed between them. The flexible dielectric layer 13 may be provided with multiple through-holes, allowing the front end of the ultrasonic transducer 11 to pass through the through-holes. Furthermore, to improve the comfort of the flexible dielectric layer 13, multiple flexible dielectric layers 13 may be provided, with the flexible integrated circuit 12 placed between any two layers of the multiple flexible dielectric layers 13. Furthermore, all flexible dielectric layers 13 on the side where the front end of the ultrasonic transducer 11 is provided may be provided with through-holes, allowing the front end of the ultrasonic transducer 11 to pass through the through-holes.

[0071] It can be seen that the flexible dielectric layer 13 provided in this embodiment can not only prevent the skin from directly touching the flexible integrated circuit 12 , but also prevent the skin secretions from corroding the flexible integrated circuit 12 and thus avoiding damage to the flexible integrated circuit 12 .

[0072] Furthermore, in order to improve the user experience, avoid displacement of the ultrasonic transducer device during use, and improve the stability of the ultrasonic transducer device, this embodiment may also include a fixing device 14; the flexible medium layer 13 is placed in the fixing device 14; the fixing device 14 is used to fix the ultrasonic transducer device to the object to be detected.

[0073] As can be seen, in this embodiment, the ultrasonic transducer device may include a fixing device 14 for fixing the ultrasonic transducer device. The fixing device 14 may be a strap for tying the ultrasonic transducer device to the detection object, a buckle for also fixing the ultrasonic transducer device to the detection object, or a waist belt structure for fixing the ultrasonic transducer device to the detection object in the form of a waist belt.

[0074] Furthermore, to improve the convenience of fixation, different fixing devices 14 can be selected according to different usage scenarios. For example, when probing abdominal organs, a waist belt structure can be selected as the fixing device 14 to secure the fixing device 14 to the abdomen of the subject being probed. When probing limbs, a strap can be selected as the fixing structure to secure the fixing device 14 to the limbs.

[0075] In order to improve the convenience of using the fixing device 14, the fixing device 14 in this embodiment can be a nylon hook and loop fastener with adjustable length.

[0076] As can be seen, the fixing device 14 in this alternative solution can be a length-adjustable nylon hook-and-loop fastener. The nylon hook-and-loop fastener can be set to different lengths depending on the fixing position, allowing for fastening and unfastening at different locations for detection. Furthermore, the nylon hook-and-loop fastener is very convenient to fasten and unfasten, thereby improving the convenience of use.

[0077] Furthermore, in order to improve the accuracy of the wearable ultrasonic transducer device, this embodiment may further include:

[0078] The motion detection device is connected to the flexible integrated circuit 12 and is used to determine whether the ultrasonic transducer device is correctly fixed to the motion detection device of the detected object.

[0079] The motion detection device can determine whether the ultrasonic transducer device is correctly attached to the motion detection device of the detected object based on the detected object's posture. For example, when the detected object is lying flat, the motion detection device can detect whether the center of the ultrasonic transducer device is in a similar horizontal position. If so, it indicates that the ultrasonic transducer device is correctly worn. Furthermore, the motion detection device can also determine whether the detected object is moving, that is, to prevent the detected object from moving, thereby improving the stability of the detection process. When it is determined that the detected object is moving, an alarm is issued to prompt the detected object.

[0080] It can be seen that this embodiment provides a flexible dielectric layer, a fixing device, and a motion detection device so that the ultrasonic transducer can be stably and correctly fixed on the detection surface of the detection object, thereby ensuring that the ultrasonic transducer device can maintain the use effect of the ultrasonic transducer device when used by a single person, avoiding errors during use, improving the experience of using the ultrasonic transducer device, and lowering the threshold for use.

[0081] An ultrasonic imaging system provided by the present application is described below through an embodiment.

[0082] Please refer to Figure 4 , Figure 4 A schematic structural diagram of an ultrasound imaging system provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0083] In this embodiment, the ultrasound imaging system may include:

[0084] The ultrasonic transducer device 100 as in the above embodiment;

[0085] A display device 200 is connected to the ultrasonic transducer apparatus 100 and is used to display ultrasonic image data.

[0086] As can be seen, this embodiment includes a display device 200 connected to the ultrasonic transducer device 100 for displaying ultrasonic image data. Furthermore, the user can directly observe the detected imaging data through the display device 200. To increase the portability of the ultrasonic imaging system, the display device 200 can also be a mobile device. It can be connected to the ultrasonic transducer via a cable or wirelessly. Using a wireless connection greatly improves ease of use.

[0087] Furthermore, in order to improve the user experience when using the ultrasonic transducer device 100 so that the user can observe more suitable images, the display device 200 is a virtual reality device.

[0088] It can be seen that the display device 200 in this optional solution can be a virtual reality device, so that the user can observe more realistic ultrasound imaging images, further improving the user experience.

[0089] In summary, the ultrasonic transducer device included in the ultrasonic imaging system of this embodiment includes multiple ultrasonic transducers and a flexible integrated circuit, and the rear ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers are arranged in the flexible integrated circuit in an array form, so that during use, the front ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers can be attached to the detection surface, thereby expanding the detection area and detection angle of the ultrasonic transducer device, reducing the difficulty and threshold of use of the ultrasonic transducer device, and allowing the ultrasonic transducer device to be set in a wearable form on the detection surface of the detection object, further allowing the detection object to use the ultrasonic transducer device in a wearable form, lowering the threshold of use, and improving the detection object's experience of using the ultrasonic transducer device. Further, the ultrasonic image data is displayed on the display device, which improves the user experience and lowers the threshold of use.

[0090] Another ultrasonic imaging system provided by the present application is described below through a specific embodiment.

[0091] Please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 5 A schematic structural diagram of another ultrasound imaging system provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0092] In this embodiment, the system may include:

[0093] A wearable ultrasonic transducer device 10, a backend system 20 connected to the wearable ultrasonic transducer device, and a wearable virtual reality device 30 connected to the backend system.

[0094] The wearable virtual reality device 30 is used to display the imaging data processed by the backend system 20. The user can operate the wearable virtual reality device 30 during use. The captured images are displayed on the display screen of the wearable virtual reality device 30. The wearable virtual reality device 30 may also include a controller to perform various operations through an on-screen menu. The wearable virtual reality device 30 may be equipped with sensors such as a gyroscope, accelerometer, microphone, and infrared light to enhance the user experience by allowing the user to interact with the system in natural ways, such as gestures, head movements, and voice commands.

[0095] Among them, the wearable ultrasonic transducer device 10 of this embodiment is the ultrasonic transducer device described in the above embodiments. Reference can be made to the ultrasonic transducer device described in the above embodiments, and no further details will be given here.

[0096] The wearable ultrasound transducer device 10 can be worn as a belt around the patient's abdomen. The probe is then connected to a flexible cable that carries the RF (Radio Frequency) channel and power signals from the backend system. The probe consists of front-end circuitry and a capacitive micromachined ultrasound transducer device integrated on a flexible integrated circuit.

[0097] Furthermore, an imaging probe having an array of 2D capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer devices is integrated with the front-end circuitry of an imaging system. Another way to integrate a CMUT array with an electronic circuit is to simultaneously construct the CMUT and the integrated circuit by directly manufacturing the CMUT on a CMOS-ASIC integrated circuit. The resulting CMOS-ASIC integrated circuit can perform beamforming, demodulation, and extraction of RF signals. This can reduce the number of signals and bandwidth passing through the flexible PCB. Due to the significant reduction in data rate, the demodulated signal of the wearable ultrasonic transducer device 10 can be connected wirelessly, allowing the entire wearable ultrasonic transducer device 10 to be powered by a rechargeable battery without the need for any cables, thereby improving the device's ease of use.

[0098] The backend system 20 may include an interface board that provides necessary signal control and power supply for the CMUT and the flexible integrated circuit, and may also serve as a medium for the RF signal to pass between the probe and the image acquisition system.

[0099] When the wearable ultrasonic transducer device 10 is equipped with a battery and wireless data exchange device, the backend system 20 can be a low-power computing device such as a smartphone to run the necessary image reconstruction and processing software and display the imaging data. A three-dimensional image can be reconstructed from the acquired pulse-echo signal using a standard delay-sum algorithm. An artificial intelligence model can also be added to the backend system 20 to perform image recognition on the imaging data.

[0100] In summary, this embodiment uses multiple ultrasonic transducers and a flexible integrated circuit included in the ultrasonic transducer device, and arranges the rear ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers in the flexible integrated circuit in an array form, so that during use, the front ends of the multiple ultrasonic transducers can be attached to the detection surface, thereby expanding the detection area of ​​the ultrasonic transducer device and the detection angle of the transducer device, and reducing the difficulty and threshold of using the ultrasonic transducer device; further, the ultrasonic transducer device can be set in a wearable form on the detection surface of the detection object, that is, the detection object can use the ultrasonic transducer device in a wearable form, which reduces the usage threshold and improves the experience of the detection object in using the ultrasonic transducer device.

[0101] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on the differences from other embodiments. Reference can be made to the common and similar parts between the various embodiments. For the devices disclosed in the embodiments, since they correspond to the methods disclosed in the embodiments, the description is relatively simple, and the relevant parts can be referred to the method description.

[0102] Professionals may further appreciate that the units and algorithm steps of each example described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of the two. In order to clearly illustrate the interchangeability of hardware and software, the above description has generally described the components and steps of each example according to their functions. Whether these functions are performed in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Professionals and technicians may use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0103] The steps of the methods or algorithms described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented directly using hardware, a software module executed by a processor, or a combination of the two. The software module may be placed in a random access memory (RAM), internal memory, read-only memory (ROM), electrically programmable ROM, electrically erasable programmable ROM, registers, a hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art.

[0104] The above is a detailed introduction to an ultrasonic transducer device and an ultrasonic imaging system provided by the present application. Specific examples are used herein to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of the present application. The description of the above embodiments is only used to help understand the method and core idea of ​​the present application. It should be pointed out that for ordinary technicians in this technical field, without departing from the principles of the present application, several improvements and modifications can be made to the present application, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the scope of protection of the claims of the present application.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic transducer device, characterized in that: The ultrasonic transducer device includes a plurality of ultrasonic transducers and a flexible integrated circuit; the ultrasonic transducer is used to transmit ultrasonic waves and receive ultrasonic echoes; The rear ends of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers are arranged on the flexible integrated circuit; the front ends of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers are attached to the detection surface, so that the ultrasonic transducer device is arranged on the detection surface of the detection object in a wearable form; The flexible integrated circuit is a modular and detachable flexible integrated circuit so as to change the number of the ultrasonic transducers included in the ultrasonic transducer device; The plurality of ultrasonic transducers are detachably fixed to the flexible integrated circuit so that the arrangement of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers can be changed according to the distribution pattern of various organs in the type of object used by the ultrasonic transducer device; Wherein, the ultrasonic transducer device further comprises a fixing device; the flexible dielectric layer is placed in the fixing device; the fixing device is used to fix the ultrasonic transducer device to the detected object; The ultrasonic transducer device further comprises: a motion detection device connected to a flexible integrated circuit for determining whether the ultrasonic transducer device is correctly fixed to the detected object.

2. The ultrasonic transducer device according to claim 1, characterized in that The flexible integrated circuit is a CMOS-ASIC flexible integrated circuit; the CMOS-ASIC flexible integrated circuit includes a CMOS-ASIC flexible substrate and an interconnection layer arranged in the CMOS-ASIC flexible substrate; the multiple ultrasonic transducers are arranged on the interconnection layer; accordingly, the CMOS-ASIC flexible integrated circuit is used to control the ultrasonic detection process and process the ultrasonic echo.

3. The ultrasonic transducer device according to claim 1, characterized in that The ultrasonic transducer is a capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer.

4. The ultrasonic transducer device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: It also includes a flexible dielectric layer; the flexible integrated circuit is placed in the flexible dielectric layer.

5. The ultrasonic transducer device according to claim 1, characterized in that The fixing device is a nylon hook and loop fastener with adjustable length.

6. The ultrasonic transducer device according to claim 5, characterized in that Also includes: A wireless communication module is connected to the flexible integrated circuit and is used for wirelessly transmitting the ultrasonic signal data and the ultrasonic echo data.

7. An ultrasonic imaging system, characterized in that: include: The ultrasonic transducer device according to any one of claims 1 to 6; A display device connected to the ultrasonic transducer device for displaying ultrasonic image data.

8. The ultrasonic imaging system according to claim 7, wherein: The display device is a virtual reality device.

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