Ultrasonic imaging device and system

By designing an ultrasonic imaging device containing a liquid medium immersion sound source transducer and an ultrasonic detector, the dynamic scanning technology of the clamping structure is used to solve the problem of resolution limitation and mechanical movement time-consuming caused by excessive array elements, and achieve high-precision and high-resolution ultrasonic imaging.

CN120044127APending Publication Date: 2025-05-27BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO LTD +1
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202311586666.5
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-11-24
Publication Date
2025-05-27

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In existing ultrasonic tomography devices, excessive array elements lead to limited resolution and mechanical movement takes a long time, which affects detection accuracy and compatibility.

Method used

An ultrasonic imaging device is designed, including a container, a sound source transducer, an ultrasonic detector, a support structure and a clamping structure. The sound source transducer and an ultrasonic detector are immersed in liquid medium, and the clamping structure rotates along a preset track to achieve dynamic scanning.

Benefits of technology

The detection accuracy and usage performance of the ultrasonic imaging device are improved, high-resolution imaging of the target object is achieved, and the attitude stability and acoustic emission performance of the detector are enhanced.

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Abstract

The invention provides an ultrasonic imaging device and system.The ultrasonic imaging device comprises a container, a sound source transducer, an ultrasonic detector, a supporting structure, a clamping structure and a liquid medium contained in the container; wherein an opening is formed in the top of the container, and the sound source transducer, the ultrasonic detector and the supporting structure are located in the container and are all immersed by the liquid medium; the supporting structure is used for supporting the ultrasonic detector in the container; the clamping structure is used for clamping the sound source transducer to rotate relative to a target object along a preset track; the sound source transducer is used for emitting ultrasonic waves and detecting the target object; the ultrasonic detector is used for collecting ultrasonic signals from the target object.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of ultrasonic detection, and particularly to an ultrasonic imaging device and system. Background Art

[0002] In the technology of Ultrasound Computer Tomography (UCT), it is necessary to construct dense acoustic lines (emission-reception) at different depths (i.e., tomography planes). Theoretically, the higher the density of the acoustic lines, the higher the resolution of the tomography imaging. Existing ultrasonic tomography devices based on piezoelectric ceramic transducers mostly use linear array transducers, and the array elements are relatively large, resulting in a small number of physical channels for the acoustic lines. They often use mechanical rotation and translation means to achieve the amplification of spatial acoustic lines, but still cannot eliminate the resolution limitation caused by the too large array elements. Moreover, although the mechanical movement including rotation and movement can increase the measurement points, the whole process takes a long time; in addition, the relevant movement causes large disturbances to the test object and the test environment; at the same time, in the detection system of ceramic-based devices, the rigid detection devices cannot be applied to various detection objects, and the compatibility is poor. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention provides an ultrasonic imaging device and system, and the specific solutions are as follows:

[0004] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present invention provides an ultrasonic imaging device, including:

[0005] A container, a sound source transducer, an ultrasonic detector, a support structure, a clamping structure, and a liquid medium accommodated in the container;

[0006] Wherein, an opening is provided at the top of the container, the sound source transducer, the ultrasonic detector, and the support structure are located inside the container and are all immersed in the liquid medium; the support structure is used to support the ultrasonic detector inside the container; the clamping structure is used to clamp the sound source transducer and rotate it relative to the target object along a preset track; the sound source transducer is used to emit ultrasonic waves to detect the target object; the ultrasonic detector is used to collect ultrasonic signals from the target object.

[0007] In a possible implementation manner, the ultrasonic detector is a closed structure surrounded along an extending direction.

[0008] In a possible implementation manner, the closed structure is arranged in a ring shape.

[0009] In a possible implementation, along a direction parallel to the central axis of the container, the ultrasonic detector includes a first end and a second end which are oppositely arranged, and the support structure includes first clamps respectively arranged at the first end and the second end, second clamps respectively arranged at the first end and the second end, and a fixing column fixedly connected to the first clamp; the first clamp is located on the outer wall of the ultrasonic detector, and the second clamp is located on the inner wall of the ultrasonic detector; wherein, the fixing column is used to support the ultrasonic detector through the first clamp and the second clamp.

[0010] In a possible implementation, the preset track is an annular slide rail arranged on the inner side wall of the container, and the orthographic projection of the ultrasonic detector on the bottom of the container completely falls within the area range of the orthographic projection of the annular slide rail on the bottom of the container, and the sound source transducer is located on the side of the ultrasonic detector close to the inner side wall of the container.

[0011] In a possible implementation, the annular slide rail includes a first annular structure and a second annular structure arranged along a direction parallel to the plane where the bottom of the container is located, and a chute arranged between the first annular structure and the second annular structure, and the sound source transducer is accommodated in the chute through the clamping structure.

[0012] In a possible implementation, along a direction parallel to the central axis of the container, the ultrasonic detector includes a first end and a second end which are oppositely arranged, and the support structure includes third clamps respectively arranged at the first end and the second end; the third clamp is located on the inner wall of the ultrasonic detector, and the third clamp is used to support the ultrasonic detector through a fixed connection with the inner side wall of the container.

[0013] In a possible implementation, the preset track is a track structure located at the top of the container and arranged on the outer side wall of the container, and the track structure is integrally formed with the container and is arranged in a T shape.

[0014] In a possible implementation, one end of the clamping structure is sleeved around the periphery of the track structure, and the clamping structure extends from the outer side wall of the container through the opening of the container to the inside of the container, and the orthographic projection of the clamping structure on the bottom of the container overlaps with a part of the orthographic projection of the ultrasonic detector on the bottom of the container.

[0015] In a possible implementation, the clamping structure includes a first sub-section, a second sub-section, and a third sub-section connected in sequence; the first sub-section extends from the inside of the ultrasonic detector to the opening of the container, and the sound source transducer is arranged on a side of the first sub-section close to the central axis of the container; the second sub-section extends from the opening of the container to the outer wall of the container, and the orthographic projection of the second sub-section on the bottom of the container overlaps with the orthographic projection of the ultrasonic detector on the bottom of the container; the third sub-section is located on the side of the container away from the central axis of the container, and is provided with an inner opening structure arranged in a T shape, and the inner opening structure is used to accommodate the track structure.

[0016] In a possible implementation, the ultrasonic detector includes at least three sub-components connected in sequence, and the orthographic projection shapes of the sub-components on the bottom of the container form a closed polygonal structure.

[0017] In a possible implementation, the support structure includes a fixing column disposed at one end of each of the sub-components close to an adjacent sub-component, and the fixing column is used to support the corresponding sub-component.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the orthographic projection shape of the enclosed structure on the bottom of the container is a polygon; the support structure includes a fixed column that covers the outer sides of each edge of the enclosed structure, and a mounting block arranged on the inner sides of each edge of the enclosed structure; the fixed column supports the ultrasonic detector in the container through the mounting block.

[0019] In a possible implementation, the ultrasonic detector is arranged in a plane.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the support structure includes a first sub-support portion and a second sub-support portion located on the side of the ultrasonic detector away from the sound source transducer; along a direction perpendicular to the central axis of the container, the flexible detector includes a third end and a fourth end arranged opposite to each other, the third end is fixedly connected to the first sub-support portion, and the fourth end is fixedly connected to the second sub-support portion.

[0021] In a possible implementation manner, the ultrasonic detector is arranged in an arc shape, and the sound source transducer and the ultrasonic detector rotate synchronously with the target object.

[0022] In a possible implementation manner, the ultrasonic detector and the sound source transducer are arranged on opposite sides of the target object.

[0023] In a possible implementation, along a direction parallel to the central axis of the container, the ultrasonic detector includes a first end and a second end which are oppositely arranged, the support structure includes fourth jigs respectively arranged at the first end and the second end, fifth jigs respectively arranged at the first end and the second end, and a fixing column fixedly connected to the fourth jigs; the fourth jigs are located on the outer wall of the ultrasonic detector, and the fifth jigs are located on the inner wall of the ultrasonic detector; wherein, the ultrasonic detector is fixedly connected between the fourth jigs and the fixing column through the fifth jigs, and the support structure and the clamping structure are fixedly connected through a connecting member parallel to the bottom of the container.

[0024] In a possible implementation, the ultrasonic detector includes a flexible substrate, a pixel circuit located on the flexible substrate, and a piezoelectric thin film structure located on a side of the pixel circuit away from the flexible substrate.

[0025] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present invention further provides an ultrasonic imaging system, including:

[0026] The ultrasonic imaging device as described in any one of the above, a host computer electrically connected to the ultrasonic imaging device, a signal source electrically connected to the host computer, and a power amplifier respectively electrically connected to the signal source and the sound source transducer;

[0027] Wherein, the host computer is configured to generate a trigger signal, control the signal source to generate a target waveform signal, and the power amplifier is configured to amplify the target waveform signal and then transmit it to the sound source transducer, so that the sound source transducer emits ultrasonic waves to detect the target object; and drive the ultrasonic detector to collect ultrasonic signals from the target object according to a preset rule.

[0028] In a possible implementation, it further includes a pixel driving system respectively electrically connected to the host computer and the ultrasonic detector, and a signal acquisition and storage system respectively electrically connected to the host computer and the ultrasonic detector.

[0029] The beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows:

[0030] An embodiment of the present invention provides an ultrasonic imaging device and system. The ultrasonic imaging device includes a container, a sound source transducer, an ultrasonic detector, a support structure, a clamping structure, and a liquid medium accommodated in the container. Exemplarily, the liquid medium is water, silicone oil, etc. The top of the container is provided with an opening. The sound source transducer, the ultrasonic detector, and the support structure are located in the container and are all immersed in the liquid medium. In a specific implementation process, the support structure is used to support the ultrasonic detector in the container. In this way, when the ultrasonic detector is a flexible array detector, the support structure can maintain the stable posture of the corresponding detector.

[0031] Moreover, the clamping structure clamps the sound source transducer and is used to rotate relative to the target object along a preset track. In this way, on the one hand, the dynamic scanning of the sound source transducer is realized, thereby ensuring the mobile scanning of the corresponding target object and improving the detection accuracy; on the other hand, the sound source transducer and the ultrasonic detector are actually different devices. The ultrasonic transducer can be used as an independent sound source, and the sound emission performance of the independent sound source is good. Correspondingly, the ultrasonic wave is emitted by the sound source transducer to detect the target object, and phenomena such as transmission and reflection will occur on the surface and internal interfaces of the target object. Subsequently, the ultrasonic detector can collect and image the ultrasonic signals from the target object, thereby realizing the imaging detection of the target object. In this way, the use performance of the ultrasonic imaging device is improved. Description of the Drawings

[0032] Figure 1 It is a schematic three-dimensional structure diagram of an ultrasonic imaging device provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2 is Figure 1 corresponding schematic exploded structure diagram;

[0034] Figure 3 It is another structure diagram of an ultrasonic imaging device provided by an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 4 It is a schematic top view structure diagram of a fixing column;

[0036] Figure 5 is along Figure 4 One of the schematic cross-sectional structure diagrams in the direction shown by MM in;

[0037] Figure 6 It is a schematic top view structure diagram of the support structure clamping the ultrasonic detector;

[0038] Figure 7 It is a schematic top view structure diagram of the first clamp and the second clamp clamping the ultrasonic detector and then being fixed by screws;

[0039] Figure 8 is Figure 1 a partial structural schematic diagram of one of the preset orbits being an annular sliding rail;

[0040] Figure 9 is Figure 8 a corresponding partial sectional structural schematic diagram;

[0041] Figure 10 is Figure 8 a side view structural schematic diagram of one of the clamping structures in ;

[0042] Figure 11 is Figure 8 a top view structural schematic diagram of one of the clamping structures in ;

[0043] Figure 12 is Figure 8 a front view structural schematic diagram of one of the clamping structures in ;

[0044] Figure 13 is Figure 3 a corresponding side view structural schematic diagram;

[0045] Figure 14 a structural schematic diagram of one of the ultrasonic imaging devices provided by the embodiments of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 15 a structural schematic diagram of one of the ultrasonic imaging devices provided by the embodiments of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 16 a structural schematic diagram of one of the ultrasonic imaging devices provided by the embodiments of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 17 a structural schematic diagram of one of the ultrasonic imaging devices provided by the embodiments of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 18 is Figure 17 a structural schematic diagram of one of the fixed connections between the support structure and the ultrasonic detector in ;

[0050] Figure 19 a structural schematic diagram of one of the ultrasonic detectors;

[0051] Figure 20 a connection schematic diagram of one of the ultrasonic detector and the flexible circuit board;

[0052] Figure 21 a structural schematic diagram of one of the ultrasonic imaging systems provided by the embodiments of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 22 is Figure 21Test flow chart of the ultrasonic imaging system shown;

[0054] Figure 23 For Figure 21 Schematic diagram of the spatial relationship between the transmitted signal and the array elements of the sound source transducer and the ultrasonic detector in the ultrasonic imaging system shown;

[0055] Figure 24 Schematic diagram of the grid structure for tomography;

[0056] Figure 25 Based on Figure 16 Test flow chart of the ultrasonic imaging system corresponding to the ultrasonic imaging device shown;

[0057] Figure 26 Based on Figure 17 Test flow chart of the ultrasonic imaging system corresponding to the ultrasonic imaging device shown;

[0058] Figure 27 Based on Figure 3 Test flow chart of the ultrasonic imaging system corresponding to the ultrasonic imaging device shown;

[0059] Explanation of reference numerals:

[0060] 10 - Container; 20 - Sound source transducer; 30 - Ultrasonic detector; 40 - Support structure; 50 - Clamping structure; 60 - Liquid medium; 70 - Preset track; 31 - First end; 32 - Second end; 41 - First clamp; 42 - Second clamp; 43 - Fixed column; 44 - Through hole; 45 - Screw; 71 - Ring slide rail; 711 - First ring structure; 712 - Second ring structure; 713 - Chute; 51 - Main body part; 52 - Hollow structure; 53 - Threaded hole; 54 - Ball; 46 - Third clamp; 72 - Track structure; 55 - First sub - part; 56 - Second sub - part; 57 - Third sub - part; 570 - Inner opening structure; 301 - Sub - device; 47 - Mounting block; 401 - First sub - support part; 402 - Second sub - support part; 33 - Third end; 34 - Fourth end; 80 - Rotating mechanism; 48 - Fourth clamp; 49 - Fifth clamp; 302 - Flexible substrate; 303 - Pixel circuit; 304 - Piezoelectric thin - film structure; 3030 - Active layer; 3031 - Gate insulating layer; 3032 - Gate layer; 3033 - Interlayer insulating layer; 3034 - Source - drain layer; 3035 - Passivation layer; 3040 - First electrode layer; 3041 - First insulating layer; 3042 - Piezoelectric thin - film layer; 3043 - Second electrode layer; 30401 - Electrode block; 305 - Signal terminal; 306 - Flexible circuit board; 100 - Ultrasonic imaging device; 200 - Host computer; 300 - Signal source; 400 - Power amplifier; 500 - Pixel driving system; 600 - Signal acquisition and storage system. Detailed implementation manners

[0061] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the following will clearly and completely describe the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are some, but not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. And without conflict, the embodiments in the present invention and the features in the embodiments can be combined with each other. All other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art based on the described embodiments of the present invention without creative efforts fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0062] Unless otherwise defined, the technical terms or scientific terms used in the present invention shall have the ordinary meanings understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. The "first", "second", and similar terms used in the present invention do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but are only used to distinguish different components. The terms such as "including" or "comprising" mean that the elements or objects appearing before this word cover the elements or objects listed after this word and their equivalents, without excluding other elements or objects. The terms such as "connected" or "coupled" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but may include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect. The terms such as "inside", "outside", "above", "below", etc. are only used to represent relative positional relationships, and when the absolute position of the object being described changes, the relative positional relationship may also change accordingly.

[0063] It should be noted that the sizes and shapes of the various figures in the drawings do not reflect the true proportions, and the purpose is only to schematically illustrate the content of the present invention. And the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions.

[0064] In the related art, semiconductor display process means can be used to develop flexible array detection devices, which have advantages such as small device array element size, large number of array elements, and flexibility in adjusting the shape based on the detection scenario compared to traditional piezoelectric ceramic transducers. However, when directly used as the detection device of an ultrasonic tomography system, there are disadvantages such as difficulty in maintaining a stable posture and poor acoustic emission performance.

[0065] In view of this, the embodiments of the present invention provide an ultrasonic imaging device and system for improving the performance of the ultrasonic imaging device.

[0066] Combined Figure 1 and Figure 2 as shown in Figure 1 is a schematic three-dimensional structure diagram of one of the ultrasonic imaging devices provided by the embodiments of the present invention, Figure 2 is Figure 1A corresponding schematic diagram of one of the decomposition structures; for the embodiments of the present invention, for the reference numeral 01 involved in the relevant drawings, unless otherwise specified, it represents the target object to be measured. Specifically, the ultrasonic imaging device includes:

[0067] A container 10, a sound source transducer 20, an ultrasonic detector 30, a support structure 40, a clamping structure 50, and a liquid medium 60 accommodated in the container 10;

[0068] Wherein, an opening is provided at the top of the container 10, the sound source transducer 20, the ultrasonic detector 30, and the support structure 40 are located inside the container 10 and are all immersed in the liquid medium 60; the support structure 40 is used to support the ultrasonic detector 30 inside the container 10; the clamping structure 50 clamps the sound source transducer 20 for rotating relative to the target object along a preset track 70; the sound source transducer 20 is used to emit ultrasonic waves to detect the target object; the ultrasonic detector 30 is used to collect ultrasonic signals from the target object.

[0069] In the specific implementation process, the ultrasonic imaging device includes a container 10, and an opening is provided at the top of the container 10. Among them, the relevant structural parameters of the container 10, such as shape, opening size, etc., can be set according to actual application needs and are not limited herein. Moreover, the ultrasonic imaging device further includes a sound source transducer 20, an ultrasonic detector 30, a support structure 40, and a liquid medium 60 located inside the container 10. Among them, the sound source transducer 20, the ultrasonic detector 30, and the support structure 40 are all immersed in the liquid medium 60. Exemplarily, the liquid medium 60 can be water, silicone oil, etc. and is not limited herein. In this way, the transmission of ultrasonic waves from the sound source transducer 20 to the target object to be measured is ensured. Among them, the reference numeral 01 in the figure represents the target object to be measured. In addition, the support structure 40 is used to support the ultrasonic detector 30 inside the container 10. In this case, when the ultrasonic detector 30 is a flexible array detector, the corresponding detector's posture can be kept stable through the support structure 40.

[0070] Moreover, the clamping structure 50 clamps the sound source transducer 20 and is used to rotate relative to the target object along the preset track 70. In this way, on the one hand, the dynamic scanning of the sound source transducer 20 is realized, thus ensuring the mobile scanning of the corresponding target object and improving the detection accuracy; on the other hand, the sound source transducer 20 and the ultrasonic detector 30 are actually different devices, and the ultrasonic transducer can be used as an independent sound source, and the sound emission performance of the independent sound source is good; correspondingly, the ultrasonic wave is emitted by the sound source transducer 20 to detect the target object, and phenomena such as transmission and reflection will occur on the surface and internal interface of the target object. Subsequently, the ultrasonic detector 30 can collect and image the ultrasonic signals from the target object, thereby realizing the imaging detection of the target object. In this way, the use performance of the ultrasonic imaging device is improved.

[0071] In the embodiment of the present invention, the ultrasonic detector 30 can be arranged in the following several ways, but is not limited thereto.

[0072] In one exemplary embodiment, in combination with Figures 1 to 3 shown, wherein, Figure 3 is another structural schematic diagram of the ultrasonic imaging device provided by the embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, the ultrasonic detector 30 is a closed structure surrounded along the extending direction.

[0073] Still in combination with Figures 1 to 3 shown, the closed structure is arranged in a ring shape. Correspondingly, the ultrasonic detector 30 is an annular detector.

[0074] In Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown in the exemplary embodiment, along the direction parallel to the central axis of the container 10, the ultrasonic detector 30 includes a first end 31 and a second end 32 which are oppositely arranged, the support structure 40 includes a first clamp 41 respectively arranged at the first end 31 and the second end 32, a second clamp 42 respectively arranged at the first end 31 and the second end 32, and a fixing column 43 fixedly connected to the first clamp 41; the first clamp 41 is located on the outer wall of the ultrasonic detector 30, and the second clamp 42 is located on the inner wall of the ultrasonic detector 30; wherein, the fixing column 43 is used to support the ultrasonic detector 30 through the first clamp 41 and the second clamp 42.

[0075] In the specific implementation process, along the direction parallel to the central axis of the container 10, the support structure 40 includes first clamps 41 respectively arranged at the first end 31 and the second end 32, and second clamps 42 respectively arranged at the first end 31 and the second end 32. Among them, the first clamp 41 is located on the outer wall of the ultrasonic detector 30, and the second clamp 42 is located on the inner wall of the ultrasonic detector 30. Correspondingly, the ultrasonic detector 30 is located between the first clamp 41 and the second clamp 42 and is clamped by the first clamp 41 and the second clamp 42. In addition, the support structure 40 further includes a fixed column 43 fixedly connected to the first clamp 41, and the fixed column 43 is used to support the ultrasonic detector 30 through the first clamp 41 and the second clamp 42. In Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the exemplary embodiments of, four fixed columns 43 are provided, and each fixed column 43 extends along the direction parallel to the central axis of the container 10. The arrangement of the fixed columns 43 is as shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5 shown, where Figure 4 is a schematic top view structure of one of the fixed columns 43, Figure 5 is along Figure 4 one of the schematic cross-sectional structures in the direction shown by MM in.

[0076] In Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the exemplary embodiments shown, by clamping the ultrasonic detector 30 with the first clamp 41 and the second clamp 42, the ultrasonic detector 30 can be maintained in a circular posture in the horizontal direction; in the vertical direction, the ultrasonic detector 30 can be longitudinally supported by the fixed column 43, so as to maintain the ultrasonic detector 30 in an upright posture. Exemplarily, the fixed column 43 can be rigidly connected to the bottom of the container 10. For example, it can be fixedly connected by screws 45, or can be bonded by an adhesive, or can be an integrally formed design. Of course, the connection method between the fixed column 43 and the bottom of the container 10 can also be set according to actual application needs, and is not limited here.

[0077] It should be noted that still in combination with Figure 1 and Figure 2In the exemplary embodiment shown, the arrangement of the support structure 40 at the first end 31 of the ultrasonic detector 30 is substantially the same as its arrangement at the second end 32 of the ultrasonic detector 30. In practical applications, the arrangement of the support structure 40 at the second end 32 of the ultrasonic detector 30 can be set with reference to its arrangement at the first end 31 of the ultrasonic detector 30. In practical applications, after the ultrasonic detector 30 is clamped by the first clamp 41 and the second clamp 42, in order to ensure the corresponding clamping strength, the screw 45 can be passed through the through holes 44 of the first clamp 41, the ultrasonic detector 30, and the second clamp 42 for fastening. For the first end 31 of the ultrasonic detector 30, in combination with Figure 6 and Figure 7 shown, wherein, Figure 6 FIG. is a schematic top view of one of the structures in which the support structure 40 clamps the ultrasonic detector 30, Figure 7 FIG. is a schematic top view of one of the structures in which the ultrasonic detector 30 is fixed by the screw 45 after being clamped by the first clamp 41 and the second clamp 42, thereby ensuring the stability of the posture of the ultrasonic detector 30.

[0078] It should be noted that in one exemplary embodiment, the first clamp 41 can be a single circular ring structure, and through holes 44 are evenly distributed on the circular ring structure. The hole pitch between adjacent through holes 44 is equal to the hole pitch of the fixing holes opened on the ultrasonic detector 30. The second clamp 42 can be a segmented arc structure, and the number thereof is greater than or equal to three. The arc radius of each arc structure is equal to the inner diameter of the first clamp 41. Installation through holes are left on the arc structure, and the number thereof is greater than two. The hole pitch thereof is equal to the through holes 44 on the circular ring structure, and each hole is correspondingly arranged. Of course, the specific number of the set holes and the corresponding hole pitch can be set according to actual application needs and are not limited herein.

[0079] In one exemplary embodiment, the first clamp 41, the ultrasonic detector 30, and the second clamp 42 can be fixed by passing the screw 45 through the corresponding through holes 44. The screw 45 is relatively long, and after protruding from the clamp, it can be fixed on the corresponding fixing column 43, thereby realizing effective support for the ultrasonic detector 30. In addition, the first clamp 41 and the second clamp 42 can be made of materials with relatively low acoustic impedance and certain rigidity. The acoustic impedance range thereof can be 1.5 MRayls to 4 MRayls, and at the same time, materials with certain rigidity, such as polycarbonate, polyethylene, etc.; absorbent materials, such as acoustic tiles, sound-absorbing rubber, etc. can also be used. Of course, the materials for preparing the first clamp 41 and the second clamp 42 can also be selected according to actual application needs and are not limited herein.

[0080] In an embodiment of the present invention, the preset track 70 is an annular slide rail 71 provided on the inner sidewall of the container 10. The orthographic projection of the ultrasonic detector 30 on the bottom of the container 10 completely falls within the area range of the orthographic projection of the annular slide rail 71 on the bottom of the container 10, and the sound source transducer 20 is located on the side of the ultrasonic detector 30 close to the inner sidewall of the container 10.

[0081] In the specific implementation process, still in combination with Figure 1 and Figure 2 the exemplary embodiment shown, the preset track 70 can be an annular slide rail 71 provided on the inner sidewall of the container 10. Correspondingly, the sound source transducer 20 can move along the annular slide rail 71, so as to realize annular scanning of the target object. In addition, the orthographic projection of the ultrasonic detector 30 on the bottom of the container 10 completely falls within the area range of the orthographic projection of the annular slide rail 71 on the bottom of the container 10, thus ensuring the scanning range of the sound source transducer 20 and the detection accuracy of the ultrasonic detector 30. Moreover, the sound source transducer 20 is located on the side of the ultrasonic detector 30 close to the inner sidewall of the container 10, thus ensuring the transmission performance of the ultrasonic signal emitted by the sound source transducer 20. The setting situation between the sound source transducer 20 and the ultrasonic detector 30 can refer to the description of the relevant part below, and is not limited here.

[0082] In an embodiment of the present invention, in combination with Figure 8 and Figure 9 shown, where Figure 8 is Figure 1 a partial structural schematic diagram of one of the cases where the preset track 70 in Figure 9 is Figure 8 the corresponding partial sectional structural schematic diagram. Specifically, the annular slide rail 71 includes a first annular structure 711 and a second annular structure 712 arranged along the direction parallel to the plane where the bottom of the container 10 is located, and a chute 713 arranged between the first annular structure 711 and the second annular structure 712. The sound source transducer 20 is accommodated in the chute 713 through the clamping structure 50.

[0083] In the specific implementation process, the clamping structure 50 can be a hollow structure 52 including a main body part 51 and a sound source mounting hole opened on the main body part 51. Correspondingly, the sound source transducer 20 can be inserted into the hollow structure 52. At the same time, a threaded hole 53 can be opened on the clamping structure 50, and the sound source transducer 20 can be fixedly connected by inserting a screw 45 into the threaded hole 53, thus ensuring the clamping of the sound source transducer 20 by the clamping structure 50. In Figure 8 and Figure 9In the exemplary embodiment shown, the clamping structure 50 for clamping the sound source transducer 20 can be installed in the sliding groove 713 between the first annular structure 711 and the second annular structure 712. Exemplarily, balls 54 can be installed on the contact surface between the clamping structure 50 and the annular sliding rail 71, thereby reducing the resistance of the sound source transducer 20 to move on the sliding rail through the clamping structure 50 and improving the moving and scanning characteristics of the sound source transducer 20. As Figures 10 to 12 shown as Figure 8 the schematic structural diagram of the clamping structure 50 therein, where Figure 10 is a schematic side view structure diagram of one of the clamping structures 50, Figure 11 is a schematic top view structure diagram of one of the clamping structures 50, Figure 12 is a schematic front view structure diagram of one of the clamping structures 50.

[0084] Still referring to Figure 3 the exemplary embodiment shown, along the direction parallel to the central axis of the container 10, the ultrasonic detector 30 includes a first end 31 and a second end 32 which are oppositely arranged, and the support structure 40 includes third clamps 46 respectively arranged at the first end 31 and the second end 32; the third clamps 46 are located on the inner wall of the ultrasonic detector 30, and the third clamps 46 are used to support the ultrasonic detector 30 through a fixed connection with the inner side wall of the container 10.

[0085] In Figure 3 the exemplary embodiment shown, the support structure 40 includes third clamps 46 respectively arranged at the first end 31 and the second end 32 of the ultrasonic detector 30. The third clamps 46 are located on the inner wall of the ultrasonic detector 30. Moreover, the third clamps 46 are used to support the ultrasonic detector 30 through a fixed connection with the inner side wall of the container 10. In this way, the third clamps 46 and the container 10 can clamp the ultrasonic detector 30. Even if the ultrasonic detector 30 is a flexible array detector, the posture of the detector can still be effectively maintained. Exemplarily, the third clamps 46 can be a segmented arc structure and can be closely attached to the inner side wall of the container 10 through openings; correspondingly, the ultrasonic detector 30 is fixed to the inner side wall of the container 10 through corresponding fixing holes, the third clamps 46 and screws 45; wherein, the wall thickness of the container 10 is greater than the length of the screws 45; in this way, the structural stability of the ultrasonic detector 30 is improved.

[0086] Still referring to Figure 3 the exemplary embodiment shown, the preset track 70 is a track structure 72 located at the top of the container 10 and arranged on the outer side wall of the container 10. The track structure 72 is integrally formed with the container 10 and is arranged in a T shape. In this way, while effectively maintaining the posture of the ultrasonic detector 30, the manufacturing process flow is simplified.

[0087] Still combined Figure 3 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the preset track 70 is a track structure 72 located at the top of the container 10 and arranged on the outer side wall of the container 10. The track structure 72 is integrally formed with the container 10 and is arranged in a T-shape. The clamping structure 50 includes a first sub-section 55, a second sub-section 56 and a third sub-section 57 connected in sequence; the first sub-section 55 extends to the inside of the ultrasonic detector 30, and the sound source transducer 20 is arranged on a side of the first sub-section 55 close to the central axis of the container 10; the third sub-section 57 is located on a side of the container 10 away from the central axis of the container 10, and is provided with an inner opening structure 570 arranged in a T-shape, and the inner opening structure 570 is used to accommodate the track structure 72.

[0088] In a specific implementation process, the preset track 70 may be a track structure 72 located at the top of the container 10 and arranged on the outer side wall of the container 10. The track structure 72 may be integrally formed with the container 10, thereby simplifying the process flow. Figure 3 As shown, the track structure 72 is a T-shaped structure. The track structure 72 matches the clamping structure 50 for clamping the sound source transducer 20.

[0089] Still combined Figure 3 In the exemplary embodiment shown, one end of the clamping structure 50 is sleeved on the periphery of the track structure 72, and the clamping structure 50 extends from the outer wall of the container 10 through the opening of the container 10 to the interior of the container 10, and the orthographic projection of the clamping structure 50 on the bottom of the container 10 partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the ultrasonic detector on the bottom of the container 10.

[0090] Exemplarily, the clamping structure 50 includes a first sub-section 55, a second sub-section 56 and a third sub-section 57 which are connected in sequence; the first sub-section 55 extends from the inside of the ultrasonic detector 30 to the opening of the container 10, and the sound source transducer 20 is arranged on the side of the first sub-section 55 close to the central axis of the container 10; the second sub-section 56 extends from the opening of the container 10 to the outer wall of the container 10, and the orthographic projection of the second sub-section 56 at the bottom of the container 10 partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the ultrasonic detector 30 at the bottom of the container 10; the third sub-section 57 is located on the side of the container 10 away from the central axis of the container 10, and is provided with an inner opening structure 570 arranged in a T-shape, which is used to accommodate the track structure 72.

[0091] like Figure 13 Shown Figure 3One of the corresponding side view structure diagrams. The inner opening structure 570 of the clamping structure 50 arranged in a T shape can be matched with the T-shaped structure of the track structure 72, so as to facilitate the clamping structure 50 to clamp the sound source transducer 20 and move and scan along the track structure 72, ensuring the use performance of the sound source transducer 20. In practical applications, balls 54 can be installed on the side where the clamping structure 50 contacts the outer side wall of the container 10, thereby improving the sliding performance of the clamping structure 50. In this exemplary embodiment, the measured target object can be arranged on the central axis of the container 10, that is, in the center of the container 10. By clamping the sound source transducer 20 with the clamping structure 50 and moving it along the track structure 72, rotational scanning of the target object can be achieved.

[0092] In the embodiment of the present invention, the ultrasonic detector 30 includes at least three sub-devices 301 connected in sequence, and the orthographic projection shapes of the respective sub-devices 301 on the bottom of the container 10 enclose a closed polygonal structure. In the specific implementation process, the number of at least three sub-devices 301 can be set according to actual application needs, and no limitation is made here.

[0093] Correspondingly, the support structure 40 includes fixing columns 43 arranged at one end of each sub-device 301 close to the adjacent sub-device 301, and the fixing columns 43 are used to support the corresponding sub-devices 301.

[0094] In one exemplary embodiment, as Figure 14 shown, the ultrasonic detector 30 includes three sub-devices 301 connected in sequence, and the orthographic projection shapes of the respective sub-devices 301 on the bottom of the container 10 enclose a closed triangular structure. In this exemplary embodiment, full-angle ultrasonic signal reception of the ultrasonic detector 30 can be achieved. In the specific implementation process, each sub-device 301 can be a small two-dimensional detector, and a closed polygonal structure can be formed by splicing small two-dimensional detectors, increasing the number of sound rays. In addition, fixing columns 43 can be arranged at one end of each sub-device 301 close to the adjacent sub-device 301, thereby ensuring the structural stability of the ultrasonic detector 30. In Figure 14 the shown exemplary embodiment, the number of fixing columns 43 is 6. Of course, the fixing columns 43 can also be set according to actual application needs, and no limitation is made here. In the embodiment of the present invention, the orthographic projection shape of the closed structure on the bottom of the container 10 is a polygon; the support structure 40 includes fixing columns 43 that cover the outer sides of the edges of the closed structure, and mounting blocks 47 arranged on the inner sides of the edges of the closed structure; the fixing columns 43 support the ultrasonic detector 30 in the container 10 through the mounting blocks 47.

[0095] In one exemplary embodiment, as Figure 15As shown, the ultrasonic detector 30 is a closed structure enclosed along the extension direction. The orthographic projection shape of the closed structure on the bottom of the container 10 is a triangle. In this exemplary embodiment, the support structure 40 includes a fixed column 43 that covers the outer sides of each edge of the closed structure, and a mounting block 47 arranged on the inner side of each edge of the closed structure; in this way, the fixed column 43 can support the ultrasonic detector 30 in the container 10 through a fixed connection with the mounting block 47; even if the ultrasonic detector 30 is a flexible array detector, the posture stability of the ultrasonic detector 30 can be improved to a certain extent. Exemplarily, the side of the fixed column 43 close to the ultrasonic detector 30 can be processed into a 60-degree "chamfered" groove, through which the outer sides of each edge of the ultrasonic detector 30 can be effectively covered; in addition, the mounting block 47 can effectively match the structure of the groove. For example, the height of the mounting block 47 is about 1 cm; the mounting block 47, the ultrasonic detector 30 and the fixing column 43 can be clamped by screws 45, and at the same time, the surface of the side where the ultrasonic detector 30 contacts the fixing column 43 is ensured to be in an arc shape. In this way, the acoustic scattering on the surface of the ultrasonic detector 30 is effectively reduced, and the imaging signal quality is improved.

[0096] In the embodiment of the present invention, the ultrasonic detector 30 is arranged in a plane. Accordingly, the ultrasonic detector 30 is a flat-panel detector.

[0097] In one exemplary embodiment, Figure 16 As shown, the support structure 40 includes a first sub-support portion 401 and a second sub-support portion 402 located on the side of the ultrasonic probe 30 away from the sound source transducer 20; along the direction perpendicular to the central axis of the container 10, the flexible probe includes a third end 33 and a fourth end 34 arranged opposite to each other, the third end 33 is fixedly connected to the first sub-support portion 401, and the fourth end 34 is fixedly connected to the second sub-support portion 402. Exemplarily, the first sub-support portion 401 and the third end 33 of the ultrasonic probe 30 may be fixedly connected by a screw 45, and correspondingly, the second sub-support portion 402 and the fourth end 34 of the ultrasonic probe 30 may be fixedly connected by a screw 45.

[0098] In this exemplary embodiment, a conventional one-dimensional scanning structure can be utilized to clamp and move the sound source transducer 20. The assembly difficulty of the entire ultrasonic imaging device is low, and it is suitable for testing smaller target objects. It should be noted that in another exemplary embodiment, the sub-support part and the ultrasonic detector 30 on the side close to the sound source transducer 20 can be removed, that is, the sub-support part and the ultrasonic detector 30 located between the target object 01 to be measured and the sound source transducer 20 are removed, and only the sub-support part and the ultrasonic detector 30 on the side of the target object 01 facing away from the sound source transducer 30 are retained. Of course, a flat panel detector can also be set according to actual application needs, which is not limited here.

[0099] In one of the exemplary embodiments, as Figure 17 shown, the ultrasonic detector 30 is arranged in an arc shape, and the sound source transducer 20 and the ultrasonic detector 30 rotate synchronously with respect to the target object.

[0100] Still referring to Figure 17 the exemplary embodiment shown, the ultrasonic detector 30 and the sound source transducer 20 are arranged on opposite sides of the target object. Exemplarily, the support structure 40 and the clamping structure 50 form an integrated rotating mechanism 80. The sound source transducer 20 is fixedly installed on one side column (i.e., the clamping structure 50) of the rotating mechanism 80, and the ultrasonic detector 30 is fixedly installed on the other side column (i.e., the support structure 40) of the rotating mechanism 80; moreover, the central axes of the sound source transducer 20, the ultrasonic detector 30, and the container 10 are on the same line. In practical applications, the rotating mechanism 80 can be driven to rotate by a motor located at the bottom of the container 10; during the detection process, the positions of the sound source transducer 20 and the ultrasonic detector 30 are relatively fixed. It should be noted that in this exemplary embodiment, the ultrasonic detector 30 can be designed as an arc structure; the arc length and radius of the arc structure are basically matched with the beam angle of the sound source transducer 20; the sound source transducer 20 and the arc-shaped ultrasonic detector 30 can achieve rotational scanning through the bottom structure. The ultrasonic detector 30 in this exemplary embodiment, compared with Figures 1 to 3 the ultrasonic detector 30 in the exemplary embodiment shown, reduces the area requirement of the detector and lowers the system complexity; in practical applications, the distance between the sound source transducer 20 and the ultrasonic detector 30 can be adjusted according to different scenario requirements.

[0101] In Figure 17 the exemplary embodiment shown, as Figure 18Shown is a schematic diagram of one of the structures for the fixed connection between the support structure 40 and the ultrasonic detector 30. Along the direction parallel to the central axis of the container 10, the ultrasonic detector 30 includes a first end 31 and a second end 32 that are oppositely arranged. The support structure 40 includes fourth clamps 48 respectively arranged at the first end 31 and the second end 32, fifth clamps 49 respectively arranged at the first end 31 and the second end 32, and a fixing column 43 fixedly connected to the fourth clamp 48. The fourth clamp 48 is located on the outer wall of the ultrasonic detector 30, and the fifth clamp 49 is located on the inner wall of the ultrasonic detector 30. Among them, the ultrasonic detector 30 is fixedly connected between the fourth clamp 48 and the fifth clamp 49 and the fixing column 43, and the support structure 40 and the clamping structure 50 are fixedly connected through a connecting member parallel to the bottom of the container 10. Among them, for the specific setting conditions of the fourth clamp 48 and the fifth clamp 49, reference can be made to the structure of the relevant clamp part described above, and details are not described here.

[0102] In an embodiment of the present invention, the ultrasonic detector 30 can be a flexible array detector. Combining Figure 19 Shown, the ultrasonic detector 30 includes a flexible substrate 302, a pixel circuit 303 located on the flexible substrate 302, and a piezoelectric thin film structure 304 located on the side of the pixel circuit 303 away from the flexible substrate 302.

[0103] In the specific implementation process, the ultrasonic detector 30 includes a flexible substrate 302, which can be used as a carrier for the relevant functional units of the ultrasonic detector 30. Correspondingly, it can be used as a strength support material for the ultrasonic detector 30. Exemplarily, the flexible substrate 302 can be a polymer film material such as a polyimide film or a polyethylene film. Moreover, the ultrasonic detector 30 further includes a pixel circuit 303 located on the flexible substrate 302, and a piezoelectric thin film structure 304 located on the side of the pixel circuit 303 away from the flexible substrate 302. Among them, the pixel circuit 303 includes an active layer 3030, a gate insulating layer 3031, a gate layer 3032, and an interlayer insulating layer 3033 sequentially arranged on the flexible substrate 302, and further includes a source-drain layer 3034 that penetrates the interlayer insulating layer 3033 and the gate insulating layer 3031 and is electrically connected to the active layer 3030, and a passivation layer 3035 located on the side of the source-drain layer 3034 away from the flexible substrate 302.

[0104] In addition, the ultrasonic detector 30 further includes a piezoelectric thin film structure 304 located on the side of the pixel circuit 303 away from the flexible substrate 302. The piezoelectric thin film structure 304 includes a first electrode layer 3040, a first insulating layer 3041, a piezoelectric thin film layer 3042, and a second electrode layer 3043, which are sequentially arranged away from the flexible substrate 302. Among them, the first electrode layer 3040 includes a plurality of electrode blocks 30401; the piezoelectric thin film structure 304 further includes an insulating material disposed around each electrode block 30401. Correspondingly, each of the plurality of electrode blocks 30401 is independently arranged. The piezoelectric thin film layer 3042 is used to achieve the "acoustic-electric" conversion of acoustic signals and is the sensitive material of the ultrasonic detector 30.

[0105] Exemplarily, the piezoelectric thin film layer 30422043 can be piezoelectric polymer materials such as PVDF and PVDF-TrFE, as well as 1-3 composite piezoelectric materials based on piezoelectric crystals such as PZT and PMN-PT. The material of the first insulating layer 3041 can be SiNx, which is not limited herein. Of course, in addition to the film layer structures mentioned above, the ultrasonic detector 30 can also include other film layer structures, which are not limited herein.

[0106] It should be noted that, as shown in Figure 20 the array elements of the ultrasonic detector 30 are distributed along a first direction and a second direction intersecting the first direction. The gate signal lines and readout signal lines of each array element are also distributed in the first direction and the second direction; each gate signal line and each readout signal line are electrically connected to the corresponding signal terminal 305 on the same side of the peripheral area of the ultrasonic detector 30; moreover, the corresponding signal terminal 305 is bonded to the flexible circuit board 306. In a specific implementation process, the gate signal lines and readout signal lines of each array element can be respectively led out from the peripheral area of the ultrasonic detector 30 and electrically connected to the corresponding signal terminal 305 on the same side of the peripheral area; then, they are bonded to the flexible circuit board 306 through a bonding process. Still referring to Figure 20 one of the structural diagrams showing the bonding connection between the flexible circuit board 306 and the ultrasonic detector 30, correspondingly, the other end of the flexible circuit board 306 can be electrically connected to the pixel circuit 303. Through the pixel circuit 303, the corresponding electrical signals can be input into the ultrasonic detector 30, and the collected electrical signals can also be transmitted to the relevant processing circuit, which will not be elaborated herein.

[0107] Based on the same inventive concept, the invention embodiment also provides an ultrasonic imaging system, including:

[0108] The ultrasonic imaging device 100 as described in any one of the above, a host computer 200 electrically connected to the ultrasonic imaging device 100, a signal source 300 electrically connected to the host computer 200, and a power amplifier 400 electrically connected to the signal source 300 and the sound source transducer 20 respectively;

[0109] Among them, the host computer 200 is used to generate a trigger signal to control the signal source 300 to generate a target waveform signal. The power amplifier 400 is used to amplify the target waveform signal and transmit it to the sound source transducer 20, so that the sound source transducer 20 emits ultrasonic waves to detect the target object; and drives the ultrasonic detector 30 to collect ultrasonic signals from the target object according to preset rules.

[0110] like Figure 21 The ultrasonic imaging device 100 in the ultrasonic imaging system is shown as follows: Figure 1 Of course, the ultrasonic imaging system can also be set according to actual application needs, which is not limited here. In one exemplary embodiment, the ultrasonic imaging system can be an ultrasonic tomography system.

[0111] Still combined Figure 21 As shown, the ultrasound imaging system further includes a pixel driving system 500 electrically connected to the host computer 200 and the ultrasound detector 30 respectively, and a signal acquisition and storage system 600 electrically connected to the host computer 200 and the ultrasound detector 30 respectively.

[0112] In one exemplary embodiment, the signal source 300 and the power amplifier 400 are used to provide a high-voltage electrical pulse signal with a voltage peak of about 100V to 200V. The output electrical signal directly excites the sound source transducer 20 .

[0113] During the specific implementation of the host computer 200 ultrasonic detector 30, the pixel driving system 500 is mainly used to provide the ultrasonic detector 30 with a timing signal for controlling the switch of the pixel circuit 303; the signal acquisition and storage system 600 can collect current signals from the pixel circuit 303 and upload them to the host computer 200.

[0114] Since the principle of solving the problem by the ultrasonic imaging system is similar to that of the aforementioned ultrasonic imaging device 100, the implementation of the ultrasonic imaging system can refer to the implementation of the aforementioned ultrasonic imaging device 100, and the repeated parts will not be repeated.

[0115] Combine the following Figure 22 The test flow chart shown is Figure 21 The working process of the ultrasonic imaging system shown in FIG. 1 is explained in detail. The specific execution process is as follows:

[0116] S1: Mount and fix the ultrasonic detector in the container through a fixture and a fixing post, coaxial with the center of the container, and calculate the distribution positions ([x], [y], [z]) of all array elements.

[0117] S2: Fill the container with a liquid medium.

[0118] S3: Mount the sound source transducer on the clamping structure and mount the clamping structure on the annular track of the inner sidewall of the container.

[0119] S4: Adjust the position of the sound source transducer and record the sound source center coordinate positions (X, Y, Z) corresponding to each position; accordingly, achieve the circular movement of the sound source transducer to ensure that the acoustic axis points to the central axis of the container.

[0120] S5: The sound source transducer emits ultrasonic waves, which undergo transmission, scattering, etc. on the surface and internal interfaces of the measured target object, and drive the ultrasonic detector to collect ultrasonic signals [RF_n] at a fixed time interval (time series [tn]) within a specified time.

[0121] S6: Based on (X, Y, Z), divide [RF_n] into two parts: reflection and transmission, and then perform algorithmic imaging.

[0122] In the specific implementation process, the specific implementation processes of steps S1 to S6 are as follows:

[0123] First, before the test, mount and fix the ultrasonic detector 30 in the container 10 through the first fixture 41, the second fixture 42 and the fixing post 43, and keep the ultrasonic detector 30 coaxial with the center of the container 10; at the same time, confirm the size of the circular ring structure of the ultrasonic detector 30 to calculate the distribution positions ([x], [y], [z]) of all array elements; then, inject a liquid medium 60, such as water, silicone oil, etc. into the water tank to ensure that the liquid level covers the topmost end of the ultrasonic detector 30; then, mount the sound source transducer 20 on the clamping structure 50 and mount the clamping structure 50 to the preset track 70, and record the position of the sound center of the sound source transducer 20 at each position (X, Y, Z); then, drive the sound source transducer 20 to emit ultrasonic waves through the signal source 300 and the power amplifier 400; after the ultrasonic waves propagate in the liquid medium 60 and encounter the measured target object, a part of the ultrasonic waves is reflected to form a reflected wave, and a part penetrates the target object and continues to propagate forward to form a transmitted wave; at the same time, drive the ultrasonic detector 30 to collect ultrasonic signals [RF_n] at a fixed time interval (time series [tn]) within a specified time; finally, based on the sound source position (X, Y, Z) and the array element position ([x], [y], [z]), the acquisition time series [tn] and the acquisition signal [RF_n], solve through the "sound velocity" and "absorption coefficient" of the spatial grid to achieve tomographic imaging.

[0124] In practical applications, after the sound source transducer 20 emits ultrasonic waves, the propagation of ultrasonic waves in the test container 10 includes two modes: scattering and transmission. The collected scattered signals can be used to implement the surface contour imaging of the object to be measured through the traditional "beamforming" algorithm. The specific implementation can refer to the description of the relevant part and will not be elaborated here. The collected transmitted signals can be used to implement the tomographic imaging of the target object to be measured. The specific implementation process is as follows:

[0125] Combined with Figure 23 The figure shows the spatial relationship between the transmitted signal and the array elements of the sound source transducer 20 and the ultrasonic detector 30 (i.e., the detector array). Between the sound source transducer 20 and each array element of the ultrasonic detector 30, a "sound ray" with determined "starting point (X, Y, Z)" and "ending point (x, y, z)" positions is formed. During the detection process, all array elements of the ultrasonic detector 30 acquire the signals from time t1 to tn, which are the time-domain sampling signals on the sound ray. Then, the 3D space of the sound source (X, Y, Z) and the array elements of the ultrasonic detector 30 ([x], [y], [z]) (which can be partially outside) is meshed according to the step sizes of dx, dy, and dz, as shown in Figure 24 the grid space of the tomographic imaging shown in the figure. The grid point coordinates of the grid space are xp(i, j, k), yp(i, j, k), and zp(i, j, k) respectively. At the same time, the sound speed and sound absorption coefficient in the three-dimensional space can also be meshed into c(i, j, k) and α(i, j, k);

[0126] The number of rows and columns of the matrix-type ultrasonic detector 30 are I (x direction) and J (y direction) respectively, and the number of array elements (i.e., array elements) is I*J. Let d be the grid point spacing of the space grid in the z direction, that is, dz = d; nij is the number of grid points that the sound ray traverses in the space. Then there is an equation:

[0127]

[0128] Among them:

[0129]

[0130] For each grid point n from 1 to nij on the sound ray, the corresponding sound ray length is In addition, the spatial coordinates of this grid point are (X + n*dx, Y + n*dy, Z + n*dz), n = 1, 2, 3,..., nij. After rounding, the spatial coordinates of each grid point (xn, yn, zn) can be obtained. With the spatial coordinates (xn, yn, zn), the sound speed c(xn, yn, zn) and attenuation coefficient α(xn, yn, zn) of each grid point can be indexed or assigned.

[0131] Meanwhile, from the sampling signal of this acoustic ray, the arrival time tij of the transmitted signal on this acoustic ray and the signal amplitude Uij can be obtained.

[0132] Then there is the following formula:

[0133]

[0134] Since there are I*J detection elements, the number of equations constructed in one test is I*J, but this cannot solve for c(i,j,k) and α(i,j,k) in 3D space to form a reliable sequencing image;

[0135] In the experiment, the sound source is moved from (X, Y, Z) to the point (Xn, Yn, Zn) multiple times, where n = 1, 2, 3,..., N. Then the number of equations that can be constructed is I*J*N, and the calculation and reconstruction of c(i,j,k) and a(i,j,k) in the entire space can be realized, so as to realize tomography based on tissue sound velocity and sound absorption.

[0136] When the target object is small, the 3D reconstruction area can be reduced, that is, the sizes of I, J, and K are reduced, and the number of movements N of the sound source transducer 20 is reduced, so as to shorten the time and reduce the data volume.

[0137] Combined with Figure 25 the shown test flow chart, based on Figure 16 the test process of the ultrasonic imaging system corresponding to the ultrasonic imaging device 100 shown, the specific implementation process is as follows:

[0138] S7: Fix and install the ultrasonic detector on the fixed column of the cavity container, ensure the planar state, and calculate the spatial coordinates ([x], [y], [z]) of the detector elements;

[0139] S8: Fill the container with a liquid medium;

[0140] S9: The sound source transducer is installed on the rear side of the ultrasonic detector through a rotating mechanism and points to the central axis of the cavity. Control the movement of the sound source transducer through the rotating mechanism and record the sound source emission center coordinates (X, Y, Z);

[0141] S10: The sound source transducer emits ultrasonic waves, and transmission, scattering, etc. occur on the surface and internal interfaces of the target object to be measured;

[0142] S11: The detectors on both sides of the target object to be measured respectively detect the reflected, scattered, and transmitted ultrasonic waves; and record the signals [RF1_n], [RF2_n] of the two detectors according to the number of times;

[0143] S12: Use the reflected / scattered signals for target contour imaging; use the transmitted signals for attenuation coefficient / sound velocity imaging.

[0144] In the specific implementation process, the specific implementation process of steps S7 to S12 is as follows:

[0145] First, assemble the ultrasonic imaging device 100 as shown in Figure 16 wherein the fixed column 43 is integrally or rigidly connected to the container 10 and does not move, rotate, vibrate, etc. during the working process; there is a threaded hole on the fixed column 43; the position of this threaded hole corresponds to the fixed hole on the ultrasonic detector 30. Exemplarily, the ultrasonic detector 30 can be fixed in the container 10 by a screw 45; the ultrasonic detector 30 and its fixture and rotation mechanism 80 are installed on the container 10 or can also be installed on a fixed platform outside the container 10; the sound radiation surface of the sound source transducer 20 is parallel to the surface of the ultrasonic detector 30, and its natural sound axis is perpendicular to the ultrasonic detector 30; in the working state, the container 10 is first filled with a liquid medium 60, such as water, silicone oil, etc.; then, the target object to be measured is placed in the container 10; in actual applications, the size and spacing of the ultrasonic detector 30 can be designed and adjusted according to the size of the target object to be measured; generally, for a relatively small target object, the area of the ultrasonic detector 30 can be appropriately reduced while ensuring that it is larger than the target object to be measured.

[0146] Combined with Figure 26 the shown test flow chart, based on Figure 17 the test process of the ultrasonic imaging system corresponding to the ultrasonic imaging device 100 shown, the specific execution process is as follows:

[0147] S13: The ultrasonic detector is fixed by an arc-shaped fixture through the fixed hole and is installed and fixed on one side column of the rotation mechanism, and the sound source transducer is installed on the other side of the rotation mechanism; and record the spatial coordinates ([x], [y], [z]) of the detection array elements and the spatial coordinates (X, Y, Z) of the sound source transducer.

[0148] S14: Install a rotating shaft at the bottom of the rotation mechanism and adjust the rotation of the rotation mechanism, and record the rotation angle [θn] of the rotation mechanism.

[0149] S15: Fill the container with a liquid medium.

[0150] S16: The sound source transducer emits ultrasonic waves, and transmission, scattering, etc. occur on the surface and internal interfaces of the target object to be measured.

[0151] S17: Use the detector to collect the transmission signals and record the device signals [RF_n] according to the number of times.

[0152] S18: Use the reflection / scattering signals for target contour imaging; use the transmission signals for attenuation coefficient / sound velocity imaging.

[0153] In the specific implementation process, the specific implementation processes of steps S13 to S18 are as follows:

[0154] First, the ultrasonic detector 30 is fixed through the fixing holes by an arc-shaped clamp (as Figure 18 shown) and is installed and fixed on one side column of the rotating mechanism 80; at the same time, the sound source transducer 20 is installed on the other side of the rotating mechanism 80 and is on the same line as the central axes of the ultrasonic detector 30 and the container 10; the rotating structure is driven to rotate by a motor at the bottom of the container 10; during the detection process, the relative positions of the sound source transducer 20 and the ultrasonic detector 30 remain unchanged, that is, ([x], [y], [z]), (X, Y, Z) remain unchanged; according to the test requirements, the clamp can be rotated with fewer rotation times, and for each detection, the rotation angle [θn] and the matrix signal [RF_n] received by the ultrasonic detector 30 in the time series [tn] need to be recorded.

[0155] Combined with Figure 27 the shown test flow chart, based on Figure 3 the test process of the ultrasonic imaging system corresponding to the ultrasonic imaging device 100 shown, the specific implementation process is as follows:

[0156] S19: Fix the ultrasonic detector on the inner side wall of the container through the fixing holes, circular clamp and screws, and make it coaxial with the center of the container, and calculate the distribution positions ([x], [y], [z]) of all array elements;

[0157] S20: Fill the container with a liquid medium;

[0158] S21: Install the sound source transducer on the clamping structure and install the clamping structure on the track structure on the outer side wall of the container;

[0159] S22: Adjust the position of the sound source transducer and record the sound source center coordinate positions (X, Y, Z) corresponding to each position; correspondingly, realize the circular movement of the sound source transducer to ensure that the acoustic axis points to the central axis of the container;

[0160] S23: The sound source transducer emits ultrasonic waves, and transmission, scattering, etc. occur on the surface and internal interfaces of the target object to be measured, and the ultrasonic detector is driven to collect ultrasonic signals [RF_n] at a fixed time interval (time series [tn]) within a specified time;

[0161] S24: Based on (X, Y, Z), divide [RF_n] into two parts of reflection and transmission, and then perform algorithmic imaging.

[0162] In the specific implementation process, the specific implementation processes of steps S19 to S24 are as follows:

[0163] First, install and fix the ultrasonic detector 30 on the inner sidewall of the container 10 through the fixing holes, circular fixtures and screws, and the ultrasonic detector 30 is coaxial with the center of the container 10; fill the container 10 with solutions such as water and oil; then, install the sound source transducer 20 on the clamping structure 50, and install the clamping structure 50 on the track structure 72 on the outer sidewall of the container 10; adjust the position of the sound source transducer 20 electrically or manually to achieve circular movement and ensure that the acoustic axis points to the central axis of the container 10; the sound source transducer 20 emits ultrasonic waves, and transmission, reflection / scattering, etc. will occur on the surface and internal interfaces of the measured target object; based on (X, Y, Z), divide [RF_n] into two parts, reflection and transmission, and then perform an imaging algorithm.

[0164] Of course, for other ultrasonic imaging devices 100, the test process of the corresponding ultrasonic imaging system can refer to the description of the relevant parts above, and will not be limited here.

[0165] The embodiment of the present invention provides an ultrasonic imaging device 100 and a system. The ultrasonic imaging device 100 includes a container 10, a sound source transducer 20, an ultrasonic detector 30, a support structure 40, a clamping structure 50, and a liquid medium 60 accommodated in the container 10. Exemplarily, the liquid medium 60 is water, silicone oil, etc. The top of the container 10 is provided with an opening, and the sound source transducer 20, the ultrasonic detector 30, and the support structure 40 are located inside the container 10 and are all immersed in the liquid medium 60; in the specific implementation process, the support structure 40 is used to support the ultrasonic detector 30 inside the container 10. In this way, when the ultrasonic detector 30 is a flexible array detector, the attitude of the corresponding detector can be kept stable through the support structure 40.

[0166] Moreover, the clamping structure 50 clamps the sound source transducer 20 for rotation relative to the target object along the preset track 70. In this way, on the one hand, the dynamic scanning of the sound source transducer 20 is realized, thereby ensuring the moving scanning of the corresponding target object and improving the detection accuracy; on the other hand, the sound source transducer 20 and the ultrasonic detector 30 are actually different devices, and the ultrasonic transducer can be used as an independent sound source, and the sound emission performance of the independent sound source is good; correspondingly, the ultrasonic waves are emitted by the sound source transducer 20 to detect the target object, and the ultrasonic waves will cause phenomena such as transmission and reflection on the surface and internal interfaces of the target object. Subsequently, the ultrasonic detector 30 can collect and image the ultrasonic signals from the target object, thereby realizing the imaging detection of the target object. In this way, the use performance of the ultrasonic imaging device 100 is improved.

[0167] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described, additional changes and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art once they learn of the basic inventive concept. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to be construed to include the preferred embodiments as well as all changes and modifications that fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0168] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Thus, if these modifications and variations of this application fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalent technologies, this application is also intended to include these modifications and variations.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic imaging device, characterized in that, it includes: a container, a sound source transducer, an ultrasonic detector, a support structure, a clamping structure, and a liquid medium contained in the container; wherein, an opening is provided at the top of the container, the sound source transducer, the ultrasonic detector, and the support structure are located inside the container and are all immersed in the liquid medium; the support structure is used to support the ultrasonic detector inside the container; the clamping structure clamps the sound source transducer and is used to rotate relative to the target object along a preset track; the sound source transducer is used to emit ultrasonic waves to detect the target object; the ultrasonic detector is used to collect ultrasonic signals from the target object.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that, the ultrasonic detector is a closed structure surrounded along an extending direction.

3. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that, the closed structure is arranged in a ring shape.

4. The device according to claim 3, characterized in that, along a direction parallel to the central axis of the container, the ultrasonic detector includes a first end and a second end which are oppositely arranged, the support structure includes first clamps respectively arranged at the first end and the second end, second clamps respectively arranged at the first end and the second end, and a fixing column fixedly connected to the first clamp; the first clamp is located on the outer wall of the ultrasonic detector, and the second clamp is located on the inner wall of the ultrasonic detector; wherein, the fixing column is used to support the ultrasonic detector through the first clamp and the second clamp.

5. The device according to claim 4, characterized in that, the preset track is an annular sliding rail arranged on the inner side wall of the container, the orthographic projection of the ultrasonic detector on the bottom of the container completely falls within the area range of the orthographic projection of the annular sliding rail on the bottom of the container, and the sound source transducer is located on one side of the ultrasonic detector close to the inner side wall of the container.

6. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that, the annular sliding rail includes a first annular structure and a second annular structure arranged along a direction parallel to the plane where the bottom of the container is located, and a chute arranged between the first annular structure and the second annular structure, and the sound source transducer is accommodated in the chute through the clamping structure.

7. The device according to claim 3, characterized in that, along a direction parallel to the central axis of the container, the ultrasonic detector includes a first end and a second end which are oppositely arranged, the support structure includes third clamps respectively arranged at the first end and the second end; the third clamp is located on the inner wall of the ultrasonic detector, and the third clamp is used to support the ultrasonic detector through a fixed connection with the inner side wall of the container.

8. The device according to claim 7, characterized in that, the preset track is a track structure located at the top of the container and arranged on the outer side wall of the container, the track structure is integrally formed with the container and is arranged in a T shape.

9. The device according to claim 8, characterized in that, One end of the clamping structure is sleeved on the periphery of the track structure, and the clamping structure extends from the outer wall of the container through the opening of the container to the interior of the container, and the orthographic projection of the clamping structure on the bottom of the container overlaps with the orthographic projection of the ultrasonic detector on the bottom of the container.

10. The device according to claim 9, It is characterized in that The clamping structure includes a first sub-section, a second sub-section and a third sub-section which are connected in sequence; the first sub-section extends from the inside of the ultrasonic probe to the opening of the container, and the sound source transducer is arranged on a side of the first sub-section close to the central axis of the container; the second sub-section extends from the opening of the container to the outer side wall of the container, and the orthographic projection of the second sub-section on the bottom of the container overlaps with the orthographic projection of the ultrasonic probe on the bottom of the container; the third sub-section is located on a side of the container away from the central axis of the container, and is provided with an inner opening structure arranged in a T shape, and the inner opening structure is used to accommodate the track structure.

11. The device according to claim 2, It is characterized in that The ultrasonic detector comprises at least three sub-components connected in sequence, and the orthographic projection shapes of the sub-components on the bottom of the container form a closed polygonal structure.

12. The device according to claim 11, It is characterized in that The support structure includes a fixing column arranged at one end of each of the sub-components close to an adjacent sub-component, and the fixing column is used to support the corresponding sub-component.

13. The device according to claim 2, It is characterized in that The orthographic projection shape of the closed structure on the bottom of the container is a polygon; the supporting structure includes a fixing column covering the outer sides of each edge of the closed structure, and a mounting block arranged on the inner sides of each edge of the closed structure; the fixing column supports the ultrasonic detector in the container through the mounting block.

14. The device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The ultrasonic detector is arranged in a plane.

15. The device according to claim 14, It is characterized in that The support structure includes a first sub-support portion and a second sub-support portion located on the side of the ultrasonic detector away from the sound source transducer; along a direction perpendicular to the central axis of the container, the flexible detector includes a third end and a fourth end arranged opposite to each other, the third end is fixedly connected to the first sub-support portion, and the fourth end is fixedly connected to the second sub-support portion.

16. The device according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The ultrasonic detector is arranged in an arc shape, and the sound source transducer and the ultrasonic detector rotate synchronously with the target object.

17. The device according to claim 16, It is characterized in that The ultrasonic detector and the sound source transducer are disposed on opposite sides of the target object.

18. The device according to claim 16, It is characterized in that Along a direction parallel to the central axis of the container, the ultrasonic detector includes a first end and a second end that are oppositely arranged. The support structure includes fourth clamps respectively arranged at the first end and the second end, fifth clamps respectively arranged at the first end and the second end, and a fixing column fixedly connected to the fourth clamp. The fourth clamp is located on the outer wall of the ultrasonic detector, and the fifth clamp is located on the inner wall of the ultrasonic detector. Wherein, the ultrasonic detector is fixedly connected between the fourth clamp and the fifth clamp and the fixing column, and the support structure and the clamping structure are fixedly connected through a connecting member parallel to the bottom of the container.

19. The device according to any one of claims 1-18, characterized in that the ultrasonic detector includes a flexible substrate, a pixel circuit located on the flexible substrate, and a piezoelectric thin film structure located on a side of the pixel circuit away from the flexible substrate.

20. An ultrasonic imaging system, characterized in that it includes: the ultrasonic imaging device according to any one of claims 1-19, a host computer electrically connected to the ultrasonic imaging device, a signal source electrically connected to the host computer, and a power amplifier respectively electrically connected to the signal source and the sound source transducer; wherein, the host computer is configured to generate a trigger signal, control the signal source to generate a target waveform signal, and the power amplifier is configured to amplify the target waveform signal and then transmit it to the sound source transducer, so that the sound source transducer emits ultrasonic waves to detect the target object; and drive the ultrasonic detector to collect ultrasonic signals from the target object according to a preset rule.

21. The system according to claim 20, characterized in that it further includes a pixel driving system respectively electrically connected to the host computer and the ultrasonic detector, and a signal acquisition and storage system respectively electrically connected to the host computer and the ultrasonic detector.