Adjustable transducer element

Abstract

The transducer element (211A) comprises a plurality of layers, at least one signal connection, and first and second external ground electrodes. The second piezoelectric layer (362) is adjacent to and physically separated from the first piezoelectric layer (361). The second external ground electrode is physically separated from the first external ground electrode such that the first external ground electrode and the second external ground electrode are independently controllable.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Conventional ultrasonic transducers typically include a transducer element having an acoustic stack, a flexible circuit, and a backing. Conventional ultrasonic transducers typically include a single piezoelectric layer, a matching layer, and an internal acoustic layer and backing. Matching improves transmittance and shapes the resonance to tailor the resonance to the desired frequency and appropriate bandwidth. The internal acoustic layer may include a dematching layer, which has an impedance attached to the piezoelectric layer and is used to create a reflective interface rather than enhance transmission. Bandwidth and sensitivity are optimized for each application by using various numbers and types of matching layers, piezoelectric materials, dematching layers, and backings. As an example, a transducer element that achieves current state of the art performance may include a dematched single crystal and two matching layers. Signal and redundant ground connections may be separated by isolation cuts into the acoustic stack. The flexible circuit provides electrical interconnection for each of the other elements.

[0002] The use of multilayer piezoelectric transducer elements has been known as a solution for reducing element electrical impedance and drive voltage requirements. However, due to the increased complexity and poor trade-offs compared to other approaches, the use of multilayer piezoelectric transducer elements is less common. The multilayer piezoelectric transducer elements that have been explored do not include independently controllable ground connections and are not optimized for both sensitivity and bandwidth, but rather trade off sensitivity and bandwidth. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a transducer element includes a plurality of layers, at least one signal connection, and a first external ground electrode and a second external ground electrode. The plurality of layers includes a first piezoelectric layer and a second piezoelectric layer adjacent to and physically separated from the first piezoelectric layer. The second external ground electrode is physically separated from the first external ground electrode such that the first and second external ground electrodes are independently controllable.

[0004] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an ultrasound probe includes a plurality of transducer elements. Each of the transducer elements includes a plurality of layers, at least one signal connection, and a first external ground electrode and a second external ground electrode. The plurality of layers includes a first piezoelectric layer and a second piezoelectric layer adjacent to and physically separated from the first piezoelectric layer. The second external ground electrode is physically separated from the first external ground electrode such that the first and second external ground electrodes are independently controllable.

[0005] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an ultrasound system includes an ultrasound base station and an ultrasound probe. The ultrasound probe includes a plurality of transducer elements. Each of the transducer elements includes a plurality of layers, at least one signal connection, and a first external ground electrode and a second external ground electrode. The plurality of layers includes a first piezoelectric layer and a second piezoelectric layer adjacent to and physically separated from the first piezoelectric layer. The second external ground electrode is physically separated from the first external ground electrode, such that the first and second external ground electrodes are independently controllable. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] The example embodiments are best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is emphasized that the various features are not necessarily drawn to scale. In fact, dimensions may be arbitrarily increased or decreased for clarity of discussion. Where applicable and practical, like reference numerals refer to like elements.

[0007] Figure 1 A system for an adjustable transducer element is illustrated according to a representative embodiment.

[0008] Figure 2A An ultrasound probe for an adjustable transducer element is illustrated according to a representative embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2B Another ultrasound probe for an adjustable transducer element is illustrated in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3A An adjustable transducer element is illustrated according to a representative embodiment.

[0011] Figure 3B A switching system for an adjustable transducer element is illustrated according to a representative embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4 A method for an adjustable transducer element according to a representative embodiment is illustrated.

[0013] Figure 5A Illustrated is a frequency distribution of an adjustable transducer element according to a representative embodiment.

[0014] Figure 5B Component electrical impedance according to representative embodiments is illustrated.

[0015] Figure 6 A computer system on which a method for an adjustable transducer element is implemented is illustrated according to another representative embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] In the following detailed description, representative embodiments of the disclosure details are described for the purpose of explanation rather than limitation, so as to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments according to the present teachings. However, other embodiments consistent with the present disclosure that depart from the specific details disclosed herein are still within the scope of the claims. Descriptions of known systems, devices, materials, operating methods, and manufacturing methods may be omitted to avoid blurring the description of the representative embodiments. Nevertheless, systems, devices, materials, and methods within the scope of knowledge of a person of ordinary skill in the art are also within the scope of the present teachings and can be used according to the representative embodiments. It should be understood that the terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. The definitions and interpretations of the terms herein are a supplement to the technical and scientific meanings of the terms as generally understood and accepted in the technical field of the present teachings.

[0017] It will be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements or components, these elements or components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element or component from another element or component. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the present invention, the first element or component discussed below may be referred to as the second element or component.

[0018] As used in the specification and claims, the singular forms of the terms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include both the singular and the plural, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Furthermore, the terms "include" and / or "comprises" and / or similar terms, when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0019] Unless otherwise indicated, when an element or component is referred to as being “connected to,” “coupled to,” or “adjacent to” another element or component, it will be understood that the element or component can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or component, or that intervening elements or components may be present. In other words, these and similar terms encompass situations where one or more intervening elements or components may be employed to connect two elements or components. However, when an element or component is referred to as being “directly connected” to another element or component, this only encompasses situations where the two elements or components are connected to each other without any intervening or intervening elements or components.

[0020] Thus, the present disclosure, through one or more of its various aspects, embodiments, and / or specific features or subcomponents, is intended to present one or more of the advantages specifically noted below.

[0021] As described herein, multilayer piezoelectric elements are provided with independently controllable ground and signal connections. The multilayer piezoelectric elements described herein allow for improvements in multiple transducer performance aspects, including bandwidth, sensitivity, electrical impedance, and low voltage capability, all of which result in increased clinical utility for a given transducer.

[0022] Using the teachings herein, fundamental limitations on the resonance of a single piezoelectric element are overcome. The independently controllable ground / return connections used in the transducer architecture described herein can unlock additional degrees of freedom in transducer design. This design freedom can be optimized for various system parameters and operating modes, including low-voltage transmission, transmit / receive optimization in harmonic imaging, and further separation of penetration and resolution settings, which increases the clinical utility of a single transducer.

[0023] Figure 1 Illustrated is a system 100 for an adjustable transducer element according to a representative embodiment.

[0024] Figure 1 The system 100 is a system for an adjustable transducer element and includes components that are generally provided together but not necessarily directly connected together. The system 100 includes an ultrasound probe 110, an ultrasound base 120, and a display 180.

[0025] The ultrasound probe 110 includes a transducer array 111, and the transducer array 111 includes a plurality of transducer elements, including a first transducer element 1111, a second transducer element 1112, through an Xth transducer element 111X. When the ultrasound probe 110 transmits ultrasonic waves and receives echoes of the ultrasonic waves, the transducer array 111 is used to form an aperture. As an example, the transducer array 111 may include, for example, 192 x 2 transducer elements, for a total of 384 transducer elements. Compared to conventional analog coaxial cables, the ultrasound probe 110 can be configured to connect to a digital cable.

[0026] The ultrasound base 120 can be implemented as a cart with a workstation, or as a mobile device, such as a tablet computer or smartphone, on which an ultrasound control application is installed. The ultrasound base 120 includes a first interface 121, a second interface 122, a user interface 123, and a controller 150. The controller 150 includes at least a memory 151 for storing instructions and a processor 152 for executing the instructions. Figure 6 A computer that can be used to implement the ultrasound base 120 is depicted in FIG, but the ultrasound base 120 can include more Figure 1 or Figure 6 More or fewer elements than those depicted.

[0027] The first interface 121 couples the ultrasound base 120 to the ultrasound probe 110. The second interface 122 couples the ultrasound base 120 to the display 180. The first interface 121 and the second interface may include ports, wireless antennas, or other types of receiver circuits that connect the ultrasound base 120 to other electronic components. The user interface 123 may include an interactive interface such as a touch screen, buttons, keys, a mouse, a microphone, a speaker, a display separate from the display 180, or other elements that a user can use to interact with the ultrasound base 120 (such as entering commands and receiving output). The user interface may include a system console that includes a graphical user interface 181, and the user interface may be configured to control one or more switches to connect either or both of the first external ground electrode and the second external ground electrode.

[0028] Controller 150 may directly perform some of the operations described herein, and may indirectly implement other operations described herein. For example, controller 150 may indirectly control operations, such as by generating and sending content to be displayed on display 180. Controller 150 may directly control other operations, such as logic operations performed by processor 152 executing instructions from memory 151, based on input received from electronic components and / or a user via an interface. Thus, the processes implemented by controller 150 when processor 152 executes instructions from memory 151 may include steps that are not directly performed by controller 150. In some embodiments, Figure 1 The various elements of system 100 may include a controller such as controller 150 .

[0029] The display 180 can be local to the controller 150 or can be remotely connected to the controller 150. The display 180 can be connected to the controller 150 via a local wired interface such as an Ethernet cable or via a local wireless interface such as a Wi-Fi connection. The display 180 can be coupled to other user input devices (including a mouse, keyboard, thumb wheel, etc.) through which a user can input instructions. The display 180 can be a monitor such as a computer monitor, a display on a mobile device, an augmented reality display, a television, an electronic whiteboard, or another screen configured to display electronic images. The display 180 can also include one or more input interfaces, such as those described above that can be connected to other elements or components, as well as an interactive touch screen configured to display prompts to the user and collect touch input from the user.

[0030] Figure 2A An ultrasound probe for an adjustable transducer element is illustrated according to a representative embodiment.

[0031] exist Figure 2AIn FIG. 2 , the ultrasound probe 210A includes a transducer 211A, a controller 215A, a switch 216A, a first transducer element 2111A, second transducer elements 2112A to X-th transducer elements 211XA, a lens 214A, and a user interface 223A.

[0032] exist Figure 2A , a controller 215A is provided as an element of the ultrasound probe 210A. The controller 215A may include an application specific integrated circuit or a combination of a memory storing instructions and a processor executing the instructions. The controller 215A may control the operation of the ultrasound probe 210A, such as switching a switch 216A based on the type of anatomical structure that the ultrasound probe 210A is being used to image. Furthermore, the switch 216A is shown as being separate from the transducer elements of the transducer 211A, but the switch 216A may be provided on a per-electrode basis for each element of the transducer 211A.

[0033] Figure 2B Another ultrasound probe for an adjustable transducer element is illustrated in accordance with a representative embodiment.

[0034] exist Figure 2B In FIG. 2 , the ultrasound probe 210B includes a transducer 211B, a controller 215B, a switch 216B, a first transducer element 2111B, second transducer elements 2112B to X-th transducer elements 211XB, a lens 214B, and a user interface 223B.

[0035] exist Figure 2A In the embodiment, the controller 215B is provided outside the ultrasound probe 210A and may be provided in the ultrasound base, for example Figure 1 1. The controller 215B may include an application specific integrated circuit or a combination of a memory storing instructions and a processor executing the instructions. The controller 215B may control the operation of the ultrasound probe 210B, such as switching the switch 216B based on the type of anatomical structure that the ultrasound probe 210B is being used to image. In addition, the switch 216B is shown as being separate from the transducer elements of the transducer 211B, but the switch 216B may be provided on a per-electrode basis for each element of the transducer 211B.

[0036] Figure 3A An adjustable transducer element is illustrated according to a representative embodiment. Figure 3A The adjustable transducer element may correspond to the previously indicated transducer 211A or transducer 211B.

[0037] Figure 3A The transducer elements in are asymmetric multilayer stacks with independent ground / return. Figure 3AThe transducer element in FIG. 1 includes a first element signal connection 311 and a second element signal connection 312, a first ground connection 341, a second ground connection 342, a third ground connection 343, a fourth ground connection 344, one or more matching layers 351, a first piezoelectric layer 361, a second piezoelectric layer 362, and one or more internal layers 371. The first element signal connection 311 is permanently connected to the second element signal connection 312. The first ground connection 341 is the bottom surface of the internal layer(s) 371 and is bonded to other transducer components as a flexible circuit. The third ground connection 343 is an external ground electrode of the first piezoelectric layer 361. The first ground connection 341 and the third ground connection 343 can be electrically connected via bulk conductivity or a via structure through the internal layer(s) 371. The fourth ground connection 344 is an external ground electrode of the second piezoelectric layer 362 and can be permanently connected to the second ground connection 342.

[0038] Figure 3A The interconnect structure for the transducer elements is illustrated. Voltage is applied to the first and second piezoelectric layers 361, 362 via first and second element signal connections 311, 312, respectively. The inner layer(s) 371 are electrically conductive and may comprise tungsten carbide.

[0039] exist Figure 3A In FIG, the transducer element comprises a first piezoelectric layer 361 and a second piezoelectric layer 362 and two external ground electrodes comprising a second ground connection 342 and a third ground connection 343. The two external ground connections are not shorted together and are not redundant. The piezoelectric layers may have equal thickness or may be skewed to further optimize the resonant structure, as shown in FIG. Figure 3A As shown. One or both piezoelectric layers can include a composite material. For example, the second piezoelectric layer 362 can include a composite material to optimize emission in the active configuration of the first piezoelectric layer 361. The composite material used as the piezoelectric layer can serve as a matching layer when inactive. The preferred disconnected state condition of the ground electrode can be determined during development to configure the piezoelectric layer to be shorted to the signal, floating, or connected to an arbitrary voltage level. In some embodiments, the piezoelectric layer can include a ceramic material or a crystalline material.

[0040] Figure 3A The piezoelectric layer of the transducer element in is divided into two discrete layers. The ground electrode or signal return electrode is managed independently so as to be switched on and off independently. Each piezoelectric layer can be selectively connected to ground potential by a switch. When the two ground connections are connected by the switch so that both corresponding piezoelectric layers are active for oscillation, the effective thickness of the entire piezoelectric structure increases and results in a lower frequency response. The connection of the two ground connections also results in a higher electrical impedance, which can better match the electrical impedance of the ultrasound system in transmit mode or receive mode. Conversely, if Figure 3A If only one of the piezoelectric layers in the structure is connected to ground via a switch, the disconnected piezoelectric layer effectively remains open and acts as an inactive layer, reducing the effective thickness of the entire piezoelectric structure and leading to a higher frequency resonance. Figure 3A The connection of only one of the piezoelectric layers in the embodiment also results in a lower electrical impedance, which can better match the electrical impedance of the ultrasound system in transmit mode or receive mode. In other words, a lower active thickness of the entire piezoelectric structure corresponds to a higher frequency response, and vice versa. Lower frequencies provide greater penetration depth and higher frequencies provide better resolution. Figure 1 The ultrasonic base 120 in the embodiment is used to control the Figure 3A The ultrasound probe may include an array of transducer elements in a mode, and an array of corresponding switches may be set in response to selection of the mode.

[0041] As mentioned above, Figure 3A The transducer element in the embodiment includes: a plurality of layers including a first piezoelectric layer 361 and a second piezoelectric layer 362 adjacent to and physically separated from the first piezoelectric layer; a first element signal connection 311 and a second element signal connection 312; and a ground connection 341 as a first external ground electrode and a second ground connection 342 as a second external ground electrode. The second external ground electrode is physically separated from the first external ground electrode such that the first external ground electrode and the second external ground electrode are independently controllable. Each transducer element in a transducer array such as transducer array 111 can be controlled in a manner similar to that of FIG. Figure 3A The transducer elements are configured in the same or similar manner.

[0042] exist Figure 3A , the first piezoelectric layer 361 has a different thickness than the second piezoelectric layer 362. For example, the first piezoelectric layer 361 can be twice as thick as the second piezoelectric layer 362, such that the relative thickness provided by the piezoelectric layers, alone or in combination, can vary between a base thickness of the second piezoelectric layer 362, a base thickness of the first piezoelectric layer 361, or a combined base thickness of the piezoelectric layers. The layer thicknesses can be selected to define a particular resonance and can be customized to a certain degree. Figure 3A The frequency spectrum of the transducer element in can be changed based on the change of the configuration of the first external ground electrode and the second external ground electrode. The first piezoelectric layer 361 and the second piezoelectric layer 362 can have different thicknesses, which are optimized for the resonant structure of the transducer element with different electrical impedances.

[0043] exist Figure 3A , two piezoelectric layers are shown for a transducer element. However, a transducer element in a transducer array can include more than two piezoelectric layers consistent with the teachings herein. More than two piezoelectric layers can provide a larger range of potential imaging modes and increased refinement of the spectrum for such imaging modes.

[0044] Figure 3B A switching system for an adjustable transducer element is illustrated according to a representative embodiment.

[0045] exist Figure 3B , a first set of switches 381 is shown on the right, and a second set of switches 382 is shown on the left. The first set of switches 381 and the second set of switches 382 are configured to switchably disconnect and connect the individual ground connections of the adjustable transducer elements, as described with respect to FIG. Figure 3A As described. The first set of switches 381 and the second set of switches 382 can be independently operable and / or can be operable as a group. Connections e1, e2, and e3 are connections to different electrodes on different layers of the transducer element, and the connections of the first set of switches 381 and / or the second set of switches 382 will connect various configurations of electrodes based on the operating mode of the ultrasound probe 110. Figure 3B The frequency spectrum of the transducer element in can vary based on changes in the configuration of the first external ground electrode and the second external ground electrode, and this may be due to either or both of the thickness of the piezoelectric layer and the configuration of the switch and the corresponding configuration of the first external ground electrode and the second external ground electrode.

[0046] Figure 3B The ability to independently control each piezoelectric layer of the transducer element using a switch connected to a ground connection is illustrated. Figure 1 The ultrasound probe 110 or ultrasound base 120 in the embodiment may include a user interface that enables a user to select a mode for the ultrasound probe, and the selection of the mode may automatically configure the first set of switches 381 and the second set of switches 382. The ultrasound probe 110 may be programmed to connect the first set of switches 381 and the second set of switches 382 for each transducer element based on the mode in which the ultrasound probe 110 is being used. These modes may correspond to preset configurations of the switches so that the ultrasound probe 110 varies in operation based on the type of imaging being performed.

[0047] Figure 4 A method for an adjustable transducer element according to a representative embodiment is illustrated.

[0048] exist Figure 4 The mode is set at S410. The mode can be set automatically at S410 or by the operator entering instructions into the user interface. The user interface can be provided at Figure 1 On the ultrasound probe 110 or the ultrasound base 120.

[0049] At S420, the switch is controlled. For example, the switch of the ultrasound probe 110 can be controlled based on the mode to connect either one or both piezoelectric layers to the ground electrode. In embodiments where more than two piezoelectric layers are implemented for each transducer element, the switch can be switched into more than three configurations, particularly when any two or more piezoelectric layers have different thicknesses, allowing for more than three different electrical impedances to be configured. The switch can be controlled for each different transducer element of the ultrasound probe 110. In some embodiments, the switch can be controlled for a subset of transducer elements, such as when some transducer elements are not to be used in a mode.

[0050] At S430 , the ultrasound probe transmits an ultrasound signal via the transducer array, and at S440 , the ultrasound probe receives an echo of the ultrasound signal via the transducer array.

[0051] At S450, the received echoes may be digitized, such as by an analog-to-digital converter in the ultrasound probe. In some embodiments where the output of the ultrasound probe to the ultrasound base is not digitized, S450 may be optional.

[0052] At S460, the digitized signal is sent via a cable, such as from Figure 1 The ultrasound probe 110 in the ultrasound system is sent to the ultrasound base 120.

[0053] At S470, the transmitted signal is received, stored, and displayed. In embodiments where the output of the ultrasound probe is not digitized, digitization may be performed at the display.

[0054] At S480, it is determined whether the echo received at S440 is the last echo expected.If additional transmissions and echoes are expected (S480=No), the method returns to S430, otherwise (S480=Yes), the method ends at S490.

[0055] Figure 5A Illustrated is a frequency distribution of an adjustable transducer element according to a representative embodiment.

[0056] Figure 5A The spectrum shown in is based on Figure 3A Hypothetical spectra of the transducer elements in with frequency shifts from each connection configuration. Figure 5A , the spectrum when both the first ground connection 341 and the second ground connection 342 are connected is labeled "1" and is the leftmost spectrum. The spectrum when only the first ground connection 341 is connected is labeled "2" and is the center spectrum. The spectrum when only the second ground connection 342 is connected is labeled "3" and is the rightmost spectrum. In addition, Figure 5B Shown Figure 5A The corresponding component electrical impedances for the respective cases are shown. Figure 5BComponent electrical impedance according to representative embodiments is illustrated.

[0057] Figure 6 A computer system on which a method for an adjustable transducer element is implemented is illustrated according to another representative embodiment.

[0058] refer to Figure 6 , computer system 600 includes a set of software instructions that can be executed to cause computer system 600 to perform any of the methods or computer-based functions disclosed herein. Computer system 600 can operate as a standalone device or can be connected to other computer systems or peripheral devices, for example, using network 601. In an embodiment, computer system 600 performs logic processing based on digital signals received via an analog-to-digital converter.

[0059] In a networked deployment, the computer system 600 operates in the capacity of a server or as a client user computer in a server-client user network environment, or operates as a peer computer system in a point-to-point (or distributed) network environment. The computer system 600 can also be implemented as or incorporated into various devices, such as an ultrasound base, a workstation including a controller, a fixed computer, a mobile computer, a personal computer (PC), a laptop computer, a tablet computer, or any other machine capable of running a software instruction set (sequential or otherwise) specifying the actions to be taken by the machine. The computer system 600 can be incorporated into or into a device, which in turn is in an integrated system including additional devices. In an embodiment, the computer system 600 can be implemented using electronic devices that provide voice, video, or data communications. In addition, although the computer system 600 is illustrated in the singular, the term "system" should also be considered to include any collection of systems or subsystems that run one or more software instruction sets to perform one or more computer functions, either alone or in combination.

[0060] like Figure 6As shown, computer system 600 includes a processor 610. Processor 610 can be considered a representative example of a processor of a controller and executes instructions to implement some or all aspects of the methods and processes described herein. Processor 610 is tangible and non-transient. As used herein, the term "non-transient" should be interpreted as not a permanent characteristic of a state, but rather a characteristic of a state that will persist for a period of time. The term "non-transient" specifically negates transient characteristics, such as the characteristics of a carrier wave or signal or other forms that only exist temporarily in any place at any time. Processor 610 is an article of manufacture and / or machine component. Processor 610 is configured to execute software instructions to perform the functions described in various embodiments herein. Processor 610 can be a general-purpose processor or can be part of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Processor 610 can also be a microprocessor, a microcomputer, a processor chip, a controller, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a state machine, or a programmable logic device. Processor 610 can also be a logic circuit, including a programmable gate array (PGA), such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or another type of circuit including discrete gates and / or transistor logic. Processor 610 may be a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or both. In addition, any processor described herein may include multiple processors, parallel processors, or both. Multiple processors may be included in or coupled to a single device or multiple devices.

[0061] As used herein, the term "processor" encompasses an electronic component capable of running a program or machine-executable instructions. References to a computing device that includes a "processor" should be interpreted to include more than one processor or processing core, such as in a multi-core processor. A processor may also refer to a collection of processors within a single computer system or distributed among multiple computer systems. The term computing device system should also be interpreted to include a collection or network of computing devices that each include one or more processors. A program has software instructions that are executed by one or more processors, which may be within the same computing device or may be distributed across multiple computing devices.

[0062] Computer system 600 also includes main memory 620 and static memory 630, wherein the memories in computer system 600 communicate with each other and with processor 610 via bus 608. Either or both of main memory 620 and static memory 630 can be considered representative examples of memory of a controller and store instructions for implementing some or all aspects of the methods and processes described herein. The memories described herein are tangible storage media for storing data and executable software instructions and are non-transient during the time the software instructions are stored therein. As used herein, the term "non-transient" should be interpreted as not a permanent characteristic of a state, but rather a characteristic of a state that will persist for a period of time. The term "non-transient" specifically negates transient characteristics, such as characteristics of a carrier wave or signal or other forms that exist only temporarily in one place at any time. Main memory 620 and static memory 630 are articles of manufacture and / or machine components. Main memory 620 and static memory 630 are computer-readable media from which a computer (e.g., processor 610) can read data and executable software instructions. Each of the main memory 620 and the static memory 630 may be implemented as one or more of the following: random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, electrically programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), registers, a hard disk, a removable disk, a magnetic tape, a compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a floppy disk, a Blu-ray disk, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. The memory may be volatile or non-volatile, secure and / or encrypted, unsecure and / or unencrypted.

[0063] "Memory" is an example of a computer-readable storage medium. Computer memory is any memory directly accessible to a processor. Examples of computer memory include, but are not limited to, RAM, registers, and register files. References to "computer memory" or "memory" should be interpreted as potentially referring to multiple memories. A memory can, for example, be multiple memories within the same computer system. It can also be multiple memories distributed across multiple computer systems or computing devices.

[0064] As shown, the computer system 600 also includes a video display unit 650, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a flat panel display, a solid state display, or a cathode ray tube (CRT). In addition, the computer system 600 includes an input device 660, such as a keyboard / virtual keyboard or a touch-sensitive input screen or a voice input unit with voice recognition, and a cursor control device 670, such as a mouse or a touch-sensitive input screen or a keypad. The computer system 600 also optionally includes a disk drive unit 680, a signal generating device 690 (such as a speaker or a remote control), and / or a network interface device 640.

[0065] In an embodiment, Figure 6 As depicted, disk drive unit 680 includes a computer-readable medium 682 having one or more software instruction sets 684 (software) embedded therein. Software instruction sets 684 are read from computer-readable medium 682 for execution by processor 610. Furthermore, software instructions 684, when executed by processor 610, perform one or more steps of the methods and processes described herein. In embodiments, software instructions 684 reside, in whole or in part, within main memory 620, static memory 630, and / or processor 610 during execution by computer system 600. Furthermore, computer-readable medium 682 may include software instructions 684 or receive and execute software instructions 684 in response to propagated signals, enabling devices connected to network 601 to communicate voice, video, or data over network 601. Software instructions 684 may be sent or received over network 601 via network interface device 640.

[0066] In an embodiment, dedicated hardware implementations such as application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic arrays, and other hardware components are constructed to implement one or more methods described herein. One or more embodiments described herein can use two or more specific interconnected hardware modules or devices with relevant control and data signals that can be transmitted between modules and through modules to implement functions. Therefore, the present disclosure encompasses software, firmware, and hardware implementations. Nothing in this application should be interpreted as being implemented or implementable using only software rather than hardware such as tangible non-transient processors and / or memories.

[0067] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a hardware computer system running a software program can be used to implement the methods described herein. Furthermore, in exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, implementations can include distributed processing, component / object distributed processing, and parallel processing. Virtual computer system processing can implement one or more of the methods or functions described herein, and the processors described herein can be used to support a virtual processing environment.

[0068] Thus, the adjustable transducer element provides a multilayer piezoelectric element with independently controllable ground and signal connections. The multilayer piezoelectric elements described herein allow for improvements in multiple transducer performance aspects, including bandwidth, sensitivity, electrical impedance, and low voltage capability, all of which result in increased clinical utility for a given transducer.

[0069] Although the adjustable transducer element has been described with reference to several exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the words that have been used are words of description and illustration, rather than words of limitation. Changes may be made within the scope of the claims as presently stated and amended without departing from the scope and spirit of the adjustable transducer element in its aspects. Although the adjustable transducer element has been described with reference to particular modules, materials, and embodiments, the adjustable transducer element is not intended to be limited to the details disclosed; rather, the adjustable transducer element extends to all functionally equivalent structures, methods, and uses, such as are within the scope of the claims.

[0070] The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide an overall understanding of the structures of the various embodiments. These illustrations are not intended to be used as a complete description of all elements and features of the disclosure described herein. After reviewing this disclosure, many other embodiments may be apparent to those skilled in the art. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from this disclosure so that structural and logical replacements and changes can be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In addition, the illustrations are merely representative and may not be drawn to scale. Certain proportions within the illustrations may be exaggerated, while other proportions may be minimized. Therefore, this disclosure and the accompanying drawings should be considered illustrative and not restrictive.

[0071] It is only for convenience that one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are referred to herein individually and / or collectively by the term "invention" and are not intended to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any particular invention or inventive concept. In addition, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that any subsequent arrangements designed to achieve the same or similar purposes may replace the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent modifications or variations of the various embodiments. After reviewing this specification, the combination of the above-described embodiments and other embodiments not specifically described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0072] The Abstract of the present disclosure is provided to comply with 37 CFR §1.72(b) and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together or described in a single embodiment for the purpose of simplifying the disclosure. This disclosure should not be interpreted to reflect an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, the inventive subject matter may be directed to fewer than all the features of any disclosed embodiment. Accordingly, the following claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as defining separately claimed subject matter.

[0073] The foregoing description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable those skilled in the art to practice the concepts described in this disclosure. As such, the above-disclosed subject matter should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive, and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other embodiments that fall within the true spirit and scope of the disclosure. Therefore, to the maximum extent permitted by law, the scope of the present disclosure is to be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the claims and their equivalents, and shall not be restricted or limited by the foregoing detailed description.

Claims

1. A transducer element (211A), comprising: a plurality of layers comprising a first piezoelectric layer (361) and a second piezoelectric layer (362), the second piezoelectric layer being adjacent to and physically separated from the first piezoelectric layer (361); at least one signal connection (311); and A first external ground electrode (341) and a second external ground electrode (342), the second external ground electrode being physically separated from the first external ground electrode so that the first external ground electrode and the second external ground electrode are independently controllable.

2. The transducer element (211A) according to claim 1, wherein The frequency spectrum of the transducer element (211A) changes based on a change in the configuration of the first external ground electrode and the second external ground electrode.

3. The transducer element (211A) according to claim 2, further comprising: A switch is configured to connect either or both of the first external ground electrode and the second external ground electrode to change the frequency spectrum of the transducer element (211A).

4. The transducer element (211A) according to claim 3, wherein The switch is controlled via a user interface (123) to be connected to either or both of the first external ground electrode and the second external ground electrode.

5. The transducer element (211A) according to claim 1, wherein The first piezoelectric layer (361) and the second piezoelectric layer (362) have different thicknesses, and the different thicknesses are optimized for the resonant structure of the transducer element (211A) having different electrical impedances.

6. The transducer element (211A) according to claim 1, wherein At least one of the first piezoelectric layer (361) or the second piezoelectric layer (362) includes a composite material.

7. The transducer element (211A) according to claim 1, wherein The transducer element (211A) is a component of an ultrasound probe (110) configured to be connected to a digital cable.

8. An ultrasound probe (110), comprising: A plurality of transducer elements (211A), wherein each of the transducer elements (211A) comprises: a plurality of layers comprising a first piezoelectric layer (361) and a second piezoelectric layer (362), the second piezoelectric layer being adjacent to and physically separated from the first piezoelectric layer (361); at least one signal connection; and A first external ground electrode and a second external ground electrode, the second external ground electrode being physically separated from the first external ground electrode such that the first external ground electrode and the second external ground electrode are independently controllable.

9. The ultrasound probe (110) according to claim 8, wherein: The frequency spectrum of each transducer element (211A) varies based on a variation in the configuration of the first and second external ground electrodes of the transducer element (211A).

10. The ultrasound probe (110) according to claim 9, wherein: Each transducer element (211A) further comprises: A switch configured to connect either or both of the first external ground electrode and the second external ground electrode to change the frequency spectrum of the transducer element (211A), wherein the switch is controlled to connect to either or both of the first external ground electrode and the second external ground electrode via a user interface (123).

11. The ultrasound probe (110) according to claim 8, wherein: The first piezoelectric layer (361) and the second piezoelectric layer (362) of each transducer element (211A) have different thicknesses, and the different thicknesses are optimized for the resonant structure of the ultrasound probe (110) having different electrical impedances.

12. The ultrasound probe (110) according to claim 8, wherein: At least one of the first piezoelectric layer (361) or the second piezoelectric layer (362) of each transducer element (211A) comprises a composite material.

13. The ultrasound probe (110) according to claim 8, wherein: Each transducer element (211A) is configured to connect to a digital cable.

14. An ultrasound system (100), comprising: Ultrasonic base station (120); as well as An ultrasound probe (110), wherein the ultrasound probe (110) comprises: A plurality of transducer elements (211A), wherein each of the transducer elements (211A) comprises: a plurality of layers comprising a first piezoelectric layer (361) and a second piezoelectric layer (362), the second piezoelectric layer being adjacent to and physically separated from the first piezoelectric layer (361); at least one signal connection; and A first external ground electrode and a second external ground electrode, the second external ground electrode being physically separated from the first external ground electrode such that the first external ground electrode and the second external ground electrode are independently controllable.

15. The ultrasound system (100) of claim 14, wherein: The frequency spectrum of each transducer element (211A) varies based on a variation in the configuration of the first and second external ground electrodes of the transducer element (211A).

16. The ultrasound system (100) of claim 15, further comprising: User interface (123), Wherein, each transducer element (211A) further comprises: A switch configured to connect either or both of the first external ground electrode and the second external ground electrode to change the frequency spectrum of the transducer element (211A), wherein the switch is controlled to connect to either or both of the first external ground electrode and the second external ground electrode via the user interface (123).

17. The ultrasound system (100) of claim 16, wherein: The user interface (123) includes a system (100) console, and the system console includes a graphical user interface (123).

18. The ultrasound system (100) of claim 14, wherein: The first piezoelectric layer (361) and the second piezoelectric layer (362) of each transducer element (211A) have different thicknesses, and the different thicknesses are optimized for the resonant structure of the ultrasound probe (110) having different electrical impedances.

19. The ultrasound system (100) of claim 14, wherein: At least one of the first piezoelectric layer (361) or the second piezoelectric layer (362) of each transducer element (211A) comprises a composite material.

20. The ultrasound system (100) of claim 14, wherein: Each transducer element (211A) is configured to connect to a digital cable.

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