Intracavity ultrasound probe

Abstract

The application belongs to the technical field of medical devices, and particularly relates to an intracavitary ultrasonic probe, which comprises a shell, a core body arranged in the shell and comprising an acoustic lens, an ultrasonic transducer, a flexible circuit and an axial heat conduction path arranged in a stack from a distal end to a proximal end, the material thermal conductivity coefficient of the axial heat conduction path being higher than that of the ultrasonic transducer and the acoustic lens, and a filling medium filling the gap between the shell and the core body. By embedding the axial heat conduction path with high thermal conductivity coefficient in the middle of the core body, the axial heat conduction path efficiently conducts the heat generated by the ultrasonic transducer to the position connected with the external heat dissipation structure along the axial direction, so that the temperature rise caused by the heat accumulation at the ultrasonic transducer is avoided, and the stability of ultrasonic emission and the service life of the probe are ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of medical device technology, and specifically relates to an intracavitary ultrasound probe. Background Technology

[0002] Existing intracavitary ultrasound probes typically use an ultrasound transducer as the core component. The working principle is to convert the excitation electrical signal into an ultrasound signal to enter the patient's body, and then convert the ultrasound echo signal reflected by the tissue into an electrical signal. Combined with circuitry, signal processing, imaging and other related technologies, an image of the target is formed, enabling the detection of the tissue.

[0003] However, under conditions of high frequency, high power, or long-term continuous operation, the various components of an ultrasonic probe will generate a certain amount of heat. Furthermore, since intracavitary ultrasonic probes operate within the body's cavities, heat dissipation is limited, making it difficult for heat to dissipate promptly, thus leading to an increase in the probe's surface temperature. This increased probe temperature not only affects the transducer's performance, causing changes in piezoelectric constant, resonant frequency drift, and unstable acoustic output, but may also pose a potential risk of thermal damage to surrounding biological tissues.

[0004] Existing heat dissipation optimization solutions for ultrasound probes are mostly aimed at conventional external ultrasound probes and the ultrasound transducers themselves. External ultrasound probes, which perform ultrasound examinations through the skin surface from outside the human body, are relatively large in overall size and usually have a small contact area with the patient, allowing for ample space to design heat dissipation structures. However, intracavitary ultrasound probes need to be placed inside human cavities, their size is strictly limited, and their contact area with the patient is usually large, making it impossible to apply the same heat dissipation solutions as external ultrasound probes. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to propose an intracavitary ultrasonic probe that can effectively and promptly remove the heat generated by the ultrasonic transducer during operation.

[0006] This application proposes an intracavitary ultrasound probe, comprising: a housing; a core disposed within the housing, including an acoustic lens, an ultrasonic transducer, a flexible circuit, and an axial heat conduction path stacked from distal to proximal, wherein the thermal conductivity of the material of the axial heat conduction path is higher than the thermal conductivity of the materials of the ultrasonic transducer and the acoustic lens; and a filling medium filling the gap between the housing and the core.

[0007] In some embodiments, the axial heat conduction path includes a first axial heat conduction path; the first axial heat conduction path includes a support adhesive layer and a support block stacked from the distal end to the proximal end, wherein the thermal conductivity of the support adhesive layer is lower than that of the support block, and the acoustic attenuation coefficient of the support adhesive layer is higher than that of the support block.

[0008] In some embodiments, the support block has a plurality of grooves on the side facing the support adhesive layer, and the proximal end of the support adhesive layer is embedded in the grooves to connect with the support block.

[0009] In some embodiments, the axial thermal path further includes a second axial thermal path, which includes a thermally conductive layer and the support block. The thermally conductive layer includes a body portion and an extension portion. The body portion is axially disposed between the flexible circuit and the support adhesive layer. The extension portion is connected to the body portion and bends relative to the body portion toward the support block, and the proximal end of the extension portion is connected to the support block. The second axial thermal path is disposed around the support adhesive layer. The thickness of the thermally conductive layer is less than that of the support adhesive layer. With the extension direction from the body portion to the extension portion as the extension direction, the thermal conductivity of the thermally conductive layer along this extension direction is greater than the thermal conductivity perpendicular to this extension direction.

[0010] In some embodiments, the support block has a plurality of heat-conducting holes that extend axially, and heat-conducting pipes are inserted into the heat-conducting holes, with the distal end of the heat-conducting pipes connected to the support adhesive layer.

[0011] In some embodiments, the housing includes cylindrical sidewalls and a curved surface at the distal end of the closed sidewalls, the core is coaxially disposed with the housing, and the acoustic lens and ultrasonic transducer at the distal end of the core have an arched surface convex toward the distal end, the curvature of the arched surface matching the curved surface.

[0012] In some embodiments, the thermal conductivity of the filling medium is higher than that of the acoustic lens, wherein the filling medium is a potting liquid, and the core is bendable to allow the ultrasonic transducer to oscillate within the housing; or, the filling medium is a potting compound, and the filling medium fixes the relative position of the core and the housing.

[0013] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic transducer is capable of emitting ultrasonic waves toward the far end along the stacking direction. The core is provided with a plurality of heat dissipation holes arranged at an angle to the stacking direction. The filling medium includes a main body and a plurality of branch portions. Each of the branch portions extends into the heat dissipation holes in a corresponding manner to form a thermal bridge. The main body is sandwiched between the core and the shell as a heat diffusion interlayer. The thermal bridge is connected to the heat diffusion interlayer to form a non-axial heat diffusion path.

[0014] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic transducer includes an emitting surface located at a distal end face and a side face angled to the emitting surface, the acoustic lens spanning the distal end of the ultrasonic transducer to cover the emitting surface and the side face, and the acoustic lens having heat dissipation holes that at least partially expose the side face of the ultrasonic transducer.

[0015] In some embodiments, the axial heat conduction path includes a support block with heat conduction holes and heat dissipation holes. The heat conduction holes extend axially and are fitted with heat conduction pipes. The heat dissipation holes are angled relative to the heat conduction holes and communicate with the heat conduction holes to connect the axial heat conduction path and the non-axial heat diffusion path.

[0016] In this application, by embedding a high thermal conductivity axial heat conduction path in the middle of the core, the heat generated by the ultrasonic transducer is efficiently conducted axially to the outer shell or the location connected to the external heat dissipation structure, avoiding the temperature rise caused by heat accumulation at the ultrasonic transducer, and ensuring the stability of ultrasonic emission, probe lifespan and safety. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an intracavitary ultrasound probe according to an embodiment of this application.

[0018] Figure 2 for Figure 1 An axial cross-sectional view of an intracavitary ultrasound probe.

[0019] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Exploded view of an intracavitary ultrasound probe.

[0020] Figure 4 The diagram shows the structure of the core in an intracavitary ultrasound probe.

[0021] Figure 5 for Figure 4 Exploded view of the core.

[0022] Figure 6 for Figure 4 Cross-sectional view along the AA direction.

[0023] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A partial cross-sectional view at point M in the middle.

[0024] Figure 8 for Figure 4 Cross-sectional view along the BB direction.

[0025] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A partial cross-sectional view at point N in the middle.

[0026] Figures 10a to 10c for Figure 4 Schematic diagrams of three different implementations of the central support block.

[0027] Figures 11a to 11c This is a schematic diagram of three different implementations of heat dissipation holes on an acoustic lens.

[0028] Figure 12aSimulation results of the shell surface temperature during 120s of heat dissipation for the acoustic lens without openings.

[0029] Figure 12b for Figure 12a YZ plane cross-section diagram.

[0030] Figure 12c Simulation results of the shell surface temperature during 240s for heat dissipation of the acoustic lens without openings.

[0031] Figure 12d for Figure 12c YZ plane cross-section diagram.

[0032] Figure 13a Simulation results of the shell surface temperature during 120s of heat dissipation for the acoustic lens opening structure.

[0033] Figure 13b for Figure 13a YZ plane cross-section diagram.

[0034] Figure 13c Simulation results of the shell surface temperature during 240s for heat dissipation of the acoustic lens opening structure.

[0035] Figure 13d for Figure 13c YZ plane cross-section diagram.

[0036] Figure 14 This is a graph showing the average temperature of the outer surface of the head shell near the acoustic lens.

[0037] Figure label:

[0038] 1. Intracavitary ultrasonic probe; 10. Housing; 101. Cylindrical sidewall; 102. Curved surface; 110. Head shell; 120. Handle; 20. Core; 201. Arched surface; 210. Acoustic lens; 211. Heat dissipation hole; 220. Ultrasonic transducer; 221. Backing layer; 222. Functional layer; 223. Matching layer; 225. Emitting surface; 226. Side; 230. Flexible circuit; 240. Axial heat guide path; 2401. First axial heat guide path; 2402. Second axial heat guide path. Thermal path; 241, Support adhesive layer; 2411, First support sub-adhesive layer; 2412, Second support sub-adhesive layer; 242, Support block; 2421, Fixing mounting hole; 2422, Groove; 2423, Heat conduction hole; 2424, Heat dissipation hole; 243, Heat conduction layer; 2431, Main body; 2432, Extension; 244, Heat conduction pipe; 30, Filling medium; 310, Main body; 320, Branch; 40, Fixing base; 50, Connector; 60, Fixing screw; 70, Heat sink. Detailed Implementation

[0039] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0040] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, a movable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two elements or the interaction between two elements, such as contact. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances. It should be noted that when "connected" or "linked" is preceded by a qualifier, it has the meaning defined by that qualifier, excluding only obviously excluding cases, but not other possible cases.

[0041] Furthermore, where the terms "first" and "second" appear, these terms are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, where the term "multiple" appears, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0042] It is important to understand that the terms "distal" and "proximal" used in this article refer to two parts. "Distal" refers to the part of the component that is farther from the surgeon or operator, typically the end of the component that enters the patient's body or surgical area. "Proximal" refers to the part of the component that is closer to the surgeon or operator, typically the end that the surgeon or operator holds or manipulates. For a single component, the end closer to the surgeon or operator is the proximal end, and the end farther from the surgeon or operator is the distal end.

[0043] refer to Figures 1 to 9 This embodiment provides an intracavitary ultrasonic probe 1, including a housing 10, a core 20, and a filling medium 30. The core 20 is disposed within the housing 10 and includes an acoustic lens 210, an ultrasonic transducer 220, a flexible circuit 230, and an axial heat-conducting path 240 stacked from distal to proximal end (see...). Figure 7 The thermal conductivity of the material in the axial heat-conducting path 240 is higher than that of the materials in the ultrasonic transducer 220 and the acoustic lens 210. The filling medium 30 fills the gap between the shell 10 and the core 20.

[0044] The housing 10 is made of, for example, a biocompatible material (such as polyetheretherketone, PEEK). The housing 10 contains a mounting base 40, a connector 50, and a fixing screw 60. The ultrasonic transducer 220 is connected to the mounting base 40 via the connector 50 and the fixing screw 60. Furthermore, the mounting base 40 connects the head shell 110 and the handle 120, thus integrating the components of the intracavitary ultrasonic probe 1 into a single unit. Exemplarily, the distal end of the mounting base 40 is fixedly connected to the head shell 110, and the proximal end of the mounting base 40 is connected to the handle 120.

[0045] Further, refer to Figures 1 to 3 In some embodiments, the housing 10 includes a connected head shell 110 and a handle 120. The head shell 110 is located at the distal end of the handle 120, which is used for the operator and grip. The head shell 110 is a hollow cylinder with a closed distal end, used to protect the core 20 and prevent the core 20 from direct contact with human tissue. The handle 120 is located at the proximal end of the intracavitary ultrasound probe 1, with one end connected to the mounting base 40 and the other end for the user to grip. The handle 120 has a hollow structure, and the internal space is used to lead out the cable of the ultrasound transducer 220 and connect it to the ultrasound host.

[0046] refer to Figures 2 to 4 The core 20 is provided with an acoustic lens 210, an ultrasonic transducer 220, a flexible circuit 230 and an axial heat conduction path 240 stacked sequentially along the axial direction (i.e. from the distal end to the proximal end) of the housing 10.

[0047] Acoustic lens 210 is located at the far end of core 20. It transmits ultrasonic waves emitted by ultrasonic transducer 220 to the outside world or receives ultrasonic waves from the outside world. It is usually made of a sound-transmitting material (such as RTV silicone rubber) whose acoustic impedance matches that of human tissue. It can be integrally molded by casting.

[0048] The ultrasonic transducer 220 is the core component of the intracavitary ultrasonic probe 1, used to realize the mutual conversion between electrical energy and ultrasonic mechanical energy. It can convert the excitation electrical signal into an ultrasonic signal to enter the patient's body, and then convert the ultrasonic echo signal reflected by the tissue into an electrical signal. The ultrasonic transducer 220 can be based on the piezoelectric effect, magnetostrictive effect, or electrostrictive effect, preferably the piezoelectric effect, according to its principle of converting electrical energy into ultrasonic mechanical energy.

[0049] For example, refer to Figures 6 to 9From proximal to distal, the ultrasonic transducer 220 includes a backing layer 221, a functional layer 222, and a matching layer 223, all connected as a single unit by an adhesive. The backing layer 221, located on the back of the functional layer 222, suppresses residual vibrations and absorbs back-facing acoustic waves; it can be a single-layer or multi-layer structure. The functional layer 222 is the core component for converting electrical energy into ultrasonic waves, enabling the mutual conversion between electrical and ultrasonic energy. The functional layer 222 is selected based on the conversion principle of electrical energy and ultrasonic mechanical energy in the ultrasonic transducer 220, and can be made of piezoelectric materials, magnetostrictive materials, electrostrictive materials, etc., preferably piezoelectric materials. The matching layer 223, located on the front of the functional layer 222, addresses impedance mismatch, broadens bandwidth, and protects the functional layer 222; it can also be a single-layer or multi-layer structure.

[0050] Flexible circuit 230 is configured to lead out the electrodes of each element of ultrasonic transducer 220. Exemplarily, flexible circuit 230 is disposed near the end of backing layer 221.

[0051] An axial heat-conducting path 240 is axially connected to the ultrasonic transducer 220. The thermal conductivity of the material of the axial heat-conducting path 240 is greater than that of the materials of the ultrasonic transducer 220 and the acoustic lens 210. This allows the heat generated by the ultrasonic transducer 220 to be rapidly transferred through the axial heat-conducting path 240. For example, the axial heat-conducting path 240 may be made of a material with a thermal conductivity greater than 10 W / (m·K) (such as a mixture of metal, graphite, graphene, epoxy resin and powder, or a mixture of silicone and powder). The piezoelectric ceramic in the ultrasonic transducer 220 has a thermal conductivity of 1-2 W / (m·K), while the acoustic lens 210 has an even lower thermal conductivity, typically 0.2 W / (m·K).

[0052] The filling medium 30 fills the gap between the housing 10 and the core 20. This filling medium 30 not only serves to fix the core 20 and transmit acoustic signals, but also acts as an auxiliary heat dissipation channel, conducting lateral heat from the core 20 to the housing 10. The filling medium 30 can be a material with a low acoustic attenuation coefficient and a high thermal conductivity, enabling rapid heat conduction with minimal impact on ultrasonic function. The filling medium 30 can be, for example, potting compound or potting liquid, where potting compound is a flowable and curable colloidal material, and potting liquid is a flowable liquid material.

[0053] In this application, by embedding a high thermal conductivity axial heat conduction path 240 in the middle of the core 20, the axial heat conduction path 240 efficiently conducts the heat generated by the ultrasonic transducer 220 along the axial direction to the outer shell or the position connected to the external heat dissipation structure, avoiding the temperature rise caused by the accumulation of heat at the ultrasonic transducer 220, and ensuring the stability of ultrasonic emission, probe life and safety.

[0054] refer to Figures 6 to 9In some embodiments, the axial heat conduction path 240 includes a first axial heat conduction path 2401. The first axial heat conduction path 2401 is provided with a supporting adhesive layer 241 and a supporting block 242 stacked sequentially from the distal end to the proximal end. The thermal conductivity of the supporting adhesive layer 241 is lower than that of the supporting block 242, and the acoustic attenuation coefficient of the supporting adhesive layer 241 is higher than that of the supporting block 242.

[0055] A support adhesive layer 241 is located near the proximal end of the ultrasonic transducer 220, such that the distal surface of the support adhesive layer 241 is in close contact with the backing layer 221 or the flexible circuit 230 of the ultrasonic transducer 220. A support block 242 is disposed near the proximal end of the support adhesive layer 241. The support block 242 is used to support the ultrasonic transducer 220. For example, the support block 242 is provided with a mounting hole 2421. The mounting hole 2421 is used to connect to the connector 50 via a fixing screw 60, thereby fixing the ultrasonic transducer 220 to the mounting base 40.

[0056] For example, the support adhesive layer 241 includes a first support sub-adhesive layer 2411 and a second support sub-adhesive layer 2412 stacked sequentially from distal to proximal. At least one of the first support sub-adhesive layer 2411 and the second support sub-adhesive layer 2412 is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, such as a thermal conductivity greater than 1 W / (m·K). It should be understood that the first support sub-adhesive layer 2411 and the second support sub-adhesive layer 2412 can be a single unit, i.e., only one adhesive layer with a thermal conductivity greater than 1 W / (m·K).

[0057] The supporting adhesive layer 241 is made of a material with high sound attenuation (for example, epoxy resin mixed with tungsten powder), mainly serving as an acoustic backing to absorb ultrasonic waves radiated backward by the transducer and prevent reflection interference. The supporting block 242 is made of metal or non-metal materials such as copper, aluminum, stainless steel, and plastic, preferably a metal material with high thermal conductivity, to conduct heat to the proximal end of the ultrasonic probe 1 inside the cavity, thereby separating the acoustic function from the thermal function.

[0058] In this embodiment, the support block 242 is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, primarily responsible for conducting heat to the proximal end. Separating the acoustic and thermal functions allows the support block 242 to be independently selected using materials with optimal heat dissipation performance without being constrained by acoustic performance limitations. While the thermal conductivity of the support adhesive layer 241 is lower than that of the support block 242, its axial thickness can be designed to be very thin (e.g., less than 0.5 mm). Furthermore, because it is located between the high thermal conductivity support block 242 and the ultrasonic transducer 220, heat can quickly cross this thin layer and enter the support block 242, resulting in a still low overall axial thermal resistance and achieving an optimized balance between acoustic and thermal performance.

[0059] In some embodiments, reference Figure 7 , Figures 10a to 10c The support block 242 has multiple grooves 2422 on the side (i.e., the far end face) facing the support adhesive layer 241.

[0060] The groove 2422 is an uneven structure located on the distal surface of the support block 242, used to increase the contact area with the support adhesive layer 241 and improve the heat transfer rate. The proximal end of the support adhesive layer 241 is embedded in the groove 2422 to connect with the support block 242. After the support adhesive layer 241 fills the groove 2422, the distal end of the support block 242 becomes flat. In other embodiments, the distal end of the support block 242 may also be embedded in the support adhesive layer 241 or even partially exposed at the proximal end of the support adhesive layer 241, resulting in a larger contact area with the support adhesive layer 241.

[0061] refer to Figure 10a Groove 2422 is a slot along the thickness direction of support block 242 (perpendicular to the axial direction of housing 10). For example... Figure 10b As shown, the groove 2422 can also be formed along the circumference of the support block 242; or as shown in the figure. Figure 10c As shown, grooves 2422 are provided in both the circumferential and thickness directions, but this application does not limit the extent of the grooves. Preferably, the grooves 2422 are inclined relative to the axial direction of the housing 10, which can prevent sound waves from focusing and heating up on the back side of the ultrasonic transducer 220.

[0062] For example, during manufacturing, liquid support adhesive material can be applied to the proximal end of the ultrasonic transducer 220 first, and then the support block 242 can be pressed onto it. The liquid adhesive flows into and fills the groove 2422 under pressure, and after curing, a strong interlocking connection is formed.

[0063] By creating a groove 2422 on the distal surface of the support block 242, the contact area between the support block 242 and the support adhesive layer 241 is increased, improving the bonding strength between the support adhesive layer 241 and the support block 242 and preventing delamination during probe bending or vibration. Simultaneously, the increased contact area facilitates heat conduction through the interface, reducing contact thermal resistance and improving heat dissipation.

[0064] In some embodiments, reference Figures 6 to 9 In addition to the first axial heat conduction path 2401, the axial heat conduction of this application also includes a second axial heat conduction path 2402.

[0065] The second axial heat conduction path 2402 includes a heat-conducting layer 243 and a support block 242. The heat-conducting layer 243 has a body portion 2431 and an extension portion 2432. The body portion 2431 is axially disposed between the flexible circuit 230 and the supporting adhesive layer 241. The extension portion 2432 is connected to the body portion 2431 and bends relative to the body portion 2431 toward the support block 242, with its proximal end connected to the support block 242. This arrangement allows the second axial heat conduction path 2402 to surround the supporting adhesive layer 241, conducting heat from the flexible circuit 230 region to the support block 242 from the periphery. Figure 9 In the middle, the extension direction of the extension 2432 itself is parallel to the stacking direction of the support adhesive layer 241 and the support block 242.

[0066] The thickness of the thermally conductive layer 243 is less than that of the supporting adhesive layer 241. Furthermore, with the extension direction from the body portion 2431 to the extension portion 2432, the thermal conductivity of the thermally conductive layer 243 along this extension direction is greater than the thermal conductivity perpendicular to this extension direction. The extension direction from the body portion 2431 to the extension portion 2432 can be understood as the extension direction from the center of the body portion 2431 to the edge of the extension portion 2432, which is also the direction of the heat conduction path from the body portion 2431 to the extension portion 2432. Specifically... Figure 9 In this structure, the heat conduction path extends radially from the center of the main body to the extension portion 2432 and then axially. Thus, the heat-conducting layer 243 possesses anisotropic thermal conductivity, enabling it to conduct some of the heat generated during the operation of the ultrasonic transducer 220 to the support block 242.

[0067] The thermally conductive layer 243 is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, preferably graphene, graphite, or similar materials. The thermally conductive layer 243 is relatively thin, with a thickness of tens of micrometers, within twenty micrometers. This ensures that the thermally conductive layer 243 will not be damaged when it is bent to cover the support block 242, and will not affect the acoustic performance of the ultrasonic transducer 220. For example, graphene or graphite sheets with a single atomic arrangement can be sandwiched between the flexible circuit 230 and the supporting adhesive layer 241. The portion of the sheets extending beyond the outer edge of the flexible circuit 230 and the supporting adhesive layer 241 is then used as an extension. This extension is folded towards the support block 242 to cover the side of the supporting adhesive layer 241, forming a second axial heat-conducting path 2402.

[0068] In this embodiment, the thermally conductive layer 243 is thin and has anisotropic thermal conductivity, allowing heat to be preferentially conducted along the path from the main body 2431 to the extension 2432, thus sharing the heat that would otherwise diffuse directly to the supporting adhesive layer 241. This is particularly suitable for situations where the thermal conductivity of the first axial thermal path 2401 is insufficient to match the heat generated by a large amount of heat. The combined use of the second axial thermal path 2402 and the first axial thermal path 2401 helps to cope with different actual heat generation conditions and avoids the risk of single-path failure.

[0069] refer to Figure 6 , Figures 10a to 10c In some embodiments, the support block 242 is provided with a plurality of heat-conducting holes 2423 extending along the axial direction. A heat-conducting pipe 244 is inserted into the heat-conducting hole 2423, and the distal end of the heat-conducting pipe 244 is connected to the support adhesive layer 241.

[0070] The number of heat-conducting holes 2423 is greater than or equal to one, and their shape is consistent with that of heat-conducting pipes 244; each heat-conducting hole 2423 is provided with a heat-conducting pipe 244. The heat-conducting pipe 244 is, for example, a heat pipe or a solid high-thermal-conductivity metal column (such as a copper column), whose distal end can pass through the end face of the support block 242 and directly contact the support adhesive layer 241, and whose proximal end can extend beyond the proximal end of the housing 10. The distal end of the heat-conducting pipe 244 is connected to the support adhesive layer 241, and some heat is transferred directly from the support adhesive layer 241 to the proximal end of the intracavitary ultrasonic probe 1 through the heat-conducting pipe 244. The shape of the heat-conducting pipe 244 is, for example, a circular heat-conducting pipe 244, a flat heat-conducting pipe 244, etc., and this application does not impose any limitations. Furthermore, the heat-conducting hole 2423 may not penetrate the support block 242, but may only enter the support block 242 to a certain depth from the proximal end face.

[0071] By embedding a heat pipe 244 inside the support block 242, the heat transfer of the working medium inside the heat pipe 244 or the rapid conduction of the high thermal conductivity metal or the flow of the working medium forms a circulating heat dissipation, which greatly enhances the axial heat conduction capability. It can quickly transfer the heat at the support adhesive layer 241 to the near end of the support block 242 or conduct it to the outside, thereby effectively reducing the axial thermal resistance of the support block 242 itself and greatly improving the axial heat dissipation efficiency.

[0072] Furthermore, a thermally conductive material (not shown) is injected between the heat-conducting hole 2423 and the heat-conducting pipe 244, which ensures full contact between the heat-conducting pipe 244 and the heat source. The thermally conductive material is, for example, thermally conductive silicone grease.

[0073] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The housing 10 includes a cylindrical sidewall 101 and a curved surface 102 at the distal end of the closed sidewall. The core 20 is coaxially arranged with the housing 10. The acoustic lens 210 and ultrasonic transducer 220 at the distal end of the core 20 have an arched surface 201 protruding toward the distal end, and the curvature of the arched surface 201 matches the curved surface 102.

[0074] The radial dimension of the arched surface 201 is smaller than that of the curved surface 102. Specifically, the fan-shaped core 20 is blocky with a rectangular cross-section. The shell 10 has a circular or nearly circular cross-section. The curved surface 102 is divided into sections, including equidistant portions along the axial direction from the arched surface 201 (here understood as the orthographic projection of the arched surface 201), and non-equidistant portions with varying distances from the arched surface 201. The equidistant portions are first affected by the ultrasonic transducer 220 and receive diffused heat, while the non-equidistant portions are heated later. The equidistant portions can be referenced... Figure 12a and 13a The area showing the highest temperature has a time difference and temperature gradient with the other two regions. This application can effectively reduce the time difference and temperature gradient. Both the aforementioned homomorphic and non-homogeneous parts are provided on the head shell 110.

[0075] In this application, by designing the acoustic lens 210 and ultrasonic transducer 220 at the distal end of the core 20 as an arched surface 201 that matches the curved surface 102 of the inner wall of the housing 10, the gap between the core 20 and the housing 10 remains uniform and minimal in the distal region. The shape of the housing ensures that it can be well inserted into the human body cavity without causing scratches or obvious foreign body sensation. This is beneficial for the uniform distribution of the filling medium 30, avoiding the generation of air bubbles or cavities that affect ultrasonic transmission; on the other hand, the compact structure reduces the overall size of the distal end of the probe, making it easier for the probe to be inserted into narrow body cavities, while ensuring the focusing characteristics and imaging quality of the ultrasonic beam.

[0076] In the embodiments of this application, the thermal conductivity of the filling medium 30 is higher than that of the acoustic lens 210. For example, the material of the acoustic lens 210 (such as RTV silicone rubber) has a thermal conductivity of about 0.2-0.3 W / (m·K), while the filling medium 30 may be silicone oil or thermally conductive gel with a thermal conductivity greater than 0.8 W / (m·K).

[0077] In one implementation of this embodiment, the filling medium 30 is a potting fluid. In this case, the core 20 can mechanically oscillate within the housing 10 to change the orientation of the ultrasonic transducer 220, thereby enabling multi-angle scanning imaging within the body cavity. Because the potting fluid is fluid and has a higher thermal conductivity than air, it not only lubricates and supports the core 20 but also transfers heat from the surface of the core 20 to the housing 10 through convection, achieving effective heat dissipation for the oscillating core 20.

[0078] In another implementation of this embodiment, the filling medium 30 is a potting compound (such as thermally conductive epoxy). In this case, after the filling medium 30 cures, it fixes the relative position of the core 20 and the housing 10. This method is suitable for probe structures where the core 20 does not need to swing. After the potting compound cures, it forms a solid thermal conduction path, whose thermal conductivity is generally higher than that of liquids, providing better static heat dissipation performance and enhancing the overall strength and impact resistance of the probe structure.

[0079] Based on any of the above embodiments, the intracavitary ultrasound probe 1 of this embodiment also includes a non-axial thermal diffusion path.

[0080] refer to Figure 2 As shown, the ultrasonic transducer 220 is configured to emit ultrasonic waves toward the distal end along the stacking direction (i.e., the axial direction of the housing 10). The core 20 is provided with a plurality of heat dissipation holes 211 that are angled to the stacking direction (e.g., radially along the vertical axis of the housing 10, or obliquely at an angle to the axial direction). The filling medium 30 includes a main body 310 and a plurality of branch portions 320. Each branch portion 320 extends into the heat dissipation hole 211 in a corresponding manner to form a thermal bridge. The main body 310 is sandwiched between the core 20 and the housing 10 as a heat diffusion interlayer. The thermal bridge is connected to the heat diffusion interlayer to form a non-axial heat diffusion path.

[0081] When heat flows into and converges at the main body 310 through the branches, the heat flow undergoes "in-plane spreading" because the cross-sectional area of ​​the main body 310 is much larger than the sum of the branches. According to Fourier's law (heat flux density is inversely proportional to cross-sectional area), a sudden increase in cross-sectional area leads to a sharp decrease in heat flux density. Simultaneously, thermal capacity buffering is achieved: the converging structure itself has a certain thermal capacity, capable of absorbing instantaneous thermal shocks and converting "point heat sources" or "multiple point heat sources" into "area heat sources" for output to the shell 10. This process is equivalent to a redistribution of heat within the heat diffusion interlayer, thereby improving the uniformity of heat distribution. Thus, in addition to the axial conduction of heat to the proximal end and direct diffusion to the homomorphic portion of the shell 10, a considerable portion of the heat generated by the ultrasonic transducer 220 is conducted to the non-homogeneous portion of the shell 10 through the filling medium 30. Therefore, under the premise of a consistent total heat volume, the heat directly diffused to the homomorphic portion of the shell 10 is reduced, lowering its temperature, and the temperature gradient between the homomorphic and non-homogeneous portions is also reduced, preventing severe "local hot spots" from damaging the patient.

[0082] This application utilizes heat dissipation holes 211 on the core 20 and fills them with a thermally conductive medium to guide heat from inside the core 20 to its outer surface. The heat is then conducted to the main body 310 (heat diffusion interlayer) via thermal bridges, and from there to the housing 10, ultimately dissipating to the external environment. This non-axial heat diffusion path complements the axial heat conduction path 240, constructing a three-dimensional heat dissipation network that significantly improves the overall heat dissipation efficiency of the probe and effectively reduces the temperature rise in the transducer core area.

[0083] refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5Furthermore, the ultrasonic transducer 220 includes an emitting surface 225 located on its distal end face and a side surface 226 angled to the emitting surface 225. An acoustic lens 210 is disposed across the distal end of the ultrasonic transducer 220 to cover the emitting surface 225 and the side surface 226. The acoustic lens 210 has the aforementioned heat dissipation holes 211 that at least partially expose the side surface 226 of the ultrasonic transducer 220.

[0084] The acoustic lens 210 is located at the distal end of the ultrasonic transducer 220, enclosing the ultrasonic transducer 220 and part of the support block 242. It serves to fix and protect the ultrasonic transducer 220, while simultaneously transmitting ultrasonic waves to or receiving ultrasonic waves from the outside. However, because the acoustic lens 210 covers the side 226 of the ultrasonic transducer 220, which is encased in the low thermal conductivity of the acoustic lens 210, heat dissipation is difficult. Furthermore, since the acoustic lens 210 is the transmission port of the ultrasonic waves and is very close to human tissue, temperature control of the acoustic lens 210 is also a significant issue.

[0085] Therefore, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 4 In this embodiment, heat dissipation holes 211 are also provided on the side surface 226 region of the acoustic lens 210, so that the branch portion 320 of the filling medium 30 can contact the side surface 226 of the ultrasonic transducer 220. Specifically, multiple heat dissipation holes 211 are provided along a certain arc on both sides 226 of the acoustic lens 210. For example, Figure 11a As shown, the heat dissipation hole 211 is a circular hole that penetrates the side of the acoustic lens 210. Along the direction perpendicular to the side surface 226, the projection of the heat dissipation hole 211 overlaps with the projection of the ultrasonic transducer 220, thereby exposing the side portion of the ultrasonic transducer 220. Furthermore, as... Figure 11b As shown, the heat dissipation hole 211 can also be an arc-shaped groove structure; such as Figure 11c As shown, the heat dissipation holes 211 can also be an array of multiple square holes distributed along a certain arc.

[0086] In this way, the thermal bridge formed by the branch 320 of the filling medium 30 contacts the side 226 of the ultrasonic transducer 220. Thus, the heat generated by the ultrasonic transducer 220 can be directly discharged through the filling medium 30 without first passing through the acoustic lens 210, significantly shortening the heat dissipation path, reducing thermal resistance, and improving heat dissipation efficiency.

[0087] In addition, the heat dissipation hole 211 increases the contact area between the acoustic lens 210 and the filling medium 30, improves the heat dissipation efficiency of the ultrasonic transducer 220, and reduces the temperature of the outer surface of the head shell 110.

[0088] refer to Figures 12a to 13dTwo architectures were used: a lens without openings (hereinafter referred to as a lens without openings structure) and an acoustic lens 210 with heat dissipation holes 211 (hereinafter referred to as a lens with openings structure). The heat dissipation effect was simulated using electronic heat dissipation simulation software.

[0089] In this simulation, the functional layer 222 of the ultrasonic transducer 220 is used as a heat source for heating for 120 seconds, followed by heat dissipation for 120 seconds. During the simulation, the heat power applied to the functional layer 222 is the same for both the lens without openings and the lens with openings. Both structures are placed within the head shell 110, which is filled with a filling material. The simulation results are as follows: Figures 12a-12d And 13a-13d are shown.

[0090] Figure 12a Simulation results for heat dissipation of the lens without openings for 120 seconds. Figure 12b for Figure 12a YZ plane screenshot, Figure 12c The simulation results for heat dissipation of the lens without openings for 240 seconds are shown, and 12 days are... Figure 12c Screenshot of the YZ plane. Figures 12a-12d As can be seen, the accumulation of heat results in the highest temperature near the acoustic lens 210 among all structures of the transducer.

[0091] Figure 13a Simulation results for heat dissipation of the lens aperture structure over 120 seconds. Figure 13b for Figure 13a YZ plane screenshot, Figure 13c Simulation results for heat dissipation of the lens aperture structure over 240 seconds. Figure 13d This is a screenshot of the YZ plane of 13c.

[0092] contrast Figures 12a-12d , Figures 13a-13d It can be seen that, since the heat dissipation hole 211 exposes the side of the ultrasonic transducer 220, the side of the ultrasonic transducer 220 can directly exchange heat with the filling medium. At the same time, the heat dissipation hole 211 also increases the contact area between the acoustic lens 210 and the external environment. The combined effect of these two factors can quickly diffuse the heat generated by the ultrasonic transducer 220 into the filling medium 30. In the simulation, the structure with heat dissipation hole 211 on the acoustic lens 210 has a lower maximum temperature than the structure without the hole. Compared with the structure without the hole, the temperature difference between the same-shaped part and the non-same-shaped part of the head shell 110 in the structure with the hole is smaller at the same time, indicating that the hole structure has a significant promoting effect on heat dissipation.

[0093] Figure 14The figure shows the average temperature curve of the outer surface of the head shell 110 near the acoustic lens 210. It can be seen that the temperature of the lens with an opening at the end of the heating phase (120s) and the end of the simulation (240s) is lower than that of the lens without an opening. After adopting the opening structure, the peak temperature of the acoustic lens drops from 41.4℃ to 40.5℃, and the temperature drop gradient during the cooling phase is significantly greater than that of the non-open structure. The temperature difference reaches 1℃ at 220s, indicating that the opening structure has a significant promoting effect on heat dissipation. Correspondingly, in actual use, after the ultrasonic probe with the opening structure of the acoustic lens is placed into the human body cavity, its peak temperature remains below the thermal damage temperature to human tissue (generally, a temperature above 41℃ is considered to pose a higher risk of thermal damage), preventing concentrated thermal damage at the contact points with the human body. Furthermore, as the probe's working time increases, the temperature of the outer surface of the shell decreases significantly, and the temperature difference between different areas also decreases significantly. Therefore, even if the probe continues to work, it will not cause thermal damage due to heat accumulation at the contact points with the probe. Therefore, the internal structural design of this application has a better heat diffusion and heat transfer mechanism, which is conducive to ensuring the normal operation of the ultrasound transducer 220 and the safety of the patient's body tissues.

[0094] In some embodiments, reference Figure 9 and Figure 10a Furthermore, in the intracavitary ultrasonic probe 1 of this embodiment, the axial heat conduction path 240 and the non-axial heat diffusion path are connected to each other.

[0095] Specifically, the axial heat conduction path 240 includes a support block 242, which has heat conduction holes 2423 and heat dissipation holes 2424. The heat conduction holes 2423 extend axially and are fitted with heat conduction pipes 244. The heat dissipation holes 2424 are angled relative to the heat conduction holes 2423 (e.g., radially penetrating the support block 242), and the heat dissipation holes 2424 communicate with the heat conduction holes 2423 to connect the axial heat conduction path 240 and the non-axial heat diffusion path.

[0096] The heat generated by the ultrasonic transducer 220 no longer needs to be forced through a single path (such as a narrow, compact contact surface). Part of the heat is rapidly dissipated through the axial heat conduction path 240, while the other part diffuses through a non-axial heat diffusion path, redistributing itself at the confluence node. Based on the principle of parallel thermal resistance, the total thermal resistance is significantly reduced, and the heat source temperature drops significantly. Furthermore, by connecting the axial heat conduction path 240 and the non-axial heat diffusion path, if a contact surface of the axial heat conduction path 240 degrades due to aging, heat can still bypass that interface through a non-axial path, flowing into the housing 10 for heat dissipation or being conducted to the heat pipe 244 to continue axial and non-axial heat diffusion. This multi-path coupling significantly improves the thermal reliability of the device under complex operating conditions.

[0097] Furthermore, the emitting surface 225 (far end) of the piezoelectric element must maintain acoustic matching; a heat sink cannot be arbitrarily attached (as this would affect vibration). By designing axial heat dissipation (e.g., from the back or side pin 226) and non-axial diffusion (heat evenly distributed across the sidewalls of the acoustic lens 210), and converging at the rear structure away from the emitting surface 225, heat is successfully bypassed from the sensitive acoustic vibration area and then evenly distributed onto the housing 10. This achieves "acoustic-thermal separation"—ensuring both the ultrasonic wave emission efficiency and solving the heat generation problem.

[0098] In this application, through the interconnected structure of the heat dissipation hole 2424 and the heat conduction hole 2423 set in the support block 242, the heat in the axial heat conduction path 240 can be partially diverted to the non-axial heat diffusion path, and vice versa. This interconnected structure makes the entire heat dissipation network a whole, and the heat can be freely distributed and conducted between the axial and radial directions. It avoids the heat dissipation bottleneck caused by excessive local thermal resistance in a single path, and realizes efficient and balanced heat conduction in three-dimensional space, which greatly reduces the overall temperature rise inside the probe.

[0099] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the heat dissipation hole 2424 is filled with a filling medium 30. The heat dissipation hole 2424 increases the contact area between the support block 242 and the filling medium 30, thereby improving the heat dissipation rate of the ultrasonic transducer 220. In addition, the filling medium 30 contacts the heat-conducting pipe 244, further accelerating the heat dissipation rate.

[0100] It is easy to understand that in this application, when the axial heat conduction path 240 also includes a second axial heat conduction path 2402, if the heat conduction layer 243 extends to the location of the fixing mounting hole 2421, the heat conduction hole 2423, and the heat dissipation hole 211, then the fixing mounting hole 2421, the heat conduction hole 2423, and the heat dissipation hole 211 also penetrate the heat conduction layer 243.

[0101] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 8 In some embodiments, the intracavitary ultrasound probe 1 also includes a heat sink 70. The heat sink 70 is mounted on the proximal end of the support block 242 and is used to conduct heat generated by the ultrasound transducer 220 during operation from the bottom of the support block 242.

[0102] The heat sink 70 can be a passive heat sink 70, such as a heat sink fin or a VC heat spreader; or it can be an active heat sink 70, such as a water cooler, an air cooler, or a MEMS fan. Among them, the MEMS fan refers to a chip-level miniature active heat sink 70 manufactured using microelectromechanical systems technology. Its small size makes it suitable for situations where the size of the intracavity ultrasonic probe 1 is limited. In addition, the MEMS fan is a completely solid-state device with no motor, shaft, or rotating blades inside, which fundamentally eliminates mechanical wear and friction noise and avoids its impact on the performance of the intracavity ultrasonic probe 1.

[0103] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0104] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the use of descriptions such as "above" or "below" the second feature indicates that the first and second features are in direct contact or indirect contact via an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. Similarly, "below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0105] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0106] The above embodiments merely illustrate several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An intracavitary ultrasound probe, characterized in that, include: case; The core, disposed within the housing, includes an acoustic lens, an ultrasonic transducer, a flexible circuit, and an axial heat-conducting path stacked from the distal end to the proximal end. The thermal conductivity of the material of the axial heat-conducting path is higher than that of the ultrasonic transducer and the acoustic lens. and A filling medium is used to fill the gap between the shell and the core.

2. The intracavitary ultrasound probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, The axial heat conduction path includes a first axial heat conduction path; the first axial heat conduction path includes a support adhesive layer and a support block stacked from the distal end to the proximal end, wherein the thermal conductivity of the support adhesive layer is lower than that of the support block, and the acoustic attenuation coefficient of the support adhesive layer is higher than that of the support block.

3. The intracavitary ultrasound probe according to claim 2, characterized in that, The support block has multiple grooves on one side facing the support adhesive layer, and the proximal end of the support adhesive layer is embedded in the grooves to connect with the support block.

4. The intracavitary ultrasound probe according to claim 2, characterized in that, The axial heat conduction path further includes a second axial heat conduction path, which includes a heat conduction layer and the support block. The heat conduction layer includes a body portion and an extension portion. The body portion is axially disposed between the flexible circuit and the support adhesive layer. The extension portion is connected to the body portion and bends relative to the body portion toward the support block. The proximal end of the extension portion is connected to the support block. The second axial heat conduction path is disposed around the support adhesive layer. The thickness of the thermally conductive layer is less than that of the supporting adhesive layer; With the extension from the main body to the extension as the extension direction, the thermal conductivity of the thermally conductive layer along the extension direction is greater than the thermal conductivity perpendicular to the extension direction.

5. The intracavitary ultrasound probe according to claim 2, characterized in that, The support block has multiple heat-conducting holes that extend along the axial direction, and heat-conducting tubes are inserted into the heat-conducting holes. The distal end of the heat-conducting tubes is connected to the support adhesive layer.

6. The intracavitary ultrasound probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing includes a cylindrical sidewall and a curved surface at the distal end of the closed sidewall. The core is coaxially arranged with the housing. The acoustic lens and ultrasonic transducer at the distal end of the core have an arched surface protruding towards the distal end, and the curvature of the arched surface matches the curved surface.

7. The intracavitary ultrasound probe according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thermal conductivity of the filling medium is higher than that of the acoustic lens, wherein, The filling medium is a potting fluid, and the core can be bent to allow the ultrasonic transducer to oscillate within the housing; or... The filling medium is a potting compound, which fixes the relative position of the core and the shell.

8. The intracavitary ultrasound probe according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The ultrasonic transducer can emit ultrasonic waves toward the far end along the stacking direction. The core is provided with a plurality of heat dissipation holes arranged at an angle to the stacking direction. The filling medium includes a main body and a plurality of branch parts. Each of the branches extends into the heat dissipation hole in a corresponding manner to form a thermal bridge. The main body is sandwiched between the core and the shell as a heat diffusion interlayer. The thermal bridge is connected to the heat diffusion interlayer to form a non-axial heat diffusion path.

9. The intracavitary ultrasound probe according to claim 8, characterized in that, The ultrasonic transducer includes an emitting surface located at the distal end face and a side surface set at an angle to the emitting surface. The acoustic lens spans the distal end of the ultrasonic transducer to cover the emitting surface and the side surface. The acoustic lens has heat dissipation holes that at least partially expose the side surface of the ultrasonic transducer.

10. The intracavitary ultrasound probe according to claim 8, characterized in that, The axial heat conduction path includes a support block, which has heat conduction holes and heat dissipation holes. The heat conduction holes extend axially and are fitted with heat conduction pipes. The heat dissipation holes are set at an angle relative to the heat conduction holes and are connected to the heat conduction holes to connect the axial heat conduction path and the non-axial heat diffusion path.

Images