2D Transducer Array Driver Architecture for Parallel Beamforming Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing driving apparatuses for two-dimensional (2D) transducer arrays in medical imaging systems face challenges in efficiently controlling delay times and selecting receiver transducers for beamforming, leading to suboptimal image quality and extended processing times.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a driving controller with a memory that stores delay time control information and receiver transducer control information, which are outputted in parallel to drivers containing registers, comparators, pulse frequency setters, and transmission and reception switches, enabling precise control over transmission and reception operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a 2D transducer array is driven by a conventional driving apparatus, then the system can transmit and receive ultrasonic signals, but the control of delay times and receiver transducer selection is inefficient leading to extended processing times
Solution Approach 1:
The driving apparatus is segmented into multiple independent driver units, each capable of autonomous control for delay time adjustment and receiver transducer selection. This segmentation allows parallel processing operations across different driver units, significantly improving beamforming control efficiency and reducing overall processing time.
Solution Approach 2:
Delay time control information and receiver transducer control information are pre-loaded into registers within each driver unit before the actual beamforming operation. This preliminary action enables the drivers to immediately execute control operations without waiting for real-time computation, thereby reducing processing time and improving productivity.
2Measurement precision
If delay time control information and receiver transducer control information are stored and processed sequentially, then the system operates with simpler architecture, but the processing speed and image resolution are suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The control architecture transitions from sequential one-dimensional processing to parallel multi-dimensional processing by distributing control functions across multiple driver units operating simultaneously. This dimensional change enables faster processing speeds and improved image resolution while managing complexity through modular organization of driver units, each with integrated registers and control logic.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
An apparatus for driving a two-dimensional (2D) transducer array, a medical imaging system, and a method of driving a 2D transducer array are provided. The apparatus for driving a two-dimensional (2D) transducer array including one or more transducers includes one or more drivers configured to respectively drive the transducers, each of the drivers including a register, a comparator, a pulse frequency setter, a multi-pulse controller, a transmission signal generator, a signal transceiver, a transmission and reception switch, and a reception signal amplifier, and a driving controller configured to control the drivers.