Anisotropic Heat Distributors for Ultrasound Probe Thermal Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultrasound scanners with large numbers of transducer elements face flexibility issues due to cumbersome communication cables and generate localized high-temperature areas (hot spots) that need to be managed to comply with temperature regulations.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of anisotropic heat distributors within the ultrasound scanner, comprising alternating conductive and insulative layers that preferentially conduct heat laterally to reduce hot spots and manage temperature increases, allowing for efficient heat dissipation without the need for separate wires for each transducer element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the number of transducer elements is increased to improve image resolution, then measurement precision is improved, but the number of communication wires increases making the cable less flexible and more cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple communication functions into a single integrated cable assembly that accommodates all communication wires for multiple transducer elements. This merging approach consolidates what would otherwise be numerous separate connections into one manageable unit, maintaining cable flexibility while supporting high-resolution imaging with increased transducer elements.
2Measurement precision
If transducer elements are increased for better image quality, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to more communication wires
Solution Approach 1:
The cable assembly is segmented into modular components including individual channels for each transducer element, with each segment handling specific communication functions. This segmentation allows the complex multi-wire cable to be organized into manageable, functionally-separated sections that are easier to manufacture, assemble, and maintain while supporting high-resolution imaging.
3Measurement precision
If ultrasound scanning is performed to detect body structures, then diagnostic capability is improved, but localized high-temperature areas (hot spots) are generated that need temperature management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coupling medium as an intermediary between the transducer elements and the body structure being scanned. This coupling medium serves multiple functions: it transmits ultrasound waves effectively for high diagnostic capability while also acting as a thermal management interface that helps dissipate heat and prevent localized hot spots from forming during prolonged scanning operations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances the operational flexibility of ultrasound scanners by reducing the number of required communication cables and effectively managing heat distribution to prevent hot spots, ensuring compliance with temperature regulations and improving user comfort.
Implementation Method 1
anisotropic heat distributors... comprising alternating conductive and insulative layers that preferentially conduct heat laterally to reduce hot spots and manage temperature increases
Data Source
AI summary
Ultrasound scanners with anisotropic heat distributors and associated methods of operation are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, an ultrasound scanner can include a housing having a surface enclosing an internal cavity, an electronic component in the internal cavity of the housing, and a heat distributor between the surface of the housing and the electronic component. The heat distributor is in thermal communication with both the electronic component and the surface of the housing. The heat distributor includes a laminated structure having a conductive layer and a insulative layer stacked one on the other.