Ultrasound Backing Element With Non-Parallel Electrodes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultrasound probes face challenges in completely eliminating noise wavelengths due to the limitations of existing backing units, which affect the quality of ultrasonic images in medical diagnostics.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves an ultrasound backing element with non-parallel electrodes, a third concave/convex unit for ultrasonic wave absorption, and a filling unit to absorb ultrasonic waves, along with a multi-layered electrode structure and upper electrodes for effective voltage application, enhancing the absorption and image clarity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a conventional backing unit is used to absorb noise wavelengths, then noise absorption is improved, but noise wavelengths cannot be completely eliminated
Solution Approach 1:
The backing unit is divided into multiple concave/convex units with different structures. Each unit (first, second, and third concave/convex units) has specific geometric features designed to absorb different noise wavelengths, allowing the system to address a broader spectrum of noise frequencies that a single uniform structure cannot handle
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the backing unit are given different local characteristics. The first concave/convex unit has a specific structure optimized for certain wavelengths, while the second and third units have complementary structures for other wavelengths. This local differentiation allows each region to specialize in absorbing particular noise frequency ranges
2Ease of manufacture
If electrodes are arranged in parallel in the backing element, then manufacturing is simplified, but acoustic loss and distortion occur
Solution Approach 1:
The electrodes are arranged in a non-parallel, asymmetric configuration within the backing element. This asymmetric arrangement disrupts the regular acoustic pathways that cause constructive interference and standing waves, thereby reducing acoustic loss and distortion while maintaining electrical functionality
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a larger backing unit is used to improve noise absorption, then noise wavelengths are better absorbed, but the ultrasound probe size increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing the overall size of the backing unit, the invention utilizes three-dimensional concave and convex structures within the existing footprint. These vertical and lateral geometric features absorb noise wavelengths through their depth and shape rather than requiring a larger horizontal area, thus maintaining compact probe dimensions while improving noise absorption efficacy
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 configuration reduces acoustic loss and distortion, allowing for a more accurate and clear ultrasonic image by effectively absorbing ultrasonic waves and improving the arrangement of electrodes, enabling a smaller and more efficient ultrasound probe design.
Implementation Method 1
a third concave/convex unit formed of a material capable of absorbing ultrasonic waves and engaged with the first concave/convex unit to be complementary with the first concave/convex unit in a same shape as the first concave/convex unit while the first electrode unit is interposed between the first and third concave/convex units
Implementation Method 2
the transducer includes a piezoelectric element so that the backing unit absorbs noise wavelengths generated from the piezoelectric element
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
An ultrasound backing element, a transducer including the ultrasound backing element, and an ultrasound probe. The ultrasound backing element includes: a first concave/convex unit formed of a material capable of absorbing ultrasonic waves, and comprising a first surface and a second surface that are not in parallel with each other; and a first electrode unit comprising a first electrode and a second electrode that are respectively disposed on the first surface and the second surface.