Detachable Ultrasonic Transducer Rows for Echoscope Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current transducer elements for echoscopes, with a single row of ultrasonic transducers, face limitations such as cast shadows from curved skin surfaces, difficulty in imaging small cavities, and limited versatility, making it challenging to position needles accurately and image surrounding structures effectively.
Innovation Solution
A transducer assembly comprising a first and second row of ultrasonic transducers that are detachably connectable in multiple positions to form composite transducer elements, allowing for the combination of advantages from different types of transducer elements, such as linear, sector, and convex configurations, enabling flexible imaging and improved positioning of needles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single row of ultrasonic transducers is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability for different imaging applications (linear, sector, convex) is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The transducer array is divided into multiple independent rows (first row, second row, third row) that can be independently controlled and configured. Each row can be activated separately to provide different imaging modes (linear, sector, convex) without requiring physically different transducer elements, thus achieving versatility while maintaining a unified device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A single transducer assembly with multiple rows is designed to perform multiple imaging functions (linear, sector, convex) that traditionally required separate specialized transducer elements. The system can switch between different imaging modes by activating different rows or combinations of rows, making one device universal for various applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized transducer elements are purchased for different applications, then the imaging versatility is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple transducer rows that would traditionally require separate specialized transducer elements are merged into a single integrated assembly. The first, second, and third rows are combined in one device, allowing all imaging modes to be achieved with one unified transducer element rather than requiring multiple separate purchases.
Solution Approach 2:
The single transducer assembly is designed to be universal, replacing the need for multiple specialized transducer elements. By incorporating multiple rows with different configurations, one device can perform the functions of several specialized devices, reducing the total quantity of transducer elements needed.
3Measurement precision
If a linear transducer element is used, then the resolution close to the transducers is improved, but curved skin surfaces produce cast shadows that impede correct imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The transducer array is segmented into multiple rows that can be independently activated. When curved skin surfaces cause cast shadows with linear imaging, the system can switch to or combine with sector or convex row configurations that diverge at angles, allowing sound waves to bypass curved surfaces and eliminate cast shadows while maintaining imaging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different imaging modes (linear, sector, convex) depending on the application requirements and skin surface conditions. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to optimize between resolution and cast shadow prevention by selecting the appropriate row configuration for each imaging scenario.
4Volume of moving object
If a sector transducer element is used, then the imaging of deep structures is improved, but the line density decreases with tissue depth
Solution Approach 1:
The transducer array is segmented into multiple rows including both sector-type rows for deep imaging and linear rows for high line density. The system can activate only the necessary rows for each imaging depth requirement, combining the advantages of different configurations to achieve both deep scan capability and maintained line density.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a full sector transducer element that reduces line density at depth, the system uses only the necessary portion (specific rows) to achieve the desired scan depth. This partial action approach allows deep imaging without the penalty of reduced line density by selectively activating only the rows needed for the imaging task.
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
The transducer assembly allows for adjustable imaging and improved positioning of needles by combining the advantages of various transducer elements, enhancing imaging capabilities and reducing anisotropy, while also being cost-effective by eliminating the need for multiple specialized transducer elements.
Implementation Method 1
A transducer consists of a piezo crystal which can generate an ultrasonic sound wave by means of an electrical voltage and can, conversely, transform such an ultrasonic sound wave into a voltage
Implementation Method 2
transducers are incorporated in a transducer element in one or more rows in order to transmit ultrasonic sound waves into the body of a human or an animal and receiving the reflection of these rays in order to be able to compose an image
Data Source
AI summary
A transducer assembly is disclosed. The transducer assembly includes a first transducer element comprising a first row of ultrasonic transducers and a second transducer element comprising a second row of ultrasonic transducers. The first row of ultrasonic transducers can be arranged at a nonzero angle with respect to the second row of ultrasonic transducers. The first transducer element and the second transducer element can be detachably connected. A connector can be in electrical communication with the first transducer element and the second transducer element, where the connector is configured to be connected to an endoscope.