Flexible Ultrasound Patch Assembly for Beam Directivity and SNR
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasound transducer devices require manual operation, limiting the ability to perform other tasks during fluid flow measurement in vessels, and existing affixed devices do not optimize beam directivity and signal-to-noise ratio.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained ultrasound patch assembly with a flexible transducer assembly that includes piezo elements, a flex module, and a transducer frame, allowing angular positioning and air-backed design to enhance beam directivity and signal processing, integrated with a housing containing electronics for wireless communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation of ultrasound transducer is used, then operator control is achieved, but hands are occupied preventing other tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the ultrasound transducer elements with electronic processing circuits, power management, and wireless communication capabilities into a single integrated patch device. This merging of multiple functions into one compact unit enables hands-free operation while eliminating the need for separate base units or manual handling of multiple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The ultrasound patch is designed as a self-contained device with integrated power sources, signal processing capabilities, and wireless transmission functionality. The device autonomously performs flow detection, signal processing, and data transmission without requiring manual operation or external equipment, thereby freeing the operator's hands for other tasks.
2Measurement precision
If traditional ultrasound transducer design is used, then basic flow detection is achieved, but beam directivity and signal-to-noise ratio are not optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a focused array of piezoelectric elements with varying sizes, shapes, and orientations arranged in a specific geometric pattern. Each element is locally optimized for its specific function in the array, with certain elements designed to enhance beam directivity in particular directions. This local optimization of element properties improves the overall signal-to-noise ratio and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The transducer assembly incorporates electronically controllable element activation and signal processing that dynamically adjusts beam forming and signal reception. The system can selectively activate specific elements based on the target vessel location and optimize signal reception in real-time, thereby dynamically improving beam directivity and signal-to-noise ratio.
3Adaptability or versatility
If single-vessel imaging is used, then focused measurement is achieved, but ability to image multiple vessels simultaneously is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The ultrasound patch divides the imaging task into multiple independent segments by using separate piezoelectric element groups or sub-arrays, each dedicated to imaging a specific vessel. The electronic system can independently control and process signals from each segment, enabling simultaneous multi-vessel imaging while maintaining focused measurement capability for each individual vessel.
Solution Approach 2:
The transducer assembly is designed with a universal array configuration that can simultaneously perform multiple imaging functions. The same set of piezoelectric elements can be electronically configured to image different vessels at different angles and depths, providing multi-vessel imaging capability without requiring separate dedicated transducers for each vessel.
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
Facilitates hands-free operation and optimized beam directivity, improving signal-to-noise ratio and enabling simultaneous imaging of multiple vessels with reduced clutter and noise.
Implementation Method 1
A flexible transducer assembly includes first and second piezoelectric (piezo) elements that transmit ultrasonic energy
Implementation Method 2
detect echo signals from the ultrasonic energy transmitted by the piezo elements
Data Source
AI summary
A self-contained ultrasound patch assembly for detecting fluid flow in a vessel includes piezo elements that can transmit ultrasonic energy and detect echo signals. A flex module has two support portions connected to respective ones of the elements with a hinged portion coupled to the support portions, allowing them to be positioned angularly relative to each other. Electronics that direct the elements to transmit ultrasonic energy and process detected echo signals are in communication with the elements through the flex module. A transducer frame includes an alignment portion engaging a flex module alignment portion to retain the flex module in an aligned position. The frame supports the elements at a fixed angular position with respect to each other. A housing encloses the electronics and frame, and fixedly retains the frame to position the elements to transmit toward a bottom surface and away from a top surface of the housing.