Fluidic Ultrasonic Generator for Low-Loss Air-Coupled Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasonic measurement devices face significant signal attenuation and interference when using air-coupled ultrasound due to the large difference in acoustic impedance between the probe and air, leading to low angular resolution and range, making practical applications difficult.
Innovation Solution
A fluidic component that generates ultrasonic signals using a fluid flow, which oscillates to produce temporally and spatially separate pulses, allowing for efficient air-coupled transmission without the need for moving parts, thereby reducing signal loss and interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If air-coupled ultrasound transmission is used to avoid liquid coupling means, then the ultrasonic signal can be transmitted through air without coupling media, but the signal is largely reflected at the boundary surface between the probe and air due to great difference in acoustic impedance, resulting in strong signal attenuation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the ultrasonic signal transmission path into multiple segments by using multiple boundary surfaces in sequence. Instead of a single direct boundary between probe and air, the signal passes through multiple intermediate boundary surfaces (probe-solid interface, solid-air interface, air-solid interface, solid-receiver interface), which allows for better impedance matching at each individual interface and reduces overall reflection losses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate solid structures (such as coupling elements or transducer components) that act as mediators between the air-coupled ultrasonic signal and the probe/receiver. These intermediate structures have acoustic impedance values that bridge the gap between air and the main probe body, reducing reflection at each interface.
2Ease of operation
If air-coupled ultrasound transmission is used, then the ultrasonic signal can be transmitted contactlessly, but the angular resolution and range are relatively low making practical application difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment capabilities in the air-coupled ultrasonic system, allowing the transmission and reception characteristics to be optimized in real-time. This may include adjustable frequency, pulse duration, and gain settings that adapt to different measurement conditions, thereby maintaining high angular resolution and range despite the air coupling medium.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the ultrasonic signal (such as frequency modulation, pulse width variation, and amplitude adjustment) to optimize performance for different measurement scenarios. By dynamically changing these parameters, the system can overcome the limitations of air coupling and achieve both contactless operation and high measurement precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple boundary surfaces are overcome for air-coupled transmission, then contactless measurement is achieved, but the evaluation of the returned ultrasonic signal becomes more difficult due to overlays (interferences)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms that monitor the ultrasonic signal at various stages of transmission and reception. By continuously analyzing the signal characteristics and comparing them against expected patterns, the system can identify and compensate for interference caused by multiple boundary surfaces, thereby simplifying signal evaluation despite the complex transmission path.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses periodic ultrasonic pulse transmission with carefully controlled timing and duration. By sending pulses at specific intervals and using time-gating techniques, the system can distinguish between signals from different boundary surfaces and reduce overlay interferences, making signal evaluation more manageable.
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 fluidic component enables effective air-coupled ultrasonic signal transmission with reduced signal attenuation, enhancing measurement accuracy and range, allowing for non-invasive examinations and contactless object assessment.
Implementation Method 1
at least one means for forming an oscillation of the fluid flow at the outlet opening of the flow chamber, the oscillation taking place in an oscillation plane with an oscillation frequency
Implementation Method 2
the fluidic component generates ultrasonic signals using a fluid flow, which oscillates to produce temporally and spatially separate pulses
Implementation Method 3
a fluid flow that wanders back and forth in the oscillation plane with the oscillation frequency between two maximum deflections
Implementation Method 4
generating a fluid flow that oscillates in an oscillation plane with an oscillation frequency between two maximum deflections, which form an oscillation angle
Data Source
AI summary
A fluidic component for generating an ultrasound signal is provided. The fluidic component includes a flow chamber, which can be flowed through by a fluid flow, which enters the flow chamber through an inlet opening of the flow chamber and exits from the flow chamber through an outlet opening of the flow chamber. The fluidic component has at least one device for forming an oscillation of the fluid flow at the outlet opening, the oscillation taking place in an oscillation plane, a separation device, which is designed to separate off a part from the oscillating fluid flow. The separation device includes an inlet opening, through which the oscillating fluid flow enters the separation device, and at least one first outlet opening and at least one second outlet opening, through each of which a part of the oscillating fluid flow exits.