Multi-Frequency Ultrasonic Phased Array Driving System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasonic phased arrays face difficulties in simultaneously outputting multiple frequencies, which limits their effectiveness in applications such as thermal therapy, sonochemical reactions, and vibroacoustography due to the propensity to generate standing waves and inefficiencies in energy distribution.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus featuring an ultrasound array with a driving module and a control kernel that enables concurrent operation of transducers at multiple frequencies, utilizing a master microcontrol unit, slave microcontrol units, floating point gate arrays, and dual stage VCO/PLL circuits to generate and control multiple frequencies, allowing for precise phase and power control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single-element transducer is used, then the device structure is simple, but the focus position is fixed and cannot be steered to arbitrary positions
Solution Approach 1:
The single-element transducer is divided into multiple independent transducer elements arranged in an array. Each element can be independently controlled with its own phase and amplitude, enabling electronic beam steering and focusing to arbitrary positions without mechanical movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a single-point focus to a distributed array structure, adding spatial dimensionality. By controlling the phase and amplitude of each element in the array, the system can electronically steer and focus beams in multiple dimensions without mechanical complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple frequencies are output simultaneously using known phased arrays, then various therapeutic applications can be addressed, but standing waves are generated causing local hot spots
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different phase and amplitude characteristics to different transducer elements based on their specific positions and functions. This local optimization allows multiple frequencies to be emitted while controlling the spatial distribution of energy to minimize standing wave formation and local hot spots.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the phase and amplitude of each transducer element in real-time based on feedback and pre-programmed sequences. This dynamic control enables the system to adapt to different therapeutic requirements while continuously minimizing harmful standing wave patterns through active phase cancellation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If known phased arrays are used for thermal therapy, then non-invasive treatment is achieved, but the cost is reduced only moderately without significant surgical reduction
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates real-time feedback from detectors that monitor tissue temperature and response during ultrasonic treatment. This feedback is used to dynamically adjust the phase and amplitude of each transducer element, ensuring precise thermal control and optimizing treatment effectiveness while minimizing the risk of overheating or ineffective treatment, thereby improving cost-effectiveness.
4Productivity
If ultrasound is used for sonochemical reactions, then therapeutic enhancement is achieved, but the system lacks precision in controlling bubble collapse locations
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies localized phase and amplitude control to individual transducer elements to precisely position acoustic pressure nodes and antinodes. This enables controlled cavitation at specific locations within the treatment volume, enhancing sonochemical reactions at target sites while minimizing unwanted effects in surrounding areas.
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
Enables efficient generation and control of multiple frequencies, enhancing therapeutic applications by minimizing standing waves and improving energy distribution, thereby increasing the effectiveness of ultrasonic treatments and diagnostic capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasound array having a plurality of transducers; a driving module for driving the transducers
Implementation Method 2
Sonochemical reactions in liquids are known to arise from acoustic cavitation, a process that begins with nucleation, followed by growth and collapse of microscopic bubbles
Implementation Method 3
When used for thermal therapy, ultrasonic energy is directed deep within tissue. As the tissue absorbs energy, its temperature rises by as much as 30-55 degrees C
Implementation Method 4
A difficulty that can arise in the use of ultrasound in these and other applications is its propensity to generate standing waves when propagation occurs inside certain cavities
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus for sonicating a patient includes an ultrasound array having a plurality of transducers; a driving module for driving said transducers; and a control kernel for causing said driving module to drive said transducers concurrently at two different frequencies.