Multi-Row Transducer Array for 3D Intravascular Ultrasound Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) devices struggle to create 3D images and capture movement in three dimensions due to their limited transducer configuration, which typically consists of a single row or plane of transducers.
Innovation Solution
The development of an intraluminal imaging device with a flexible substrate rolled into a cylindrical form, featuring a transducer array with multiple rows of transducing elements around the perimeter, forming a grid or matrix. This is achieved by mounting a large block of piezoelectric material onto a flex substrate with corresponding electrical traces, and then dicing the material to create individual transducing elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single row or plane of transducers is used, then the device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but the ability to create 3D images and capture movement in three dimensions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-plane transducer array to a multi-row transducer matrix by adding the second dimension (rows) to the traditional single row configuration. This dimensional expansion enables 3D imaging capability while maintaining a structured, manufacturable form factor through the systematic arrangement of transducer elements in multiple rows and columns.
Solution Approach 2:
The transducer array is segmented into multiple independent rows and columns, allowing each transducer element to be individually addressed and controlled. This segmentation enables sophisticated 3D imaging techniques and acoustic steering while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular organization of the transducer elements.
2Loss of information
If multiple rows of transducers are implemented, then 3D information capture is enabled, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple rows of transducers are integrated within a compact cylindrical form factor. The transducer matrix is arranged in a nested configuration around the catheter shaft, maximizing the use of available space while maintaining precise spacing between elements. This nesting approach enables 3D data capture without proportionally increasing the overall device size or manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs flexible substrate technology to mount the multi-row transducer array, allowing the rigid transducer elements to be integrated onto a flexible platform that can conform to the catheter structure. This flexible substrate approach simplifies the integration process and enables precise positioning of multiple rows of transducers while maintaining ease of manufacture.
3Volume of moving object
If transducer elements are closely spaced to maintain small form factor, then the device size is reduced for intraluminal use, but the precision of positioning and spacing becomes more difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible substrate technology with precisely patterned conductive traces to position transducer elements at accurate, closely-spaced intervals. The flexible substrate acts as a precision template that maintains consistent spacing between transducer elements while allowing the overall assembly to remain compact for intraluminal deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent arranges the transducer matrix in a curved, cylindrical configuration that naturally accommodates closely-spaced elements along the arc of the circle. This curved geometry provides inherent spacing control through the radius of curvature, enabling precise element positioning while maintaining a small overall form factor suitable for intraluminal use.
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 design enables the capture of 3D information without mechanical movement, potentially increasing pullback speed and clinical data integrity, while allowing for focused or steered acoustic energy and off-plane information capture.
Implementation Method 1
mounting a large block of piezoelectric material onto a flex substrate with corresponding electrical traces
Implementation Method 2
The transducers emit ultrasonic energy in order to create an image of the vessel of interest. Ultrasonic waves are partially reflected by discontinuities arising from tissue structures
Data Source
AI summary
An intraluminal imaging device is provided. The device includes a flexible elongate member configured to be positioned within a body lumen of a patient, with an ultrasound imaging assembly disposed at a distal portion. The imaging assembly includes a flexible substrate with a plurality of conductive traces, and a transducer array on the flexible substrate. wrapped around the flexible elongate member. The transducer array comprises a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns, including a bottom surface proximate to the flexible substrate and a top surface spaced from the flexible substrate. The plurality of transducer elements are electrically coupled to the plurality of conductive traces only on the bottom surface.