Multi-synchronization Power Supply for Ultrasound Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultrasound systems generate harmonic noise components due to pulse width modulation switching noise, which affect ultrasound image quality, and require hardware adaptation to support new ultrasound probes, limiting flexibility and image clarity.
Innovation Solution
A multi-synchronization power supply that generates multiple synchronization clock signals based on ultrasound probes or diagnosis modes, allowing for the reduction of PWM switching noise components and efficient adaptation to new probes without hardware changes, by using a microprocessor, clock signal generating unit, and DC-DC converters with low pass filters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single synchronization clock signal is used to generate DC voltages, then the device complexity is reduced, but PWM switching noise components are generated that degrade ultrasound image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The single synchronization clock signal is segmented into multiple clock signals with different frequencies (e.g., first through fourth clock signals at 100kHz, 200kHz, 300kHz, 400kHz) that are selectively applied to different DC-DC converters based on the operating mode, thereby reducing PWM switching noise in the ultrasound image
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects and switches between different synchronization clock signals based on the operating mode (e.g., phased array mode, linear array mode) to optimize performance and minimize noise for each specific application scenario
2Reliability
If hardware adaptation is required to support new ultrasound probes, then the system can be optimized for specific probes, but the adaptability and versatility of the system is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is designed with multiple DC-DC converters that can operate with different synchronization clock signals, making it universally compatible with various ultrasound probes and operating modes without requiring hardware modifications, thereby achieving both reliability and adaptability
3Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple DC-DC converters operate simultaneously with different clock signals, then noise reduction is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic switching of different synchronization clock signals to multiple DC-DC converters based on operating modes, where each converter operates at optimized frequencies (e.g., 100kHz-400kHz ranges) to minimize PWM noise while maintaining manageable system complexity through structured control
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 solution effectively reduces noise components in ultrasound images, enhances image quality, and allows for seamless integration of new ultrasound probes without hardware modifications, improving diagnostic capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
each of the plurality of DC-DC converters further includes a low pass filter for filtering the DC voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-synchronization power supply and an ultrasound system with the same are disclosed. The multi-synchronization power supply includes a microprocessor configured to receive frequency information indicative of a plurality of frequencies and to output a control signal based on the frequency information; a clock signal generating unit configured to receive a reference synchronization clock signal and to generate a plurality of synchronization clock signals corresponding to the plurality of frequencies by frequency-dividing the reference synchronization clock signal based on the control signal; and a plurality of DC-DC converters configured to receive the plurality of synchronization clock signals and a reference DC voltage, and to generate a plurality of DC voltages from the reference DC voltage based on the plurality of synchronization clock signals.