Multi-Frequency Ultrasound Array Layout Without Transducer Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultrasound diagnostic imaging systems require switching between different transducers for optimized resolution and penetration depth, which disrupts clinical workflow, increases exam time, and complicates cleaning in clinical environments.
Innovation Solution
A multi-dimensional and multi-frequency array of transducer elements with a center row operating at a first frequency and outer rows operating at a second frequency, controlled by a controller to operate simultaneously or independently, allowing for various imaging modes without transducer exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple separate ultrasound transducers are used for different clinical applications, then imaging resolution and penetration depth are optimized, but clinical workflow is disrupted and exam time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple transducer arrays (phased array, linear array, curvilinear array) into a single integrated transducer unit. This merging allows the system to perform multiple imaging functions without requiring physical exchange of transducers, thereby reducing exam time while maintaining optimized imaging resolution for different clinical applications
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated transducer is designed with multi-functional capability, incorporating different array types that can be selectively activated based on clinical needs. This universality allows a single transducer to replace multiple specialized transducers, eliminating workflow interruptions while preserving application-specific imaging optimization
2Measurement precision
If multiple separate ultrasound transducers are used for different clinical applications, then imaging resolution and penetration depth are optimized, but cleaning time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple transducer arrays into a single integrated unit with a common housing and coupling interface, the patent reduces the number of separate components that require cleaning. This consolidation simplifies the cleaning process while maintaining the specialized imaging capabilities of each array type
3Adaptability or versatility
If two different functional arrays are placed at separate ends of the scanner, then multiple imaging modes are available, but cable management becomes difficult and workflow is complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional arrays into a single integrated transducer unit rather than placing them at separate ends. This consolidation eliminates cable management issues and simplifies workflow while maintaining the versatility of multiple imaging modes through selective activation of different array segments
4Measurement precision
If transducer switching is required during imaging diagnostics, then optimized resolution and penetration depth are achieved, but clinical workflow is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated transducer incorporates multiple array types with different imaging optimizations within a single unit. The system can selectively activate appropriate array segments based on clinical needs without requiring physical transducer exchange, thereby maintaining imaging resolution while avoiding workflow interruptions
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 full-body scanning with detailed images and flexible clinical diagnostics using a single transducer, reducing workflow interruptions and cleaning time, and providing enhanced sensitivity and resolution across different depths.
Implementation Method 1
an array coupled to the lens and having a center row of transducer elements of a first width that operate at a first frequency and two or more outer rows of transducer elements of a second or other widths that operate at a second or other frequencies different than the first frequency
Data Source
AI summary
Ultrasound devices that include and/or use a multi-dimensional and multi-frequency arrays of transducer elements for use with ultrasound and methods for using the same are disclosed. In some embodiments, an ultrasound device includes: an array having a center row of transducer elements of a first width that operate at a first frequency and two or more outer rows of transducer elements of a second or other widths that operate at a second or other frequencies different than the first frequency. A controller is configured to control the center row of transducer elements and two or more outer rows of transducer elements to operate at a same time or at different times.