Pediatric Volumetric Ultrasound Scanner Modular Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasound imaging technologies face limitations in rapidly acquiring 3D volume data, trade-offs between depth of penetration and resolution due to diffraction limits, and high costs associated with implementing large 2D arrays for general-purpose clinical screening, hindering their use as a low-cost, non-ionizing imaging modality that rivals CT and MR systems.
Innovation Solution
The development of large semi-cylindrical arrays using modular ultrasonic transducers and electronics, enabling real-time, high-resolution 3D volumetric imaging through integrated switching electronics, receive beam-formation, and compounding, with modular transducer components and a massively parallel imaging system, allowing for adaptable and cost-effective imaging across various clinical applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If large 2D arrays are used to generate volume datasets, then imaging resolution and volume capability are improved, but system cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the large 2D array into multiple smaller 2D array modules that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each module contains a subset of transducer elements with dedicated electronics, allowing the system to achieve high-resolution volumetric imaging through modular segmentation rather than requiring a single complex large array
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a hierarchical structure where multiple 2D array modules are nested or tiled together to form a large virtual array. The modules are arranged in a configurable geometry and controlled by a master controller that coordinates data acquisition across all modules, enabling cost-effective high-resolution imaging through nested modular units
2Productivity
If traditional ultrasound scanning methods are used, then portability and real-time imaging are maintained, but rapid acquisition of 3D volume data is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional 1D linear scanning to 2D planar array imaging, enabling simultaneous acquisition of multiple scan lines across a plane. This dimensional expansion allows rapid volumetric data collection by combining 2D plane acquisitions with electronic focusing and beamforming, achieving high-speed 3D volume rendering without sacrificing portability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous plane wave transmission and reception across the 2D array, with electronic beamforming that continuously focuses ultrasound beams at different depths and positions. This continuous acquisition mode eliminates the need for discrete step-by-step scanning, enabling rapid real-time volumetric imaging through uninterrupted data collection across the entire field of view
3Length of stationary object
If deep penetration is achieved in ultrasound imaging, then imaging depth is improved, but spatial resolution deteriorates due to diffraction limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic parameter changes in beamforming, including variable focus depths, aperture sizing, and pulse compression techniques. By adjusting these parameters during signal processing rather than relying solely on fixed transducer geometry, the system optimizes both penetration depth and spatial resolution simultaneously through computational methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes composite transducer elements and acoustic matching layers that combine materials with complementary properties. These composite structures improve acoustic impedance matching and energy transmission efficiency, enabling deeper penetration while maintaining high spatial resolution through enhanced beam focus and reduced diffraction effects
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 approach provides a low-cost, highly portable, and real-time imaging system capable of generating high-resolution 3D volumes without ionizing radiation, enhancing clinical screening and diagnosis while reducing costs and improving image quality and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor array including at least one two-dimensional (2D) array of acoustic transducer elements
Implementation Method 2
acoustic transducer elements... configured to provide two-dimensional (2D) beamforming by individual control of each acoustic transducer element within the active window
Implementation Method 3
highly sensitive single crystal transducer material
Data Source
AI summary
Ultrasound (US) imaging is scaled to arrays having a large number of elements. We use “active windows” to define the parts of the overall array that are active for transmission and reception. Each active window is 2D. Local electronics can move these active windows freely within the array, either together or independently. This effectively provides fast scanning by electronically moving the active windows around within a large stationary array. All of the elements within an active window are individually controlled for beam forming, focusing etc. by beam forming electronics in the system controller. Thus there is no need to have all of the elements of the large, stationary 2D ultrasound array connected to the system controller.