Ultrasound Probe Variable Attenuator TGC Circuit Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasound diagnostic apparatuses with 2D array probes lack a Time Gain Control (TGC) circuit, which is essential for adjusting signal amplification based on the depth of the body surface, due to space, power consumption, and circuit configuration limitations, leading to variations in gain and signal distortion.
Innovation Solution
A probe with integrated receive circuits including a transmit/receive switch, a variable attenuator, and an amplifier, where the variable attenuator implements TGC by changing resistance values based on a control signal, and a TGC control signal generator to manage the attenuator, allowing for independent gain control for each ultrasound transducer array.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a TGC circuit is added to the probe to enable time gain control for each ultrasound transducer array, then signal-to-noise ratio and image accuracy are improved, but the probe's size and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the TGC function with the existing variable attenuator circuit in the probe. The variable attenuator, which was previously used for other purposes, is now controlled by a TGC control signal generator to perform time gain control. This merging approach enables TGC functionality without adding separate dedicated TGC circuitry, thus avoiding increased power consumption and probe size.
Solution Approach 2:
The variable attenuator circuit is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both a general signal attenuation device and a TGC circuit when controlled by the TGC control signal generator. This multi-functionality allows the probe to achieve time gain control capabilities without requiring additional specialized components, thereby maintaining power consumption and size within acceptable limits.
2Measurement precision
If a TGC circuit is added to the probe to enable time gain control for each ultrasound transducer array, then signal-to-noise ratio and image accuracy are improved, but the probe's size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the TGC function into the existing variable attenuator circuit rather than adding a separate TGC circuit. The same hardware components are reused, and the TGC control signal generator modulates the attenuator's behavior to achieve time-dependent gain control. This integration eliminates the need for additional circuit boards or components that would increase probe size.
Solution Approach 2:
The TGC control signal generator changes the resistance values of the variable attenuator dynamically based on time-dependent control signals. By varying the attenuation parameter in response to depth-dependent requirements, the system achieves time gain control functionality without adding physical bulk, as the control is achieved through electrical parameter modulation rather than additional hardware.
3Reliability
If independent gain control is implemented for each ultrasound transducer array, then signal distortion is minimized and image quality is improved, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the probe into multiple independent receive circuits, each associated with a specific ultrasound transducer array. Each receive circuit includes its own variable attenuator and amplifier, allowing independent gain control for each array segment. This segmentation enables precise control of signal distortion on a per-array basis while maintaining modular architecture that manages overall circuit complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each receive circuit is designed with locally optimized components including a variable attenuator and amplifier tailored for its specific transducer array. The TGC control can be applied differently to each array based on local requirements, allowing customized gain control for different regions of the probe without requiring a completely different circuit design for each element.
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 configuration enables effective TGC without increasing the probe's size or power consumption, improving signal-to-noise ratio and image accuracy by adjusting gain according to the depth of the body surface, while minimizing signal distortion.
Implementation Method 1
a variable attenuator that changes a resistance value in accordance with a control signal
Implementation Method 2
an ultrasound transducer that converts the receive signal into a ground level electric signal
Data Source
AI summary
To provide a probe including a TGC circuit therein. The probe includes a plurality of receive circuits. Each receive circuit includes: an ultrasound transducer; a transmit/receive switch; a variable attenuator; a first capacitor; and an amplifier. The ultrasound transducer converts the receive signal into a ground level electric signal and outputs the ground level electric signal as a first output signal. The transmit/receive switch is connected to a first signal line, and switches depending on whether to output the first output signal output from the ultrasound transducer to the first signal line. The variable attenuator includes a control terminal and two terminals, and changes a resistance value between the two terminals other than the control terminal based on a control signal input to the control terminal. The amplifier has an input terminal connected to the first capacitor and includes at least an amplifier circuit configured to amplify an electric signal of the first signal line and output the amplified electric signal to a second signal line. In the variable attenuator, one of the two terminals other than the control terminal is connected to the first signal line, and the other terminal is connected to the ground via a second capacitor different from the first capacitor.