Ultrasound Transducer Array Apodization for Ghost Artifact Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Row-column addressing in ultrasound imaging transducer arrays introduces ghost artifacts due to edge effects, degrading image quality by generating unwanted echoes from point scatterers.
Innovation Solution
Integration of apodization into the physical elements of the transducer array, where different apodization levels are applied to reduce the impact of edge effects, such as fixed or dynamic area-controlled apodization, to mitigate ghost artifacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If row-column addressing is used to reduce the number of electrical connections, then device complexity is reduced, but ghost artifacts are introduced degrading image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different apodization weights to different elements within the same row or column. Specifically, elements at different positions (e.g., edge vs. center elements) are assigned different weighting factors to suppress edge effects that cause ghost artifacts. This local differentiation of element properties resolves the contradiction by maintaining the simplified row-column addressing structure while eliminating its harmful side effects through position-dependent quality adjustment.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If elements are individually addressed to eliminate ghost artifacts, then image quality is improved, but device complexity increases due to N×N connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control of multiple elements into a single row or column line element that can be addressed by a single electrical connection. By combining multiple individual elements into a collectively addressable unit with integrated apodization, the system achieves ghost artifact suppression without requiring N×N individual connections. This merging approach maintains simplicity while achieving the quality improvements of individual element control.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If apodization is applied to reduce edge effects, then ghost artifacts are reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements apodization by modifying electrical parameters (weighting factors, bias voltages) rather than requiring precise physical modifications to each element. By changing electrical characteristics post-manufacturing, the system achieves ghost artifact suppression without demanding ultra-precise manufacturing tolerances. This parameter-based approach separates the apodization function from the manufacturing process, reducing precision requirements.
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
The solution effectively reduces ghost artifacts, improving image quality by scaling down transmit pressure and signal output from edge elements, resulting in a cleaner main lobe without ghost lobes.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasound imaging system includes a transducer array and components for at least generating and transmitting ultrasound waves, receiving echoes or reflected waves
Implementation Method 2
The array may include piezoelectric elements, for example, arranged in a one-dimensional (1D) array or two-dimensional (2D) array configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A transducer array (802) includes at least one 1D array of transducing elements (804). The at least one 1D array of transducing elements includes a plurality of transducing elements (904). A first of the plurality of transducing elements has a first apodization and a second of the plurality of transducing elements has a second apodization. The first apodization and the second apodization are different. The transducer array further includes at least one electrically conductive element (910) in electrical communication with each of the plurality of transducing elements. The transducer array further includes at least one electrical contact (906) in electrical communication with the at least one electrically conductive element. The at least one electrical contact concurrently addresses the plurality of transducing elements through the at least one electrically conductive element.