Transducer Array Non-Uniform Kerf Widths Cross-Talk Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional transducer arrays with uniform kerf widths face limitations in achieving independent element response and optimal imaging performance, particularly in multi-dimensional applications where lateral resolution and field of view trade-offs are significant.
Innovation Solution
A multi-dimensional transducer array is manufactured with non-uniform kerf widths, where wider major kerfs separate major elements and thinner minor kerfs separate minor elements within the major elements, enhancing independent element response and steering capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If uniform kerf widths are used to separate transducer elements, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but independent element response and imaging performance are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying kerf widths at different locations within the transducer array. Major kerfs separating major elements have a first width, while minor kerfs separating minor elements within major elements have a second width. This localized differentiation optimizes element response independence and imaging performance for specific structural requirements without requiring complete non-uniformity across the entire array.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If wider kerfs are used to separate major elements, then cross-talk reduction is achieved, but acoustic mass is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the transducer array into major elements and minor elements, with different kerf width strategies applied to each level. Wider major kerfs effectively reduce cross-talk between major elements, while the array maintains sufficient acoustic mass through the overall element distribution and minor element configuration within each major element.
3Manufacturing precision
If non-uniform kerf widths are implemented with multiple dicing operations, then element response independence is improved, but manufacturing complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary dicing operations to create major kerfs with the first width, establishing the primary element separation structure. Subsequent dicing operations then create minor kerfs with the second width within the major elements. This staged approach allows for optimized element response independence while managing manufacturing complexity through systematic multi-step processing.
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 improves impulse response, reduces cross-talk, and enables better imaging performance by allowing for more independent element operation and increased scanning sectors, such as in fetal heart imaging, while maintaining acoustic mass and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
First and second kerfs acoustically separate the elements
Implementation Method 2
Transducers are used to convert between electrical charge and acoustic energy
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-dimensional transducer array is provided. The multi-dimensional transducer array includes a plurality of elements. First and second kerfs acoustically separate the elements. A first width of the first kerf is larger than a second width of the second kerf.