Ultrasonic Transducer Element Unit with Force-Distributing Grid

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Solution Overview

Problem

Ultrasonic transducer elements in diagnostic devices are prone to damage due to reaction forces from targets, such as the human body, which can cause mechanical stress and lead to breakage.

Innovation Solution

The ultrasonic transducer element unit incorporates a substrate with openings in an array pattern and a projecting grid element that does not overlap with the transducer elements, allowing the grid element to absorb and distribute reaction forces, thereby reducing the risk of damage to the transducer elements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If the piezoelement is formed on the surface of the vibrating membrane and projected from the substrate surface, then the ultrasonic transducer element can generate ultrasonic waves effectively, but the piezoelement receives reaction force from the target directly which may cause damage to the vibrating membrane

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveultrasonic wave generation capabilityVSAvoiddamage resistance of vibrating membrane

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A projecting portion is introduced as an intermediary structure between the piezoelement and the target. This projecting portion has a height greater than the piezoelement height and does not overlap with the piezoelement in planar view, allowing it to intercept and distribute reaction forces before they reach the piezoelement and vibrating membrane, thus protecting the ultrasonic transducer element while maintaining its functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The structure is segmented into distinct functional zones: the piezoelement for ultrasonic generation, the projecting portion for force distribution, and the substrate for support. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while reducing相互 interference and damage risk

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 effectively supports reaction forces from the target, preventing damage to the ultrasonic transducer elements and ensuring reliable operation of the diagnostic device.

Implementation Method 1

A piezoelement is formed on the surface of the vibrating membrane in the excitation of the vibration

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

The projecting portion is configured not to overlap with the first ultrasonic transducer element in a planar view in a thickness direction of the substrate on the main surface and having a second height which is greater than the first height in the vertical direction

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical force distribution: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS9468419B2Ultrasonic transducer element unit, probe, probe head, electronic device, and ultrasonic diagnostic device

Publication Date: 2016.10.18 SEIKO EPSON CORP

AI summary

An ultrasonic transducer element unit includes a substrate, a first ultrasonic transducer element, and a projecting portion. The substrate includes openings being arranged in an array pattern and a main surface. The first ultrasonic transducer element is configured at a first opening of the openings on the main surface of the substrate and has a first height in a vertical direction from the main surface. The projecting portion is configured not to overlap with the first ultrasonic transducer element in a planar view in a thickness direction of the substrate on the main surface and having a second height which is greater than the first height in the vertical direction.