Ultrasonic Array Transducer Self-Diagnosis via Transfer Characteristic Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ultrasonic imaging systems face challenges in detecting and addressing malfunctions in array transducers, which can lead to decreased image quality and increased maintenance costs due to the difficulty in monitoring and diagnosing issues in real-time.
Innovation Solution
A malfunction inspection method that automatically detects malfunctions in ultrasonic imaging systems by calculating transfer characteristic values from measurement data collected via a group of receiving elements, determining emission and reception characteristics, and identifying misalignment in circular-arc ultrasonic array probes, allowing for self-diagnosis and notification of malfunction states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large number of elements are disposed in the array transducer to obtain high spatial resolution, then image quality is improved, but the complexity of detecting and measuring element malfunctions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-diagnosis by automatically detecting element malfunctions using the existing receiving elements. The malfunction detection unit utilizes the receiving elements to detect malfunctions in emitting elements without requiring external inspection equipment, enabling the system to monitor its own health status autonomously
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where measurement data from receiving elements is continuously analyzed to detect element malfunctions. The malfunction detection unit provides real-time feedback about element status, allowing for automatic identification and notification of malfunctioning elements
2Reliability
If automatic malfunction detection is implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving elements serve multiple functions: they both receive ultrasonic waves for imaging and detect malfunctions in emitting elements. The malfunction detection unit integrates with the existing imaging system, allowing the same hardware to perform both diagnostic and inspection functions without adding separate dedicated inspection equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own receiving elements to detect malfunctions, eliminating the need for external inspection devices. The malfunction detection unit processes measurement data internally, enabling the system to self-diagnose without increasing external device complexity
3Productivity
If real-time malfunction monitoring is implemented, then productivity is improved through timely detection, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously collects measurement data from receiving elements during normal operation, enabling real-time malfunction detection without interrupting the imaging process. The malfunction detection unit processes data continuously, ensuring timely detection of element malfunctions while maintaining productive imaging operations
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving elements simultaneously perform ultrasonic wave reception for imaging and malfunction detection functions. This multi-functionality allows real-time monitoring without requiring additional energy-consuming inspection equipment, as the same hardware resources are utilized for both imaging and diagnostics
Data Source
AI summary
An ultrasonic imaging system including an array transducer that includes a plurality of elements each performing at least one of emission or reception of ultrasonic waves, at least some of the plurality of elements being disposed so as to face each other. The ultrasonic imaging system performs malfunction inspection including specifying one emitting element among emitting elements that emit ultrasonic waves and a group of receiving elements that are at least some of the plurality of elements and that receive transmitted waves emitted from the emitting element and transmitted through an imaging region; collecting measurement data of the transmitted waves via the group of receiving elements while switching the emitting element; calculating transfer characteristic values from the measurement data; and detecting a malfunctioning element among the plurality of elements on the basis of the transfer characteristic values.