Ultrasonic Probe Attenuation Layers for Bandwidth Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasonic imaging probes struggle to achieve high image quality due to limitations in bandwidth control and apodization, leading to suboptimal ultrasound image formation in short-range regions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a transducer module with a layer comprising low and high attenuation materials, arranged to cover the upper surface of the acoustic module, allowing for physical apodization and improved sensitivity, which narrows the bandwidth in short-range regions and reduces unnecessary side lobes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional ultrasonic probe is used, then the device structure is simple, but the image quality is insufficient due to inability to control bandwidth and apodization
Solution Approach 1:
The probe is divided into multiple functional layers including piezoelectric conversion elements, acoustic matching layers, and attenuation layers with different characteristics. Each layer performs a specific function: the piezoelectric elements convert electrical signals to ultrasonic waves, the matching layers optimize acoustic impedance, and the attenuation layers control bandwidth and apodization. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each function while achieving high image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe employs composite material structures combining piezoelectric materials, acoustic matching materials, and attenuation materials with different properties. The attenuation layers use materials with specific attenuation coefficients to achieve frequency-selective filtering and apodization effects. This composite approach enables simultaneous optimization of ultrasonic generation, transmission, and spectral control.
2Reliability
If the bandwidth is widened to improve signal strength, then the sensitivity increases, but unnecessary side lobes are generated that degrade image quality
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the probe structure have different attenuation characteristics. The attenuation layers are designed with spatially varying properties to achieve local control over the ultrasonic spectrum. This allows the center frequency to be reinforced while side lobes are selectively attenuated, achieving both strong signal and high image quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe design changes the attenuation parameter across different frequency bands. By adjusting the attenuation characteristics of the layered structure, the system passes the center frequency with minimal attenuation while strongly attenuating side lobe frequencies. This frequency-dependent parameter control resolves the contradiction between signal strength and side lobe suppression.
3Measurement precision
If apodization is performed digitally after signal acquisition, then the processing is flexible, but the image quality is limited compared to physical apodization
Solution Approach 1:
Apodization is performed in advance during the ultrasonic wave generation and transmission phase rather than as a post-processing step. The attenuation layers are pre-configured with specific acoustic properties that automatically perform the apodization function as the ultrasonic waves pass through. This preliminary physical apodization achieves superior image quality compared to digital processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The attenuation layers act as physical intermediaries that perform the apodization function. These layers with specific acoustic impedance and attenuation characteristics serve as a mediator between the piezoelectric elements and the tissue, automatically shaping the ultrasonic beam profile and frequency spectrum without requiring complex digital 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 configuration enhances image quality by narrowing the bandwidth and reducing side lobes, resulting in improved sensitivity and focused ultrasonic wave transmission, thereby enhancing the diagnostic capabilities of ultrasonic imaging systems.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric conversion element for converting an electrical signal into an ultrasonic wave
Implementation Method 2
transmit ultrasonic waves to a target region of an object from the surface of the object, and receives echo ultrasonic waves reflected from the target region
Implementation Method 3
a first attenuation layer and a second attenuation layer which are different from each other in attenuation with respect to the ultrasonic wave, on the upper surface of the acoustic module
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a probe including: an acoustic module including a piezoelectric layer configured to generate ultrasonic waves, a matching layer configured to reduce a difference in acoustic impedance between the piezoelectric layer and an object, and a backing layer configured to absorb ultrasonic waves generated by the piezoelectric layer and transmitted backward from the piezoelectric layer; a plurality of attenuation layers provided at both edges of the upper surface of the acoustic module, and configured to attenuate ultrasonic waves generated by the acoustic module; and a lens layer disposed to cover the upper surfaces of the attenuation layers, and configured to focus ultrasonic waves transmitted forward from the piezoelectric layer at a predetermined point.