Ultrasonic Probe Sound Absorption Unit for Noise Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ultrasonic imaging apparatuses face inefficiencies in absorbing ultrasonic waves emitted in undesirable directions, leading to noise in ultrasound images and reduced acoustic throughput.
Innovation Solution
The ultrasonic probe apparatus incorporates a sound absorption unit with a substrate connection unit that electrically interconnects the ultrasonic transducer and a second electronic circuit, utilizing a sound absorption material to absorb ultrasonic waves and reduce noise, while a heat conduction unit manages thermal issues, and an acoustic enhancer amplifies electrical signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If ultrasonic waves are emitted in all directions by the ultrasonic transducer, then the ultrasonic energy coverage is increased, but noise is generated in undesirable directions and acoustic throughput is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the 'Blessing in disguise' principle by converting the harmful back-propagated ultrasonic waves into a beneficial effect. The sound absorption unit absorbs these waves that would otherwise create noise, and the absorbed energy is converted into minimal heat, effectively eliminating the harmful noise while maintaining the forward-directed ultrasonic energy for imaging.
Solution Approach 2:
The sound absorption unit serves as an intermediary element positioned between the ultrasonic transducer and the backing block. This intermediary component absorbs ultrasonic waves traveling in undesirable directions (backward toward the probe), preventing them from reaching the matching layer and creating noise, while allowing the forward-directed waves to proceed to the object for imaging.
2Reliability
If a sound absorption unit is added to absorb ultrasonic waves in undesirable directions, then noise is reduced and acoustic throughput is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the 'Merging' principle by integrating the sound absorption unit into the existing probe structure between the ultrasonic transducer and the backing block. Rather than adding a separate external component, the sound absorption material is incorporated as part of the probe's internal architecture, merging multiple functions (ultrasonic absorption, structural support, electrical isolation) into a single integrated unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The sound absorption unit performs multiple functions simultaneously: it absorbs back-propagated ultrasonic waves to prevent noise, provides electrical isolation between the transducer and backing block, and maintains structural integrity of the probe. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
3Reliability
If electrical connection units are provided through the sound absorption unit, then electrical connection is achieved, but ultrasonic wave absorption effectiveness may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the 'Local quality' principle by providing electrical connection units only at specific localized positions within the sound absorption unit, rather than making it completely solid throughout. The connection units are strategically positioned to establish electrical pathways where needed, while the majority of the sound absorption unit maintains its porous or composite structure for effective ultrasonic wave absorption.
Solution Approach 2:
The sound absorption unit is constructed using composite materials that combine sound-absorbing properties with electrical conductivity. The composite structure allows the material to simultaneously absorb ultrasonic waves effectively while providing pathways for electrical signal transmission, resolving the contradiction between absorption efficiency and electrical connection.
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 acoustic throughput by effectively absorbing ultrasonic waves in undesirable directions, reducing noise in ultrasound images and improving product reliability through improved mechanical stability and signal accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
a sound absorption unit configured to absorb sound waves or ultrasonic waves
Implementation Method 2
an ultrasonic transducer and a processor electrically connected to the ultrasonic transducer
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 2B
AI summary
An ultrasonic probe apparatus and an ultrasonic imaging apparatus are disclosed. The ultrasonic probe apparatus includes: an ultrasonic transducer configured to output an electrical signal upon receiving ultrasonic waves; a sound absorption unit, one surface of which is an installation surface of the ultrasonic transducer and is electrically connected to the ultrasonic transducer; a first electronic circuit electrically connected to the sound absorption unit; and a substrate connection unit disposed between the sound absorption unit and the first electronic circuit, configured to electrically interconnect the first electronic circuit and the sound absorption unit. The ultrasonic imaging apparatus includes the above ultrasonic probe and a main body.