Ultrasonic Sensor Dual-Use Elements Parallel Serial Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultrasonic sensors face challenges in achieving high resolution for measuring small objects like blood vessels and blood due to reduced sensitivity and S/N ratio at higher frequencies, particularly with smaller transmission/reception elements.
Innovation Solution
The ultrasonic sensor employs a configuration with transmission/reception dual-use elements, controlled by a circuit that switches between parallel and serial connections for transmission and reception, enhancing sensitivity by adjusting electrode connections to improve signal voltage and array density.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the size of transmission/reception elements is reduced to achieve higher frequency ultrasonic waves for measuring small objects, then measurement precision is improved, but receiving sensitivity deteriorates and S/N ratio cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by switching the connection configuration of transmission/reception elements between parallel and serial based on operational mode. During reception, elements are connected in series to amplify weak signals from small objects, while during transmission, they are connected in parallel to provide sufficient drive power. This dynamic reconfiguration resolves the contradiction between using small elements for high-resolution measurement and maintaining receiving sensitivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical connection parameter (parallel vs. serial) of the transmission/reception elements according to the operational phase. By changing the connection configuration parameter, the patent enables small elements to achieve both high-frequency transmission capability and adequate receiving sensitivity, thus resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and receiving sensitivity.
2Device complexity
If transmission/reception elements are connected in parallel to the receiving circuit, then device complexity is reduced, but receiving sensitivity deteriorates due to insufficient signal voltage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically switches the connection configuration between parallel and serial based on the operational phase. During reception, elements are connected in series to amplify signal voltage and improve receiving sensitivity, while during transmission, they are connected in parallel. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction between device complexity and receiving sensitivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If transmission/reception elements are individually driven during transmission, then adaptability is improved for scanning objects, but device complexity increases due to separate control circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the transmission/reception elements dual-use by enabling them to function in both transmission and reception modes through switchable connection configurations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate transmission and reception element sets, reducing device complexity while maintaining the adaptability for scanning objects through individual element control.
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 allows for improved receiving sensitivity and high-frequency ultrasonic wave transmission, enabling accurate measurement of small objects by optimizing the connection and arrangement of elements within the sensor array.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric body having a first electrode, a piezoelectric film, and a second electrode
Implementation Method 2
ultrasonic vibrators (ultrasonic transducers) arranged in an array
Data Source
AI summary
The ultrasonic sensor includes: a plurality of transmission/reception dual-use elements, first electrode switches connected to the first electrodes of the transmission/reception dual-use elements; second electrode switches connected to the second electrodes of the transmission/reception dual-use elements; a control circuit; a transmitting circuit; a receiving circuit; a common-electrode connection wiring; and serial connection wiring. When an ultrasonic signal is to be transmitted, the control circuit connects the first electrode switches to the transmitting circuit, connects the second electrode switches to the common-electrode connection wiring so that the transmission/reception dual-use elements are connected in parallel to the transmitting circuit and the common electrode. When an ultrasonic signal is to be received, the control circuit connects the first electrode switches and the second electrode switches to the serial connection wiring so that the transmission/reception dual-use elements are serially connected to the receiving circuit.