Ultrasonic Diagnosis Apparatus Sub-Array Beamforming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultrasonic diagnosis apparatuses using one-dimensional array probes struggle to obtain high-quality images over a wide range due to insufficient resolution away from the focal point, and existing technologies that adjust focal length and aperture diameter are not applicable to two-dimensionally arranged ultrasound transducer arrays.
Innovation Solution
The ultrasonic diagnosis apparatus employs a two-dimensional matrix array with sub-arrays and a main array, where the aperture diameter is adjusted by changing the number of sub-arrays, and delay patterns are applied during transmission and reception to achieve focused ultrasonic beams and improved image quality across the imaging field.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a one-dimensional array probe with a single focal point is used, then high resolution is obtained near the focal point, but sufficient resolution is not obtained in areas away from the focal point
Solution Approach 1:
The ultrasonic transducer array is divided into multiple sub-arrays, each capable of independent beamforming with different focal lengths. This segmentation allows the system to simultaneously maintain high resolution near the focal point while extending imaging capability to areas away from it, resolving the contradiction between localized resolution and overall imaging range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional array probe to a two-dimensionally arranged ultrasonic transducer array. This dimensional change enables the formation of multiple focal points at different depths and positions, allowing high-resolution imaging across a wider range without being constrained to a single focal point.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the aperture diameter is increased to improve imaging range, then coverage is expanded, but grating lobe formation occurs and image quality degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture diameter is made dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. The system can change the aperture diameter according to the imaging depth and target position, allowing optimal balance between imaging range and image quality. This dynamic adjustment prevents grating lobe formation while maintaining wide coverage when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the aperture diameter parameter based on imaging requirements. By adjusting this parameter dynamically, the system achieves wide imaging coverage when necessary while preventing grating lobe formation that would degrade image quality, thus resolving the contradiction between range and quality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a two-dimensional matrix array is used instead of a one-dimensional array, then multi-focal imaging is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The two-dimensional matrix array is segmented into multiple sub-arrays that can be independently controlled. This segmentation simplifies the overall system design by allowing each sub-array to handle specific focal regions, making the complex multi-focal imaging capability more manageable and implementable.
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 approach prevents grating lobe formation and maintains high image quality both near and away from the focal point, reducing the acoustic Signal-to-Noise ratio degradation and ensuring uniform image quality throughout the imaging field.
Implementation Method 1
the ultrasonic diagnosis apparatus transmits ultrasonic waves into a subject with an ultrasound probe comprising ultrasound transducers. Following this, it receives with the ultrasound probe reflected ultrasonic waves
Implementation Method 2
The delay pattern setting part adds delay patterns which differ for each sub array, to signals received by the sub arrays, according to the aperture diameter
Data Source
AI summary
The ultrasonic diagnosis apparatus according to the embodiments transmits ultrasonic waves to a subject, generates an ultrasound image based on the signals received from the subject, and comprises sub arrays, a main array, an aperture diameter setting part, and a delay pattern setting part. The sub arrays consist of a plurality of ultrasound transducers that are two-dimensionally disposed, and have a fixed delay pattern during a single receiving period. The main array consists of sub arrays. The aperture diameter setting part sets the aperture diameter of the main array. The delay pattern setting part changes the delay pattern for each of the sub arrays depending on the aperture diameter.