Expanded performance phased array transducer for a limited number of channels
First Claim
1. A system with a transducer for a broad range of uses in ultrasound imaging, the system comprising:
- an array of elements extending along at least one dimension, the array having first and second groups of adjacent elements, the first group of elements having a different pitch than the second group of elements; and
a beamformer connectable with the elements of the array, the beamformer operable to connect with elements of both the first and second groups at a same time while steering away from orthogonal to the array.
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Abstract
A single transducer, such as a phased array transducer, is provided for various imaging situations with limited loss of resolution and/or penetration. The transducer includes different groups of elements, such as a center group with a fine pitch and outer groups with a larger pitch. The difference in pitch allows for an increased lateral extent of the array, and the fine pitched grouping allows for higher resolution and higher frequency imaging. The same transducer can be used for different imaging situations, such as for neonate imaging as well as imaging 140 pound adults. The difference in pitch also allows for the use of ultrasound imaging systems or beamformers with a limited number of channels even with the total lateral extent provided by the transducer array.
31 Citations
27 Claims
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1. A system with a transducer for a broad range of uses in ultrasound imaging, the system comprising:
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an array of elements extending along at least one dimension, the array having first and second groups of adjacent elements, the first group of elements having a different pitch than the second group of elements; and
a beamformer connectable with the elements of the array, the beamformer operable to connect with elements of both the first and second groups at a same time while steering away from orthogonal to the array. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11)
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12. A method for ultrasound imaging with a transducer operable for a broad range of uses, the method comprising:
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(a) steering signals corresponding to an acoustic beam away from orthogonal to an array of elements; and
(b) applying the steering of (a) to first and second groups of contiguous elements, the first group of elements having a different pitch than the second group of elements. - View Dependent Claims (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21)
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22. A transducer for a broad range of uses in ultrasound imaging, the transducer comprising:
an array of elements with uniform pitch along a lateral dimension, the array having first and second groups of contiguous elements, the contiguous elements of the first group being electrically isolated from each other, at least pairs of the contiguous elements of the second group being substantially permanently electrically connected. - View Dependent Claims (23, 24, 25, 26, 27)
Specification