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Apparatus and method for imaging small cavities

  • US 4,917,097 A
  • Filed: 10/27/1987
  • Issued: 04/17/1990
  • Est. Priority Date: 10/27/1987
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. An imaging device for emitting ultrasonic acoustic waves and providing a useable image in response to detection of reflections of said ultrasonic acoustic waves, said imaging device comprising:

  • a body for insertion into a cavity;

    an array of transducer elements mounted to said body for generating first electrical signals containing imaging information in response to said reflections of said ultrasonic acoustic waves;

    a cable connecting said body to an environment external of said cavity and including at least one signal channel for transporting said first electrical signals;

    means mounted on said body and proximate to said array of transducer elements for receiving said first electrical signals from said array of transducer elements and converting said first electrical signals to second electrical signals that may be transmitted along said at least one channel in said cable without significant loss of imaging information;

    a processor responsive to said second electrical signals from said cable for providing imaging data; and

    a display responsive to said imaging data for providing a visual image of said cavity and its surrounding structure.

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