Miniature ultrasonic imaging system
US10820888B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 9, 2016 |
| Grant date | Nov 3, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 24, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B8/5207
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An ultrasonic imaging apparatus having a Micro-machined Ultrasonic Transducer (MUT), such as a Piezoelectric MUT (PMUT) or Capacitive MUT (CMUT), with a transmitting mode and a receiving mode for generating and sensing acoustic pressure in imaging applications. During transmission in a PMUT the inverse piezoelectric effect on the piezo layer causes transverse stress, which causes a bending moment in the PMUT structure leading to out-of-plane deflection. Different applied signs of voltage generates different signs of stress inside the piezo that in turn cause oscillating motion generating an acoustic pressure wave. During signal reception, incident pressure waves deflect the PMUT creating transverse stress, resulting in a charge determined through measuring voltage between electrodes. The apparatus is particularly well-suited for use in health care, such as measuring fat/muscle thickness, blood-flow, and blood pressure.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.