Neonate ultrasonic scanner
US4517985A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 9, 1984 |
| Grant date | May 21, 1985 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 9, 2004 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B8/08
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An ultrasonic scanner for medical diagnostics is disclosed. The scanner includes an upper head assembly and a lower drive assembly. The upper head assembly includes a fluid chamber filled with a liquid acoustic couplant. An oscillating transducer is driven in an asymmetric motion by a linkage coupled off-center to a flywheel within the fluid chamber. An inflatable bladder is provided in the upper assembly which is in fluid communication with the fluid chamber. The application of force to the membrane boot of the scanner forces fluid into the bladder. Once the external pressure is removed, the bladder is biased such that it is compressed, thereby forcing fluid to return to the fluid chamber and maintaining a generally constant pressure within the chamber. Supporting electronics are provided including means for compensating for the asymmetric motion of the transducer.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.