Two dimensional array switching for beamforming in a volume
US6676602B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 25, 2002 |
| Grant date | Jan 13, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 25, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B8/483
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Methods and systems for electronically scanning within a three dimensional volume while minimizing the number of system channels and associated cables connecting a two-dimensional array of elements to an ultrasound system are provided. An array of semiconductor or micro-machined switches electronically interconnect various elements of the two-dimensional array. Elements associated with a substantially same time delay are connected together as a macro element, reducing the number of independent elements to be connected to beamforming or system channels. To beam form in the desired direction, the macro elements are configured as a phased array or along substantially straight lines in at least two dimensions (i.e. along the face of the two-dimensional transducer). Such macro elements allow transmission and reception along beams that are at an angle other than normal to the two-dimensional transducer array. Beams at such angles may be used to acquire information beyond the azimuth and elevation extent of the two-dimensional array. Various configurations of macro elements are possible. For example, the macro elements in each configuration are parallel across the two-dimensional array, b…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.