Acoustic array with a shape alloy for medical ultrasound

摘要

A memory alloy is used during manufacture of a transducer. The memory of the alloy may correct for deviations or bending during manufacture, such as a superelastic alloy returning an array to a flat state after being twisted during handling. The memory of the alloy may cause a desired change in array geometry during manufacture, such as a shape memory alloy twisting an array into a curved or helix due to applied heat. The array may be fixed in place by the memory alloy or bonding after positioning by the memory alloy, preventing further substantial alteration.

主权项

1. A transducer for medical ultrasound, the transducer comprising:
a plurality of elements defining an emitting face of an array, the elements spaced at least along an azimuth axis; and a memory alloy connected with the array, the memory alloy being stacked with the array along a range dimension, the range dimension being orthogonal to the emitting face; wherein the memory alloy establishes, during manufacture, a fixed geometry of the array, the fixed geometry maintained without change after manufacture and during use of the transducer.