APPARATUS FOR COUPLING AN ULTRASOUND PROBE TO AN OBJECT

摘要

Improved coupling apparatus (10) for coupling an ultrasound probe (24) to an object (26) is described. The apparatus (10) is particularly suitable for use within medical devices. The coupling apparatus (10) comprising first (14) and second (18) deformable coupler located on separate sides of an intermediate layer (16). Employing the first coupler (14) allows the apparatus (10) to be coupled to the probe (24) while the second coupler (18) provides a means for coupling the apparatus (10) to the object (26). The intermediate layer (16) acoustically connects the first (14) and second couplers (18) while providing structural strength for the apparatus (10). Optionally a sheath or cover (157) may be incorporated within the coupling apparatus (141) so as to improve the hygiene and sterile nature of the device.