System and method for adaptive beamformer apodization

摘要

An ultrasound array imaging system (50) and method for improving beamforming quality and ultimately for improving an ultrasound image are disclosed. The ultrasound array imaging system (50) includes a transducer (52), a first beamformer (54), a second beamformer (56) and a comparator (58). The first beamformer (44) receives a first electronic echo signal from the transducer (52) and produces a first apodized beam signal in accordance with a first beamforming apodization function. The second beamformer (56) receives the same electronic echo signal from the transducer (52) and produces a second apodized beam signal in accordance with a second beamforming apodization function. The first and second apodized beam signals are compared in the comparator (58) which then combines the first and second apodized beam signals to create a combined apodized beam signal for producing an image that has its lateral and contrast resolution simultaneously optimized.