A study on the feasability of designing, fabricating, and operating a virtual ultrasound array

This proposal presents a practical study of the issues and tradeoffs involved in making an ultrasound array which is capable of being operated from a remote location. The classic performance vs complexity tradeoffs are presented. The parameters which canbe adjusted are listed, along with the performance variables which they affect. The number of elements and the form in which they are addressed is shown to affect the overall coverage and the flexibility that the physician has in selecting an activeaperture and beam direction. After determination of the imaging applications which the array will be used in, a thorough analysis of these variables is proposed, from which the feasability will be determined and the specifications set for hardwaredevelopment under a Phase II program. Remote operation of an ultrasound array is expected to have far reaching applications in both the civilian and defense sectors, including front line, triage, and trauma operations. Tie-in to a rapid diagnosis andtreatment program is possible. Development of this system could also enable ultrasound specialists to perform examinations from remote sites, and in an interactive manner be able to gain the same clinical insight as if they were present at the patientlocation. Commercialization of direct and spinoff technology developed under this program is expected to be significant.