2-D Ultrasound Scanning Probes for 3-D Medical Diagnostic Imaging

The primary objective of this proposal is twofold. The first is to investigate theoretically and experimentally acoustic, electrical, and geometric parameters of 1.5-D ultrasound transducer array. The modeling and simulations of the arrays of various geometry, center frequencies, and acoustic materials will be performed, analyzed and optimized. The optimization criteria will be the best achievable lateral resolution in elevation and azimuthal direction of the acoustic fields. The second objective is to fabricate several optimally designed prototypes of 1.5-D transducer arrays, measure acoustic fields in 3-dimensions, characterize combination of axial, lateral, and contrast resolution of the prototypes. We will also investigate such vitally important performance issues as acoustic and electrical crosstalk, matching techniques, impedance variation, bandwidth and waveform. For the best resolution, i.e. best imaging results, we will select aperature in both dimensions, focusing strength, and practical design and fabrications criteria to address the issue of subsequent produceability. Anticipated Benefits: The major military benefit is the development and subsequent fabrication of an unique portable 3-D ultrasonic scanner for battlefield emergency care. Such scanner will have a dual-use in both military and civilian trauma diagnostics. Since the imaging quality will be sufficiently improved, this technology will be commercialized for other imaging diagnostic applications. Also the 1.5 array and 2-D scanhead represent an OEM product opportunity for other diagnostic equipment manufacturers.