Enhanced Universal Ultrasound Device and System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An advanced ultrasound device and system capable of seamless frequency range switching, optimized transducer performance, and comprehensive image dataset generation, offering improved image quality, reduced energy consumption, and enhanced user experience.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent's universal ultrasound device, while capable of operating across multiple frequency ranges, still faces limitations in terms of transducer performance, power consumption, and image quality. The present inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing a semiconductor die-integrated probe, advanced control circuitry, and thermal management and power management systems, enabling efficient and high-quality ultrasound imaging at varying depths.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The enhanced universal ultrasound device comprises a probe housing a semiconductor die, integrating multiple ultrasonic transducers configured to operate in multiple frequency ranges. The control circuitry enables seamless frequency range switching based on user input, while the thermal management system ensures optimal transducer performance across varying frequency ranges. Additionally, the power management system dynamically allocates power to optimize transducer performance and reduce energy consumption. The system further includes a processing device configured to receive and process ultrasound signals from the universal ultrasound device, generating a comprehensive image dataset encompassing multiple frequency ranges.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The present inventive concept introduces a novel combination of semiconductor die-integrated probes, advanced control circuitry, and thermal and power management systems, which collectively enable seamless frequency range switching, optimized transducer performance, and comprehensive image dataset generation. These advancements provide a non-obvious improvement over the original patent, offering enhanced image quality, reduced energy consumption, and improved user experience.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include the use of different semiconductor materials, varying transducer configurations, or alternative thermal management systems. Additionally, the system could be adapted for use in various medical or industrial applications, such as cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, or non-destructive testing.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced universal ultrasound device and system have significant commercial potential in the medical imaging industry, particularly in the fields of cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and obstetric imaging. The device's ability to provide high-quality images at varying depths, while reducing energy consumption and improving user experience, makes it an attractive solution for hospitals, clinics, and medical research institutions.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61B8/4477 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/0883 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/0891 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/12 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/4236 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/4427 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/4444 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/4472 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/4494 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/465 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/467 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/483 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/485 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/488 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/5207 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/54 |
| A | A61 | A61B8/56 |
| B | B06 | B06B1/0292 |
| B | B06 | B06B1/0622 |
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,368 |
|---|---|
| Title | Universal ultrasound device and related apparatus and methods |
| Assignee(s) | BFLY Operations, Inc |