Measuring and testing – Vibration – By mechanical waves
Patent
1986-06-17
1988-03-15
Tokar, Michael J.
Measuring and testing
Vibration
By mechanical waves
73606, G01N 2900
Patent
active
047304952
ABSTRACT:
A reflex transmission ultrasonic imaging system and method are shown comprising an ultrasonic transducer array of either a two dimensional or linear type acoustically coupled to a subject. An ultrasonic energy beam is transmitted by the array into the subject to insonify an image plane, in the case of the two dimensional array, or a line in the image plane in the case of the linear transducer array. Electronic focusing is employed during the reception of echo signals for simultaneously focusing the transducer array at a plurality of focal points while echo signals are received from a range zone opposite the focal points. For the two dimensional array case, an array of focal points is provided in the focal plane, and in the linear array case a line of focal points in the focal plane is provided during reception. Echo signals are processed by detecting and then integrating the same over a period of time that they are received from the range zone opposite the associated focal points to produce a plurality of pixel values that are substantially dependent upon and provide a measure of attenuation of ultrasonic waves at the focal points. Alternatively, a contoured surface may be imaged. Processing of signals over only a portion of the range zone is provided when the zone is not substantially uniform in its reflective properties. A reflector which includes a stack of corner reflector arrays may be coupled to the object for reflection of ultrasonic waves back into the object in the vicinity of the focal points.
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Arana Louis M.
Beckman Victor R.
SRI - International
Tokar Michael J.
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