Design and fabrication of ultrasound linear array transducer used in ultrasound endoscope

TL;DR

This paper presents the design, fabrication, and implementation of a novel ultrasound endoscope probe and platform, enabling advanced minimally invasive ultrasound imaging with a custom 64-element phased array probe.

Contribution

It introduces a new ultrasound endoscope probe with integrated imaging platform based on TI EVMs, supporting multiple probe types and signal processing capabilities.

Findings

Successful construction of a 64-element phased array probe

Integration of a comprehensive ultrasound imaging platform

Demonstrated effective miniaturization and imaging performance

Abstract

This report details the successful construction of an ultrasound imaging platform and the design and fabrication of a novel ultrasound endoscope probe. The projects primary objective was to establish a functional system for acquiring and processing ultrasound signals, specifically targeting minimally invasive endoscopic applications. The ultrasound imaging platform was primarily designed and developed based on Texas Instruments (TI) Evaluation Modules (EVMs). It enables the transmission of 32-channel high-voltage signals and the reception of echo signals, with on-chip signal amplification and acquisition capabilities. Furthermore, the platform integrates a complete Time Gain Control (TGC) imaging path and a ContinuousWave Doppler (CWD) path. In conjunction with host computer software, it supports imaging with linear array, convex array, and phased array probes. Concurrently, a 64-element, 5MHz center frequency, phased array linear ultrasound endoscopic probe was designed, aiming for miniaturization and optimal imaging performance. The fabrication and assembly of its matching layer, backing layer, 2-2 piezoelectric composite material, and electrodes were completed.