Flexible Linear Array with Curvature Sensor

Abstract:

A 1-MHz compact and flexible linear array transducer probe with a curvature sensor was developed to be shaped directly in human body curvatures. This transducer will be used for human bone imaging, in an attempt to substitute x-ray radiography. The curvature sensor, based on strain gauge construction, is embedded in the same flexible polymer matrix of the transducer. This sensor measures the curvature of the unknown surface and determinates the actual position of the emitter/receiver ceramics during scanning, in order to use the focal time-delay law. This avoids problems related to beam distortions and enhances the sensitivity of the transducer. A phantom simulating cortical human bone was used to test the transducer. As a result, images of cortical bone phantom were obtained.

• Periodical: Advanced Materials Research (Volume 975)
• Pages: 219-223
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMR.975.219
• Online since: July 2014
• Authors: Timoteo F. Oliveira*, Marcelo Y. Matuda, C. Nan Pai, Flavio Buiochi, Julio C. Adamowski
• Keywords: Curvature Sensor, Flexible Linear Array, Medical Imaging

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