Ultrasound probes are a key component of ultrasound systems.
Its most fundamental work is to achieve the mutual conversion between electrical energy and acoustic energy, that is, it can convert both electrical energy into acoustic energy and acoustic energy into electrical energy. The key element that completes this series of transformations is the Piezoelectric crystal. The same crystal is precisely cut into one element (Element) and arranged in order into a geometric array.
A probe may consist of as few as tens and as many as tens of thousands of array elements. Each array element consists of 1 to 3 units.
In order to excite the array elements to generate ultrasonic waves and pick up ultrasonic electrical signals, wires must be welded to each group of array elements.
If used incorrectly, solder joints can be easily corroded by penetrating couplant or broken by severe vibrations.
In order to lead the ultrasonic beam out of the probe smoothly, the acoustic impedance (the degree of obstruction to the ultrasonic wave) on the path of the acoustic beam must be adjusted to the same level as the human skin-before the array of elements, add multiple layers of composite material. This layer is what we call the matching layer. The purpose of this is to ensure the highest degree of ultrasound imaging quality and eliminate artifacts caused by high impedance ratios. We have just seen from the probe structure diagram that the outermost layer of the probe has a strange name Lens. If you think of the camera lens, you are right!
Although it is not glass, this layer is equivalent to a glass lens for an ultrasound beam (which can be analogized to a beam) and serves the same purpose-to assist ultrasound beam focusing. The element and the lens layer are closely adhered together. There must be no dust or impurities. Not to mention air. This shows that the probe we hold in our hands all day is a very delicate and delicate thing! Treat it gently. The matching layer and the lens layer are very particular about it. It is not necessary to just find some rubber stickers. Finally, in order for the probe to work stably and permanently, it must be housed in a sealed enclosure. Lead out the wires and connect to the socket. Just like the probe we hold in our hands and use it every day.
Well, now that we have a preliminary understanding of the probe, in daily use we try to form a good habit of loving him. We want it to have a longer life, more effectiveness, and fewer failures. In a word, work for us. So, what should we pay attention to everyday? Handle lightly, do not bump, do not bump the wire, do not fold, do not tangle Freeze if not used In the frozen state, the host turns off the high voltage to the array element. The crystal unit no longer oscillates and the probe stops working. This habit can delay the aging of the crystal unit and extend the life of the probe. Freeze the probe before replacing it. Lock the probe gently without leaving couplant. When not using the probe, wipe off the couplant. Prevent leaks, corrosion elements and solder joints. Care must be taken in disinfection Chemicals such as disinfectants and cleaning agents can cause lens and lead rubber sheaths to age and become brittle. When immersing and disinfecting, avoid contact between the probe socket and the disinfecting solution.
Post time: Feb-17-2023
