This technology is a method for producing a flexible 2D ultrasound phased array for a wearable, flexible, and comfortable imaging patch.
Ultrasound diagnostics are limited by commercial systems that are unable to gather accurate readings of patients with varying body geometries. Due to the stiff, non-adjustable design of traditional ultrasound imaging probes, certain procedures such as an endotracheal tube insertion are difficult to accomplish without the patient experiencing discomfort. In addition, for similar reasons, current ultrasound systems are not suitable for extended patient monitoring.
This technology describes a method of fabricating 2D ultrasound phased arrays in the form of a wearable, flexible, and comfortable imaging patch. The phased array consists of a flexible plex-PCB material connected to an integrated circuit (IC) and a specified number of independent piezoelectric transducers that can each transmit and receive ultrasound signals. Furthermore, the controller in the IC can configure the phased array and adjust to the correct settings dynamically as it conforms to the body. As such, the portability of this technology allows for comfortable long-term patient monitoring that is unachievable using traditional ultrasound probe setups.
IR CU19259
Licensing Contact: Greg Maskel