File:ZPhased Array Transducerki.jpg

Explanation of Diagram

This diagram shows a phased array transducer (also called a linear phased array transducer) emitting ultrasound pulses on the left, and the shape of the scan it produces on the right.

The illustration of a phased array transducer on the left demonstrates the placement of piezoelectric elements in that transducer. The elements are placed together in a compact line, with each element being about one quarter of a wavelength wide. A voltage is applied to all the elements but with tiny time differences (this process is called phasing), with each tiny pulse being sent out in a slightly different direction, so the beam “sweeps” through the tissue and gives a pizza slice shaped cross-sectional image.

The illustration on the right indicates the shape of the image produced, termed a sector scan.

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Illustration by z3252833.

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References

Kremkali, F.W. (2006) Diagnostic Ultrasound Principles and Instruments (7th ed.) St Louis: Saunders Elsevier. pp 68-70