General Electric Company

Ronald C Carnes

Ted F Naumann, Jr

Axel F Brisken

Stockton M Miller-Jones

Craig R Thompson

A scanning system having a variable field of imaging uses a transducer array including a central element and one or more annular elements concentric therewith. The central element is energized at a first frequency for near field imaging, and the one or more annular elements are energized at lower frequencies for intermediate and far field imaging. Electrical signals generated by the transducer elements in response to reflected ultrasonic waves are demodulated to form in-phase and quadrature phase demodulated signals, and the in-phase and quadrature phase electrical signals are then summed to provide an enhanced image signal.

Multiple frequency annular transducer array and system

A sector scanner having an oscillating transducer element includes a motor and rotating shaft, a crank attached to an end of the shaft, and a linkage connecting the crank and the oscillating transducer element whereby rotation of the shaft is translated to oscillation of the transducer element. Vibration from the oscillating transducer element is minimized by reducing the mass of the oscillating element and employing harmonic motion of the transducer element.

Oscillating scanner and drive mechanism therefor

A sector scanner which compensates for fluid leakage from the sealed transducer cavity includes a bladder in the cavity which is vented to the outside atmosphere whereby the bladder expands to compensate for the loss of fluid and a differential pressure between the cavity and the outside atmosphere is avoided. Alternatively, a fluid filled bladder is provided outside of the cavity and a port in the bladder is in fluid communication with the sealed cavity whereby fluid lost from the cavity is replaced by the fluid filled bladder. The bladder can be expandible with the fluid therein being under pressure.

Ultrasonic sector scanner having fluid replacement capability

An ultrasonic sector scanner which utilizes rotating transducers uses an optical encoder for generating indexing signals. A slip-ring and brush assembly interconnects the transducers and electronic circuitry within the scanner.

Ultrasonic sector scanner utilizing rotating transducer

An ultrasonic sector scanner using rotating transducers includes a transducer support wheel having a circumferential rim surface with a plurality of recessed seats within the circumferential surface for receiving inwardly facing transducers. The wheel and recessed seats provide accurate alignment of the transducers and acoustic mirrors direct ultrasonic energy between the transducers and ports.

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Folsom, CA, United States of America

Ronald C Carnes