Siemens Medical Solutions Usa, Inc.

Acuson Corporation

Bk Medical Aps

Terry Kling

John William Sliwa

Stuart L Carp

William Robert Dreschel

Sevig Ayter

Henrik Jensen

Marianne Andersen

Johannes Paede

An ultrasound imaging probe () includes a transducer array (). The transducer array includes one or more transducer elements (). The ultrasound imaging probe further includes an illumination component () and an optical imaging component (). The ultrasound imaging probe further includes an elongated housing () with a long axis (). The elongated housing includes a proximal end region () affixed to a handle () and a distal end region () with a tip region (). The elongated housing houses the transducer array, the illumination component, and the optical imaging component in the distal end region.

US imaging probe with an US transducer array and an integrated optical imaging sub-system

The use of any micro-mechanical component in an ultrasound system is disclosed. In particular, the use of micro-relays, micro-switches and inductors in the transducer probe head, in the transducer connector, coupled with the system transducer connector(s) or anywhere else in the system. In an ultrasound system, micro-mechanical components such as micro-fabricated switches, relays and inductors permit impressive size reduction, cost reduction, signal-integrity enhancement and improved operational flexibility.

Diagnostic medical ultrasound systems and transducers utilizing micro-mechanical components

The use of any micro-mechanical component in an ultrasound system is disclosed. In particular, the use of micro-mechanical ultrasound transducers, micro-relays, micro-switches and inductors in the transducer probe head, in the transducer connector, coupled with the system transducer connector(s) or anywhere else in the system. In an ultrasound system, micro-mechanical components such as micro-mechanical ultrasound transducers, micro-fabricated switches, relays and inductors permit impressive size reduction, cost reduction, signal-integrity enhancement and improved operational flexibility.

Growing community of inventors

Port Matilda, PA, United States of America

Terry Kling