Numerical prototyping of piezocomposite arrays: from material characterization to array performances

Abstract

The numerical prototyping and optimization of ultrasound arrays for medical imaging applications enable probe designers to perform efficient and thorough studies. The efficiency of such methods directly depends on the characterization of probe's constitutive materials. Whatever the model used: numerical, analytical or FEM/BEM model, accurate input data are required to predict properly the final performances of the probe. This work presents two complementary methods for ultrasound transducer arrays numerical prototyping. Different studies point out the flexibility, and the enhanced value of such a tool for 1-3 piezocomposite ultrasound transducers arrays design and development.