투명 및 불투명 초음파 트랜스듀서의 음향학적 동등성 검증: 정량적 분석 연구

• Published in: Journal of biomedical engineering research Vol. 45; no. 6; pp. 399 - 408
• Main Authors: 허다솜, 김재우, 조성희, 김형함, 김철홍, Dasom Heo, Jaewoo Kim, Seonghee Cho, Hyung Ham Kim, Chulhong Kim
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Korean
• Published: 대한의용생체공학회 01.12.2024
• Subjects: 의공학; Transparent ultrasound transducer; Acoustic characterization; Opaque ultrasound transducer; Safety validation
• ISSN: 1229-0807; 2288-9396
• DOI: 10.9718/JBER.2024.45.6.399

Ultrasound technology is being integrated with optical systems in biomedical, industrial, and scientific applications. The development of transparent ultrasound transducers enables successful integration by allowing precise alignment between optical and acoustic paths. However, acoustic characterization of transparent ultrasound transducers has mainly focused on basic imaging parameters, while comprehensive evaluation of acoustic output and safety validation remains limited. This study aims to provide comprehensive acoustic characterization and safety validation of transparent ultrasound transducer (TT) through systematic comparison with opaque ultrasound transducer (OT). In this study, TT and OT were fabricated with the same structural design and systematically evaluated by measuring acoustic, electrical, and safety parameters. Both exhibited similar performance with center frequencies (18-19 MHz), bandwidths (44-54%), electrical impedances (59 Ω and 30 Ω), and similar beam diameter (0.75-0.83 mm). The acoustic output parameters of TT (1.14 MPa, 4.29 mW/cm2) were comparable to OT (1.12 MPa, 4.42 mW/cm2), with mechanical (0.26) and thermal indices (<0.01) within safety guidelines. A systematic comparative analysis between TT and OT, focusing on acoustic characteristics and safety parameters, provides essential reference data. This comprehensive evaluation enables more informed decisions in selecting and implementing TTs in optical-ultrasound integrated systems.