Patent ID: 8257262
Filing Date: 2012-09-04
Classification: A61B,G01S

Abstract:
1. A method for adapting signals from an ultrasound transducer for an ultrasound system, the method comprising: (a) processing signals from a plurality, M, of elements within a transducer assembly having a transducer connector releasably connectable with the ultrasound system, the ultrasound system comprising a transmit beamformer, a receive beamformer, and a system connector in a system housing, the system housing comprising a cart-based housing resting on wheels, the system connector permanently connected through a transmit and receive switch to the transmit and receive beamformers; and (b) converting the processed signals to a different form appropriate for the ultrasound system, the conversion being in the transducer assembly; wherein (a) comprises processing signals for a given range from the plurality, M, of elements of a multi-dimensional array of the elements to a lesser plurality, N, of processed signals; wherein (a) comprises processing within a transducer probe housing, the transducer probe housing being shaped for handheld use, and wherein (b) comprises converting within a connector housing releasable from the ultrasound system, the converting making signals, from the elements, in the connector housing compatible with the receive beamformer; further comprising connecting, with a cable, the transducer probe housing with the connector housing, the connector housing at least partially enclosing the transducer connector, the transducer connector releasably connectable with the system connector; and transmitting the signals from the elements to the connector housing.