Patent ID: 7857763
Filing Date: 2010-12-28
Classification: A61B,G01S

Abstract:
1. An auto-signal-optimizing transducer assembly configured for transmitting ultrasound to, and receiving ultrasound echo signals returned from, a blood vessel disposed in a patient's body region in which said blood vessel is oriented at a vessel elevation angle relative to the patient's skin surface, said auto-signal-optimizing transducer assembly comprising: a) an ultrasound transducer component having a front face that transmits ultrasound along a scanning plane directed away from said face and receives ultrasound echo signals returned along said scanning plane; b) signal connection means for coupling said transducer component to an ultrasound generator and processor unit that excites said transducer component to transmit said ultrasound and processes said returned ultrasound echo signals received by said transducer component; c) securing means configured for detachably and repeatably holding said transducer component adjacent to said skin surface and oriented in azimuth adjacent to said body region and to hold said transducer component so said scanning plane is disposed at a fixed transducer elevation angle relative to the skin surface, and is oriented in azimuth on said skin surface to optimize initial returned echo signals from said blood vessel disposed at a vessel elevation angle relative to said skin surface, in which said securing means comprises: d) a housing body fixedly encapsulating, protecting and holding said transducer component, said housing body comprising: e) a housing body holder comprising: f) housing holder attachment means configured to removably attaching said lateral wings to said skin surface portion.