Patent ID: 8232705
Filing Date: 2012-07-31
Classification: B06B

Abstract:
1. An ultrasound transducer comprising: a backing; a piezoelectric element attached to the backing, the piezoelectric element configured to convert electrical signals into ultrasound waves to be transmitted toward a target, the piezoelectric element configured to convert received ultrasound waves into electrical signals; a first matching layer attached to the piezoelectric element, the first matching layer having a first acoustic impedance and a thermal conductivity of greater than 30 W/mK, the first matching layer comprising a wing configured to extend beyond an end of the piezoelectric element to the backing, the wing configured to conduct heat from the piezoelectric element to at least one of a heat sink and thermal management at the backing; and a second matching layer attached to the first matching layer, the second matching layer having a second acoustic impedance that is lower than the first acoustic impedance.