Patent Description:
An ultrasound transducer commonly includes a substrate which forms a backing, absorption or reflection medium, a layer of piezoelectric material which is provided with electrodes on its front and rear, and at least one layer for acoustic impedance matching which can be between the piezoelectric material and the substrate.

Piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducer (pMUT) array(s) offer immense opportunity in the field of ultrasonics due to their efficiency in transducing between the electrical and acoustic energy domains. Due to construction, however, pMUTs may have higher quality factors (i.e., Qs) than bulk piezoelectric crystal transducers. <CIT> discloses an electrical transducer system comprising: a) an electrical transducer comprising a substrate, a diaphragm, and a piezoelectric element a first electrical circuitry coupled to the electrical transducer, the first electrical circuitry configured for driving the electrical transducer or detecting motion of the diaphragm; c) a plurality of electrical ports coupled to the electrical transducer; and d) a second electrical circuitry connected to two or more of the plurality of electrical ports, the electrical circuitry comprising one or more of: a resistor, a capacitor, a switch, and an amplifier; wherein the second electrical circuitry is independent from the first electrical circuitry, and wherein the second electrical circuitry is configured to dampen the motion of the diaphragm. It does not disclose wherein the second electrical circuitry comprises a switch.

Higher Q than traditional piezoelectric crystal ultrasonic transducers can be deleterious to the pMUT's functioning, as it reduces the axial image resolution and/or induces undesired noise in images.

The present disclosure herein includes systems and methods for reducing a pMUT's Q. In some embodiments, the system and methods herein are not dependent on the transducer technology, they can be applied to transducers other than pMUTs. In some embodiments, the system and methods herein are not limited to reducing the transducer's Qs; with suitable circuitry, the systems and methods herein can be used to modify the transducer's dynamic behavior in an unlimited number of ways.

In one aspect, disclosed herein are electrical transducer systems comprising: an electrical transducer comprising a substrate, a diaphragm, and a piezoelectric element; a first electrical circuitry coupled to the to the electrical transducer, the first electrical circuitry configured for driving the electrical transducer or detecting motion of the diaphragm; a plurality of electrical ports coupled to the electrical transducer; and a second electrical circuitry connected to two or more of the plurality of electrical ports, the second electrical circuitry comprising a switch, wherein the switch is configured to leave one or more of the plurality of ports floating when open and short the one or more of the plurality of ports to a DC voltage when closed, wherein the second electrical circuitry is independent from the first electrical circuitry, and wherein the second electrical circuitry is configured to dampen the motion of the diaphragm. In some embodiments, the electrical transducer is selected from the group consisting of a capacitive transducer, a piezo-resistive transducer, a thermal transducer, an optical transducer, and a radioactive transducer. In some embodiments, the second electrical circuitry comprises a resistor. In some embodiments, the second electrical circuitry comprises a resistor coupled to the electrical transducer through a capacitor. In some embodiments, the second electrical circuitry comprises the switch, a resistor, and a capacitor in series. In some embodiments, the switch is configured to short the one or more of the plurality of ports to the resistor and the capacitor when closed. In some embodiments, the motion of the diaphragm is dampened when the switch is closed. In some embodiments, the motion of the diaphragm is ceased when the switch is closed. In some embodiments, the second electrical circuitry comprises an amplifier. In some embodiments, the amplifier is configured to sense the motion of the diaphragm and utilizes active feedback to dampen the transducer based on the sensed motion of the diaphragm. In some embodiments, the second electrical circuitry is activated when the diaphragm is in motion. In some embodiments, the second electrical circuitry is not activated when the motion of diaphragm is less than a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical ports comprises at least one port above the piezoelectric element. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical ports comprises at least one port below the piezoelectric element. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical ports comprises two ports or three ports. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical ports comprises four ports, five ports, six ports, or any other integer number of ports.

In another aspect, disclosed herein are methods for damping motion of an electrical transducer, the method comprising: coupling a plurality of electrical ports to the electrical transducer, the electrical transducer comprising a diaphragm (<NUM>); connecting a first electrical circuitry to two or more of the plurality of electrical ports, the electrical circuitry comprising a switch, wherein the switch is configured to leave one or more of the plurality of ports floating when open and short the one or more of the plurality of ports to a DC voltage when closed, wherein the first electrical circuitry is independent from a second electrical circuitry, the second electrical circuitry connectable to the electrical transducer, configured for driving the electrical transducer or detecting
motion of the diaphragm; and damping the motion of the electrical transducer using the first electrical circuitry. In some embodiments, the electrical transducer is selected from the group consisting of a capacitive transducer, a piezo-resistive transducer, a thermal transducer, an optical transducer, and a radioactive transducer. In some embodiments, connecting a first electrical circuitry to the two or more of the plurality of electrical ports comprises connecting a resistor and a capacitor in series to the two or more of the plurality of electrical ports. In some embodiments, connecting a first electrical circuitry to the two or more of the plurality of electrical ports comprises connecting a switch, a resistor, and a capacitor in series to the to the two or more of the plurality of electrical ports. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical ports comprises at least one port above the piezoelectric element. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical ports comprises at least one port below the piezoelectric element. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical ports comprises two ports or three ports. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical ports comprises four ports, five ports, six ports, or any other number of ports.

A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present subject matter will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments and the accompanying drawings of which:.

In some embodiments, a transducer herein is a device that converts a physical variation in one energy domain into a physical variation in a different domain. A piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducer (pMUT), for example, converts voltage variations into mechanical vibrations of a diaphragm via the piezoelectric effect. These vibrations of the diaphragm result in pressure waves in any gas, liquid, or solid adjoining the diaphragm. Conversely, pressure waves in the adjoining media may cause mechanical vibration of the diaphragm. The strain in the piezoelectric material on the pMUT's diaphragm may in turn result in variations in charge on the pMUT's electrodes, which can be sensed.

In certain embodiments, disclosed herein are electrical transducers, in which one of the two energy domains is electrical. In some embodiments, Ultrasonic transducers are a subset of electrical transducers. For example, the pMUT is an electrical transducer as the electrical domain is one of the energy domains the pMUT converts between while the other domain being mechanical, e.g., mechanical pressure.

The present disclosure includes methods of changing the dynamic behavior of an electrical transducer. In some embodiments, the methods herein include adding additional ports to the transducer and adding electrical circuit elements to these ports. In some embodiments, disclosed herein are electrical transducers with additional ports and electrical circuit elements added to these ports. In some embodiments, the circuit elements herein include but are not limited to: a resistor, a capacitor, a two-way switch, a three-way switch, an inductor, an amplifier, a diode, a voltage source, a timer, and a logic gate. In some embodiments, the electrical circuit elements added to the electrical transducer ports modify the dynamic behavior of the transducer.

In some embodiments, the methods herein are applied to electrical transducers other than pMUTs, including but not limited to capacitive, piezo-resistive, thermal, optical, radioactive transducers. A piezo-resistive pressure transducer, for example, converts mechanical pressure variations into electrical resistance variations via the piezo-resistance effect. Because the resistance variations are in the electrical domain, the piezo-resistive pressure transducer qualifies as an electrical transducer.

The present disclosure, in some embodiments, advantageously allows manipulation of dynamic behavior, e.g., Qs, damping, loading, etc. of ultrasonic transducers. Such manipulation, in some embodiments, involves electrical and mechanical energy domains. Advantages of such manipulation include but are not limited to improved image quality, reduced image noise, reduced imaging time, and saved energy.

In some embodiments, the systems and methods herein reduce a Q (equivalently herein as Q-spoiling) of a pMUT transducer by <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, or even more, including increments therein, of traditional pMUTs. In some embodiments, the systems and methods herein improve damping of a pMUT transducer by <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, or even more, including increments therein, of traditional pMUTs.

Disclosed herein, in some embodiments, are ultrasonic transducer systems comprising: an ultrasonic transducer comprising a substrate, a diaphragm, and a piezoelectric element; a first electrical circuitry coupled to the to the ultrasonic transducer, the first electrical circuitry configured for driving the ultrasonic transducer or detecting motion of the diaphragm; a plurality of electrical ports coupled to the ultrasonic transducer; and a second electrical circuitry connected to two or more of the plurality of electrical ports, the electrical circuitry comprising one or more of: a resistor, a capacitor, a switch, and an amplifier; wherein the second electrical circuitry is independent from the first electrical circuitry, and wherein the second electrical circuitry is configured to dampen the motion of the diaphragm. In some embodiments, the ultrasonic transducer is a piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducer (pMUT). In some embodiments, the second electrical circuitry comprises a resistor. In some embodiments, the second electrical circuitry comprises a resistor coupled to the ultrasonic transducer through a capacitor. In some embodiments, the second electrical circuitry comprises a switch, a resistor, and a capacitor in series. According to the invention, the switch is configured to leave one or more of the plurality of ports floating when open and short the one or more of the plurality of ports to the resistor and the capacitor when closed. In some embodiments, the motion of the diaphragm is dampened when the switch is closed. According to the invention, the second electrical circuitry comprises a switch. According to the invention, the switch is configured to leave one or more of the plurality of ports floating when open and short the one or more of the plurality of ports to a DC voltage when closed. In some embodiments, the motion of the diaphragm is ceased when the switch is closed. In some embodiments, the second electrical circuitry comprises an amplifier. In some embodiments, the amplifier is configured to sense the motion of the diaphragm and utilizes active feedback to dampen the transducer based on the sensed motion of the diaphragm. In some embodiments, the second electrical circuitry is activated when the diaphragm is in motion. In some embodiments, the second electrical circuitry is not activated when the motion of diaphragm is less than a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical ports comprises at least one port above the piezoelectric element. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical ports comprises at least one port below the piezoelectric element. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical ports comprises two ports or three ports. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical ports comprises four ports, five ports, six ports, or any other integer number of ports.

Disclosed herein, in some embodiments, are methods for damping motion of an ultrasonic transducer, the method comprising: coupling a plurality of electrical ports to the ultrasonic transducer; connecting a first electrical circuitry to two or more of the plurality of electrical ports, the electrical circuitry comprising one or more of: a resistor, a capacitor, a switch, and an amplifier, wherein the first electrical circuitry is independent from a second electrical circuitry, the second electrical circuitry configured for driving the ultrasonic transducer or detecting motion of the diaphragm; and damping the motion of the ultrasonic transducer using the first electrical circuitry. In some embodiments, connecting a first electrical circuitry to the two or more of the plurality of electrical ports comprises connecting a resistor and a capacitor in series to the two or more of the plurality of electrical ports. In some embodiments, connecting a first electrical circuitry to the two or more of the plurality of electrical ports comprises connecting a switch, a resistor, and a capacitor in series to the to the two or more of the plurality of electrical ports. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical ports comprises at least one port above the piezoelectric element. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical ports comprises at least one port below the piezoelectric element. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical ports comprises two ports or three ports. In some embodiments, the plurality of electrical ports comprises four ports, five ports, six ports, or any other number of ports.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.

As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Any reference to "or" herein is intended to encompass "and/or" unless otherwise stated.

As used herein, the term "about" refers to an amount that is near the stated amount by about <NUM>%, <NUM>%, or <NUM>%, including increments therein.

In some embodiments, a port herein includes an independent electrical connection to a transducer element. The connection is independent electrically from the other ports, but can be coupled to the other ports via the transducer element. In some embodiments, a port herein includes an electrode, an electrical conductor, for example, of piezoelectric or capacitive transducers. In some embodiments, a port herein is electrically connected to an electrode. In some embodiments, a port herein includes an electrode and an electrical connection to the electrode. The port may take other forms, though. For example, in the case of a piezo-resistive transducer, the port is a low resistance electrical contact to the piezo-resistive element.

In some embodiments, the systems herein include <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or even more ports. In some embodiments, the systems herein include <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or even more ports that are connected to the piezoelectric element. In some embodiments, the systems herein include <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or even more ports above the piezoelectric element above or below the piezoelectric element. In some embodiments, the port(s) for damping or improvement of Q is separate from the port(s) for driving the transducer or sensing ultrasound signals. In some embodiments, the port(s) for damping or improvement of Q is shared for driving the transducer or sensing ultrasound signals.

In some embodiments, damping herein includes energy loss, for example, while the diaphragm of a transducer is in motion. In some embodiments, damping includes reducing a Q of a transducer. In some embodiments, Q-spoiling herein includes reducing a Q of a transducer. In some embodiments, "damping," "reducing a Q," and "Q-spoiling" of a transducer are interchangeable herein.

In some embodiments, a harmonic herein is of an ultrasonic wave. In some embodiments, a harmonic is with a frequency that is approximately a positive integer multiple of the frequency of the original wave, known as the fundamental frequency. The original wave can also be called the first harmonic or the primary harmonic, the following harmonics are known as higher harmonics.

<FIG> shows the layout view (<FIG>, at B-B' of <FIG>) and cross-section view (<FIG>, at A-A' of <FIG>) of a pMUT including a substrate <NUM> with a membrane or diaphragm <NUM> formed by a substrate etch. The diaphragm edge 101a is substantially circular in layout. On top of the substrate <NUM> is a dielectric <NUM>, and a piezoelectric film <NUM> sandwiched between a bottom conductor or electrode <NUM> and top conductors or electrodes <NUM> and <NUM>. In this embodiment, the bottom electrode <NUM> is rectangular and the top electrodes <NUM> and <NUM> are approximately semicircular. In this embodiment, each conductor or electrode, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> are either connected to or part of a port, i.e., Port <NUM>, and Ports A-B. In this embodiment, one or more discrete conductors <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> are an electrode and a port, as signified by the square pad which might represent a connection point (for example, via a wirebond).

In this embodiment, the pMUT generates ultrasonic waves by converting an out-of-plane (e.g., along z axis) electric field between the bottom and top conductors or electrodes into an in-plane strain (e.g., within x-y plane) which flexes the membrane, e.g., <NUM> in <FIG>. Thus, the pMUT transduces electrical charge into mechanical motion, typically ultrasonic waves.

An example of an equivalent circuit diagram with circuit elements including the pMUT and three ports in <FIG> is shown in <FIG>. In some embodiments, the transfer function between the ports varies by transducer type and drive mode. For the pMUT in <FIG>, for example, the primary diaphragm mode (referred to as the "Primary drum mode" in <FIG>) and its first asymmetric harmonic are shown in <FIG>, respectively. In this embodiment, the films (e.g., on the substrate and diaphragm) are not shown in <FIG>, but the electrodes of Ports A and B are overlaid on the layout views. In the layout views (bottom of <FIG>), deflection of the diaphragm or membrane is depicted by grey level, with black as maximum positive deflection, and white as minimum deflection. In the case of the fundamental harmonic (e.g., <FIG>), Port A and Port B have the same electrical response. In the case of the first asymmetric harmonic (e.g., <FIG>), Port B develops approximately an equal but opposite variable charge compared to Port A.

In some embodiments, a transducer connects two or more energy domains. Thus, modifications to one domain may result in modifications of one or more of the other domains via the transducer. For example, adding electrical circuit elements that modify the electrical domain can affect the other energy domain (e.g., the mechanical domain in the pMUT's case).

<FIG> shows nonlimiting exemplary embodiments of the systems and methods for Q-spoiling of a three-port pMUT as shown in <FIG>. During operation, the pMUT develops charge proportional to the deflection of the diaphragm. The velocity of the diaphragm results in a changing charge across the pMUT capacitor. If a constant voltage is held across the pMUT (e.g., from Port <NUM> to Port B), a current is developed from the voltage source. The current is proportional to the velocity of the diaphragm. In some embodiments, the resistor herein is the energy loss element. By adding a resistor between Port B and Port <NUM>, energy loss and damping is added between the two ports. In some embodiments, this energy loss is only desired when the diaphragm is moving; that is, when current is developed. In some embodiments, to achieve this, a high-pass circuit is form by adding a capacitor in series with the resistor between Port B and Port <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>. In this embodiment, the mechanical element(s) of the pMUT develop kinetic energy with the diaphragm moving. In some embodiments, the mechanical elements of the pMUT include but are not limited to: the diaphragm, substrate, and film(s) on the substrate and/or diaphragm. Such kinetic energy is lost via mechanical damping. As the pMUT also develops a current between Port <NUM> and Port B related to the mechanical movement of the diaphragm, the added resistor removes energy from the pMUT, which is reflected in the mechanical element(s) as additional damping. In this embodiment, the electrical damping functions equivalently as the mechanical damping. In this embodiment, the transducer can be used as a standard pMUT with no changes between Port A and Port <NUM>. With the addition of the resistor and capacitor in series between Port B and Port <NUM>, damping is effectively added to the pMUT. In some embodiments, by adjusting the value of the resistance, R, the equivalent damping of the mechanical element(s) of the pMUT can be regulated.

In some embodiments, because the resistor removes energy as long as current is flowing, regardless of the direction of the current flow, the series RC circuit of <FIG> is effective with regard to both harmonics shown in <FIG>. For more complex modes or higher harmonics, the damping from the resistor may depend on how much current flows between Port B and Port <NUM> for that given mode of operation.

In some embodiments, when damping needs to be added after a set event, as shown in <FIG>, a switch is placed between the series RC circuit and Port B. In some embodiments, the switch is activated only when desired.

Alternatively, if ceasing all mechanical motion after a set time, one can use the switch from <FIG>, but make the RC circuit a dead short as shown in <FIG>. In this embodiment, when the switch is closed, the dead short forces the voltage across the piezoelectric material to be zero and the Port B electrode resists motion.

<FIG> shows the layout view (<FIG>, at D-D' of <FIG>) and cross-section view (<FIG>, at C-C' of <FIG>) of a pMUT including a substrate <NUM> with a membrane or diaphragm <NUM> formed by a substrate etch. The diaphragm edge 101a is substantially circular in layout. On top of the substrate <NUM> is a dielectric <NUM>, and a piezoelectric film <NUM> sandwiched between a bottom conductor <NUM> and top conductors <NUM> and <NUM>. In this embodiment, the pMUT generates ultrasonic waves by converting an out-of-plane (e.g., along z axis) electric field between the bottom and top conductors into an in-plane strain (e.g., within x-y plane) which flexes the membrane, e.g., <NUM> in <FIG>. Thus, the pMUT transduces electrical charge into mechanical motion, typically ultrasonic waves.

An exemplary equivalent circuit diagram with circuit elements including the pMUT and three ports of <FIG> is shown in <FIG>. In some embodiments, the transfer function between the ports varies by transducer type and drive mode. For the pMUT in <FIG> for example, the primary diaphragm mode (referred to as the "Primary drum mode" in <FIG>) and its first symmetric harmonic are shown in <FIG>, respectively. In this embodiment, the films (e.g., on the substrate and diaphragm) are not shown in <FIG>, but the electrodes of Ports A and B are overlaid on the layout views. In the layout views (bottom of <FIG>), deflection of the diaphragm or membrane (top of <FIG>) is depicted by grey level, with black as maximum positive deflection, and white as minimum deflection. In the case of the fundamental harmonic (e.g., <FIG>), Port A and Port B have approximately equal but opposite variable charges. In the case of the first symmetric harmonic (e.g., <FIG>), Port B develops approximately the same variable charge as that of Port A.

<FIG> shows nonlimiting exemplary embodiments of the systems and methods for Q-spoiling of a three-port pMUT as shown in <FIG>. In some embodiments, damping herein is defined as energy loss, for example, while the diaphragm is in motion. During operation, the pMUT develops charge proportional to the deflection of the diaphragm. The velocity of the diaphragm results in a changing charge across the pMUT capacitor. If a constant voltage is held across the pMUT (e.g., from Port <NUM> to Port B), a current is developed from the voltage source. The current is proportional to the velocity of the diaphragm. In some embodiments, the resistor herein is the energy loss element. By adding a resistor between Port B and Port <NUM>, energy loss and damping is added between the two ports. In some embodiments, this energy loss is only desired when the diaphragm is moving; that is, when current is developed. In some embodiments, to achieve this, a high-pass circuit is formed by adding a capacitor in series with the resistor between Port B and Port <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>. In this embodiment, the mechanical element(s) of the pMUT develop kinetic energy with the diaphragm moving. Such kinetic energy is lost via mechanical damping. As the pMUT also develops a current between Port <NUM> and Port B related to the mechanical movement of the diaphragm, the added resistor removes energy from the pMUT, which is reflected in the mechanical element(s) as additional damping. In this embodiment, the electrical damping functions equivalently as the mechanical damping. In this embodiment, the transducer can be used as a standard pMUT with no changes between Port A and Port <NUM>. With the addition of the resistor and capacitor in series between Port B and Port <NUM>, damping is effectively added to the pMUT. In some embodiments, by adjusting the value of the resistance, R, the equivalent damping of the mechanical element(s) of the pMUT can be regulated.

<FIG> shows the layout view (left, at F-F' of the cross-section view) and cross-section view (right, at E-E' of the layout view) of a pMUT including a substrate <NUM> with a membrane or diaphragm <NUM> formed by a substrate etch. The diaphragm edge 101a is substantially rectangular in layout. On top of the substrate <NUM> is a dielectric <NUM>, and a piezoelectric film <NUM> sandwiched between a bottom conductor <NUM> and top conductors <NUM> and <NUM>. In this embodiment, the pMUT generates ultrasonic waves by converting an out-of-plane (e.g., along z axis) electric field between the bottom and top conductors into an in-plane strain (e.g., within x-y plane) which flexes the membrane, e.g., <NUM> in <FIG>. Thus, the pMUT transduces electrical charge into mechanical motion, typically ultrasonic waves.

An exemplary equivalent circuit diagram with circuit elements including the pMUT and three ports of <FIG> is shown in <FIG>. In some embodiments, the transfer function between the ports varies by transducer type and drive mode.

For the pMUT in <FIG>, for example, the primary diaphragm mode (referred to as the "Primary drum mode" in <FIG>) and its first asymmetric harmonic are shown in <FIG>, respectively. In this embodiment, the films (e.g., on the substrate and diaphragm) are not shown, but the electrodes of Ports A and B are overlaid on the layout views. In the layout views (bottom of <FIG>), deflection of the diaphragm or membrane (top of <FIG>) is depicted by grey level, with black as maximum positive deflection, and white as minimum deflection. In the case of the fundamental harmonic (e.g., <FIG>), Port B develops approximately the same variable charge as that of Port A. In the case of the first asymmetric harmonic (e.g., <FIG>), Port B develops approximately equal but opposite variable charges.

<FIG> shows nonlimiting exemplary embodiments of the systems and methods for Q-spoiling of a three-port pMUT as shown in <FIG>. In some embodiments, damping herein is defined as energy loss, for example, while the diaphragm is in motion. During operation, the pMUT develops charge proportional to the deflection of the diaphragm. The velocity of the diaphragm results in a changing charge across the pMUT capacitor. If a constant voltage is held across the pMUT (e.g., from Port <NUM> to Port B), a current is developed from the voltage source. The current is proportional to the velocity of the diaphragm. In some embodiments, the resistor herein is the energy loss element. By adding a resistor between Port B and Port <NUM>, energy loss and damping is added between the two ports. In some embodiments, this energy loss is only desired when the diaphragm is moving; that is, when current is developed. In some embodiments, to achieve this, a high-pass circuit is form by adding a capacitor in series with the resistor between Port B and Port <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>. In this embodiment, the mechanical element(s) of the pMUT develop kinetic energy with the diaphragm moving. Such kinetic energy is lost via mechanical damping. As the pMUT also develops a current between Port <NUM> and Port B related to the mechanical movement of the diaphragm, the added resistor removes energy from the pMUT, which is reflected in the mechanical element(s) as additional damping. In this embodiment, the electrical damping functions equivalently as the mechanical damping. In this embodiment, the transducer can be used as a standard pMUT with no changes between Port A and Port <NUM>. With the addition of the resistor and capacitor in series between Port B and Port <NUM>, damping is effectively added to the pMUT. In some embodiments, by adjusting the value of the resistance, R, the equivalent damping of the mechanical element(s) of the pMUT can be regulated.

<FIG> shows the layout view (<FIG>, at H-H' of <FIG>) and cross-section view (<FIG>, at G-G' of <FIG>) of a pMUT including a substrate <NUM> with a membrane or diaphragm <NUM> formed by a substrate etch. The diaphragm edge 101a is substantially rectangular in layout. On top of the substrate <NUM> is a dielectric <NUM>, and a piezoelectric film <NUM> sandwiched between a bottom conductor <NUM> and top conductors <NUM> and <NUM>. In this embodiment, the pMUT generates ultrasonic waves by converting an out-of-plane (e.g., along z axis) electric field between the bottom and top conductors into an in-plane strain (e.g., within x-y plane) which flexes the membrane, e.g., <NUM> in <FIG>. Thus, the pMUT transduces electrical charge into mechanical motion, typically ultrasonic waves.

For the pMUT in <FIG>, for example, the primary diaphragm mode (referred to as the "Primary drum mode" in <FIG>) and its first symmetric harmonic are shown in <FIG>, respectively. In this embodiment, the films (e.g., on the substrate and diaphragm) are not shown, but the electrodes of Ports A and B are overlaid on the layout views. In the layout views (bottom of <FIG>), deflection of the diaphragm or membrane (top of <FIG>10B) is depicted by grey level, with black as maximum positive deflection, and white as minimum deflection. In the case of the fundamental harmonic (e.g., <FIG>), Port A and Port B develop approximately equal but opposite variable charges. In the case of the first symmetric harmonic (e.g., <FIG>), Port B develops approximately the same variable charge as that of Port A.

For any pMUT with only two ports, e.g., one top and one bottom electrode, damping can also be added using the resistor-capacitor circuit (RC circuit) herein. In the case with two ports, the specific layout of the RC circuit is less important, but the damping mechanism remains similar as in other embodiments herein.

<FIG> shows nonlimiting exemplary embodiments of the systems and methods for Q-spoiling of a two-port transducer (e.g., pMUT). In some embodiments, damping herein is defined as energy loss, for example, while the diaphragm is in motion. During operation, the transducer develops charge proportional to the deflection of the diaphragm. The velocity of the diaphragm results in a changing charge across the transducer capacitor. If a constant voltage is held across the the transducer (e.g., from Port <NUM> to Port A), a current is developed from the voltage source. The current is proportional to the velocity of the diaphragm. In some embodiments, the resistor herein is the energy loss element. By adding a resistor between Port A and Port <NUM>, energy loss and damping is added between the two ports. In some embodiments, this energy loss is only desired when the diaphragm is moving; that is, when current is developed. In some embodiments, to achieve this, a high-pass circuit is form by adding a capacitor in series with the resistor between Port A and Port <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>. In this embodiment, the mechanical element(s) of the the transducer develop kinetic energy with the diaphragm moving. Such kinetic energy is lost via mechanical damping. As the the transducer also develops a current between Port <NUM> and Port A related to the mechanical movement of the diaphragm, the added resistor removes energy from the the transducer, which is reflected in the mechanical element(s) as additional damping. In this embodiment, the electrical damping functions equivalently as the mechanical damping. With the addition of the resistor and capacitor in series between Port A and Port <NUM>, damping is effectively added to the the transducer. In some embodiments, by adjusting the value of the resistance, R, the equivalent damping of the mechanical element(s) of the the transducer can be regulated.

In some embodiments, because the resistor removes energy as long as current is flowing, regardless of the direction of the current flow, the series RC circuit of <FIG> is effective with regard to harmonics, e.g., wave forms under the prime drum mode or the first harmonic. For more complex modes or higher harmonics, the damping from the resistor may depend on how much current flows between Port A and Port <NUM> for that given mode of operation.

In some embodiments, when damping needs to be added after a set event, as shown in <FIG>, a switch is placed between the series RC circuit and Port A. In some embodiments, the switch is activated only when desired.

Alternatively, if ceasing all mechanical motion after a set time, one can use the switch from <FIG>, but make the RC circuit a dead short as shown in <FIG>. In this embodiment, when the switch is closed, the dead short forces the voltage across the piezoelectric material to be zero and the Port A electrode resists motion.

In some embodiments, the downside of added damping in the two port transducer is that the added RC circuit loads the drive or sense circuit used to communicate with the transducer. In some embodiments, the added load to the drive or sense circuit may have deleterious effects on the performance of the transducer.

In some embodiments, to prevent the RC circuit from loading the drive/sense circuit, a switch as illustrated in <FIG> can be added. In some embodiments, the drive/sense circuit is configured to enable functions of the transducer. For ultrasound imaging and distancing applications, for example, the drive circuit can be used but to drive the transducer into large oscillation to create a pressure wave that radiates away from the transducer into a medium (such as air or living tissue). The sense circuit can be used but is not limited to measure minute vibrations on the diaphragm created from the drive waves reflecting off objects and returning to the diaphragm. In a switched RC circuit case, the RC circuit may be applied to the transducer after the drive and before the sense functions.

Referring to <FIG>, in this embodiment, while the RC circuit adds damping, the drive/sense circuit is disconnected from the transducer thereby preventing deleterious interactions. If one wishes to cease motion after a pre-determined time, the switch from <FIG> can be used and make the RC circuit a dead short. Referring to <FIG>, when the switch connects the dead short, the short forces the voltage across the piezoelectric material to be zero and the piezoelectric material resists changing strain its state, thus resisting motion of the mechanical elements of the transducer.

In some embodiments, the pMUT system herein includes an arbitrary number of ports, e.g., an arbitrary number of electrodes above and below the piezoelectric material.

<FIG> illustrates a nonlimiting exemplary embodiment of an ultrasonic transducer system herein with <NUM> ports, i.e., Ports A-F, above the piezoelectric film <NUM> and one port Port <NUM> below the film and a circular diaphragm <NUM> in layout view (left, viewing from J-J' of the cross-section view) and cross-section view (right, viewing from I-I' of the layout view). In this embodiment, <NUM> ports, Ports A-F are independently connected with conductors, <NUM>-<NUM> respectively, while Port <NUM> is connected with a conductor <NUM>. In some embodiments, damping manipulation disclosed herein can be readily extended to an arbitrary number of ports above and below the transducer element, for any shape diaphragms that can be imagined, including but not limited to simple circular and rectangular designs. The circuit diagram with circuit elements for an arbitrary number of ports in the pMUT system is shown in <FIG>.

In some embodiments, the same Q-damping procedures can be applied herein. Referring to <FIG>, a capacitively coupled resistor can be added to two ports, i.e., Ports i-j. If one wishes to add damping after a pre-determined event, a circuit similar to that in <FIG> can be used, where a switch Φ is placed between the RC circuit and Port i. In some embodiments, the switch is activated only when desired. Alternatively, if one wishes to cease all motion after a preset time, the switch from <FIG> can be used with a dead short as shown in <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, in this particular embodiment, when the switch is closed, the dead short forces the voltage across the piezoelectric material to be zero and the piezoelectric material can resist motion.

In some embodiments, more complicated circuits can be included in the system disclosed herein. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, an inverting amplifier can be added to the pMUT system between Ports i, j, and k. The inverting amplifier may adjust its output voltage on Port i inversely proportional to the voltage across Port k and Port j. The ratio of R2 to R1 can determine the gain of the feedback such that Vout = -R2 / R1 * (Vport_k - Vport_j). Thus, the voltage is "inverted" from positive to negative. In this embodiment, when suppressing motion is desired (effectively reduce/damp Q) for the mode of operation in <FIG>, the amplifier can be connected to the transducing element such that Port <NUM> of <FIG> = Port j of <FIG>, Port A = Port k, and port B = Port i. Thus, when the diaphragm starts to vibrate as in <FIG>, if a positive voltage develops on Port A, the inverting amplifier may drive a negative voltage on Port B. While Port A may be in tension, the inverting amplifier may drive Port B to input a compressive force, resisting the diaphragm deflection and thus damping out vibrations. For the mode depicted in <FIG>, the setup described (Port <NUM> = Port j, Port A = Port k, and Port B = Port i) may result in increased vibrations and is analogous to an oscillator. Thus, the circuit may cause the mode of <FIG> to increase in intensity, rather than decrease.

In some embodiments, a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller can be added in the circuit which directly controls the mechanical transducer in a two port pMUT (e.g., <FIG>) or a three port pMUT (e.g., <FIG>), but the drive/sense circuitry may suffer due to loading. To mitigate this, switch(es) can be added in a similar manner as shown in <FIG>. A PID controller is a form of closed-loop feedback that strives to force a system to respond in such a way that it matches a control signal. A PID controller controls the transducer by continuously calculating the difference, or error, between the desired set point and the system variable being controlled. The controller can apply feedback that is based on the error, e.g., proportional to this error. The controller may also respond to the rate of change of the error to reduce overshoot. Furthermore, the PID controller can integrate the error so that it may, in steady state, eventually eliminate the error entirely. In some embodiments, a PID controller requires a means to monitor the system, and a means of affecting the system. In the multi-port transducer herein, one or more port can be used for sensing the state of the system, while other port(s) or same port(s) can be used to modify the system behavior, similar to the way Ports k and j are used to monitor the system in <FIG>, and Port i is used to modify the system behavior in <FIG>. As another example in <FIG>, Port A may be used to monitor the system dynamics, and Port B to modulate the system with a voltage driver.

In some embodiments, the systems and methods illustrated here is not limited to pMUTs, but can be applied to any other type of transducer with multiple electrically coupled ports.

In some embodiments, the circuit element(s) applied to the multiple ports in <FIG>4C, 11A-11C, 14A-14C, and <NUM> can be selected and combined for functions or targets other than Q spoiling.

Although certain embodiments and examples are provided in the foregoing description, the inventive subject matter extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses, and to modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, the scope of the claims appended hereto is not limited by any of the particular embodiments described below. For example, in any method or process disclosed herein, the acts or operations of the method or process may be performed in any suitable sequence and are not necessarily limited to any particular disclosed sequence. Various operations may be described as multiple discrete operations in turn, in a manner that may be helpful in understanding certain embodiments; however, the order of description should not be construed to imply that these operations are order dependent. Additionally, the structures, systems, and/or devices described herein may be embodied as integrated components or as separate components.

For purposes of comparing various embodiments, certain aspects and advantages of these embodiments are described. Not necessarily all such aspects or advantages are achieved by any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, various embodiments may be carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other aspects or advantages as may also be taught or suggested herein.

As used herein A and/or B encompasses one or more of A or B, and combinations thereof such as A and B. It will be understood that although the terms "first," "second," "third" etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions and/or sections, these elements, components, regions and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one element, component, region or section from another element, component, region or section. Thus, a first element, component, region or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region or section without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and/or "comprising," or "includes" and/or "including," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.

Claim 1:
An electrical transducer system comprising:
a) an electrical transducer comprising a substrate (<NUM>), a diaphragm (<NUM>), and a piezoelectric element (<NUM>);
b) a first electrical circuitry coupled to the electrical transducer, the first electrical circuitry configured for driving the electrical transducer or detecting motion of the diaphragm;
c) a plurality of electrical ports coupled to the electrical transducer; and
d) a second electrical circuitry connected to two or more of the plurality of electrical ports, the second electrical circuitry comprising a switch, wherein the switch is configured to leave one or more of the plurality of ports floating when open and short the one or more of the plurality of ports to a DC voltage when closed;
wherein the second electrical circuitry is independent from the first electrical circuitry, and
wherein the second electrical circuitry is configured to dampen the motion of the diaphragm.