Real-time ultrasound for cardiology and radiology imaging
A real-time, phased array ultrasound scanner has been introduced by Hewlett-Packard as their first product for diagnostic imaging. The HP 77020A ultrasound imaging system is the result of years of co-operative development by Hewlett-Packard Laboratories, Andover Medical Products Division and medical researchers. Numerous technical innovations have led to major advances in image quality and flexibility, at a cost comparable to that of mechanical scanners. The basic unit is suitable for radiological, obstetrical or gynaelogical work and options can be added to give special features for particular radiological or cardiological applications: these include measurement, computation, annotation and recording. The unit is cart mounted and self-contained and can easily be moved to areas outside the specialist lab, such as the ICU and CCU - or to any bedside. The system incorporates a lightweight, dynamically-focused 64-element array transducer, innovations in signal processing, microcomputer circuitry and a specially designed scan converter. The results is a sharply defined, high resolution image at all depths throughout the entire field of view. An automatic focusing technique keeps the field of view in focus at all times so that both shallow and deep structures can be seen consistently with equal clarity. A speciallydesigned digital scan converter provides a smoothtextured image and eliminates common imaging problems such as radial scan lines and Moire patterns. A total of 32 shades of grey can be processed so tissue is smoothly and precisely displayed. The small and lightweight transducer is designed to fit between ribs and can be used for a variety of cardiology and radiology applications. The phased-array, handheld transducer contains 64 receiving elements which provide excellent lateral resolution and
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J. Biomed. Engng.
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Ultrasound imaging system
Integrator amplifier for biophyrical monitoring
dynamic range for viewing the full range of ethos.
The new Model 13-4615-70 biophysical integrator amplifier from Gould Instruments Division is designed to determine the area under an input function waveform in a unit of time, so that the user can derive, for example, velocity from acceleration or displacement from velocity. Intended for biophysical monitoring and recording applications, the unit can be used with input waveforms from d.c. to 300 Hz.
An alphanumeric keyboard can be used to annotate patient identification, examination details and summary of findings. The system provides electronic calipers for length, area and volumetric determinations from the images. All measurements are made electronically and are displayed automatically on the screen. Complementing the basic imaging capabilities, the system is available with a variety of functional enhancements such as hard-copy documentation, videotape recordplayback and signal processing devices. It is compatible with multi-image cameras. The system monitors itself continuously to ensure correct operation. In case of a detected fault, the self-test feature signals an error message to the operator to assist with rapid troubleshooting. Hewlett-Packard Ltd. King Street Lane, Winnersh, Wokingham, Berks. RGll 5AR.
Regardless as to whether the input signal is positive, negative, or bipolar, the signal can be offset, half-wave rectified, or full-wave rectified before integration. The integral can be reset externahy via switch closure or a TTL pulse, or internally via amplitude level, zero-crossing, or a selectabIe oneto-60-second timer. Applications include the determination of stroke volume from aortic blood flow, the measurement of expiratory or inspiratory volume from respiratory air flow, or even the relative index of activity from electromyograms. Gould Instruments Division, Roebuck Road, Hainault , Essex, UK