abstract |
An ultrasound transducer array ( 408 ) includes at least one transducer element ( 412 ) having a first ( 604 ) and second ( 606 ) portions separated by an acoustical discontinuity ( 520 ). The first portion ( 604 ) has the desired length to form a half-wave k31 resonance, while the second portion ( 606 ) has a resonant length for an undesired very low frequency out-of-band k31 resonance. The thickness of the transducer element ( 412 ) is designed for k33 half-resonance. Given the design, the transducer element ( 412 ) can operate and provide for both forward-looking ( 514 ) and side looking ( 512 ) elevation apertures. A method is also disclosed for using the disclosed ultrasound transducer ( 412 ) in ultrasound imaging. |