Presidential Investigator Award

本研究探讨了超声波传感器和测量系统在生物工程中的应用。研究目标是开发一种具有机械可调焦点的超声波测量系统，通过使用波导来实现。可调焦点允许根据声场的物理剖面控制空间分辨率和穿透深度。通过控制这些参数，测量系统可用于研究可变大小、形状和密度的生物系统。在对波导材料进行初步研究后，将设计、制造潜在的波导，并与换能器耦合。它们的光束轮廓将被测量并与预测结果进行比较。将进行实验室测试，以演示该系统在血流测量和软组织动态特性方面的应用。

This research addresses transducers and measurement systems using ultrasound for applications in bioengineering. The research goal is the development of an ultrasonic measurement system with a mechanically adjustable focus, achieved by use of a waveguide. The adjustable focus allows control of spatial resolution and penetration depth based on the physical profile of the acoustic field. By controlling these parameters, the measurement system may be used to investigate biological systems of variable size, shape, and density. After an initial study of waveguide materials, potential waveguides will be designed, fabricated, and coupled with transducers. Their beam profiles will be measured and compared with predictions. Laboratory tests will be developed to demonstrate application of the system to blood flow measurement and dynamic characterization of soft tissue.