A hand-held electronically switched array for rapid ultrasonic scanning

This paper describes the design and construction of a simple multi-element transducer array capable of converting an A-scan unit to a real-time, hand-held section scanner. Elements are connected in groups of four to give a finer stepping interval than is possible with discrete transducers. Application of the array as an inexpensive alternative to conventional B-scanners is discussed, in addition to its more obvious application as a non-invasive method of imaging the moving heart.