Fabrication, Acoustic Characterization and Phase Reference-Based Calibration Method for a Single-Sided Multi-Channel...

Area of Science:

• Acoustics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Ultrasonic actuators offer label-free, biocompatible, and safe non-contact manipulation for medical therapies.
• Increasing interest exists in using ultrasonic actuators for precise control of micro-machines in various therapeutic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design, fabricate, and characterize a 56-channel, 500 kHz single-sided transducer array for enhanced tissue penetration.
• To calibrate the transducer array using phase reference calibration to improve acoustic field homogeneity and pressure.
• To demonstrate the capability of trapping and manipulating micro-machines using generated acoustic twin traps.

Main Methods:

• Design and fabrication of a 56-channel, 500 kHz ultrasonic transducer array.
• Phase reference calibration to correct for misalignment and phase discrepancies.
• Acoustic field measurement using a hydrophone and 3D holographic analysis.
• Demonstration of micro-machine manipulation using optical and ultrasound imaging.

Main Results:

• Improved homogeneity of acoustic pressure fields around the focal area.
• Increased maximum acoustic pressure within the twin trap.
• Successful trapping and manipulation of micro-machines using acoustic power.
• Validation of the calibrated transducer's performance in generating precise acoustic fields.

Conclusions:

• The developed ultrasonic actuator, with its calibrated transducer array, effectively manipulates micro-machines via acoustic fields.
• This research provides a comprehensive study on acoustic actuators, encouraging future applications in medicine.
• The system's capabilities highlight the potential of acoustics for advanced therapeutic interventions.