Narrowband Ultrasonic Phased Array Control Using A Photonic Beamformer

    Authors

    N. A. Riza

    Comments

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    Abbreviated Journal Title

    Ultrasonics

    Keywords

    ultrasound; phased arrays; photonics; acousto-optics; nematic liquid; crystals; beamforming; NONDESTRUCTIVE EVALUATION; TRANSDUCER; APPLICATOR; Acoustics; Radiology, Nuclear Medicine & Medical Imaging

    Abstract

    A novel narrowband photonic beamformer for ultrasonic phased array control is proposed and demonstrated. The dual Bragg cell in-line optical design allows for the use of radio frequency Bragg cells for stable low frequency (DC-15 MHz) signal generation for driving ultrasonic arrays. Two tiny stamp size nematic liquid crystal devices provide the sites for signal phase (0-2 pi) and amplitude control. The proof-of-principle beamformer demonstrated 0-2 pi phase control and 55.8 dB gain control for a 10 MHz output signal that showed a carrier-to-noise ratio of 108 dB Hz(-1) at +100 kHz offset. Both continuous and pulsed mode beamformer operation are demonstrated. Features of the photonic beamformer include analog control, wide tuning range, fiber remoting, size/weight advantages, and low control power operation.

    Journal Title

    Ultrasonics

    Volume

    34

    Issue/Number

    1

    Publication Date

    1-1-1996

    Document Type

    Article

    Language

    English

    First Page

    9

    Last Page

    18

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:A1996UJ57700002

    ISSN

    0041-624X

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