Multi element diverging beam from a linear array transducer for transverse cross sectional imaging of carotid artery: Simulations and phantom vessel validation

Transverse cross sectional imaging of the intima-media complex of the carotid arterial wall is difficult to obtain by conventional linear scanning. The angular widths of imaged regions of the anterior and posterior walls are limited. In this study, multi element diverging beam from a linear array transducer was investigated by simulations and experiments. B-mode image was reconstructed, using combinations of multi angle receiving beams from multiple transmissions per frame. The images obtained by the proposed method from simulations and silicone-rubber tube phantom showed an increase in the angular width over that in the case of conventional linear scanning. Also, images were investigated for sub aperture sizes of 36, 56, and 96 elements with different beam-spread angles. On the basis of the results of the present study, the sub aperture size of 36 elements and beam-spread angle of 90° are recommended for achieving the optimum results for this application in in-vivo imaging.