A proposal of multi-imaging system of electrical and ultrasonic properties

In this paper, we propose a multi-imaging system which can simultaneously create both an ultrasound and electrical impedance images by using the data collected by piezoelectric ceramic transducers (PZTs) for the living body. In the proposed system, ultrasonic time of flight is not only measured by several combinations of PZTs arranged around the target and but also measured by those of front surface electrodes of PZTs. From these data, the electrical and ultrasonic properties at the same space are simultaneously reconstructed. This enables advancement of the detection ability in the target because two different images at the same space are simultaneously obtained. First of all, we established an ultrasound reflective and electrical impedance imaging system with 16 PZTs. As the experiments, we demonstrated both reconstructed images of electrical and ultrasonic properties from measurement data of electrical conductance and ultrasonic time of flight.

► A multi-imaging system of ultrasound and electrical properties is proposed. ► The piezoelectric ceramic transducers (PZTs) are used at the proposed system. ► An ultrasound and electrical imaging system with 16 PZTs was established. ► Electrical conductance and ultrasonic time of flight were measured. ► Both reconstructed images of electrical and ultrasonic properties were demonstrated.