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US 2020/0205669 A1Published application
Radio frequency applicator and thermoacoustic imaging system employing the same
AssigneeENDRA Life Sciences Inc.
InventorsChristopher Nelson Davis, Charlton Chen, Michael M. Thornton
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A radio frequency applicator comprises an open-ended, hollow waveguide having an aperture therein. A solid insert is positioned within the waveguide. The solid insert has a recess formed therein that is aligned with the aperture. Filler material is provided between facing surfaces of the waveguide and the insert to fill gaps therebetween. A radio frequency (RF) source extends through the aperture and into the recess and is configured to generate RF energy pulses.
Claims20
A radio frequency applicator comprising:
- an open-ended, hollow waveguide having an aperture therein;
- a solid dielectric insert within the waveguide, the solid dielectric insert having a recess formed therein that is aligned with said aperture;
- a filler material between facing surfaces of the waveguide and the solid dielectric insert to fill gaps therebetween, wherein the filler material has a has a dielectric constant that is similar to that of the solid dielectric insert;
- and
- a radio frequency (RF) source extending through the aperture and into the recess and being configured to generate RF energy pulses.
2 more elements
A method of assembling a radio frequency (RF) applicator comprising:
- covering a ceramic insert with a coating, wherein the ceramic insert has dimensions that substantially match an internal volume of an open-ended, hollow waveguide, and wherein the ceramic insert has a recess therein configured to accept a radio frequency emitter;
- heating the waveguide to a temperature that is above a melting point of the coating;
- placing the coated ceramic insert into the internal volume of the heated waveguide, wherein the internal volume is completely filled except for the recess;
- and
- cooling the waveguide, ceramic insert, and coating to a temperature below the melting point of the coating so that the coating solidifies and fills gaps between facing surfaces of the insert and the waveguide.
2 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.