Transducer static discharge methods and apparatus
AssigneeSiemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.
InventorNelson H. Oliver
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Light exposure may reduce the static charge inside a capacitive membrane transducer. For example, ultraviolet light shines on or in a cell. The light increases the energy of the charge carrier and/or ionizes gas in the cavity, allowing reverse migration or dissipation of the static charge.
Claims20
A capacitive membrane ultrasound transducer for reducing static charge, the capacitive membrane ultrasound transducer comprising:
- at least one cell operable to transduce between ultrasound and electrical energies;
- and
- an ultraviolet light source directed at the at least one cell.
A capacitive membrane transducer for reducing static charge, the capacitive membrane transducer comprising:
- at least one cell comprising a membrane, cavity and a first electrode;
- and
- a light source directed at the at least one cell.
A method for discharging static charge in a capacitive membrane transducer, the method comprising:
- transducing between acoustic and electrical energy with the capacitive membrane transducer;
- and
- applying radiant energy within a cell of the capacitive membrane transducer.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.