How Is the Ultrasound in LIPOSANA3® Generated?

Ultrasound waves with a frequency of 3 MHz are usually generated using a piezoelectric material. This material converts electrical energy into mechanical vibrations, which then generate ultrasound waves. The process of generating 3 MHz ultrasound waves comprises the following steps:

1. Choosing a piezoelectric material: Piezoelectric materials are special substances that change their shape when an electrical voltage is applied. Piezoelectric materials commonly used in ultrasound probes are lead zirconate titanate (PZT), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and quartz crystals.
2. Manufacturing the piezoelectric element: The chosen piezoelectric material is formed into a thin disc or cylinder, known as the piezoelectric disc. The thickness of this disc is determined according to the desired frequency (in this case 3 MHz). As a rule, the thickness is set so that it corresponds to half the wavelength of the desired ultrasound frequency in the piezoelectric material.
3. Electrode coating: Both sides of the piezoelectric disc are given a conductive coating, usually made of gold or silver. These coatings serve as electrodes to which the electrical voltage is applied.
4. Applying an electrical voltage: To make the piezoelectric element vibrate, an alternating electrical voltage with a frequency of 3 MHz is applied to the electrodes. The alternating voltage causes the piezoelectric material to change its shape and generate mechanical vibrations with a frequency of 3 MHz.
5. Emitting ultrasound waves: The mechanical vibrations of the piezoelectric element are converted into ultrasound waves and emitted into the medium being examined.

The entire process takes place in an ultrasound transducer, also known as an ultrasound probe. These probes are available in various sizes and shapes to cover different examination purposes and areas.