How is ultrasound generated in the LIPOSANA3?

Ultrasonic 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 ultrasonic waves. The process for generating 3 MHz ultrasonic waves involves the following steps:

1. Choosing a piezoelectric material: Piezoelectric materials are special substances that change their shape when an electrical voltage is applied. Commonly used piezoelectric materials in ultrasonic probes are lead zirconate titanate (PZT), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and quartz crystals.
2. Production of the piezoelectric element: The selected piezoelectric material is formed into a thin disk or cylinder, the so-called piezoelectric disk. The thickness of this disk 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 ultrasonic frequency in the piezoelectric material.
3. Electrode coating: Both sides of the piezoelectric disk are provided with 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 at a frequency of 3 MHz.
5. Ultrasonic wave emission: The mechanical vibrations of the piezoelectric element are converted into ultrasonic waves and emitted into the medium under investigation.

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