Integrating Finite-Element Model of Probe Element in GPU Accelerated Ultrasound Image Simulation

Simulations are able to evaluate the impact of many parameters at reduced cost and time. In the frame of imaging systems development, their accuracy is remaining a concern. On one hand, finite planar baffle model allows image simulation but is not able to model complex phenomena occurring inside transducer’s layers. On the other hand, finite-element method (FEM) models layers interactions but is too heavy to simulate images. In this paper, realistic 3D images are simulated using an FEM transducer element model and an approximated sound propagation model. The Angular impulse responses (AIR) concept is introduced to describe the radiation performance of axis-symmetric acoustic sources. Echo radio-frequency signals are computed in frequency domain using a graphical processor unit (GPU). Far field approximation and electro-acoustical reciprocity are assumed. The electrical environment is modeled and the element receive sensitivity is estimated using a FEM simulation. Imaging a phantom with several millions scatterers and fully developed speckle is performed in four hours only.