The goal is to investigate if 3D printed objects can have acoustic properties that make them applicable for use in ultrasound applications (acoustic lenses, acoustic transparent sensors) and which materials and technologies are suitable.
Current manufacturing techniques of acoustic structures have their limitations. Some of the limitations that are faced are: ease of changing the design parameters and prototyping speed. 3D printing technology offers an easy way to fabricate structures with control on the sub-mm scale, changing design parameters and choose appropriate material properties and combinations. Prototyping speed is greatly improved because a structure can be fabricated within several hours compared to other processes that can take much longer.
Acoustic signal beam-shaping, or the lack of acoustic deformations, play an important role in medical ultrasound applications. Such acoustic structures could benefit from the extensive capabilities given by 3D printing technology to produce free form 3D objects as well as the (mix of) materials that can be used, including the possibility of fabrication of meta-materials. Hence, in this assignment 3D printed materials and objects will be investigated with respect to their properties and possible functionalities in the field of acoustic phenomena at medical ultrasound typical frequencies.
Structures will be created using 3D printing technology. These structures will be single or multi-material depending on the required characteristics. Material proportions will be varied in order to see how they affect the sound propagation. Ultrasound probes will be used to measure the effect of the shape and material on the wavefront of the sound wave as well as create a mathematical model of the structures which will be used for simulations. These simulations results will be compared with experimental data in order to validate the mathematical model and get the required insights. Conclusions will be drawn at the end of the research and recommendations for future studies will be given.