US Patent 7025725 Three-dimensional ultrasound computed tomography imaging system

A three-dimensional (3-D) ultrasound computed tomography (UCT) system for providing a 3-D image of a target is presented. The 3-D UCT system includes an imaging chamber having a plurality of piezoelectric elements. The plurality of piezoelectric elements are arranged as a plurality of cylindrical rings. When activated, the plurality of piezoelectric elements generate and receive an ultrasound signal in a cone beam form. The 3-D UCT system also includes a processor coupled to the imaging chamber. The processor receives and processes the ultrasound signal and constructs the 3-D image of the target. A display device is also included with the 3-D UCT system. The display device exhibits the 3-D image of the target for analysis.