US Patent 7637869 Two-dimensional transducer arrays for improved field of view

A method and system for using two-dimensional transducer arrays for improving the field of view during an ultrasonic examination are disclosed. The ultrasonic imaging system includes a two-dimensional transducer array with a plurality of acoustic elements, a beam controller, a signal processor, and a display. The beam controller controls a generated acoustic beam capable of being advanced longitudinally or laterally along the two-dimensional transducer array. Additionally, the generated acoustic beam is capable of being phase-shifted by the beam controller. Combining the phase shifting of and advancement of the acoustic beam increases the field of view of the two-dimensional array.