WO2016051486A1 - Ultrasonic vibrator and ultrasonic medical apparatus - Google Patents
Ultrasonic vibrator and ultrasonic medical apparatusDownload PDFInfo
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- WO2016051486A1 WO2016051486A1PCT/JP2014/076015JP2014076015WWO2016051486A1WO 2016051486 A1WO2016051486 A1WO 2016051486A1JP 2014076015 WJP2014076015 WJP 2014076015WWO 2016051486 A1WO2016051486 A1WO 2016051486A1
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B06—GENERATING OR TRANSMITTING MECHANICAL VIBRATIONS IN GENERAL
- B06B—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR GENERATING OR TRANSMITTING MECHANICAL VIBRATIONS OF INFRASONIC, SONIC, OR ULTRASONIC FREQUENCY, e.g. FOR PERFORMING MECHANICAL WORK IN GENERAL
- B06B1/00—Methods or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic, or ultrasonic frequency
- B06B1/02—Methods or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic, or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy
- B06B1/06—Methods or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic, or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction
- B06B1/0607—Methods or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic, or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction using multiple elements
- B06B1/0611—Methods or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic, or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction using multiple elements in a pile
- B06B1/0618—Methods or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic, or ultrasonic frequency making use of electrical energy operating with piezoelectric effect or with electrostriction using multiple elements in a pile of piezo- and non-piezoelectric elements, e.g. 'Tonpilz'
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B18/00—Surgical instruments, devices or methods for transferring non-mechanical forms of energy to or from the body
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
- H04R17/00—Piezoelectric transducers; Electrostrictive transducers
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
- H04R17/00—Piezoelectric transducers; Electrostrictive transducers
- H04R17/10—Resonant transducers, i.e. adapted to produce maximum output at a predetermined frequency
Definitions
- the present inventionrelates to an ultrasonic transducer and an ultrasonic medical device that excite ultrasonic waves.
- piezoelectric elementsthat are driven using the piezoelectric effect have been used in various applications such as ultrasonic vibrators.
- a Langevin vibratoris disclosed in which a plurality of such piezoelectric elements are stacked between metal blocks and the metal blocks are bolted together (see Patent Document 1).
- An embodiment according to the present inventionis to provide an ultrasonic transducer and an ultrasonic medical device that can be formed in a small size while maintaining an output.
- An ultrasonic transducerincludes: A piezoelectric element unit in which a plurality of piezoelectric elements that vibrate by generating a piezoelectric effect by applying an alternating voltage are laminated; A metal block disposed in a vibration direction of the piezoelectric element unit; With Between the plurality of piezoelectric elements of the piezoelectric element unit, and the metal block are bonded with a bonding material, The metal block is disposed only on one end side with respect to the piezoelectric element.
- An ultrasonic medical deviceincludes the ultrasonic transducer, and a distal treatment section that transmits ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic transducer and treats living tissue.
- an ultrasonic transducer and an ultrasonic medical devicethat can be formed in a small size while maintaining an output.
- vibrator of this embodimentis shown.
- vibrator of 1st Embodimentis shown.
- vibrator of 2nd Embodimentis shown.
- vibrator of 3rd Embodimentis shown.
- 1shows an overall configuration of an ultrasonic medical apparatus according to the present embodiment.
- 1shows an overall schematic configuration of a transducer unit of an ultrasonic medical apparatus according to the present embodiment. The whole structure of the ultrasonic medical device of the other aspect of the ultrasonic medical device which concerns on this embodiment is shown.
- FIG. 1is a perspective view of the ultrasonic transducer 1 according to the first embodiment.
- the ultrasonic transducer 1includes a metal block 2, a piezoelectric element unit 3 in which a plurality of driving piezoelectric elements 31 are laminated by a bonding material 4, and a metal block 2. And a buffer portion 5 bonded to the piezoelectric element unit 3 by the bonding material 4.
- the metal block 2has at least a function of vibrating together with the piezoelectric element unit 3 and becoming a part of a resonator. Moreover, it can also function as a connection part to an ultrasonic vibration action object, or an action part.
- the metal block 2 in this inventionhas the front-end
- the tip portion 21is a portion where the vibration of the piezoelectric element unit 3 is transmitted and the tip position is the antinode of vibration.
- the flange portion 23is a portion which is joined to the buffer layer 5 by the joining material 4 and becomes a vibration node.
- the horn part 22has a function of amplifying the vibration of the piezoelectric element unit 3 and connects the tip part 21 and the flange part 23.
- the metal block 2has a flange portion 23 that becomes a node of vibration when in use and is held and fixed to another member.
- the metal block 2is disposed in the vibration (specifically, longitudinal vibration) direction of the piezoelectric element unit 3 and is disposed only on one end side with respect to the piezoelectric element unit 3.
- a plurality of driving piezoelectric elements 31are bonded to each other by a bonding material 4.
- An electrode(not shown) is attached to each piezoelectric element.
- the electrodes attached to each piezoelectric elementare connected to the two electrodes of the AC power supply alternately in the order of lamination.
- the cross-sectional shape in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the piezoelectric element 31may be a circle such as a circle, a square, or a rectangle.
- the buffer portion 5is disposed between the metal block 2 and the piezoelectric element unit 3 and relieves thermal stress generated due to a difference in thermal expansion coefficient between the metal block 2 and the piezoelectric element unit 3 at the time of joining. If the difference in thermal expansion coefficient between the metal block 2 and the piezoelectric element unit 3 is small and the piezoelectric element 31 of the piezoelectric element unit 3 is not damaged, the buffer portion 5 may not be installed.
- the metal block 2is made of aluminum alloy such as duralumin, titanium alloy, pure titanium, stainless steel, mild steel, nickel chrome steel, tool steel, brass, monel metal and the like.
- the piezoelectric element 31 of the piezoelectric element unit 3it is preferable to use single crystal lithium niobate having a high Curie point.
- a lithium niobate wafer having a crystal orientation called 36-degree rotated Y-cutso that the electromechanical coupling coefficient in the thickness direction of each piezoelectric element 31 is increased, and wetting between lithium niobate and non-lead solder
- a base metalsuch as Ti / Pt or Cr / Ni / Au is formed on the front and back surfaces of the lithium niobate wafer and then cut into a rectangle by dicing or the like.
- the piezoelectric element 31 using lithium niobatehas a smaller piezoelectric constant than the piezoelectric element 31 using lead zirconate titanate. Therefore, in order for the piezoelectric element 31 using lithium niobate to obtain an output equivalent to the piezoelectric element 31 using lead zirconate titanate, the number of stacked piezoelectric elements 31 must be increased. Here, when the number of stacked piezoelectric elements 31 is increased, the piezoelectric element unit 3 is increased in size, and the ultrasonic vibrator 1 is also increased in size.
- the metal block 2, the piezoelectric element unit 3, and each piezoelectric element 31are bonded to each other by the bonding material 4.
- the number of metal blocks 2 conventionally disposed at both ends of the piezoelectric element unit 3can be reduced to one, and even if lithium niobate, which is a lead-free single crystal member, is used, the ultrasonic transducer 1 Can be miniaturized.
- solderAs the bonding material 4, a lead-free solder that is a metal material having a melting point lower than the Curie point, preferably less than half the Curie point is used.
- solderwhen solder is used as the bonding material and the solder supply method is solder pellets, it is difficult to bond the uneven portions without bubbles. Therefore, it is preferable that the surfaces on which the metal block 2 and the bonding material 4 of each piezoelectric element 31 are applied are flat surfaces.
- FIG. 2shows the ultrasonic transducer 1 of the first embodiment.
- FIG. 2Ais a diagram illustrating the ultrasonic transducer 1
- FIG. 2Bis a diagram illustrating a vibration state of the ultrasonic transducer 1.
- the ultrasonic transducer 1 of the first embodimentit is possible to stably vibrate while maintaining the output and to form a small size.
- FIG. 3shows an ultrasonic transducer 1 according to the second embodiment.
- FIG. 3Ais a diagram illustrating the ultrasonic transducer 1
- FIG. 3Bis a diagram illustrating a vibration state of the ultrasonic transducer 1.
- the metal block 2has a metal mass 24 on the flange 23 on the piezoelectric element unit 3 side.
- the piezoelectric element unit 3When the piezoelectric element unit 3 is activated, vibration starts. In the vibration, the flange portion 23 of the metal block 2 and a part of the piezoelectric element unit 3 become a vibration node, the position 2a of the most distal end portion 21, the joining portion of the metal mass 24 and the buffer portion 5 or the piezoelectric element 31, and An end 3a of the piezoelectric element unit 3 opposite to the metal block 2 is an antinode of vibration.
- the ultrasonic transducer 1 of the second embodimentit is possible to form a small size while maintaining the output.
- vibration for about one wavelengthcan be formed, and stable operation is possible.
- FIG. 4shows the ultrasonic transducer 1 of the third embodiment.
- FIG. 4Ais a diagram illustrating the ultrasonic transducer 1
- FIG. 4Bis a diagram illustrating a vibration state of the ultrasonic transducer 1.
- the number of piezoelectric elements 31 of the piezoelectric element unit 3is increased without using the metal mass 24 used in the second embodiment shown in FIG. To do.
- the piezoelectric element unit 3is activated, vibration starts.
- the flange portion 23 of the metal block 2 and a part of the piezoelectric element unit 3become nodes of vibration.
- the end 3a opposite to 2is a vibration antinode.
- the outputcan be further increased, the device can be formed in a small size, and can be operated more stably.
- FIG. 5shows an overall configuration of the ultrasonic medical apparatus according to the present embodiment.
- FIG. 6shows an overall schematic configuration of the transducer unit of the ultrasonic medical apparatus according to the present embodiment.
- An ultrasonic medical device 110 shown in FIG. 5includes a vibrator unit 113 having an ultrasonic vibrator 1 that mainly generates ultrasonic vibrations, and a handle unit 114 that treats the affected area using the ultrasonic vibrations. Is provided.
- the handle unit 114includes an operation unit 115, an insertion sheath unit 118 including a long mantle tube 117, and a distal treatment unit 140.
- a proximal end portion of the insertion sheath portion 118is attached to the operation portion 115 so as to be rotatable about the axis.
- the distal treatment section 140is provided at the distal end of the insertion sheath section 118.
- the operation unit 115 of the handle unit 114includes an operation unit main body 119, a fixed handle 120, a movable handle 121, and a rotary knob 122.
- the operation unit main body 119is formed integrally with the fixed handle 120.
- a slit 123 through which the movable handle 121 is insertedis formed on the back side of the connecting portion between the operation unit main body 119 and the fixed handle 120.
- the upper portion of the movable handle 121extends into the operation unit main body 119 through the slit 123.
- a handle stopper 124is fixed to the lower end of the slit 123.
- the movable handle 121is rotatably attached to the operation unit main body 119 via a handle support shaft 125.
- the movable handle 121is opened and closed with respect to the fixed handle 120 as the movable handle 121 rotates around the handle support shaft 125.
- a substantially U-shaped connecting arm 126is provided at the upper end of the movable handle 121.
- the insertion sheath portion 118includes a mantle tube 117 and an operation pipe 127 that is inserted into the mantle tube 117 so as to be movable in the axial direction.
- a large-diameter portion 128 having a diameter larger than that of the distal end portionis formed at the proximal end portion of the outer tube 117.
- the rotary knob 22is mounted around the large diameter portion 128.
- a ring-shaped slider 130is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the operation pipe 127 so as to be movable along the axial direction.
- a fixing ring 132is disposed behind the slider 130 via a coil spring (elastic member) 131.
- the proximal end portion of the gripping portion 133is rotatably connected to the distal end portion of the operation pipe 127 via an action pin.
- This grasping part 133constitutes a treatment part of the ultrasonic medical device 110 together with the distal end part 141 of the probe 116.
- the gripper 133is pushed and pulled in the front-rear direction via the action pin.
- the gripper 133is rotated counterclockwise about the fulcrum pin via the action pin.
- the gripper 133rotates in a direction (closed direction) approaching the distal end portion 141 of the probe 116.
- the living tissuecan be grasped between the single-opening type grasping portion 133 and the tip portion 141 of the probe 116.
- the transducer unit 113integrally assembles the ultrasonic transducer 1 and a probe 116 that is a rod-shaped vibration transmitting member that transmits ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic transducer 1. It is a thing.
- the ultrasonic vibrator 1is provided with a horn 142 that amplifies the amplitude of the ultrasonic vibrator.
- the horn 142is made of duralumin, stainless steel, or a titanium alloy such as 64Ti (Ti-6Al-4V).
- the horn 142is formed in a conical shape whose outer diameter becomes narrower toward the distal end side, and an outward flange is formed on the base end outer peripheral portion.
- the shape of the horn 142is not limited to the conical shape, but may be an exponential shape in which the outer diameter decreases exponentially toward the tip side, or a step shape that gradually decreases toward the tip side. May be.
- the probe 116has a probe main body 144 formed of a titanium alloy such as 64Ti (Ti-6Al-4V). On the proximal end side of the probe main body 116, the ultrasonic transducer 1 connected to the horn 142 is disposed. In this way, a transducer unit 113 in which the probe 116 and the ultrasonic transducer 1 are integrated is formed. In the probe 116, the probe main body 144 and the horn 142 are screwed together, and the probe main body 144 and the horn 142 are joined.
- the ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic vibrator 1is amplified by the horn 142 and then transmitted to the tip portion 141 side of the probe 116.
- the distal end portion 141 of the probe 116is formed with a treatment portion to be described later for treating a living tissue.
- two rubber linings 145are attached to the outer peripheral surface of the probe main body 144 at intervals of vibration nodes located in the middle of the axial direction at intervals formed in a ring shape with an elastic member. These rubber linings 145 prevent contact between the outer peripheral surface of the probe main body 144 and an operation pipe 127 described later. That is, when assembling the insertion sheath portion 18, the probe 116 as a transducer-integrated probe is inserted into the operation pipe 127. At this time, the rubber lining 145 prevents contact between the outer peripheral surface of the probe main body 144 and the operation pipe 127.
- the ultrasonic vibrator 1is electrically connected via an electric cable 146 to a power supply device main body (not shown) that supplies a current for generating ultrasonic vibration.
- the ultrasonic transducer 1is driven by supplying power from the power supply device main body to the ultrasonic transducer 1 through the wiring in the electric cable 146.
- the vibrator unit 113includes an ultrasonic vibrator 1 that generates ultrasonic vibrations, a horn 142 that amplifies the generated ultrasonic vibrations, and a probe 116 that transmits the amplified ultrasonic vibrations.
- FIG. 7shows an overall configuration of an ultrasonic medical apparatus according to another aspect of the ultrasonic medical apparatus according to the present embodiment.
- the ultrasonic transducer 1 and the transducer unit 113do not necessarily have to be stored in the operation unit main body 119 as shown in FIG. 5, for example, are stored in the operation pipe 127 as shown in FIG. May be.
- the electric cable 146 between the bending stop 162 of the ultrasonic transducer 1 and the connector 148 disposed at the base of the operation unit main body 119is inserted into the metal pipe 147.
- the connector 148is not indispensable, and the electric cable 146 may be extended to the inside of the operation unit main body 119 and connected directly to the folding stop 162 of the ultrasonic transducer 1.
- the ultrasonic medical device 110can improve the space saving in the operation unit main body 119 with the configuration shown in FIG. Note that the functions of the ultrasonic medical device 110 in FIG. 7 are the same as those in FIG.
- the ultrasonic transducer 1is arranged in the vibration direction of the piezoelectric element unit 3 in which a plurality of piezoelectric elements 31 that vibrate by generating a piezoelectric effect by applying an alternating voltage are laminated, and the piezoelectric element unit 3.
- a metal block 2, and between the plurality of piezoelectric elements 31 of the piezoelectric element unit 3, and the metal block 2is bonded with a bonding material, and the metal block 2 is disposed only on one end side with respect to the piezoelectric element 31. Therefore, it is possible to form a small size while maintaining the output.
- the metal block 2has a flange portion 23 on the piezoelectric element unit 3 side. Therefore, even if the flange portion 23 is gripped, stable vibration can be achieved.
- the position 2 a of the most distal end portion 21 of the metal block 2 and the end portion 3 a of the piezoelectric element unit 3 opposite to the metal block 2are arranged on the piezoelectric element unit 3.
- the abdomenis formed, so that stable vibration can be achieved.
- the piezoelectric element unit 3becomes a node portion when the piezoelectric element unit 3 is vibrated by the operation of the piezoelectric element unit 3, and thus can stably vibrate. It becomes.
- the ultrasonic transducer 1in the ultrasonic transducer 1 according to the present embodiment, at least a part of the piezoelectric element unit 3 becomes a belly part when vibrating due to the operation of the piezoelectric element unit 3, so that stable vibration is possible. It becomes.
- the piezoelectric element 31is made of a non-lead single crystal material, so that the use of lead can be suppressed.
- the piezoelectric element 31is made of lithium niobate (LiNb03), so that the use of lead can be suppressed.
- the joint portion 4is made of non-lead solder, it is possible to suppress the use of lead.
- the ultrasonic transducer 1since the ultrasonic transducer 1 according to this embodiment includes the buffer portion 5 that relieves thermal stress between the metal block 2 and the piezoelectric element unit 3, the thermal expansion coefficient of the metal block 2 and the piezoelectric element unit 3 is reduced. It becomes possible to relieve the thermal stress generated due to the difference.
- the ultrasonic vibrator 1 and the distal treatment section that transmits the ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic vibrator 1 and treats the living tissueare provided. Therefore, the ultrasonic treatment instrument 10 capable of adjusting the resonance frequency can be obtained.
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Abstract
Description
本発明は、超音波を励振する超音波振動子及び超音波医療装置に関する。The present invention relates to an ultrasonic transducer and an ultrasonic medical device that excite ultrasonic waves.
従来から圧電効果を用いて駆動する圧電素子が超音波振動子等の様々な用途に用いられている。例えば、このような圧電素子を金属ブロックの間に複数枚積層して金属ブロック同士をボルト締めするランジュバン振動子が開示されている（特許文献１参照）。Conventionally, piezoelectric elements that are driven using the piezoelectric effect have been used in various applications such as ultrasonic vibrators. For example, a Langevin vibrator is disclosed in which a plurality of such piezoelectric elements are stacked between metal blocks and the metal blocks are bolted together (see Patent Document 1).
近年、例えば医療分野等においては、超音波振動子の小型化が望まれている。特許文献１のように金属ブロックの間に圧電素子を積層するランジュバン振動子では、圧電素子の両側の金属ブロックをボルト締めするため、超音波振動子を小型化するためには圧電素子の積層枚数を少なくすればよい。しかしながら、圧電素子の積層枚数を少なくすれば出力が低下し、所望の出力を得られなくなる可能性があった。In recent years, for example, in the medical field, miniaturization of ultrasonic transducers is desired. In a Langevin vibrator in which piezoelectric elements are stacked between metal blocks as inPatent Document 1, the metal blocks on both sides of the piezoelectric elements are bolted, and in order to reduce the size of the ultrasonic vibrator, the number of stacked piezoelectric elements Should be reduced. However, if the number of stacked piezoelectric elements is reduced, the output is lowered, and a desired output may not be obtained.
本発明にかかる実施形態では、出力を保持しながら小型に形成することが可能な超音波振動子及び超音波医療装置を提供することにある。An embodiment according to the present invention is to provide an ultrasonic transducer and an ultrasonic medical device that can be formed in a small size while maintaining an output.
本発明のある態様に係る超音波振動子は、
交番電圧の付与によって圧電効果を生じ振動する圧電素子を複数枚積層した圧電素子ユニットと、
前記圧電素子ユニットの振動方向に配置される金属ブロックと、
を備え、
前記圧電素子ユニットの複数枚の圧電素子間、および、前記金属ブロックは接合材で接合され、
前記金属ブロックは、前記圧電素子に対して一端側にのみ配置される
ことを特徴とする。An ultrasonic transducer according to an aspect of the present invention includes:
A piezoelectric element unit in which a plurality of piezoelectric elements that vibrate by generating a piezoelectric effect by applying an alternating voltage are laminated;
A metal block disposed in a vibration direction of the piezoelectric element unit;
With
Between the plurality of piezoelectric elements of the piezoelectric element unit, and the metal block are bonded with a bonding material,
The metal block is disposed only on one end side with respect to the piezoelectric element.
交番電圧の付与によって圧電効果を生じ振動する圧電素子を複数枚積層した圧電素子ユニットと、
前記圧電素子ユニットの振動方向に配置される金属ブロックと、
を備え、
前記圧電素子ユニットの複数枚の圧電素子間、および、前記金属ブロックは接合材で接合され、
前記金属ブロックは、前記圧電素子に対して一端側にのみ配置される
ことを特徴とする。An ultrasonic transducer according to an aspect of the present invention includes:
A piezoelectric element unit in which a plurality of piezoelectric elements that vibrate by generating a piezoelectric effect by applying an alternating voltage are laminated;
A metal block disposed in a vibration direction of the piezoelectric element unit;
With
Between the plurality of piezoelectric elements of the piezoelectric element unit, and the metal block are bonded with a bonding material,
The metal block is disposed only on one end side with respect to the piezoelectric element.
本発明のある態様に係る超音波医療装置は、前記超音波振動子と、前記超音波振動子で発生した超音波振動が伝達され生体組織を処置する先端処置部と、を具備することを特徴とする。An ultrasonic medical device according to an aspect of the present invention includes the ultrasonic transducer, and a distal treatment section that transmits ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic transducer and treats living tissue. And
本発明にかかる実施形態によれば、出力を保持しながら小型に形成することが可能な超音波振動子及び超音波医療装置を提供することが可能となる。According to the embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide an ultrasonic transducer and an ultrasonic medical device that can be formed in a small size while maintaining an output.
以下、本実施形態の超音波振動子１について説明する。Hereinafter, theultrasonic transducer 1 of the present embodiment will be described.
図１は、第１実施形態の超音波振動子１の斜視図を示す。FIG. 1 is a perspective view of theultrasonic transducer 1 according to the first embodiment.
第１実施形態の超音波振動子１は、図１に示すように、金属ブロック２と、複数の駆動用の圧電素子３１が接合材４によって積層される圧電素子ユニット３と、金属ブロック２と圧電素子ユニット３に接合材４によって接合される緩衝部５と、を備える。As shown in FIG. 1, theultrasonic transducer 1 according to the first embodiment includes ametal block 2, apiezoelectric element unit 3 in which a plurality of drivingpiezoelectric elements 31 are laminated by abonding material 4, and ametal block 2. And abuffer portion 5 bonded to thepiezoelectric element unit 3 by thebonding material 4.
金属ブロック２は、少なくとも、圧電素子ユニット３と共に振動して共振体の一部となる機能を有する。また、超音波振動作用対象への接続部、若しくは作用部として機能することもできる。本発明における金属ブロック２は、例えば、先端部２１と、ホーン部２２と、フランジ部２３と、を有する。先端部２１は、圧電素子ユニット３の振動が伝わり最も先端の位置が振動の腹となる部分である。フランジ部２３は、接合材４によって緩衝層５に接合され振動の節となる部分である。ホーン部２２は、圧電素子ユニット３の振動を増幅させる機能を持ち、先端部２１とフランジ部２３を連結する。例えば、金属ブロック２は、使用時に振動の節となるフランジ部２３が別の部材に保持し固定される。そして、この金属ブロック２は、圧電素子ユニット３の振動（詳しくは縦振動）方向に配置され、且つ、圧電素子ユニット３に対して一端側にのみ配置されている。Themetal block 2 has at least a function of vibrating together with thepiezoelectric element unit 3 and becoming a part of a resonator. Moreover, it can also function as a connection part to an ultrasonic vibration action object, or an action part. Themetal block 2 in this invention has the front-end |tip part 21, thehorn part 22, and theflange part 23, for example. Thetip portion 21 is a portion where the vibration of thepiezoelectric element unit 3 is transmitted and the tip position is the antinode of vibration. Theflange portion 23 is a portion which is joined to thebuffer layer 5 by the joiningmaterial 4 and becomes a vibration node. Thehorn part 22 has a function of amplifying the vibration of thepiezoelectric element unit 3 and connects thetip part 21 and theflange part 23. For example, themetal block 2 has aflange portion 23 that becomes a node of vibration when in use and is held and fixed to another member. Themetal block 2 is disposed in the vibration (specifically, longitudinal vibration) direction of thepiezoelectric element unit 3 and is disposed only on one end side with respect to thepiezoelectric element unit 3.
圧電素子ユニット３は、複数の駆動用の圧電素子３１が接合材４によって互いに密着して接合される。各圧電素子には、図示しない電極が取り付けられる。各圧電素子に取り付けられる電極は、積層された順で交互に交流電源の２つの電極に対してそれぞれ接続される。圧電素子３１の軸に垂直な方向の断面形状は、円形又は正方形、長方形等の矩形であってもよい。In thepiezoelectric element unit 3, a plurality of drivingpiezoelectric elements 31 are bonded to each other by a bondingmaterial 4. An electrode (not shown) is attached to each piezoelectric element. The electrodes attached to each piezoelectric element are connected to the two electrodes of the AC power supply alternately in the order of lamination. The cross-sectional shape in the direction perpendicular to the axis of thepiezoelectric element 31 may be a circle such as a circle, a square, or a rectangle.
緩衝部５は、金属ブロック２と圧電素子ユニット３の間に配置され、接合時に金属ブロック２と圧電素子ユニット３の熱膨張係数の差に起因して発生する熱応力を緩和する。なお、金属ブロック２と圧電素子ユニット３の熱膨張係数の差が小さく圧電素子ユニット３の圧電素子３１に損傷が生じない場合には、緩衝部５を設置しなくてもよい。Thebuffer portion 5 is disposed between themetal block 2 and thepiezoelectric element unit 3 and relieves thermal stress generated due to a difference in thermal expansion coefficient between themetal block 2 and thepiezoelectric element unit 3 at the time of joining. If the difference in thermal expansion coefficient between themetal block 2 and thepiezoelectric element unit 3 is small and thepiezoelectric element 31 of thepiezoelectric element unit 3 is not damaged, thebuffer portion 5 may not be installed.
ここで、本実施形態の超音波振動子１の各材料について説明する。Here, each material of theultrasonic transducer 1 of the present embodiment will be described.
金属ブロック２は、ジュラルミン等のアルミニウム合金、チタン合金、純チタン、ステンレス鋼、軟鋼、ニッケルクローム鋼、工具鋼、黄銅、モネルメタル等で構成される。Themetal block 2 is made of aluminum alloy such as duralumin, titanium alloy, pure titanium, stainless steel, mild steel, nickel chrome steel, tool steel, brass, monel metal and the like.
圧電素子ユニット３の圧電素子３１には、キュリー点の高い単結晶のニオブ酸リチウムを用いることが好ましい。例えば、各圧電素子３１の厚み方向の電気機械結合係数が大きくなるように、３６度回転Ｙカットと呼ばれる結晶方位のニオブ酸リチウムウエハを用いることが好ましく、ニオブ酸リチウムと非鉛ハンダとの濡れ性、密着性がよくなるように、ニオブ酸リチウムウエハの表裏面にＴｉ／Ｐｔ、Ｃｒ／Ｎｉ／Ａｕ等の下地金属が成膜された後、ダイシング等により矩形に切り出して作成される。For thepiezoelectric element 31 of thepiezoelectric element unit 3, it is preferable to use single crystal lithium niobate having a high Curie point. For example, it is preferable to use a lithium niobate wafer having a crystal orientation called 36-degree rotated Y-cut so that the electromechanical coupling coefficient in the thickness direction of eachpiezoelectric element 31 is increased, and wetting between lithium niobate and non-lead solder In order to improve the property and adhesion, a base metal such as Ti / Pt or Cr / Ni / Au is formed on the front and back surfaces of the lithium niobate wafer and then cut into a rectangle by dicing or the like.
従来の圧電素子には、チタン酸ジルコン酸鉛を用いることが一般的であった。しかしながら、近年、環境保護等の観点から鉛の使用を抑制することが促進されている。そこで、本実施形態の圧電素子３１には、非鉛で圧電効果を発生するニオブ酸リチウムを使用する。Conventional piezoelectric elements typically use lead zirconate titanate. However, in recent years, suppression of the use of lead has been promoted from the viewpoint of environmental protection and the like. Therefore, lithium niobate that generates a piezoelectric effect with lead is used for thepiezoelectric element 31 of the present embodiment.
しかしながら、ニオブ酸リチウムを用いた圧電素子３１は、チタン酸ジルコン酸鉛を用いた圧電素子３１と比較して、圧電定数が小さい。そのため、ニオブ酸リチウムを用いた圧電素子３１がチタン酸ジルコン酸鉛を用いた圧電素子３１と同等の出力を得るためには、圧電素子３１の積層数を多くしなければならない。ここで、圧電素子３１の積層数を多くすると、圧電素子ユニット３が大型化してしまい、超音波振動子１も大型化してしまう。However, thepiezoelectric element 31 using lithium niobate has a smaller piezoelectric constant than thepiezoelectric element 31 using lead zirconate titanate. Therefore, in order for thepiezoelectric element 31 using lithium niobate to obtain an output equivalent to thepiezoelectric element 31 using lead zirconate titanate, the number of stackedpiezoelectric elements 31 must be increased. Here, when the number of stackedpiezoelectric elements 31 is increased, thepiezoelectric element unit 3 is increased in size, and theultrasonic vibrator 1 is also increased in size.
本実施形態では、この問題を解決するために、接合材４によって金属ブロック２と圧電素子ユニット３及び各圧電素子３１をそれぞれ接合することとした。その結果、従来、圧電素子ユニット３の両端に配置していた金属ブロック２を１つに減らすことができ、非鉛の単結晶部材であるニオブ酸リチウムを使用したとしても、超音波振動子１を小型化することが可能となる。In this embodiment, in order to solve this problem, themetal block 2, thepiezoelectric element unit 3, and eachpiezoelectric element 31 are bonded to each other by thebonding material 4. As a result, the number ofmetal blocks 2 conventionally disposed at both ends of thepiezoelectric element unit 3 can be reduced to one, and even if lithium niobate, which is a lead-free single crystal member, is used, theultrasonic transducer 1 Can be miniaturized.
接合材４には、キュリー点より低い融点、好ましくはキュリー点の半分以下の融点を有する金属材料である非鉛ハンダを用いる。しかしながら、ハンダを接合材料として用いて、ハンダの供給方法をハンダペレットとする場合、凹凸形状のある部分を気泡なく接合することは困難である。そのため、金属ブロック２及び各圧電素子３１の接合材４を塗布する面は、それぞれ平面で構成することが好ましい。As thebonding material 4, a lead-free solder that is a metal material having a melting point lower than the Curie point, preferably less than half the Curie point is used. However, when solder is used as the bonding material and the solder supply method is solder pellets, it is difficult to bond the uneven portions without bubbles. Therefore, it is preferable that the surfaces on which themetal block 2 and thebonding material 4 of eachpiezoelectric element 31 are applied are flat surfaces.
図２は、第１実施形態の超音波振動子１を示す。図２（ａ）は超音波振動子１を示す図、図２（ｂ）は超音波振動子１の振動の様子を示す図である。FIG. 2 shows theultrasonic transducer 1 of the first embodiment. FIG. 2A is a diagram illustrating theultrasonic transducer 1, and FIG. 2B is a diagram illustrating a vibration state of theultrasonic transducer 1.
図２に示すように、第１実施形態の超音波振動子１では、圧電素子ユニット３が作動すると、振動が始まる。振動は、金属ブロック２のフランジ部２３が振動の節となり、先端部２１の最も先端の位置２ａ及び圧電素子ユニット３の金属ブロック２とは反対側の端部３ａが振動の腹となる。As shown in FIG. 2, in theultrasonic transducer 1 according to the first embodiment, when thepiezoelectric element unit 3 operates, vibration starts. In the vibration, theflange portion 23 of themetal block 2 becomes a node of vibration, and theend portion 2a of thetip portion 21 and theend portion 3a of thepiezoelectric element unit 3 opposite to themetal block 2 become antinodes of vibration.
このように、第１実施形態の超音波振動子１によれば、出力を保持しながら安定した振動をすると共に、小型に形成することが可能となる。As described above, according to theultrasonic transducer 1 of the first embodiment, it is possible to stably vibrate while maintaining the output and to form a small size.
図３は、第２実施形態の超音波振動子１を示す。図３（ａ）は超音波振動子１を示す図、図３（ｂ）は超音波振動子１の振動の様子を示す図である。FIG. 3 shows anultrasonic transducer 1 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 3A is a diagram illustrating theultrasonic transducer 1, and FIG. 3B is a diagram illustrating a vibration state of theultrasonic transducer 1.
図３に示すように、第２実施形態の超音波振動子１では、金属ブロック２が、フランジ２３の圧電素子ユニット３側に金属マス２４を有する。圧電素子ユニット３が作動すると、振動が始まる。振動は、金属ブロック２のフランジ部２３及び圧電素子ユニット３の一部が振動の節となり、先端部２１の最も先端の位置２ａ、金属マス２４と緩衝部５又は圧電素子３１の接合部分、及び圧電素子ユニット３の金属ブロック２とは反対側の端部３ａが振動の腹となる。As shown in FIG. 3, in theultrasonic transducer 1 of the second embodiment, themetal block 2 has ametal mass 24 on theflange 23 on thepiezoelectric element unit 3 side. When thepiezoelectric element unit 3 is activated, vibration starts. In the vibration, theflange portion 23 of themetal block 2 and a part of thepiezoelectric element unit 3 become a vibration node, theposition 2a of the mostdistal end portion 21, the joining portion of themetal mass 24 and thebuffer portion 5 or thepiezoelectric element 31, and Anend 3a of thepiezoelectric element unit 3 opposite to themetal block 2 is an antinode of vibration.
このように、第２実施形態の超音波振動子１によれば、出力を保持しながら小型に形成することが可能となる。また、約１波長分の振動を形成することができ、安定して作動することが可能となる。As described above, according to theultrasonic transducer 1 of the second embodiment, it is possible to form a small size while maintaining the output. In addition, vibration for about one wavelength can be formed, and stable operation is possible.
図４は、第３実施形態の超音波振動子１を示す。図４（ａ）は超音波振動子１を示す図、図４（ｂ）は超音波振動子１の振動の様子を示す図である。FIG. 4 shows theultrasonic transducer 1 of the third embodiment. FIG. 4A is a diagram illustrating theultrasonic transducer 1, and FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating a vibration state of theultrasonic transducer 1.
図４に示すように、第３実施形態の超音波振動子１では、図３に示した第２実施形態で用いた金属マス２４を用いず、圧電素子ユニット３の圧電素子３１の数を増加する。圧電素子ユニット３が作動すると、振動が始まる。振動は、金属ブロック２のフランジ部２３及び圧電素子ユニット３の一部が振動の節となり、先端部２１の最も先端の位置２ａ、圧電素子ユニット３の一部、及び圧電素子ユニット３の金属ブロック２とは反対側の端部３ａが振動の腹となる。As shown in FIG. 4, in theultrasonic transducer 1 of the third embodiment, the number ofpiezoelectric elements 31 of thepiezoelectric element unit 3 is increased without using themetal mass 24 used in the second embodiment shown in FIG. To do. When thepiezoelectric element unit 3 is activated, vibration starts. In the vibration, theflange portion 23 of themetal block 2 and a part of thepiezoelectric element unit 3 become nodes of vibration. Theend 3a opposite to 2 is a vibration antinode.
このように、第３実施形態の超音波振動子１によれば、出力をより強くすることができると共に、小型に形成することができ、さらに安定して作動することが可能となる。As described above, according to theultrasonic transducer 1 of the third embodiment, the output can be further increased, the device can be formed in a small size, and can be operated more stably.
図５は、本実施形態に係る超音波医療装置の全体構成を示す。図６は、本実施形態に係る超音波医療装置の振動子ユニットの全体の概略構成を示す。FIG. 5 shows an overall configuration of the ultrasonic medical apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 6 shows an overall schematic configuration of the transducer unit of the ultrasonic medical apparatus according to the present embodiment.
図５に示す、超音波医療装置１１０は、主に超音波振動を発生させる超音波振動子１を有する振動子ユニット１１３と、その超音波振動を用いて患部の治療を行うハンドルユニット１１４とが設けられている。An ultrasonicmedical device 110 shown in FIG. 5 includes avibrator unit 113 having anultrasonic vibrator 1 that mainly generates ultrasonic vibrations, and ahandle unit 114 that treats the affected area using the ultrasonic vibrations. Is provided.
ハンドルユニット１１４は、操作部１１５と、長尺な外套管１１７からなる挿入シース部１１８と、先端処置部１４０とを備える。挿入シース部１１８の基端部は、操作部１１５に軸回り方向に回転可能に取り付けられている。先端処置部１４０は、挿入シース部１１８の先端に設けられている。ハンドルユニット１１４の操作部１１５は、操作部本体１１９と、固定ハンドル１２０と、可動ハンドル１２１と、回転ノブ１２２とを有する。操作部本体１１９は、固定ハンドル１２０と一体に形成されている。Thehandle unit 114 includes anoperation unit 115, aninsertion sheath unit 118 including along mantle tube 117, and adistal treatment unit 140. A proximal end portion of theinsertion sheath portion 118 is attached to theoperation portion 115 so as to be rotatable about the axis. Thedistal treatment section 140 is provided at the distal end of theinsertion sheath section 118. Theoperation unit 115 of thehandle unit 114 includes an operation unitmain body 119, a fixedhandle 120, amovable handle 121, and arotary knob 122. The operation unitmain body 119 is formed integrally with the fixedhandle 120.
操作部本体１１９と固定ハンドル１２０との連結部には、背面側に可動ハンドル１２１を挿通するスリット１２３が形成されている。可動ハンドル１２１の上部は、スリット１２３を通して操作部本体１１９の内部に延出されている。スリット１２３の下側の端部には、ハンドルストッパ１２４が固定されている。可動ハンドル１２１は、ハンドル支軸１２５を介して操作部本体１１９に回動可能に取り付けられている。そして、ハンドル支軸１２５を中心として可動ハンドル１２１が回動する動作に伴い、可動ハンドル１２１が固定ハンドル１２０に対して開閉操作されるようになっている。Aslit 123 through which themovable handle 121 is inserted is formed on the back side of the connecting portion between the operation unitmain body 119 and the fixedhandle 120. The upper portion of themovable handle 121 extends into the operation unitmain body 119 through theslit 123. Ahandle stopper 124 is fixed to the lower end of theslit 123. Themovable handle 121 is rotatably attached to the operation unitmain body 119 via ahandle support shaft 125. Themovable handle 121 is opened and closed with respect to the fixedhandle 120 as themovable handle 121 rotates around thehandle support shaft 125.
可動ハンドル１２１の上端部には、略Ｕ字状の連結アーム１２６が設けられている。また、挿入シース部１１８は、外套管１１７と、この外套管１１７内に軸方向に移動可能に挿通された操作パイプ１２７とを有する。外套管１１７の基端部には、先端側部分よりも大径な大径部１２８が形成されている。この大径部１２８の周囲に回転ノブ２２が装着されるようになっている。A substantially U-shaped connectingarm 126 is provided at the upper end of themovable handle 121. Theinsertion sheath portion 118 includes amantle tube 117 and anoperation pipe 127 that is inserted into themantle tube 117 so as to be movable in the axial direction. A large-diameter portion 128 having a diameter larger than that of the distal end portion is formed at the proximal end portion of theouter tube 117. Therotary knob 22 is mounted around thelarge diameter portion 128.
操作パイプ１２７の外周面には、リング状のスライダ１３０が軸方向に沿って移動可能に設けられている。スライダ１３０の後方には、コイルばね（弾性部材）１３１を介して固定リング１３２が配設されている。A ring-shapedslider 130 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of theoperation pipe 127 so as to be movable along the axial direction. A fixingring 132 is disposed behind theslider 130 via a coil spring (elastic member) 131.
さらに、操作パイプ１２７の先端部には、把持部１３３の基端部が作用ピンを介して回動可能に連結されている。この把持部１３３は、プローブ１１６の先端部１４１と共に超音波医療装置１１０の処置部を構成している。そして、操作パイプ１２７が軸方向に移動する動作時に、把持部１３３は、作用ピンを介して前後方向に押し引き操作される。このとき、操作パイプ１２７が手元側に移動操作される動作時には作用ピンを介して把持部１３３が支点ピンを中心に反時計回り方向に回動される。これにより、把持部１３３がプローブ１１６の先端部１４１に接近する方向（閉方向）に回動する。このとき、片開き型の把持部１３３と、プローブ１１６の先端部１４１との間で生体組織を把持することができる。Furthermore, the proximal end portion of thegripping portion 133 is rotatably connected to the distal end portion of theoperation pipe 127 via an action pin. Thisgrasping part 133 constitutes a treatment part of the ultrasonicmedical device 110 together with thedistal end part 141 of theprobe 116. When theoperation pipe 127 moves in the axial direction, thegripper 133 is pushed and pulled in the front-rear direction via the action pin. At this time, when theoperation pipe 127 is moved to the proximal side, thegripper 133 is rotated counterclockwise about the fulcrum pin via the action pin. As a result, thegripper 133 rotates in a direction (closed direction) approaching thedistal end portion 141 of theprobe 116. At this time, the living tissue can be grasped between the single-openingtype grasping portion 133 and thetip portion 141 of theprobe 116.
このように生体組織を把持した状態で、超音波電源から電力を超音波振動子１に供給し、超音波振動子１を振動させる。この超音波振動は、プローブ１１６の先端部１４１まで伝達される。そして、この超音波振動を用いて把持部１３３とプローブ１１６の先端部１４１との間で把持されている生体組織の治療を行う。In such a state where the living tissue is gripped, electric power is supplied from the ultrasonic power source to theultrasonic vibrator 1 to vibrate theultrasonic vibrator 1. This ultrasonic vibration is transmitted to thetip portion 141 of theprobe 116. The ultrasonic tissue is used to treat the living tissue held between the holdingpart 133 and thetip part 141 of theprobe 116.
振動子ユニット１１３は、図６に示すように、超音波振動子１と、この超音波振動子１で発生した超音波振動を伝達する棒状の振動伝達部材であるプローブ１１６とを一体的に組み付けたものである。As shown in FIG. 6, thetransducer unit 113 integrally assembles theultrasonic transducer 1 and aprobe 116 that is a rod-shaped vibration transmitting member that transmits ultrasonic vibration generated by theultrasonic transducer 1. It is a thing.
超音波振動子１は、超音波振動子の振幅を増幅するホーン１４２が連設されている。ホーン１４２は、ジュラルミン、ステンレス鋼、または例えば６４Ｔｉ（Ｔｉ－６Ａｌ－４Ｖ）などのチタン合金によって形成されている。ホーン１４２は、先端側に向かうに従って外径が細くなる円錐形状に形成されており、基端外周部に外向フランジが形成されている。なお、ここでホーン１４２の形状は円錐形状に限るものではなく、先端側に向かうに従って外径が指数関数的に細くなる指数形状や、先端側に向かうに従って段階的に細くなるステップ形状などであってもよい。Theultrasonic vibrator 1 is provided with ahorn 142 that amplifies the amplitude of the ultrasonic vibrator. Thehorn 142 is made of duralumin, stainless steel, or a titanium alloy such as 64Ti (Ti-6Al-4V). Thehorn 142 is formed in a conical shape whose outer diameter becomes narrower toward the distal end side, and an outward flange is formed on the base end outer peripheral portion. Here, the shape of thehorn 142 is not limited to the conical shape, but may be an exponential shape in which the outer diameter decreases exponentially toward the tip side, or a step shape that gradually decreases toward the tip side. May be.
プローブ１１６は、例えば６４Ｔｉ（Ｔｉ－６Ａｌ－４Ｖ）などのチタン合金によって形成されたプローブ本体１４４を有する。このプローブ本体１１６の基端部側には、上述のホーン１４２に連設された超音波振動子１が配設されている。このようにして、プローブ１１６と超音波振動子１とを一体化した振動子ユニット１１３が形成されている。なお、プローブ１１６は、プローブ本体１４４とホーン１４２とが螺着されており、プローブ本体１４４とホーン１４２が接合される。Theprobe 116 has a probemain body 144 formed of a titanium alloy such as 64Ti (Ti-6Al-4V). On the proximal end side of the probemain body 116, theultrasonic transducer 1 connected to thehorn 142 is disposed. In this way, atransducer unit 113 in which theprobe 116 and theultrasonic transducer 1 are integrated is formed. In theprobe 116, the probemain body 144 and thehorn 142 are screwed together, and the probemain body 144 and thehorn 142 are joined.
そして、超音波振動子１で発生した超音波振動は、ホーン１４２で増幅されたのち、プローブ１１６の先端部１４１側に伝達するようになっている。プローブ１１６の先端部１４１には、生体組織を処置する後述する処置部が形成されている。The ultrasonic vibration generated by theultrasonic vibrator 1 is amplified by thehorn 142 and then transmitted to thetip portion 141 side of theprobe 116. Thedistal end portion 141 of theprobe 116 is formed with a treatment portion to be described later for treating a living tissue.
また、プローブ本体１４４の外周面には、軸方向の途中にある振動の節位置の数箇所に弾性部材でリング状に形成された間隔をあけて２つのゴムライニング１４５が取り付けられている。そして、これらのゴムライニング１４５によって、プローブ本体１４４の外周面と後述する操作パイプ１２７との接触を防止するようになっている。つまり、挿入シース部１８の組み立て時に、振動子一体型プローブとしてのプローブ１１６は、操作パイプ１２７の内部に挿入される。このとき、ゴムライニング１４５によってプローブ本体１４４の外周面と操作パイプ１２７との接触を防止している。Also, tworubber linings 145 are attached to the outer peripheral surface of the probemain body 144 at intervals of vibration nodes located in the middle of the axial direction at intervals formed in a ring shape with an elastic member. Theserubber linings 145 prevent contact between the outer peripheral surface of the probemain body 144 and anoperation pipe 127 described later. That is, when assembling the insertion sheath portion 18, theprobe 116 as a transducer-integrated probe is inserted into theoperation pipe 127. At this time, therubber lining 145 prevents contact between the outer peripheral surface of the probemain body 144 and theoperation pipe 127.
また、超音波振動子１は、超音波振動を発生させるための電流を供給する図示しない電源装置本体に電気ケーブル１４６を介して電気的に接続される。この電気ケーブル１４６内の配線を通じて電源装置本体から電力を超音波振動子１に供給することによって、超音波振動子１が駆動される。なお、振動子ユニット１１３は、超音波振動を発生させる超音波振動子１、発生した超音波振動を増幅させるホーン１４２および増幅された超音波振動を伝達するプローブ１１６を備えている。Also, theultrasonic vibrator 1 is electrically connected via anelectric cable 146 to a power supply device main body (not shown) that supplies a current for generating ultrasonic vibration. Theultrasonic transducer 1 is driven by supplying power from the power supply device main body to theultrasonic transducer 1 through the wiring in theelectric cable 146. Thevibrator unit 113 includes anultrasonic vibrator 1 that generates ultrasonic vibrations, ahorn 142 that amplifies the generated ultrasonic vibrations, and aprobe 116 that transmits the amplified ultrasonic vibrations.
図７は、本実施形態に係る超音波医療装置の他の態様の超音波医療装置の全体構成を示す。FIG. 7 shows an overall configuration of an ultrasonic medical apparatus according to another aspect of the ultrasonic medical apparatus according to the present embodiment.
超音波振動子１と振動子ユニット１１３は、必ずしも図５に示したように操作部本体１１９内に収納されている必要はなく、例えば、図７に示すように操作パイプ１２７内に収納されていてもよい。この図７の超音波医療装置１１０において、超音波振動子１の折れ止１６２から操作部本体１１９の基部に配設されたコネクタ１４８までの間にある電気ケーブル１４６は金属パイプ１４７の中に挿通されて収納されている。ここで、コネクタ１４８は、必須ではなく、電気ケーブル１４６を操作部本体１１９内部まで延長し、直接超音波振動子１の折れ止１６２に接続する構成であってもよい。超音波医療装置１１０は、図５のような構成により、操作部本体１１９内を、より省スペース化を向上することができる。なお、図７の超音波医療装置１１０としての機能は、図５と同様であるので詳細な説明は省略する。Theultrasonic transducer 1 and thetransducer unit 113 do not necessarily have to be stored in the operation unitmain body 119 as shown in FIG. 5, for example, are stored in theoperation pipe 127 as shown in FIG. May be. In the ultrasonicmedical device 110 of FIG. 7, theelectric cable 146 between the bendingstop 162 of theultrasonic transducer 1 and theconnector 148 disposed at the base of the operation unitmain body 119 is inserted into the metal pipe 147. Has been stored. Here, theconnector 148 is not indispensable, and theelectric cable 146 may be extended to the inside of the operation unitmain body 119 and connected directly to thefolding stop 162 of theultrasonic transducer 1. The ultrasonicmedical device 110 can improve the space saving in the operation unitmain body 119 with the configuration shown in FIG. Note that the functions of the ultrasonicmedical device 110 in FIG. 7 are the same as those in FIG.
以上、本実施態様に係る超音波振動子１は、交番電圧の付与によって圧電効果を生じ振動する圧電素子３１を複数枚積層した圧電素子ユニット３と、圧電素子ユニット３の振動方向に配置される金属ブロック２と、を備え、圧電素子ユニット３の複数枚の圧電素子３１間、および、金属ブロック２は接合材で接合され、金属ブロック２は、圧電素子３１に対して一端側にのみ配置されるので、出力を保持しながら小型に形成することが可能となる。As described above, theultrasonic transducer 1 according to this embodiment is arranged in the vibration direction of thepiezoelectric element unit 3 in which a plurality ofpiezoelectric elements 31 that vibrate by generating a piezoelectric effect by applying an alternating voltage are laminated, and thepiezoelectric element unit 3. Ametal block 2, and between the plurality ofpiezoelectric elements 31 of thepiezoelectric element unit 3, and themetal block 2 is bonded with a bonding material, and themetal block 2 is disposed only on one end side with respect to thepiezoelectric element 31. Therefore, it is possible to form a small size while maintaining the output.
また、本実施態様に係る超音波振動子１では、金属ブロック２は、圧電素子ユニット３側にフランジ部２３を有し、フランジ部２３は、圧電素子ユニット３の作動による振動の際に節の部分となるので、フランジ部２３を把持しても安定した振動をすることが可能となる。In theultrasonic transducer 1 according to this embodiment, themetal block 2 has aflange portion 23 on thepiezoelectric element unit 3 side. Therefore, even if theflange portion 23 is gripped, stable vibration can be achieved.
また、本実施態様に係る超音波振動子１では、金属ブロック２の先端部２１の最も先端の位置２ａと圧電素子ユニット３の金属ブロック２とは反対側の端部３ａは、圧電素子ユニット３の作動による振動の際に腹の部分となるので、安定した振動をすることが可能となる。Further, in theultrasonic transducer 1 according to the present embodiment, theposition 2 a of the mostdistal end portion 21 of themetal block 2 and theend portion 3 a of thepiezoelectric element unit 3 opposite to themetal block 2 are arranged on thepiezoelectric element unit 3. When the vibration is caused by the operation, the abdomen is formed, so that stable vibration can be achieved.
また、本実施態様に係る超音波振動子１では、圧電素子ユニット３の少なくとも一部は、圧電素子ユニット３の作動による振動の際に節の部分となるので、安定した振動をすることが可能となる。Further, in theultrasonic transducer 1 according to the present embodiment, at least a part of thepiezoelectric element unit 3 becomes a node portion when thepiezoelectric element unit 3 is vibrated by the operation of thepiezoelectric element unit 3, and thus can stably vibrate. It becomes.
また、本実施態様に係る超音波振動子１では、圧電素子ユニット３の少なくとも一部は、圧電素子ユニット３の作動による振動の際に腹の部分となるので、安定した振動をすることが可能となる。Further, in theultrasonic transducer 1 according to the present embodiment, at least a part of thepiezoelectric element unit 3 becomes a belly part when vibrating due to the operation of thepiezoelectric element unit 3, so that stable vibration is possible. It becomes.
また、本実施態様に係る超音波振動子１では、圧電素子３１は、非鉛の単結晶材料からなるので、鉛の使用を抑制することが可能となる。Moreover, in theultrasonic transducer 1 according to the present embodiment, thepiezoelectric element 31 is made of a non-lead single crystal material, so that the use of lead can be suppressed.
また、本実施態様に係る超音波振動子１では、圧電素子３１は、ニオブ酸リチウム（ＬｉＮｂ０３）からなるので、鉛の使用を抑制することが可能となる。Moreover, in theultrasonic transducer 1 according to the present embodiment, thepiezoelectric element 31 is made of lithium niobate (LiNb03), so that the use of lead can be suppressed.
また、本実施態様に係る超音波振動子１では、接合部４は、非鉛ハンダからなるので、鉛の使用を抑制することが可能となる。Moreover, in theultrasonic transducer 1 according to this embodiment, since thejoint portion 4 is made of non-lead solder, it is possible to suppress the use of lead.
また、本実施態様に係る超音波振動子１では、金属ブロック２と圧電素子ユニット３の間に熱応力を緩和する緩衝部５を備えるので、金属ブロック２と圧電素子ユニット３の熱膨張係数の差に起因して発生する熱応力を緩和することが可能となる。Moreover, since theultrasonic transducer 1 according to this embodiment includes thebuffer portion 5 that relieves thermal stress between themetal block 2 and thepiezoelectric element unit 3, the thermal expansion coefficient of themetal block 2 and thepiezoelectric element unit 3 is reduced. It becomes possible to relieve the thermal stress generated due to the difference.
さらに、本実施形態の超音波医療装置１００によれば、前記超音波振動子１と、超音波振動子１で発生した超音波振動が伝達され生体組織を処置する先端処置部と、を具備するので、共振周波数を調整可能な超音波処置具１０とすることが可能となる。Furthermore, according to the ultrasonic medical device 100 of the present embodiment, theultrasonic vibrator 1 and the distal treatment section that transmits the ultrasonic vibration generated by theultrasonic vibrator 1 and treats the living tissue are provided. Therefore, the ultrasonic treatment instrument 10 capable of adjusting the resonance frequency can be obtained.
なお、この実施形態によって本発明は限定されるものではない。すなわち、実施形態の説明に当たって、例示のために特定の詳細な内容が多く含まれるが、当業者であれば、これらの詳細な内容に色々なバリエーションや変更を加えても、本発明の範囲を超えないことは理解できよう。従って、本発明の例示的な実施形態は、権利請求された発明に対して、一般性を失わせることなく、また、何ら限定をすることもなく、述べられたものである。Note that the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. That is, in the description of the embodiments, many specific details are included for illustration, but those skilled in the art can add various variations and modifications to these details without departing from the scope of the present invention. It will be understood that this is not exceeded. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described without loss of generality or limitation to the claimed invention.
１…超音波振動子
２…金属ブロック
３…圧電素子ユニット
３１…圧電素子
４…接合部DESCRIPTION OFSYMBOLS 1 ...Ultrasonic vibrator 2 ...Metal block 3 ...Piezoelectric element unit 31 ...Piezoelectric element 4 ... Joint part
２…金属ブロック
３…圧電素子ユニット
３１…圧電素子
４…接合部DESCRIPTION OF
Claims (9)
- 交番電圧の付与によって圧電効果を生じ振動する圧電素子を複数枚積層した圧電素子ユニットと、
前記圧電素子ユニットの振動方向に配置される金属ブロックと、
を備え、
前記圧電素子ユニットの複数枚の圧電素子間、および、前記金属ブロックは接合材で接合され、
前記金属ブロックは、前記圧電素子に対して一端側にのみ配置される
ことを特徴とする超音波振動子。A piezoelectric element unit in which a plurality of piezoelectric elements that vibrate by generating a piezoelectric effect by applying an alternating voltage are laminated;
A metal block disposed in a vibration direction of the piezoelectric element unit;
With
Between the plurality of piezoelectric elements of the piezoelectric element unit, and the metal block are bonded with a bonding material,
The ultrasonic transducer according to claim 1, wherein the metal block is disposed only on one end side with respect to the piezoelectric element. - 前記金属ブロックは、前記圧電素子ユニット側にフランジ部を有し、
前記フランジ部は、前記圧電素子ユニットの作動による振動の際に節の部分となる
請求項１に記載の超音波振動子。The metal block has a flange portion on the piezoelectric element unit side,
The ultrasonic transducer according to claim 1, wherein the flange portion becomes a node portion when the piezoelectric element unit vibrates due to the operation of the piezoelectric element unit. - 前記金属ブロックの先端部の最も先端の位置と前記圧電素子ユニットの前記金属ブロックとは反対側の端部は、前記圧電素子ユニットの作動による振動の際に腹の部分となる
請求項１又は２に記載の超音波振動子。The position of the most distal end of the tip of the metal block and the end of the piezoelectric element unit opposite to the metal block become an antinode during vibration caused by the operation of the piezoelectric element unit. The ultrasonic vibrator described in 1. - 前記圧電素子ユニットの少なくとも一部は、前記圧電素子ユニットの作動による振動の際に節の部分となる
請求項１乃至３のいずれか１つに記載の超音波振動子。The ultrasonic transducer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least a part of the piezoelectric element unit becomes a node portion when the piezoelectric element unit vibrates due to the operation of the piezoelectric element unit. - 前記圧電素子ユニットの少なくとも一部は、前記圧電素子ユニットの作動による振動の際に腹の部分となる
請求項１乃至４のいずれか１つに記載の超音波振動子。5. The ultrasonic transducer according to claim 1, wherein at least a part of the piezoelectric element unit becomes an antinode during vibration caused by the operation of the piezoelectric element unit. - 前記圧電素子は、非鉛の単結晶材料からなる
請求項１乃至５のいずれか１つに記載の超音波振動子。The ultrasonic transducer according to claim 1, wherein the piezoelectric element is made of a lead-free single crystal material. - 前記圧電素子は、ニオブ酸リチウム（ＬｉＮｂ０３）からなる
請求項１乃至６のいずれか１つに記載の超音波振動子。The ultrasonic transducer according to claim 1, wherein the piezoelectric element is made of lithium niobate (LiNb03). - 前記金属ブロックと前記圧電素子ユニットの間に熱応力を緩和する緩衝部
を備える
請求項１乃至７のいずれか１つに記載の超音波振動子。The ultrasonic transducer according to claim 1, further comprising a buffer portion that relaxes thermal stress between the metal block and the piezoelectric element unit. - 請求項１乃至請求項８のいずれか１項に記載の超音波振動子と、
前記超音波振動子で発生した超音波振動が伝達され生体組織を処置する先端処置部と、
を具備する
ことを特徴とする超音波医療装置。The ultrasonic transducer according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
A tip treatment unit for treating a living tissue through transmission of ultrasonic vibration generated by the ultrasonic transducer;
An ultrasonic medical device comprising:
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