Which array type has elements arranged in a curved line and is often used to produce a broad field of view?

Which array type has elements arranged in a curved line and is often used to produce a broad field of view?

• A. Convex array
• B. Linear array
• C. Annular array
• D. Phased array

Answer: (A)

The key idea is how the shape of the transducer affects the sweep of the ultrasound beam. When the elements are arranged along a curved line, the emitted beams fan out over a wider angular range, producing a sector-shaped image with a broader field of view. This curved (convex) geometry expands coverage in the imaging plane as depth increases, making it well suited for quickly surveying larger areas. A linear array uses a flat row of elements, which yields a narrower, rectangular field and limited lateral extent at depth. An annular array has concentric rings and is designed to improve elevational focusing rather than widen the field of view. A phased array relies on electronic steering and focusing across a small, typically flat face, offering steering flexibility but not the broad field from a curved physical layout.

The key idea is how the shape of the transducer affects the sweep of the ultrasound beam. When the elements are arranged along a curved line, the emitted beams fan out over a wider angular range, producing a sector-shaped image with a broader field of view. This curved (convex) geometry expands coverage in the imaging plane as depth increases, making it well suited for quickly surveying larger areas.

A linear array uses a flat row of elements, which yields a narrower, rectangular field and limited lateral extent at depth. An annular array has concentric rings and is designed to improve elevational focusing rather than widen the field of view. A phased array relies on electronic steering and focusing across a small, typically flat face, offering steering flexibility but not the broad field from a curved physical layout.