Breakthrough! Element Testing the Philips X5-1
Last week Acertara introduced the ability to test the Philips X5-1 transducer element-by-element with our patented Atlas system. The X5-1 is a 2D matrix array transducer with more than 3,000 elements. According to the recent FDA Guidance and the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) Testing and Repair Statement, “transducer element checks are important to ensure proper performance of the transducer..” and “…proper performance is critically dependent on the integrity of the piezoelectric transducer elements…”
To understand the significance of this engineering feat one can think back in history to the German encryption device, the Enigma Machine, used during WWII to transmit coded messages. It had billions and billions of ways to encode a message – cracking this code seemed impossible to the Allies. The Germans considered it unbreakable. In fact, in our case with the X5-1, we were told we would never be able to “crack the code”.
The Allies shifted the momentum of WWII through brilliance and purpose by breaking the code of the Enigma. At Acertara, we are not exactly saving the world but this breakthrough will enable our customers to save money for the healthcare system and provide better care to patients.