3D Time-Domain Modeling of Nonlinear Medical Ultrasound with an Iterative Green's Function Method

Abstract

A full wave 3d time domain algorithm is presented that calculates the nonlinear acoustic wavefield of medical phased array transducers emitting an arbitratily steered, focused apodized beam. The algorithm can be used for computer simulation studies of the occuring second and higher harmonic wavefields in these configurations and for the optimization of the transducer design. It is based on the iterative employment of a Green's Function (or impulse response) method with the nonlinearity included as a contrast source. Several comparisons with validated algorithms are made, showing a perfect agreement.