Ultrasound with piezoelectric organic light emitting diodes

“At North Carolina State University, researchers have performed a remarkable trick, namely producing ultrasound images using nothing but piezoelectric organic light emitting diodes. This may be a big deal, as existing ultrasound devices rely on electronics and image reconstruction algorithms to convert sonic waves captured by transducers into intuitive renderings. Avoiding these altogether may allow for much cheaper, smaller, and more capable ultrasound systems, potentially revolutionizing the entire industry. The researchers believe that conventional devices, that currently cost tens of thousands of dollars, may soon be replaced by the new direct imaging approach that would result in ultrasounds costing only hundreds of dollars each to produce.”   MORE

 Image Credit:   North Carolina State University and MedGadget.com