Abstract: A catheter tip (50, 170) is provided that is adapted for mating attachment to a catheter body (90, 300). In an embodiment, the catheter tip (50,170) comprises a transducer array (32, 60, 110, 210) in electrical communication with an interconnect (120, 220) and in a mechanical driven relationship with an actuator (80), also in the catheter tip (50, 170), via a drive shaft (38, 82). Oscillating back and forth motion of the transducer array (32, 60, 110, 210) provides ultrasonic imaging functionality that may include real time three-dimensional imaging. Other embodiments of the catheter tip (50, 170) and methods of fabrication also are provided.

Abstract: A method to fabricate a catheter tip that encapsulates a mechanically actuated ultrasound transducer assembly is provided.

Abstract: A synchronizer module is provided that may be used to facilitate the simulation of circuitry having clock domain crossing signals. A multiple-stage synchronizer may be used where at least one of the multiple synchronizer stages is dynamically enabled and disabled. The synchronizer module may have a delay unit for selectively applying a variable delay. This may allow for better modelling the real-silicon behaviour for simulation purposes to detect signal synchronization problems earlier in the flow, for instance during RTL (Register Transfer Level) design.

Abstract: A tissue characterization apparatus and method may comprise a light source configured to direct light towards the tissue, a light receptor configured to receive light reflected from the tissue and configured to generate an electrical signal, and a spectrogram configured to analyze the signal generated by the light receptor.