Abstract: The present invention relates to ultrasound coupling adapters, ultrasound coupling devices, ultrasound coupling systems, and methods of using the adapters, coupling devices, and coupling systems in various ultrasound applications. In one embodiment, the ultrasound coupling adapter is for coupling an ultrasound transducer to an ultrasound coupling medium. The ultrasound coupling adapter comprises an interface support region for operably interfacing the ultrasound transducer to the ultrasound coupling medium; and an integrated means for (i) rendering the ultrasound coupling adapter inoperable, and/or (ii) preventing operation of the ultrasound transducer by keeping it from being properly coupled with the ultrasound coupling adapter and/or ultrasound coupling medium.

Abstract: The present invention relates to ultrasound coupling adapters, ultrasound coupling devices, ultrasound coupling systems, and methods of using the coupling adapters, coupling devices, and coupling systems in various ultrasound applications. In one embodiment, the ultrasound coupling adapter is for coupling an ultrasound transducer to an ultrasound coupling medium. The ultrasound coupling adapter comprises an interface support region for operably interfacing the ultrasound transducer to the ultrasound coupling medium; and an integrated means for (i) rendering the ultrasound coupling adapter inoperable, and/or (ii) preventing operation of the ultrasound transducer when not properly coupled with the ultrasound coupling adapter and/or ultrasound coupling medium.