Abstract: A plurality of piezomaterial bodies, such as panels or slices, are merged together to form a larger piezomaterial body. For example, a 0.75×22 cm polycrystalline piezomaterial body is formed, where the distances are along lateral or footprint dimensions. The thickness of the piezomaterial body is substantially less than either of the distances along first and second lateral dimensions that define the footprint. Preferably, each piezomaterial body has a panel shape, and a plurality of panels are merged to form a large multi-panel.

Abstract: The preferred embodiments described herein provide an improved ultrasound transducer and method of manufacture thereof. In one preferred embodiment, a method of manufacturing an ultrasound transducer is provided comprising the acts of supporting a layer of piezoelectric material with a window and separating the layer of piezoelectric material into at least two elements by dicing through the layer of piezoelectric material and at least partially into the window. In another preferred embodiment, an ultrasound transducer is provided comprising a first transducer element, a second transducer element, and a window coupled with the first and second transducer elements and comprising a kerf positioned between the first and second transducer elements.

Abstract: A plurality of piezomaterial bodies, such as panels or slices, are merged together to form a larger piezomaterial body. For example, a 0.75×22 cm polycrystalline piezomaterial body is formed, where the distances are along lateral or footprint dimensions. The thickness of the piezomaterial body is substantially less than either of the distances along first and second lateral dimensions that define the footprint. Preferably, each piezomaterial body has a panel shape, and a plurality of panels are merged to form a large multi-panel.

Abstract: An ultrasound transducer is provided that includes a plurality of transducer elements having a first surface facing a region of examination when the transducer is in use and a second surface opposite of the first surface. The first surface or the second surface or both may be non-planar in an elevation direction. A nosepiece having an integrated faceplate is disposed over the transducer and a filler material may fill an area between the first surface of the transducer elements and the interior surface of the integrated faceplate. The filler material may have focusing or non-focusing properties.