Abstract:

A novel test object for ultrasound imaging has been developed. The test object, or phantom, is manufactured with thin film techniques allowing precise placement of ``digital scatterers'' which can produce sophisticated test targets, similar to those that are widely used in imaging science to evaluate displays, printers, and electronic imaging systems. This type of test object can be used to determine parameters such as the MTF and resolution limits, and can facilitate the detection of imaging phenomena and artifacts such as spatial warping and spatial frequency aliasing. These test objects can be used in conjunction with standard performance evaluation methods and devices to augment and enhance their capabilities and range of application. In addition, by imparting an appropriate motion to the target, it is possible to provide unique test stimuli for pulsed and continuous wave as well as color flow and color energy Doppler ultrasound systems. Results are presented which demonstrate how the ability to make precise line targets allowed the assessment of direction related resolution and spatial frequency response by inspection, thus facilitating the implementation of a simple evaluation procedure.