Principles of real-time two-dimensional B-scan ultrasonic imaging

This review gives a brief outline of the situation that lead to the development of real-time 2-dimensional B-scanners followed by a discussion of the fundamental principles underlying real-time ultrasonic B-scanning and how they determine the performance ultimately achievable. The various types of scanner, linear array, phased array and mechanical, that have been developed and their salient features and modes of operation are reviewed together with their limitations.