TY - THES AU - Reinhardt, Nina Mareen TI - Optimierung und Evaluation des Schallfeldes eines piezoelektrischen Stoßwellenwandlers PB - Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen VL - Dissertation CY - Aachen M1 - RWTH-2025-10532 SP - 1 Online-Ressource : Illustrationen PY - 2025 N1 - Veröffentlicht auf dem Publikationsserver der RWTH Aachen University N1 - Dissertation, Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen, 2025 AB - Shock waves are employed in a wide range of medical applications, including the non-invasive fragmentation of kidney stones and the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. Despite their versatility, the relationships between sound field parameters and the therapeutic and destructive mechanisms of action have not yet been fully explored. This work focuses on the investigation and optimization of sound fields generated by piezoelectric shock wave transducers. The objective of this research is to enhance the adaptability of sound fields for medical applications. To this end, a systematic analysis was first carried out to characterize sound fields, to understand the relationship between the parameters and the effects achieved, and to illustrate the variety of sound field shapes with mechanical effects. A measurement environment was further developed to facilitate the determination of relevant sound field parameters and the evaluation of results from in vitro experiments. Furthermore, simulation models were developed and validated to estimate the generated sound fields and evaluate the electrical oscillation behavior of piezoelectric transducers. A key contribution of this work is the development and implementation of methods for the targeted modification of spatial and temporal sound field parameters. Through the utilization of acoustic lenses and the adaptation of the transducer’s control electronics, methods have been established that facilitate the targeted modification of the sound field. These adaptations enable the generation of specific effects, which can enhance the clinical efficacy and safety of the treatment. Consequently, it is feasible to generate various sound field shapes with the same transducer, thereby expanding the range of potential applications. The results indicate that modified sound fields offer the potential to improve treatment efficiency and specificity by being adaptable to different medical indications. This flexibility has the potential to positively impact patient care and contribute to a more efficient use of medical resources. Subsequent research is necessary to translate the in vitro results to clinical applications and to exploit the full therapeutic potential of acoustic pressure waves. This work provides insights and methods for optimizing sound fields for medical applications and can thus contribute to the further development of shock wave and ultrasound therapy. LB - PUB:(DE-HGF)11 DO - DOI:10.18154/RWTH-2025-10532 UR - https://publications.rwth-aachen.de/record/1023174 ER -