What if ultrasound technology could fit into smaller, more useful devices? Find out how a new transducer is changing industries from healthcare to electronics.
Infineon Technologies AG has developed its capacitive micromechanical ultrasonic transducer (CMUT) technology. This has led to creating the first one-chip solution for MEMS-based ultrasonic transducers, offering smaller sizes, improved performance, and more functionality. The integrated design supports new ultrasonic applications and improves existing ones in consumer electronics, automotive, and medical technology.
Unlike piezoelectric materials that rely on deformation, CMUTs generate and detect ultrasonic waves through the deflection of a micro-machined semiconductor diaphragm. Their small size, low power use, and good performance improve ultrasound applications. Infineon’s integration of MEMS and ASIC reduces noise by 20 times and increases the absolute signal 1,000 times compared to similar piezoelectric ceramics. Infineon applies this technology across industries, including consumer electronics and medical devices.
The company claims that the CMUT technology allows solid-state touch buttons to work beneath surfaces like glass or metal without changing the material. This provides an alternative to mechanical buttons, reducing wear and extending device lifespans. Unlike capacitive touch buttons, which are affected by humidity and temperature, CMUT-based buttons are water-compatible and resistant to electromagnetic interference. Their small design allows them to be used in devices like smartphones and industrial control panels. Examples include touch buttons beneath a phone’s metal frame or replacing car door handles.
The CMUT technology supports home appliances needing liquid-level sensing. It offers continuous fill level measurement, low power use, and simple, non-invasive installation beneath the tank. This is useful for measuring liquids like chemicals in washing machines or dishwashers, where contact electrodes may corrode.
CMUT technology enables medical devices using ultrasound, such as wearables, for vital signs monitoring, health tracking, and non-invasive diagnostics. These devices provide continuous monitoring and feedback, allowing earlier detection of health issues and improving patient outcomes. Their small size and low power make them suitable for wearable and point-of-care applications.
“Our ultrasonic technology can achieve a very high signal-to-noise ratio and offers a high level of integration. That’s why we believe that the devices represent a breakthrough in the industry,” says Emanuele Bodini, Senior Director at Infineon. “We want to leverage the technology to develop a product platform that is capable of serving multiple use-cases through different industries.”
