What is the relationship between pulse duration and duty factor?

The relationship between pulse duration and duty factor is that they are directly proportional.

Pulse duration refers to the time interval from the beginning to the end of a pulse, which describes the temporal characteristics of the ultrasound waveform. Duty factor, on the other hand, is defined as the fraction of time that the ultrasound system is actively transmitting pulses compared to the total time, which includes both the transmission and the listening periods.

When pulse duration increases, the ultrasound pulse is being transmitted for a longer period. Given that duty factor is a function of the pulse duration in relation to the entire cycle (which includes both transmitting and receiving), an increase in pulse duration will lead to a higher duty factor. This relationship is crucial in ultrasound imaging because it influences the amount of energy delivered to the tissue and can affect image quality as well as patient safety.

Understanding this direct relationship allows sonographers and medical professionals to manipulate imaging parameters effectively to achieve optimal diagnostic results while minimizing any potential risks associated with prolonged exposure to ultrasound waves.