What is the primary purpose of the interval in a pulse-echo system?

The primary purpose of the interval in a pulse-echo system is to permit echo detection and processing. In such systems, sound waves are emitted in pulses, allowing the operator to transmit a sound wave and then receive the echoes that bounce back from various structures in the eye, such as the retina or lens. The interval between these pulses is crucial because it provides the necessary time for the echoes to return, ensuring that the system accurately detects these echoes before sending out another pulse.

Without an appropriate interval, echoes may overlap, leading to confusion in the data being processed and to inaccurate imaging. This timing is essential for proper signal processing, allowing the system to differentiate between echoes from different tissues based on their arrival time. Hence, the interval is fundamental for effective image collection and processing in pulse-echo ultrasound systems.