Shear wave based elastography system

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of ultrasound, in particular to a shear wave-based elastic imaging system. The shear wave-based elastic imaging system comprises an elastic detection probe and a processor. The elastic detection probe measures the pressure applied on a target tissue by using a piezoelectric detection layer, obtains the applied pressure, and adjusts the applied pressure based on a communication connection with the processor. The processor acquires the applied pressure, identifies the applied pressure, and controls the elastic detection probe to adjust the applied pressure according to the identification result. The elastic detection probe transmits an ultrasonic signal and receives an ultrasonic echo signal when the applied pressure meets the target pressure requirement. The processor obtains ultrasonic data through the ultrasonic echo signal. The processing result of the target tissue is determined by processing the ultrasonic data. The application ensures that the detection is carried out when the applied pressure on the target tissue meets the target pressure requirement, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the processing result of the target tissue.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of ultrasound technology, and more specifically to an elastic imaging system based on shear waves. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of medical equipment, elastography technology has emerged. Currently, elastography technology has become a research hotspot in medical ultrasound imaging and is widely used in clinical medicine.

[0003] Currently, when elastography is applied clinically, medical staff apply a certain amount of pressure to the tissue being tested based on their experience, and then perform an elastography scan. Because the pressure applied to the tissue is artificially controlled, it is difficult to maintain a stable pressure level. Too little pressure results in unsatisfactory scans, while too much pressure may damage the tissue. Therefore, the test results for the tissue may vary. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, embodiments of the present invention provide an elastic imaging system based on shear waves, which aims to solve the problem in the prior art where the pressure applied to the target tissue is unstable, leading to inaccurate measurement results.

[0005] According to a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a shear wave-based elastic imaging system, comprising: an elastic detection probe and a processor, wherein the elastic detection probe is communicatively connected to the processor, and the elastic detection probe includes a piezoelectric detection layer, wherein:

[0006] An elastic detection probe is used to measure the pressure applied to a target tissue using a piezoelectric detection layer, obtain the applied pressure, and adjust the applied pressure based on a communication connection with a processor so that the applied pressure meets the target pressure requirements.

[0007] The processor is used to acquire and identify the applied pressure, and control the elastic detection probe to adjust the applied pressure based on the identification result;

[0008] The elastic detection probe is also used to emit ultrasonic signals and receive reflected ultrasonic echo signals when pressure is applied to meet the target pressure requirements.

[0009] The processor is also used to obtain ultrasound data based on ultrasound echo signals, and to determine the treatment result of the target tissue by processing the ultrasound data.

[0010] The shear wave-based elastography system provided in this invention includes: an elastic detection probe and a processor. The elastic detection probe is communicatively connected to the processor and includes a piezoelectric detection layer. The elastic detection probe measures the pressure applied to a target tissue using the piezoelectric detection layer, obtains the applied pressure, and adjusts the applied pressure based on the communication connection with the processor to ensure that the applied pressure meets the target pressure requirement. The processor acquires and identifies the applied pressure, and controls the elastic detection probe to adjust the applied pressure according to the identification result, thereby ensuring that the applied pressure applied to the target tissue meets the target pressure requirement. Furthermore, the elastic detection probe, when the applied pressure meets the target pressure requirement, emits an ultrasonic signal and receives the reflected ultrasonic echo signal. The processor then obtains ultrasonic data from the ultrasonic echo signal; by processing the ultrasonic data, it determines the processing result of the target tissue, ensuring the accuracy of the determined processing result. In other words, the above-mentioned shear wave-based elastic imaging system can not only ensure that the pressure applied to the target tissue meets the target pressure requirements, but also ensure that the pressure applied to the target tissue is stable and moderate before subsequent detection (such as elasticity detection, ultrasound detection) is performed. Therefore, it can obtain accurate and stable processing results of the target tissue.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, in the first embodiment of the first aspect, the elastic detection probe includes: a piezoelectric sensor, a sound-absorbing layer, a piezoelectric layer, a matching layer, and an acoustic lens layer. The piezoelectric sensor is located in the piezoelectric detection layer. One end of the sound-absorbing layer is connected to the piezoelectric sensor, and the other end is connected to one end of the piezoelectric layer. The other end of the piezoelectric layer is connected to one end of the matching layer, and the other end of the matching layer is connected to the acoustic lens layer; wherein:

[0012] The piezoelectric detection layer, installed on the side close to the target tissue, is used to measure the initial electrical signal corresponding to the applied pressure using a piezoelectric sensor, and convert the initial electrical signal into a target electrical signal. By processing the target electrical signal, the pressure value corresponding to the applied pressure is obtained.

[0013] A sound-absorbing layer is used to reduce the vibration of the elastic detection probe;

[0014] The piezoelectric layer is used to emit ultrasonic signals and receive reflected ultrasonic echo signals.

[0015] A matching layer is used for acoustic impedance matching between the piezoelectric layer and the acoustic lens layer;

[0016] Acoustic lens layer, used for focusing in a direction perpendicular to the imaging plane.

[0017] In conjunction with the first embodiment of the first aspect, in the second embodiment of the first aspect, the piezoelectric detection layer further includes an amplification device, a sampling device, and a transmission device. The amplification device is connected to the piezoelectric sensor, the sampling device is connected to the amplification device, the transmission device is connected to the sampling device, and the transmission device is communicatively connected to the processor, wherein:

[0018] A piezoelectric sensor is used to acquire the initial electrical signal corresponding to the applied pressure and transmit the initial electrical signal to an amplification device;

[0019] An amplification device is used to amplify the initial electrical signal transmitted by the piezoelectric sensor to generate the target electrical signal;

[0020] A sampling device is used to sample the target electrical signal, generate the target digital signal, and transmit the target digital signal to a transmission device;

[0021] A transmission device used to transmit target digital signals to a processor;

[0022] The processor is used to identify the target digital signal and determine the pressure value corresponding to the applied pressure.

[0023] In conjunction with the second embodiment of the first aspect, in the third embodiment of the first aspect, the piezoelectric sensor includes a strain gauge and a strain bridge, wherein the strain gauge is connected to a resistor in the strain bridge to form a piezoresistive transducer, which is then connected to the strain bridge; wherein:

[0024] Strain gauges are used to acquire deformation information corresponding to applied pressure, and then convert it into a corresponding resistance value through a varistor.

[0025] A strain gauge bridge is used to convert deformation information into an initial electrical signal based on the resistance value.

[0026] In conjunction with the second embodiment of the first aspect, in the fourth embodiment of the first aspect, the piezoelectric detection layer further includes a compensation device, which is connected to the piezoelectric sensor; wherein:

[0027] The compensation device is used to compensate for differences in the initial electrical signal transmitted by the piezoelectric sensor caused by external factors.

[0028] In conjunction with the first aspect, in the fifth embodiment of the first aspect, the elastic imaging system based on shear waves further includes: a display component, which is communicatively connected to a processor;

[0029] The processor is also used to transmit the applied pressure applied to the target tissue to the display components;

[0030] The processor is also used to acquire the target pressure threshold corresponding to the target tissue and compare the applied pressure with the target pressure threshold; when the applied pressure is greater than the target pressure threshold, it determines a first difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold and controls the display component to display the first difference; when the applied pressure is less than the target pressure threshold, it determines a second difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold and controls the display component to display the second difference; wherein, the first difference is a positive number and the second difference is a negative number;

[0031] The display component is used to display the applied pressure on the target tissue and, under the control of the processor, displays either the first difference or the second difference.

[0032] In conjunction with the fifth embodiment of the first aspect, in the sixth embodiment of the first aspect, the shear wave-based elastic imaging system further includes: a system body, a probe gripping assembly, and a power assembly. One end of the probe gripping assembly is used to grip the elastic detection probe, and the other end is mounted on the system body. The power assembly is mounted on the probe gripping assembly and is communicatively connected to the processor, wherein:

[0033] The processor, after determining the first difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold, controls the probe gripping assembly to lift the elastic detection probe according to the magnitude of the first difference, thereby reducing the applied pressure;

[0034] The processor, after determining a second difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold, controls the probe gripping assembly to press down the elastic detection probe according to the magnitude of the second difference, thereby increasing the applied pressure.

[0035] In conjunction with the first aspect, in the seventh embodiment of the first aspect, the ultrasound data includes elastography images.

[0036] The elasticity detection probe is also used to generate shear waves when the applied pressure meets the target pressure requirements;

[0037] The processor is used to track the propagation of shear waves through ultrasound signals and obtain radio frequency data of the target tissue through ultrasound echo signals, and generate an elastography image of the target tissue through the radio frequency data.

[0038] The processor is also used to perform data identification on radio frequency data to determine the ultrasound parameters of the target tissue, wherein the ultrasound parameters are used to characterize scattering, attenuation, and scatterer distribution characteristics; and / or, it is also used to perform image recognition on elastography images to extract the elastic modulus distribution information of the elastography images; and to process the elastic modulus distribution information to determine the elastic parameters of the target tissue, wherein the elastic parameters are used to characterize the elastic state of the target tissue.

[0039] The processor is also used to determine the treatment outcome of the target tissue based on ultrasound parameters and / or elasticity parameters. Attached Figure Description

[0040] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the elastic imaging system based on shear waves provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the piezoelectric detection layer in the elastic detection probe provided in this embodiment of the invention.

[0043] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the piezoelectric sensor in the piezoelectric detection layer provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure for compensating for component differences in a piezoelectric sensor using the embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a structure for temperature compensation of a piezoelectric sensor provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the elastic imaging system based on shear waves provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the elastic imaging system based on shear waves provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0048] in:

[0049] 1. Elasticity detection probe;

[0050] 11. Piezoelectric detection layer;

[0051] 111. Piezoelectric sensor;

[0052] 1111, Strain gauge;

[0053] 1112. Strain gauge bridge;

[0054] 112. Amplification device;

[0055] 113. Sampling device;

[0056] 114. Transmission device;

[0057] 115. Compensation device;

[0058] 2. Processor;

[0059] 3. Display components;

[0060] 4. System body;

[0061] 5. Probe gripping assembly;

[0062] 6. Power components. Detailed Implementation

[0063] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0064] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can also refer to the internal connection of two components; and they can refer to a wireless connection or a wired connection. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0065] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the term "and / or" as used in this application specification and the appended claims refers to any combination of one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations, and includes such combinations.

[0066] Furthermore, the technical features involved in the different embodiments of the present invention described below can be combined with each other as long as they do not conflict with each other.

[0067] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0068] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, a shear wave-based elastic imaging system is provided. The system includes an elastic detection probe 1 and a processor 2, with the probe 1 and processor 2 communicatively connected. The probe 1 includes a piezoelectric detection layer 11, wherein:

[0069] The elastic detection probe 1 is used to measure the pressure applied to the target tissue using the piezoelectric detection layer 11, obtain the applied pressure, and adjust the applied pressure based on the communication connection with the processor 2 so that the applied pressure meets the target pressure requirements.

[0070] Specifically, the elastic detection probe 1 can measure the pressure applied to the target tissue using the piezoelectric detection layer 11 to obtain the applied pressure. When the applied pressure does not meet the target pressure requirement, the elastic detection probe 1 can adjust the applied pressure to the target tissue under the control of the processor 2, thereby making the applied pressure meet the target pressure requirement. The target tissue can be the thyroid gland, liver, breast, etc. If the applied pressure meets the preset requirements, no adjustment is needed.

[0071] The target pressure requirement can be a pressure value or a pressure range. This application does not specifically limit the target pressure requirement.

[0072] Processor 2 is used to acquire the applied pressure, identify the applied pressure, and control the elastic detection probe 1 to adjust the applied pressure according to the identification result.

[0073] Specifically, based on the communication connection with the elastic detection probe 1, the processor 2 receives the applied pressure transmitted by the elastic detection probe 1. Then, the processor 2 identifies the applied pressure and controls the elastic detection probe 1 to adjust the applied pressure according to the identified magnitude. Specifically, the processor identifies whether the applied pressure meets the target pressure requirement. If it does, it does not control the elastic detection probe to adjust the applied pressure, or performs zero adjustment; if it does not meet the requirement, it controls the elastic detection probe to adjust the applied pressure accordingly to ensure that the applied pressure meets the target pressure requirement.

[0074] The elastic detection probe 1 is also used to emit ultrasonic signals and receive reflected ultrasonic echo signals when the applied pressure meets the target pressure requirements.

[0075] Specifically, when the applied pressure on the target tissue meets the target pressure requirement, the ultrasonic transducer in the elastic detection probe 1 can be triggered to emit ultrasonic signals and receive reflected ultrasonic echo signals.

[0076] The ultrasound signal can be an ultrasound signal used to generate a B-mode ultrasound image, an ultrasound signal used to generate a color Doppler ultrasound image, or an ultrasound signal used to track shear waves, etc. The embodiments of this application do not specifically limit the ultrasound signal.

[0077] Processor 2 is also used to obtain ultrasound data through ultrasound echo signals; and to determine the processing result of the target tissue by processing the ultrasound data.

[0078] The processing results can be health status assessment results, such as health status level assessment results, health status score assessment results, etc.

[0079] The shear wave-based elastography system provided in this invention includes an elastic detection probe 1 and a processor 2. The elastic detection probe 1 is communicatively connected to the processor 2. The elastic detection probe 1 includes a piezoelectric detection layer 11. The elastic detection probe 1 measures the pressure applied to the target tissue using the piezoelectric detection layer 11, obtains the applied pressure, and adjusts the applied pressure based on the communication connection with the processor 2 to ensure that the applied pressure meets the target pressure requirement. The processor 2 acquires the applied pressure applied to the target tissue by the elastic detection probe 1, identifies the applied pressure, and controls the elastic detection probe 1 to adjust the applied pressure according to the identification result, thereby ensuring that the applied pressure applied to the target tissue meets the target pressure requirement. Furthermore, the elastic detection probe 1 also emits an ultrasonic signal and receives the reflected ultrasonic echo signal when the applied pressure meets the target pressure requirement. Then, the processor 2 obtains ultrasonic data from the ultrasonic echo signal; by processing the ultrasonic data, the processing result of the target tissue is determined, ensuring the accuracy of the determined processing result. In other words, shear wave-based elastography systems not only ensure that the applied pressure to the target tissue meets the target pressure requirements, but also guarantee that the applied pressure is stable and moderate before subsequent detection. Therefore, accurate and stable treatment results for the target tissue can be obtained. Furthermore, the generated ultrasound data can be processed to determine the treatment outcome for the target tissue. Thus, medical personnel are not required to analyze the ultrasound data based on their own experience; that is, the treatment outcome for the target tissue is determined without relying on the subjective experience of medical personnel.

[0080] Optionally, the applied pressure can be continuously monitored throughout the testing process, and adjustments can be made when the applied pressure does not meet the target pressure requirement.

[0081] In one optional embodiment of this application, the elastic detection probe 1 further includes: a piezoelectric sensor, a sound-absorbing layer, a piezoelectric layer, a matching layer, and an acoustic lens layer. The piezoelectric sensor is located in the piezoelectric detection layer. One end of the sound-absorbing layer is connected to the piezoelectric sensor, the other end of the sound-absorbing layer is connected to the piezoelectric layer, the other end of the piezoelectric layer is connected to the matching layer, and the other end of the matching layer is connected to the acoustic lens layer; wherein:

[0082] The piezoelectric detection layer, installed on the side close to the target tissue, is used to measure the initial electrical signal corresponding to the applied pressure using a piezoelectric sensor, and convert the initial electrical signal into a target electrical signal. By processing the target electrical signal, the pressure value corresponding to the applied pressure is obtained.

[0083] The sound-absorbing layer is used to reduce the vibration of the elastic detection probe 1, shorten the wavelength of the ultrasonic signal, and improve the axial resolution.

[0084] The piezoelectric layer is used to emit ultrasonic signals and receive reflected ultrasonic echo signals.

[0085] The matching layer is used to perform acoustic impedance matching between the piezoelectric layer and the acoustic lens layer, reducing multiple reflections caused by the acoustic impedance difference between the target tissue and the elastic detection probe 1.

[0086] An acoustic lens layer is used to focus the ultrasound signal in a direction perpendicular to the imaging plane, reducing the reflection of the ultrasound signal between the target tissue and the elastic detection probe 1.

[0087] The connection relationship of each structure in the elastic detection probe 1 is as follows: piezoelectric detection layer 11, sound absorption layer, piezoelectric layer, matching layer and acoustic lens layer. The piezoelectric detection layer 11 includes a piezoelectric sensor.

[0088] The sound-absorbing layer can be a backing material or other materials. The piezoelectric layer can be an ultrasonic transducer array.

[0089] The shear wave-based elastic imaging system provided in this embodiment of the invention includes an elastic detection probe 1 comprising: a piezoelectric sensor, a sound-absorbing layer, a piezoelectric layer, a matching layer, and an acoustic lens layer. The piezoelectric sensor is located within the piezoelectric detection layer. One end of the sound-absorbing layer is connected to the piezoelectric sensor, and the other end is connected to the piezoelectric layer. The other end of the piezoelectric layer is connected to the matching layer, and the other end of the matching layer is connected to the acoustic lens layer. The piezoelectric detection layer, installed near the target tissue, is used to measure the pressure applied to the target tissue using the piezoelectric sensor, obtain the applied pressure, and convert the applied pressure into a target electrical signal, ensuring the accuracy of the converted target electrical signal. By processing the target electrical signal, the pressure value corresponding to the applied pressure is obtained, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the obtained pressure value. The sound-absorbing layer is used to reduce the vibration of the elastic detection probe, shorten the wavelength of the ultrasonic signal, and improve the axial resolution. The piezoelectric layer is an ultrasonic transducer array used to emit ultrasonic signals and receive reflected ultrasonic echo signals, enabling the processor 2 to generate ultrasonic data based on the ultrasonic echo signals. The matching layer is used to match the acoustic impedance between the piezoelectric layer and the acoustic lens layer, reducing multiple reflections caused by the acoustic impedance difference between the target tissue and the elastic detection probe, thus ensuring better propagation of the ultrasound signal into the target tissue. The acoustic lens layer is used to focus the signal in a direction perpendicular to the imaging plane, reducing signal energy loss.

[0090] In one optional embodiment of this application, such as Figure 2 As shown, the piezoelectric detection layer 11 also includes a piezoelectric sensor 111, an amplification device 112, a sampling device 113, and a transmission device 114. The amplification device 112 is connected to the piezoelectric sensor 111, the sampling device 113 is connected to the amplification device 112, the transmission device 114 is connected to the sampling device 113, and the transmission device 114 is communicatively connected to the processor 2.

[0091] The piezoelectric sensor 111 is used to acquire the initial electrical signal corresponding to the applied pressure and transmit the initial electrical signal to the amplification device 112;

[0092] Amplification device 112 is used to amplify the initial electrical signal transmitted by piezoelectric sensor 111 to generate the target electrical signal;

[0093] The sampling device 113 is used to sample the target electrical signal, generate the target digital signal, and transmit the target digital signal to the transmission device 114;

[0094] Transmission device 114 is used to transmit the target digital signal to processor 2;

[0095] Processor 2 is used to identify the target digital signal and determine the pressure value corresponding to the applied pressure.

[0096] The connection relationship of each structure in the piezoelectric detection layer 11 is as follows: piezoelectric sensor 111, amplification device 112, sampling device 113, and transmission device 114.

[0097] The shear wave-based elastic imaging system provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a piezoelectric detection layer further comprising a piezoelectric sensor 111, an amplification device 112, a sampling device 113, and a transmission device 114. The amplification device 112 is connected to the piezoelectric sensor 111, the sampling device 113 is connected to the amplification device 112, and the transmission device 114 is connected to the amplification device 112 and communicatively connected to the processor 2. Specifically: the piezoelectric sensor 111 acquires the initial electrical signal corresponding to the applied pressure and transmits it to the amplification device 112. The amplification device 112 amplifies the initial electrical signal transmitted by the piezoelectric sensor 111 to generate a target electrical signal, ensuring the accuracy of the generated target electrical signal and its ease of measurement. The sampling device 113 samples the target electrical signal, generates a target digital signal, and transmits the target digital signal to the transmission device 114, ensuring the accuracy of the generated target digital signal. The transmission device 114 transmits the target digital signal to the processor 2 so that the processor 2 can receive the target digital signal. Processor 2 is used to identify the target digital signal, determine the pressure value corresponding to the applied pressure, and ensure the accuracy of the determined pressure value.

[0098] In one optional embodiment of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown, the piezoelectric sensor 111 includes a strain gauge 1111 and a strain bridge 1112. The strain gauge 1111 is connected to the resistor in the strain bridge 1112 to form a piezoresistive transducer, which is connected to the strain bridge 1112; wherein:

[0099] Strain gauge 1111 is used to acquire deformation information corresponding to applied pressure and convert it into the corresponding resistance value through a varistor.

[0100] The strain gauge bridge 1112 is used to convert deformation information into an initial electrical signal based on the resistance value.

[0101] Specifically, strain gauge 1111 receives deformation information corresponding to the applied pressure, and converts the deformation information into a corresponding resistance value through a piezoresistor based on the magnitude of the deformation information. Then, strain bridge 1112 determines the current in strain bridge 1112 based on the converted resistance value, thereby realizing the conversion of deformation information into an initial electrical signal.

[0102] It should be noted that applying pressure will cause the strain gauge to deform accordingly, which will result in a change in the resistance value. Different applied pressures will result in different resistance values.

[0103] The shear wave-based elastic imaging system provided in this embodiment of the invention comprises a piezoelectric sensor 111 consisting of a strain gauge 1111 and a strain bridge 1112. The strain gauge 1111 is connected to a resistor in the strain bridge 1112 to form a piezoresistive resistor, which is then connected to the strain bridge 1112. The strain gauge 1111 acquires deformation information corresponding to the applied pressure and converts it into a corresponding resistance value via the piezoresistive resistor, ensuring the accuracy of both the acquired applied pressure and the converted resistance value. The strain bridge 1112 converts the deformation information into an initial electrical signal based on the resistance value, ensuring the accuracy of the obtained initial electrical signal.

[0104] In one optional embodiment of this application, such as Figure 2 As shown, the piezoelectric detection layer 11 also includes a compensation device 115, which is connected to the piezoelectric sensor 111; wherein:

[0105] The compensation device 115 is used to compensate for the differences in the initial electrical signal transmitted by the piezoelectric sensor 111 caused by external factors.

[0106] External factors may include humidity, temperature, component differences, etc. This application does not specifically limit the external factors.

[0107] In one optional embodiment of this application, compensation for component differences is provided:

[0108] Cause: When the strain gauge bridge is in equilibrium, the Vo output is 0. However, due to factors such as accuracy and manufacturing process, the output Vo of the strain gauge bridge may not be 0 when the strain gauge R1 is not under stress.

[0109] Compensation method: Taking a single-arm strain gauge bridge as an example, an adjustable resistor Rt is connected in parallel at the input terminal of the bridge. When R1 is not under stress, adjusting Rt can make the output Vo of the strain gauge bridge zero. Figure 4 As shown.

[0110] Regarding temperature compensation:

[0111] Cause: Due to temperature differences, the strain coefficient of the strain sensor will change, which will cause changes in the measurement parameters obtained by the strain sensor.

[0112] Compensation Method 1: By changing the single-arm bridge measurement circuit to a double-arm bridge measurement circuit, the influence of temperature on the strain sensor can be offset, as follows: Figure 5 As shown;

[0113] Compensation Method 2: Temperature compensation can also be achieved through software, such as the least squares method.

[0114] Regarding humidity compensation:

[0115] Cause: Due to changes in ambient humidity, water molecules in the environment may be absorbed by the strain sensor, thereby changing the strain coefficient K of the strain sensor.

[0116] Compensation method: Taking a single-arm bridge as an example, the strain gauge R1 and its surrounding contact points are protected with waterproof material.

[0117] The shear wave-based elastic imaging system provided in this embodiment of the invention further includes a compensation device 115 in the piezoelectric detection layer, which is connected to the piezoelectric sensor 111. The compensation device 115 is used to compensate for the differences in the initial electrical signal transmitted by the piezoelectric sensor 111 caused by external factors, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the final ultrasound data.

[0118] In an optional embodiment of this application, such as Figure 6 As shown, the shear wave-based elastic imaging system also includes a display component 3, which is communicatively connected to the processor 2.

[0119] The processor 2 is also used to transmit the applied pressure applied to the target tissue to the display component 3.

[0120] Specifically, the processor 2 can acquire the applied pressure applied to the target tissue and, based on the connection with the display component 3, transmit the applied pressure to the display component 3 so that the display component 3 can display the applied pressure.

[0121] The processor 2 is also used to obtain the target pressure threshold corresponding to the target tissue and compare the applied pressure with the target pressure threshold; when the applied pressure is greater than the target pressure threshold, it determines the first difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold and controls the display component 3 to display the first difference; when the applied pressure is less than the target pressure threshold, it determines the second difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold and controls the display component 3 to display the second difference; wherein, the first difference is a positive number and the second difference is a negative number.

[0122] Optionally, processor 2 can receive the target pressure threshold corresponding to the target organization sent by other devices; it can also obtain the name or attribute information of the target organization and search for the target pressure threshold corresponding to the target organization in the storage space based on the obtained information.

[0123] It should be noted that processor 2 can receive the name or attribute information of the target organization input by the user, and can also identify the target organization and determine its name or attribute information.

[0124] This application embodiment does not specifically limit the method by which the processor 2 obtains the target pressure threshold corresponding to the target tissue.

[0125] After obtaining the target pressure threshold corresponding to the target tissue, the processor 2 can compare the applied pressure with the target pressure threshold. When the applied pressure on the target tissue is equal to the target pressure threshold, the processor 2 determines that the applied pressure on the target tissue meets the target pressure requirement. When the applied pressure is greater than the target pressure threshold, the processor 2 calculates the first difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold and controls the display component 3 to display the first difference. When the applied pressure is less than the target pressure threshold, the processor 2 calculates the second difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold and controls the display component 3 to display the second difference.

[0126] Display component 3 is used to display the applied pressure on the target tissue and, under the control of processor 2, displays the first difference or the second difference.

[0127] Specifically, under the control of the processor 2, the display component 3 displays the applied pressure on the target tissue and, under the control of the processor 2, displays a first difference or a second difference.

[0128] Optionally, the display component 3 can output reminders of excessive or insufficient pressure through voice, text, or different colored lights. This embodiment does not specifically limit the reminder method of the display component 3.

[0129] In this embodiment, the target pressure requirement is a pressure value, that is, a target pressure threshold. Of course, the target pressure requirement can also be a pressure range. When the target pressure requirement is a pressure range, the applied pressure is compared with the maximum and minimum values ​​within the pressure range, and a first difference or a second difference is obtained based on the comparison. Specific comparison details can be found in the relevant content regarding the target pressure threshold in this embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0130] The shear wave-based elastic imaging system provided in this invention, by setting up a display component, enables operators to promptly understand whether the applied pressure meets the target pressure requirements, and then make corresponding adjustments based on the display results.

[0131] In an optional embodiment of this application, such as Figure 7 As shown, the shear wave-based elastic imaging system also includes: a system body 4, a probe gripping assembly 5, and a power assembly 6. One end of the probe gripping assembly 5 is used to grip the elastic detection probe 1, and the other end is mounted on the system body 4. The power assembly 6 is mounted on the probe gripping assembly 5 and is communicatively connected to the processor 2.

[0132] The processor 2, after determining the first difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold, controls the probe gripping assembly 5 to lift the elastic detection probe 1 according to the magnitude of the first difference, thereby reducing the applied pressure of the elastic detection probe 1 on the target tissue.

[0133] Specifically, when the applied pressure exceeds the target pressure threshold, the processor 2 can calculate a first difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold. Based on the magnitude of the first difference, the processor 2 can control the probe gripping assembly 5 to contract by controlling the power assembly 6 mounted on the probe gripping assembly 5, thereby lifting the elastic detection probe 1 mounted on the probe gripping assembly 5, thus reducing the applied pressure of the elastic detection probe 1 on the target tissue.

[0134] The processor 2, after determining the second difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold, controls the probe gripping assembly 5 to press down the elastic detection probe 1 through the power assembly 6 according to the magnitude of the second difference, so as to increase the applied pressure of the elastic detection probe 1 on the target tissue.

[0135] Specifically, when the applied pressure is less than the target pressure threshold, the processor 2 can calculate a second difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold. Based on the magnitude of the second difference, the processor 2 can control the probe gripping assembly 5 to extend by controlling the power assembly 6 mounted on the probe gripping assembly 5, thereby reducing the elastic detection probe 1 mounted on the probe gripping assembly 5, and thus increasing the applied pressure of the elastic detection probe 1 on the target tissue.

[0136] The power assembly 6, under the control of the processor 2, retracts the probe gripping assembly 5, thereby lifting the elastic detection probe 1 mounted on the probe gripping assembly 5, thus reducing the pressure applied by the elastic detection probe 1 to the target tissue.

[0137] The power unit 6 is also used to extend the probe gripping assembly 5 under the control of the processor 2, thereby reducing the elastic detection probe 1 installed on the probe gripping assembly 5, thereby increasing the pressure applied by the elastic detection probe 1 to the target tissue.

[0138] The shear wave-based elastography system provided in this embodiment of the invention further includes: a probe gripping component 5 and a power component 6. One end of the probe gripping component 5 is used to grip the elastic detection probe 1, and the other end is mounted on the system body 4. The power component 6 is mounted on the probe gripping component 5 and is communicatively connected to the processor 2. The processor 2, after determining a first difference between the applied pressure and a target pressure threshold, controls the probe gripping component 5 to lift the elastic detection probe 1 according to the magnitude of the first difference via the power component 6, thereby reducing the applied pressure of the elastic detection probe 1 on the target tissue. This allows for adjustment of the applied pressure of the elastic detection probe 1 on the target tissue, thus preventing excessive applied pressure. The processor 2, after determining a second difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold, controls the probe gripping component 5 to press down the elastic detection probe 1 according to the magnitude of the second difference via the power component 6, thereby increasing the applied pressure of the elastic detection probe 1 on the target tissue. This allows for adjustment of the applied pressure of the elastic detection probe 1 on the target tissue, thus preventing insufficient applied pressure. Therefore, it enables automatic adjustment of the pressure applied to the target tissue without the need for manual adjustment, thus improving adjustment efficiency and accuracy.

[0139] In an optional embodiment of this application, the ultrasound data includes elastography images.

[0140] The elastic detection probe 1 is also used to generate shear waves when the applied pressure meets the target pressure requirements;

[0141] Processor 2 is used to track the propagation of shear waves through ultrasound signals, obtain radio frequency data of the target tissue through ultrasound echo signals, and generate an elastography image of the target tissue through the radio frequency data.

[0142] Processor 2 is also used to perform data recognition on radio frequency data to determine the ultrasound parameters of the target tissue, wherein the ultrasound parameters are used to characterize scattering, attenuation, and scatterer distribution characteristics; and / or, it is also used to perform image recognition on elastography images to extract the elastic modulus distribution information of the elastography images; and to process the elastic modulus distribution information to determine the elastic parameters of the target tissue, wherein the elastic parameters are used to characterize the elastic state of the target tissue.

[0143] Processor 2 is also used to determine the treatment outcome of the target tissue based on ultrasound parameters and / or elasticity parameters.

[0144] Specifically, the elasticity detection probe 1 can generate shear waves within the target tissue via a vibrator, an ultrasonic transducer, or a loudspeaker. The processor 2 can track the propagation of the shear waves using ultrasonic signals and obtain radio frequency data of the target tissue based on the emitted ultrasonic echo signals. The processor 2 can also generate an elasticity imaging image of the target tissue based on the radio frequency data.

[0145] If shear waves are generated inside the target tissue using an ultrasonic transducer, the ultrasonic transducer can be the same as or different from the ultrasonic transducer that emits the ultrasonic signal.

[0146] Elastography images can be shear wave elastography images. If it is a shear wave elastography image, it can be a pseudo-color image.

[0147] In one optional embodiment of this application, the processor 2 can perform data identification on the radio frequency data to determine the ultrasound parameters of the target tissue. The ultrasound parameters are used to characterize scattering, attenuation, and scatterer distribution features.

[0148] Optionally, the ultrasound parameters may include parameters such as scale parameters, shape factor parameters, nonlinear acoustic parameters, and attenuation information. This embodiment does not specifically limit the ultrasound parameters. The processor 2 can perform data identification on the radio frequency data to determine at least one of the following parameters of the target tissue: scale parameters, shape factor parameters, nonlinear acoustic parameters, and attenuation information.

[0149] In one optional embodiment of this application, the processor 2 can perform image recognition on the elastic imaging image to determine the elastic parameters of the target tissue, such as at least one of the following parameters: elastic modulus, elastic distribution parameter, dispersion curve, etc.

[0150] Specifically, processor 2 can perform image recognition on the elasticity imaging image to extract the elastic modulus distribution information of the target tissue. Then, processor 2 can determine the elastic parameters of the target tissue based on the determined elastic modulus distribution information.

[0151] In this embodiment, health assessment results regarding the degree of fibrosis and fatty liver in the target tissue can be obtained through ultrasound parameters and / or elasticity parameters. Using both parameters simultaneously (i.e., ultrasound parameters and elasticity parameters) results in higher accuracy.

[0152] The shear wave-based elastography system provided in this invention can not only obtain ultrasound parameters characterizing scattering, attenuation, and scatterer distribution features from radio frequency data, but also generate elastography images of the target tissue from radio frequency data. Based on these images, elastic parameters related to the elastic state of the target tissue can be determined. Ultimately, accurate processing results can be obtained based on the ultrasound parameters and / or elastic parameters.

[0153] Although embodiments of the invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An elastic imaging system based on shear waves, characterized in that, The shear wave-based elastic imaging system includes: an elastic detection probe and a processor, wherein the elastic detection probe is communicatively connected to the processor, and the elastic detection probe includes a piezoelectric detection layer, wherein: The elastic detection probe is used to measure the pressure applied to the target tissue using the piezoelectric detection layer, obtain the applied pressure, and adjust the applied pressure based on the communication connection with the processor so that the applied pressure meets the target pressure requirements. The processor is configured to acquire the applied pressure, identify the applied pressure, and control the elastic detection probe to adjust the applied pressure based on the identification result; The elastic detection probe is also used to emit ultrasonic signals and receive reflected ultrasonic echo signals when the applied pressure meets the target pressure requirement. The processor is further configured to obtain ultrasound data through the ultrasound echo signal; and to determine the processing result of the target tissue by processing the ultrasound data.

2. The elastic imaging system based on shear waves according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic detection probe further includes: a piezoelectric sensor, a sound-absorbing layer, a piezoelectric layer, a matching layer, and an acoustic lens layer. The piezoelectric sensor is located in the piezoelectric detection layer. One end of the sound-absorbing layer is connected to the piezoelectric sensor, and the other end is connected to one end of the piezoelectric layer. The other end of the piezoelectric layer is connected to one end of the matching layer, and the other end of the matching layer is connected to the acoustic lens layer. Wherein: The piezoelectric detection layer is installed on the side close to the target tissue. It is used to measure the initial electrical signal corresponding to the applied pressure using the piezoelectric sensor, convert the initial electrical signal into a target electrical signal, and obtain the pressure value corresponding to the applied pressure by processing the target electrical signal. The sound-absorbing layer is used to reduce the vibration of the elastic detection probe; The piezoelectric layer is used to emit the ultrasonic signal and receive the reflected ultrasonic echo signal; The matching layer is used to perform acoustic impedance matching between the piezoelectric layer and the acoustic lens layer; The acoustic lens layer is used for focusing in a direction perpendicular to the imaging plane.

3. The elastic imaging system based on shear waves according to claim 2, characterized in that, The piezoelectric detection layer further includes an amplification device, a sampling device, and a transmission device. The amplification device is connected to the piezoelectric sensor, the sampling device is connected to the amplification device, the transmission device is connected to the sampling device, and the transmission device is communicatively connected to the processor. The piezoelectric sensor is used to acquire the initial electrical signal corresponding to the applied pressure and transmit the initial electrical signal to the amplification device; The amplification device is used to amplify the initial electrical signal transmitted by the piezoelectric sensor to generate the target electrical signal; The sampling device is used to sample the target electrical signal, generate a target digital signal, and transmit the target digital signal to the transmission device; The transmission device is used to transmit the target digital signal to the processor; The processor is used to identify the target digital signal and determine the pressure value corresponding to the applied pressure.

4. The elastic imaging system based on shear waves according to claim 3, characterized in that, The piezoelectric sensor includes a strain gauge and a strain bridge. The strain gauge is connected to a resistor in the strain bridge to form a piezoresistive transducer, which is then connected to the strain bridge. Wherein: The strain gauge is used to acquire the deformation information corresponding to the applied pressure, and converts it into the corresponding resistance value through the piezoresistive resistor; The strain gauge bridge is used to convert the deformation information into the initial electrical signal based on the resistance value.

5. The elastic imaging system based on shear waves according to claim 3, characterized in that, The piezoelectric detection layer further includes a compensation device, which is connected to the piezoelectric sensor; wherein: The compensation device is used to compensate for differences in the initial electrical signal transmitted by the piezoelectric sensor caused by external factors.

6. The elastic imaging system based on shear waves according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shear wave-based elastic imaging system further includes a display component, which is communicatively connected to the processor. The processor is further configured to transmit the applied pressure applied to the target tissue to the display component; The processor is further configured to acquire a target pressure threshold corresponding to the target tissue, and compare the applied pressure with the target pressure threshold; when the applied pressure is greater than the target pressure threshold, determine a first difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold, and control the display component to display the first difference; when the applied pressure is less than the target pressure threshold, determine a second difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold, and control the display component to display the second difference; wherein the first difference is a positive number, and the second difference is a negative number; The display component is used to display the applied pressure applied to the target tissue, and under the control of the processor, to display either the first difference or the second difference.

7. The elastic imaging system based on shear waves according to claim 6, characterized in that, The shear wave-based elastic imaging system further includes: a system body, a probe gripping assembly, and a power assembly. One end of the probe gripping assembly is used to grip the elastic detection probe, and the other end is mounted on the system body. The power assembly is mounted on the probe gripping assembly and is communicatively connected to the processor. The processor is configured to determine the first difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold, and then control the probe gripping assembly to lift the elastic detection probe according to the magnitude of the first difference, thereby reducing the applied pressure. The processor is configured to determine the second difference between the applied pressure and the target pressure threshold, and then control the probe gripping assembly to press down the elastic detection probe according to the magnitude of the second difference, thereby increasing the applied pressure.

8. The elastic imaging system based on shear waves according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ultrasound data includes elastography images. The elastic detection probe is used to generate a shear wave when the applied pressure meets the target pressure requirement; The processor is configured to track the propagation of the shear wave through the ultrasound signal, obtain radio frequency data of the target tissue through the ultrasound echo signal, and generate an elastography image of the target tissue through the radio frequency data. The processor is used to perform data identification on the radio frequency data and determine the ultrasound parameters of the target tissue, wherein the ultrasound parameters are used to characterize scattering, attenuation, and scatterer distribution characteristics. And / or, The processor is configured to perform image recognition on the elastic imaging image, extract elastic modulus distribution information from the elastic imaging image, process the elastic modulus distribution information, and determine the elastic parameters of the target tissue, wherein the elastic parameters are used to characterize the elastic state of the target tissue. The processor is configured to determine the processing result of the target tissue based on the ultrasound parameters and / or the elasticity parameters.

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