Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus

The ultrasound diagnostic device's cart-mounted design with a storage tray under the table prevents cable entanglement and damage during movement, ensuring safe and organized transport of peripheral devices and equipment.

JP2025166694APending Publication Date: 2025-11-06KONICA MINOLTA INC
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2024070891
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-04-24
Publication Date
2025-11-06

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

When ultrasound diagnostic devices are moved with connected peripheral devices, their cables can get caught or damaged, potentially harming both the peripheral devices and surrounding equipment.

Method used

The ultrasound diagnostic device is configured with a cart-mounted design that includes a support column and a horizontal table-like portion with a storage tray under the table that can open and close, storing excess cables and peripheral devices to prevent entanglement and damage.

Benefits of technology

Prevents peripheral device cables from getting caught, reducing the risk of damage to both the devices and surrounding equipment during movement, while maintaining a neat appearance and securing easy access for cable management.

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Abstract

To prevent a cable of a peripheral device from being caught by other devices and so forth in a facility and to reduce the risk of damaging the peripheral device and the other devices when the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus is moved.SOLUTION: An ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 includes a cart 20 and an apparatus main body 10. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 is configured to be movable in a state where the apparatus main body is mounted on the cart. The cart 20 includes a support pillar part 23 and a plate-shaped table part 25 that protrudes from the support pillar part 23 in a substantially horizontal direction. On a lower surface side of the table part 25, a housing tray 3 is attached so as to be freely opened and closed with respect to the table part 25. The housing tray is capable of housing at least an extra-length cable 51 of a peripheral device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there is known an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus in which the main body of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus is mounted on a cart, and such an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus is expected to be used while being moved between multiple rooms within a facility. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an ultrasonic diagnostic device that includes a storage section for storing a probe cable that connects an ultrasonic probe to the ultrasonic diagnostic device main body. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-36302 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in some cases, not only an ultrasound probe but also various peripheral devices are connected to an ultrasound diagnostic device and used together with the ultrasound diagnostic device. In this case, it is expected that the ultrasound diagnostic device will be moved with many peripheral device cables connected. Therefore, when the ultrasound diagnostic device is moved, the cables of the peripheral devices may get caught on various parts within the facility, which may damage the connectors to which the peripheral devices are connected.Furthermore, the cables of the peripheral devices may come into contact with or get caught on other devices within the facility, which may damage the other devices.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to prevent cables of peripheral devices from getting caught on surrounding devices, etc., even when the ultrasound diagnostic device is moved, thereby reducing the risk of damaging peripheral devices or other devices in the facility. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention comprises: An ultrasound diagnostic device configured so that the device body is mounted on a cart and can be moved, The carriage has a support column and a flat table-like portion extending from the support column in a substantially horizontal direction, A storage tray capable of storing at least excess cables of peripheral devices is attached to the underside of the table-like portion so as to be able to open and close relative to the table-like portion. It is characterized by: [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, even when the ultrasound diagnostic device is moved, the cables of peripheral devices are prevented from getting caught on surrounding devices, etc., thereby reducing the risk of damaging the peripheral devices or other devices in the facility. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the essential parts of the ultrasound diagnostic device as seen from below the table-shaped part. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a main part showing the interior of the storage space of the ultrasonic diagnostic device when the storage tray is in an open state. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the storage tray removed from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. [Figure 5] 4 is a perspective view of a main part showing a state in which an extra cable and peripheral devices are mounted in the accommodation space shown in FIG. 3. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the main part around the table-shaped portion as seen from the rear. [Figure 7] 7 is a perspective view of the main part, seen from the side, showing the state in which the camera mount unit is attached to the support part of FIG. 6. FIG. [Figure 8] 1 is a perspective view of a main part of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus with an accommodation tray in an open state, the accommodation tray being viewed from diagonally behind, showing an excess cable and peripheral devices loaded in the accommodation space of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. FIG. [Figure 9] 9 is a perspective view of the essential parts when the receiving tray shown in FIG. 8 is in a closed state, seen from diagonally behind. [Figure 10] 4 is a perspective view of a main part showing a state in which a spare probe is mounted in the accommodation space shown in FIG. 3. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiment and illustrated examples.

[0010] <Configuration of Ultrasound Diagnostic Equipment> First, the configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to this embodiment will be described. The ultrasound diagnostic device 1 is installed in an examination room or the like of a medical institution such as a hospital, and is used by a user such as a doctor or technician by placing an ultrasound probe (probe, not shown in FIG. 1 etc.) that transmits and receives ultrasound waves against a subject (patient). The ultrasound diagnostic device 1 transmits and receives ultrasound waves from the ultrasound probe, and generates an ultrasound image from an echo signal corresponding to an echo from the subject. The ultrasound diagnostic device 1 of this embodiment has a mobile configuration so that it can be moved within the facilities of a medical institution such as a hospital.

[0011] 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of an ultrasonic diagnostic device 1. In the following, up and down and front and back refer to the directions shown in FIG. As shown in Fig. 1, the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 includes an ultrasound diagnostic device main body (hereinafter referred to as "device main body") 10 and a cart 20. The ultrasound diagnostic device 1 is configured to be movable with the device main body 10 mounted on the cart 20. The device main body 10 and the cart 20 will be described in detail below.

[0012] <Device configuration> The device main body 10 is a device that transmits drive signals to an ultrasonic probe (probe), receives echo signals as electrical signals from the ultrasonic probe, and generates ultrasonic image data based on the echo signals. The device main body 10 can be detached from the cart 20 and carried around. The device main body 10 has a configuration that allows the ultrasonic probe to be detached.

[0013] Three connectors 11 for connecting ultrasonic probes are arranged side by side on the surface (front surface) of the device main body 10 that is exposed to the outside when the device is mounted on the cart (hand truck) 20. Although not shown, a connector for connecting a plug at the end of a power cable is also arranged on the front surface of the device main body 10. The device main body 10 also has a grip 12 on its top surface that is used when attaching or detaching the device main body 10 to or from the cart 20 or when carrying the device main body 10.

[0014] <Cart configuration> Next, a description will be given of the configuration of the cart 20. The cart 20 is a freely movable platform on which the device main body 10 is detachably mounted and on which the ultrasound image data generated by the device main body 10 is displayed. The cart 20 includes a main body mounting portion 21 and caster portions 22. The cart 20 of this embodiment also includes at least a support portion 23 and a table-like portion 25, as shown in FIG.

[0015] 1, the main body mounting portion 21 is a base for mounting the device main body 10. The main body mounting portion 21 is formed in a shape that can receive the bottom surface of the device main body 10 when the device main body 10 is mounted. Although not shown in the figures, the main body mounting portion 21 is provided with connection terminals to which connection terminals (not shown) of the device main body 10 are connected at positions corresponding to the respective connection terminals.

[0016] 1, the caster unit 22 includes four legs 221 extending radially from the main body mounting unit 21, and casters 222 provided at the ends of the legs 221. The caster unit 22 allows the cart 20 and the device main body 10 attached to the cart 20 to move in the front-rear and left-right directions by the rotation and swivel of each caster 222.

[0017] As shown in Fig. 1 etc., the support 23 stands upright from the front end of the main body mounting part 21 and supports the device main body 10 mounted on the main body mounting part 21 from the rear side (the back side on which the connector 11 is not arranged). A holding frame 24 is attached to the support 23. A table-like part 25 is held on the upper end side of the holding frame 24. The holding frame 24 and the table-like part 25 held thereby are slidable up and down along the support 23.

[0018] The table-like portion 25 is formed in a substantially flat plate shape and projects in a substantially horizontal direction relative to the support portion 23. The table-like portion 25 functions as a work table for performing ultrasonic diagnosis. 1, a display 251 that displays ultrasound image data and the like, an operation console 252 for performing operations related to the display, and the like are arranged on the table-like unit 25. A support unit 253 protrudes from the top of the table-like unit 25, and the display 251 is supported by this support unit 253 from the back side.

[0019] Additionally, a moving handle 254 is provided around the table-like portion 25 so as to surround the outer periphery (outermost edge) of the table-like portion 25. The moving handle 254 functions as a handle for moving the device, for moving the cart 20 in a desired direction. The moving handle 254 is attached, for example, to the outer periphery of the holding frame 24 that holds the table-like portion 25. The shape, etc. of the moving handle 254 is not limited to the illustrated example. Furthermore, although the illustrated example shows a case where the moving handle 254 is arranged so as to surround the outer periphery of the table-like portion 25 in a continuous manner, the moving handle 254 does not have to be a continuous piece. The moving handle 254 may also be provided partially, for example, on both sides or the back side of the ultrasound diagnostic device 1.

[0020] 1 and the like, a hook portion 255 is preferably provided on the lower surface (rear surface side) of the table-like portion 25. The hook portion 255 is attached to, for example, the outer edge of the table-like portion 25, and allows various cords and the like to be hung or hooked thereon. The hook portion 255 may be attached to the table-like portion 25, or may be provided on the holding frame 24, the moving handle 254, or the like. However, it is not essential that the hook portion 255 be provided.

[0021] 2 and 3 are perspective views of the essential parts of the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1, showing the periphery of the table-like portion 25 as viewed obliquely from below. 2 and 3, the storage tray 3 is attached to the lower surface (rear surface) of the table-like portion 25 so as to be able to open and close relative to the table-like portion 25. Note that Figs. 1 and 3 show the storage tray 3 in an open state relative to the table-like portion 25, while Fig. 2 shows the storage tray 3 in a closed state relative to the table-like portion 25.

[0022] The storage tray 3 is provided inside the outermost edge of the table-like portion 25. As a result, when the storage tray 3 is closed relative to the table-like portion 25, the entire upper side of the storage tray 3 is covered by the table-like portion 25, making it difficult for dust and the like to get inside. 1 and 2, etc., a moving handle 254, which is a handle for moving the device, is provided outside the outermost edge of the table-like portion 25. As a result, even if the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 hits a surrounding wall or peripheral equipment when being moved, only the moving handle (handle) 254 outside the outermost edge of the table-like portion 25 will hit the surrounding wall or peripheral equipment. In other words, the presence of the moving handle 254 reliably prevents the storage tray 3, which is provided inside the outermost edge of the table-like portion 25, from hitting any surrounding parts.

[0023] It should be noted that the moving handle 254 is not limited to being attached to the holding frame 24. The moving handle 254 may be attached to, for example, the table-like portion 25. However, when the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 collides with an external device or the like, the moving handle 254 is expected to have a buffering effect. From this viewpoint, it is preferable that the moving handle 254 be attached to the holding frame 24 or the like rather than being attached directly to the table-like portion 25. This makes it possible to more effectively mitigate the impact transmitted to the table-like portion 25 and the storage tray 3 provided on the underside thereof, even when the moving handle 254 receives an impact due to a collision with the surroundings or the like.

[0024] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the receiving tray 3 alone removed from the table-like portion 25. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 4 , the storage tray 3 has a bottom plate 31 and sidewalls 32 rising from the outer periphery of the bottom plate 31. A portion of the bottom plate 31 that is above the gripping portion 12 of the device main body 10 when the device is closed is appropriately cut out. This prevents interference between the gripping portion 12 of the device main body 10 and the storage tray 3 even when the holding frame 24 and the table-like portion 25 are lowered. Note that it is not essential that a portion of the bottom plate 31 be cut out. If the storage tray 3 is configured so as not to be lowered to a height that would interfere with the gripping portion 12, the cutout may not be provided. Instead of a cutout, the bottom plate 31 may have a recess recessed inward to avoid the gripping portion 12.

[0025] One side of the receiving tray 3 is rotatably attached to the table-like portion 25 side, and the other side is rotatable downward (as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 1). A hinge connection portion 33 (see FIG. 4) for attaching the hinge part 28 is provided on the mounting side of the storage tray 3. In the example shown in the embodiment, the storage tray 3 has the hinge connection portion 33 at a position that will be on the support part 23 side in the mounted state. By attaching the hinge part 28 to the hinge connection portion 33 of the storage tray 3 and a corresponding position on the table-like part 25 side, the storage tray 3 is hinged to the table-like part 25 so as to be rotatable (see FIG. 3).

[0026] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 and other figures, the hinge parts 28 that attach the storage tray 3 to the table-like portion 25 are fixed to the inside of the holding frame 24 that is provided so as to surround the table-like portion 25. It should be noted that the hinge part 28 is not limited to being attached to the inside of the holding frame 24. It is sufficient that one side of the storage tray 3 is rotatably attached to the table-like portion 25. The hinge part 28 may be attached to a corresponding position on the underside of the table-like portion 25, for example.

[0027] 3 and 4, the storage tray 3 is capable of storing at least excess cable 51 of peripheral device 50 related to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 in an internal space (storage space SP). A protrusion 35 around which excess cable 51 can be wound is provided on the inside of the storage tray 3. In the illustrated example, the protrusion 35 includes a leg 351 that rises almost vertically from the bottom plate 31 of the storage tray 3, and a locking arm 352 that is bent at an almost right angle from the leg 351 and formed almost parallel to the bottom plate 31.

[0028] The excess cable 51, which is placed inside the storage tray 3 and wound around the leg 351 of the protrusion 35, is locked by the locking arm 352, thereby preventing the excess cable 51 from coming off the leg 351. The shape and configuration of the portion around which the excess cable 51 is wound are not limited to those exemplified here. It is not essential that the receiving tray 3 has the protrusion 35.

[0029] The accommodation space SP may accommodate the peripheral device 50 itself in addition to the surplus cable 51. Examples of the peripheral device 50 mounted on the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 include a printer (such as a black-and-white printer), an electrocardiogram (ECG) recording device, and a barcode reader. 3 and 4 show an example in which an equipment storage section 36 separated by a vertical wall is provided in the approximate center of the storage tray 3. The equipment storage section 36 is formed to a size corresponding to, for example, an electrocardiogram recording device 52, so that the electrocardiogram recording device 52 can be placed inside (see FIG. 5).

[0030] When the storage tray 3 is in a closed state relative to the table-like portion 25, the surface (upper surface) of the locking arm 352 faces the lower surface (rear surface) of the table-like portion 25 and abuts against the lower surface (rear surface) of the table-like portion 25. On the surface (upper surface) of the locking arm 352, a tray-side locking means 37 is provided. On the underside (rear surface) of the table-like portion 25, a table-like portion locking means (not shown) is provided at a position corresponding to the tray-side locking means 37 when the storage tray 3 is in the closed state. The tray-side locking means 37 and the table-like portion locking means are configured, for example, with hook-and-loop fasteners. It is determined as appropriate which of the tray-side locking means 37 and the table-like portion locking means is the hook surface (male) and which is the loop surface (female). When the storage tray 3 is in the closed state, the tray-side locking means 37 and the table-like portion locking means come into contact and engage with each other. This maintains the storage tray 3 in the closed state.

[0031] When the storage tray 3 is in the closed state, the top of the storage space SP is blocked by the table-like portion 25. This makes it difficult for dust and the like to enter the storage space SP. Furthermore, when the storage tray 3 is in the closed state, the excess cable 51 and the like stored in the storage space SP are not exposed to the outside (see Figures 2 and 9). This results in a neat appearance and also makes it possible to prevent the excess cable 51 and the like from getting caught on or interfering with the surrounding area.

[0032] 3, in the embodiment, a connector portion 258 to which the peripheral device 50 is connected is provided in the storage space SP. The connector portion 258 is provided, for example, on the inside of the holding frame 24. When the storage tray 3 is attached to the table-like portion 25 and is in the closed state, the connector portion 258 is covered by the storage tray 3 and is stored in the storage space SP.

[0033] The connector section 258 provided in the accommodation space SP is, for example, a power connector for supplying power to a printer or the like, or a USB connector to which a USB terminal can be connected. In the examples shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, a power connector is arranged on the left side of the drawings, and four USB connectors are provided as connector section 258 on the right side of the drawings.

[0034] It should be noted that what is provided as the connector section 258 is determined appropriately. Various other connector sections 258, such as a connector for communication, a connector for connecting video equipment, etc., may be provided in the accommodation space SP. The number, type, arrangement, etc. of the connector sections 258 are not limited to the illustrated example. Furthermore, the position where the connector portion 258 is provided is not limited to the inside of the holding frame 24. The connector portion 258 may be located in a position where it is covered by the accommodating tray 3 when the accommodating tray 3 is in the closed state and is accommodated in the accommodating space SP. For example, the connector portion 258 may be provided on the lower surface (rear surface) of the table-like portion 25, etc.

[0035] As described above, the storage tray 3 is rotatable relative to the table-like portion 25 around the shaft (not shown) of the hinge part 28. In the open state, the storage tray 3 is preferably rotatable to a position at approximately 90 degrees relative to the table-like portion 25. This allows the surplus cable 51 and the like to be easily stored in and removed from the storage space SP.

[0036] 3, etc., a locking means 361 such as a hook-and-loop fastener may also be provided inside the equipment housing 36. In this case, a locking means corresponding to the locking means 361 provided inside the equipment housing 36 is also attached to the equipment such as the electrocardiogram recording device 52 housed in the equipment housing 36. This makes it possible to more reliably prevent devices such as the electrocardiogram recording device 52 from falling off the receiving tray 3 even when the receiving tray 3 is rotated to a position at an angle of approximately 90 degrees with respect to the table-like portion 25 .

[0037] 4 and other figures, it is preferable that the side wall 32 has cutouts 321 appropriately formed therein, allowing the excess cable 51 housed in the storage space SP to be pulled out to the outside. The position, number, size, etc. of the cutouts 321 are not limited to the illustrated example. In the embodiment, the excess cable 51 housed in the storage space SP can be pulled out from the cutouts 321 appropriately to connect to various external devices, such as peripheral devices 50 arranged on the table-like portion 25. It is preferable that as much of the excess cable 51 as possible be wrapped around the protrusion 35 so that the length pulled out to the outside of the storage tray 3 is short. This prevents the excess cable 51 from interfering with or becoming tangled with external devices, etc., outside the storage space SP.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the main part around the table-like portion 25 as seen from the rear of the cart 20. As shown in FIG. As described above, the support portion 253 that supports the display 251 from the rear side protrudes from the table-like portion 25. In FIG. 6, the axis passing through the center of the support portion 253 is indicated by a dashed line. In the illustrated example, the axis of the support portion 253 is slightly inclined backward. The support portion 253 is the axis of rotation of the display 251, and the display 251 is rotatable around the support portion 253 (rotation in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 6). This allows the display 251 to be appropriately oriented around the support portion 253. A screw hole 253a for attaching a camera is formed in the upper end surface of the support portion 253. When the camera 7 is not attached, it is preferable that the screw hole 253a be closed with a cap (not shown).

[0039] Fig. 7 illustrates a state in which the camera mounting unit 6 is mounted in the screw hole 253a for mounting the camera of the support part 253. Note that Fig. 7 does not illustrate some of the components arranged on the table-like part 25, such as the operation table 252. The camera mounting unit 6 includes a leg 61 and a camera mounting part 62. The leg 61 is formed in a shaft shape and has a threaded part (not shown) at one end that can be screwed into the screw hole 253a. When the leg 61 is screwed into the screw hole 253a, the axial center of the leg 61 is on an extension of the axial line of the support part 253. In FIG. 7, the axial centers of the support part 253 and the leg 61 attached to the support part 253 are indicated by dashed dotted lines. The axial length of the leg 61 may be adjustable.

[0040] The camera mounting part 62 is provided on the other end (free end) of the leg part 61. The camera mounting part 62 is, for example, a pan head, and it is preferable that the angle and direction relative to the leg part 61 can be adjusted. A small camera 7 can be attached to the camera mounting part 62, as shown in FIG. 7. When the display 251 is rotated around the support part 253, the camera 7 also rotates in conjunction with this. Therefore, it is not necessary to adjust the orientation of the display 251 and the orientation of the camera 7 separately, which simplifies the adjustment work. Note that if the camera mounting part 62 is a pan head, the orientation of the camera 7 can also be adjusted independently of the orientation of the display 251 by adjusting the angle of the camera mounting part 62.

[0041] The camera 7 can capture, for example, an image of a part of the subject (patient) on which an ultrasound probe (probe) is placed, simultaneously with the ultrasound diagnosis. The image captured by the camera 7 can be a still image or a video. Audio information, etc., can also be saved along with the image. When a diagnosis is made using the ultrasound diagnostic device 1, a "body mark" may be attached to the ultrasound image to indicate where on the subject (patient) the ultrasound probe (probe) was placed and at what angle the image was taken. In this regard, in the configuration of the embodiment, the camera 7 captures an image of the part of the subject (patient) on which the ultrasound probe (probe) is placed. The image captured by the camera 7 can be displayed superimposed on the ultrasound image being diagnosed, thereby serving as a "body mark." This makes it possible to check the examination status during a later diagnosis and facilitates information sharing between medical professionals.

[0042] [Function of ultrasound diagnostic equipment] Next, the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In this embodiment, the storage tray 3 is attached to the underside of a table-like portion 25 provided on the cart 20 of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 using a hinge part 28. Specifically, the hinge part 28, which is formed of a hinge or the like, is attached to a corresponding position on the hinge joint part 33 of the storage tray 3 and the underside (rear surface) of the table-like portion 25.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 4, a screw hole is formed in the hinge coupling portion 33, and one of the hinge wings constituting the hinge component 28 is attached to this screw hole with a screw. The other hinge wing is screwed into a corresponding position on the underside of the table-like portion 25. In this embodiment, the corresponding position on the underside of the table-like portion 25 is the inside of the support portion 23 side of the holding frame 24. Then, with the tube of one wing and the tube of the other wing fitted together, a pin is inserted into the tube. This allows the storage tray 3 to be hinged to the table-like portion 25 so as to be rotatable.

[0044] Furthermore, tray-side locking means 37 is provided on the upper surface of locking arm 352 of protrusion 35 provided inside storage tray 3, and table-like portion-side locking means is provided on the underside of table-like portion 25 at a position corresponding to tray-side locking means 37. That is, for example, the hook surface (male) of a hook-and-loop fastener is attached to the upper surface of locking arm 352, and the loop surface (female) of the hook-and-loop fastener is attached to the corresponding position on the underside of table-like portion 25. This allows storage tray 3 to be opened and closed relative to table-like portion 25, and when in the closed state, the closed state is maintained by the engagement between tray-side locking means 37 and table-like portion-side locking means.

[0045] When the storage tray 3 is attached, an appropriate amount of slack cable 51 and the like is stored in the storage space SP within the storage tray 3. For example, in the example shown in Fig. 8, a peripheral device 50 such as a printer is placed on the table-like portion 25. One end of a power cord or a USB cable is connected to the peripheral device 50. The other end of the power cable or the USB cable is connected to a connector portion 258 within the storage space SP. The slack cable 51 of the peripheral device 50, such as the power cable or the USB cable, is stored within the storage space SP.

[0046] 5, for example, a peripheral device 50 such as an electrocardiogram recording device 52 may be accommodated in the device accommodation section 36 in the accommodation tray 3. In this case, the free end of a power cable or the like connected to the electrocardiogram recording device 52 is connected to a connector section 258 in the accommodation space SP. An excess length cable 51 of the power cable or the like is then wound around the protrusion 35 as appropriate and accommodated compactly in the accommodation space SP in the accommodation tray 3.

[0047] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the essential parts of the receiving tray 3 when it is in the closed state from the open state shown in FIG. 8, as seen obliquely from behind. As shown in Figure 9, when the storage tray 3 is in the closed state, peripheral devices 50 such as excess cables 51 and electrocardiogram recording devices 52 stored in the storage space SP within the storage tray 3 are not exposed to the outside. The power cable and the USB cable can be pulled out by the required length from the notch 321 formed in the side wall 32 of the storage tray 3 or the notch formed in the bottom plate 31. Therefore, even when the storage tray 3 is in the closed state, the power cable and the USB cable can remain connected to the connector 258 provided in the storage space SP. Therefore, even if the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 is moved between examination rooms or the like with the power cable or the USB cable still connected, the power cable or the USB cable can be prevented from coming into contact with or getting caught on external devices or the like.

[0048] Furthermore, when using a camera 7 instead of a "body mark," the leg 61 of the camera mounting unit 6 is screwed into the screw hole 253a of the support part 253. Then, the camera 7 is attached to the camera mounting part 62 provided on the free end side of the leg 61. When the display 251 is rotated around the support part 253, the camera 7 also rotates in conjunction with this, making it possible to easily point the camera 7 toward the subject to be photographed. The part of the subject (patient) on which the ultrasound probe (probe) is placed is then photographed by the camera 7 simultaneously with the ultrasound diagnosis. This allows the ultrasound image to be recorded showing where on the subject (patient) the ultrasound probe (probe) was placed and at what angle. This can be used to check the examination status during a later diagnosis or to share information between medical professionals. The image photographed by the camera 7 may be displayed superimposed on the ultrasound image being diagnosed, or may be saved separately.

[0049] <Effects> As described above, the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 of this embodiment is configured to be movable by mounting the device main body 10 on the cart 20, which is a hand truck. The cart 20 has a support section 23 and a flat table-like section 25 that extends approximately horizontally from the support section 23. On the underside of the table-like section 25, a storage tray 3 that can store at least excess cable 51 of peripheral device 50 is attached so as to be able to be opened and closed freely relative to the table-like section 25.

[0050] It is expected that various peripheral devices 50 will be connected to the ultrasound diagnostic device 1, and that multiple power cables and USB cables will also be connected. If the power cables and USB cables are formed long enough, this excess cable 51 is likely to collide with or get caught on surrounding devices, tables, handrails, or other indoor or outdoor structures when the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 is moved. In this case, the cable may break or the terminal may be damaged by excessive force. There is also a risk of damaging surrounding devices. In this regard, when the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 is provided with a storage tray 3 capable of storing the excess cable 51, as in the present embodiment, it is possible to prevent the excess cable 51 from getting caught on something. This reduces the risk of damaging the peripheral device 50 and its cables, as well as other devices and various equipment within the facility, when the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 is movable.

[0051] In addition, a space for accommodating peripheral devices 50 is secured within the storage space SP formed by the storage tray 3 of this embodiment. That is, in the embodiment, the storage space SP within the storage tray 3 is provided with a device storage section 36, which makes it possible to accommodate not only the surplus cable 51 but also peripheral devices 50 such as an electrocardiogram recording device 52. This allows various peripheral devices 50 that are to be used together with the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 to be transported together with the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 in a compact manner.

[0052] In addition, a connector portion 258 to which the peripheral device 50 is connected is provided in the storage space SP formed by the storage tray 3 of the embodiment. The connector portion 258 allows for easy connection and use of the peripheral device 50. Furthermore, when the storage tray 3 is closed, the interior of the storage space SP cannot be seen from the outside, which allows for a neat and tidy appearance. Furthermore, when the accommodation tray 3 is in the closed state, dust and the like are less likely to enter the accommodation space SP and will not come into contact with surrounding devices, so the connector portion 258 can be kept clean and safe.

[0053] In addition, in this embodiment, one side of the storage tray 3 is attached so that it can be rotated freely relative to the table-shaped portion 25, and the other side can be rotated downward, and in the open state, the storage tray 3 rotates to a position that is approximately 90 degrees relative to the table-shaped portion 25. This makes it easy to handle and take out and put in the extra length cable 51 and the like into the accommodation space SP in the accommodation tray 3. In addition, the accommodation tray 3 opens wide, making it easy to check the devices and the like accommodated in the accommodation space SP.

[0054] In the embodiment, the receiving tray 3 is provided inside the outermost edge of the table-like portion 25. Therefore, the entire upper side of the storage tray 3 provided on the underside of the table-like portion 25 is covered by the table-like portion 25, preventing dust and the like from entering the interior. Also, since the storage tray 3 does not protrude outward beyond the table-like portion 25, the storage tray 3 is prevented from coming into direct contact with surrounding devices and equipment.

[0055] Further, in this embodiment, a moving handle 254 is provided on the outer side of the outermost edge of the table-like portion 25 as a handle for moving the device. Therefore, when the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 comes into contact with surrounding equipment or facilities, the moving handle 254 makes contact first, thereby reliably preventing the table-like portion 25 and the storage tray 3 provided on its underside from colliding with the surroundings. Furthermore, if the moving handle 254 is made of a cushioning material such as resin, a buffering effect can also be expected. That is, by providing the moving handle 254 outside the outermost edge of the table-like portion 25, it is possible to reduce impact on the apparatus main body 10 mounted on the cart 20 and the peripheral equipment 50 placed on the table-like portion 25.

[0056] In this embodiment, the receiving tray 3 is provided with a protrusion 35 inside, around which the extra length cable 51 can be wound. This allows the extra cable 51 to be stored compactly within the storage tray 3 even if it is long.

[0057] In addition, in this embodiment, the storage tray 3 is provided with a tray-side locking means 37, and the table-shaped portion 25 is provided with a table-side locking means (not shown) at a position corresponding to the tray-side locking means 37 when the storage tray 3 is in a closed state, and the tray-side locking means 37 and the table-shaped portion-side locking means are engaged with each other to maintain the storage tray 3 in a closed state. This prevents the storage tray 3 from being accidentally opened, and prevents the extra length cable 51 stored inside from popping out.

[0058] <Other> Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, in the above embodiment, the tray-side locking means 37 and the table-like portion-side locking means are configured with hook-and-loop fasteners. However, the tray-side locking means 37 and the table-like portion-side locking means are not limited to being configured with hook-and-loop fasteners as long as they can maintain the closed state of the storage tray 3. For example, the storage tray 3 and the table-like portion 25 may be provided with magnets that attract each other, or the storage tray 3 may be configured to be locked to the table-like portion 25 with a hook or the like.

[0059] Furthermore, what can be accommodated in the accommodation space SP in the accommodation tray 3 is not limited to the peripheral devices 50 such as the extra length cable 51 and the electrocardiogram recording device 52 . For example, as shown in FIG. 10, a spare probe 55 may be accommodated in the accommodation space shown in FIG. An ultrasound probe (probe) must transmit ultrasound waves toward the area to be diagnosed and accurately receive the reflected waves that bounce back from organs and tissues. For this reason, an optimal probe is prepared for each diagnostic area and may be used as needed. For example, when diagnosing multiple areas, it is conceivable that multiple types of ultrasound probes (probes) are placed in the storage tray 3 and carried together with the ultrasound diagnostic device 1. Note that the spare probes 55 are not limited to different types. Spare probes may be prepared in case of malfunction or other problems.

[0060] Furthermore, a plurality of types of storage trays 3 with different configurations of the storage space SP may be prepared, and the storage tray 3 with the most suitable configuration may be attached depending on the usage situation in the facility where the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 is used. For example, it is not essential to provide an equipment storage section 36 corresponding to the peripheral equipment 50, such as the electrocardiogram recording device 52, in the storage tray 3. As described above, when it is necessary to store the spare probe 55 in the storage space SP in the storage tray 3, it may be easier to store the spare probe 55 without the equipment storage section 36. In this case, the storage tray 3 may be configured so that various types of equipment can be freely stored therein without providing the equipment storage section 36 or the like.

[0061] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. The specific configuration of the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 shown in the above embodiments, the positional relationship and operation of each part, etc. can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention includes the scope of the invention described in the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0062] 1. Ultrasound diagnostic equipment 10. Device body (ultrasound diagnostic device body) 20 Cart (cart) 25 Table-shaped part 254 Movement Handle 258 Connector part 3 Storage Tray 31 Bottom plate 32 Side wall 321 Notch 35 Protrusion 36 Equipment storage section 37 Tray side locking means 50 Peripherals 51 Excess cable 7. Camera SP Containment Space

Claims

1. An ultrasound diagnostic device configured so that the device body is mounted on a cart and can be moved, The carriage has a support column and a flat table-like portion extending from the support column in a substantially horizontal direction, A storage tray capable of storing at least excess cables of peripheral devices is attached to the underside of the table-like portion so as to be able to open and close relative to the table-like portion. An ultrasonic diagnostic device characterized by:

2. A space for accommodating peripheral devices is secured within the accommodation space formed by the accommodation tray.

2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

3. A connector portion to which a peripheral device is connected is provided within the storage space formed by the storage tray.

2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

4. One side of the storage tray is rotatably attached to the table-like portion, and the other side is rotatable downward. In the open state, the storage tray rotates to a position at an angle of approximately 90 degrees relative to the table-like portion.

2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The storage tray is provided inside the outermost edge of the table-like portion.

2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

6. A handle for moving the device is provided outside the outermost edge of the table-like portion.

2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The storage tray has a protrusion therein around which the excess cable can be wound.

2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

8. The storage tray is provided with a tray-side locking means, the table-like portion includes a locking means on the table-like portion at a position corresponding to the locking means on the tray when the storage tray is in a closed state, The locking means on the tray side and the locking means on the table-like portion side are engaged with each other to maintain the storage tray in a closed state.

2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Ultrasonograph and probe cable storing device for ultrasonograph

    JP2011036302A