Systems and methods for controlling the activation state of an ultrasonic probe

Abstract

The present invention provides systems and methods for controlling the activation state of an ultrasound probe that is part of an ultrasound imaging system. The ultrasound probe includes a cable, and the ultrasound imaging system includes a probe holder that defines a slot for allowing the cable to pass through. The activation state of the ultrasound probe is controlled by a processor based on signals received from a sensor assembly that is attached to the probe holder and configured to detect movement of the cable through the slot defined by the probe holder.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to ultrasonic imaging systems and methods for controlling the activation state of an ultrasonic probe. Background Art

[0002] An ultrasonic imaging system having more than one ultrasonic probe must provide techniques for activating and deactivating a particular ultrasonic probe. The first prior art for activating and deactivating a particular ultrasonic probe includes manually activating and deactivating a desired ultrasonic probe by pressing a particular button on the ultrasonic imaging system corresponding to the desired ultrasonic probe. The second prior art includes using a switch located on the ultrasonic probe itself and manually pressing the switch to activate or deactivate the ultrasonic probe. The third prior art includes placing a mechanical switch at a certain position on the probe holder such that when the ultrasonic probe is placed in the probe holder, the position contacts the ultrasonic probe. When the ultrasonic probe contacts the mechanical switch, the mechanical switch is deactivated. When the ultrasonic probe does not contact the mechanical switch, the mechanical switch is activated. The ultrasonic imaging system activates the corresponding ultrasonic probe when the switch is activated and deactivates the corresponding ultrasonic probe when the mechanical switch is deactivated. The fourth prior art for activating and deactivating an ultrasonic probe includes fitting a motion sensor on the ultrasonic probe. The ultrasonic system activates or deactivates the ultrasonic probe in response to a motion signal received from the motion sensor.

[0003] Each of the above techniques has drawbacks. The drawbacks of the first and second techniques are that the user needs to press a button to indicate the particular ultrasonic probe to be activated or deactivated. Additionally, the user may need to trace the ultrasonic probe to the corresponding probe port in order to activate the correct ultrasonic probe. The drawback of the third technique is the incorrect activation or deactivation of the ultrasonic probe. The user typically places a gel bottle, mobile phone, or other object in the probe holder. An object other than the ultrasonic probe may activate or deactivate the switch on the probe holder, resulting in an undesired activation or deactivation of the ultrasonic probe. The third technique also requires the ultrasonic probe to be returned to the probe holder before the system can activate another ultrasonic probe. The third technique also requires the ultrasonic probe to be returned to the probe holder from which it was removed in order to ensure that the correct ultrasonic probe is activated when removed from the probe holder. The drawback of the fourth technique is that each ultrasonic probe used by the ultrasonic imaging system must be modified. The motion sensor must be attached to each ultrasonic probe connected to the ultrasonic imaging system and to the ultrasonic imaging system itself. The ultrasonic probe will not be automatically activated or deactivated until a new ultrasonic probe has a motion sensor and the new motion sensor has been added to the system. This increases the cost and complexity of each ultrasonic probe. Additional resources must also be available to track the ultrasonic system, the motion of the ultrasonic probe, and the movement of the ultrasonic system relative to the ultrasonic probe. At least for the reasons discussed above, there is a need for improved methods and ultrasonic imaging systems for controlling the activation state of an ultrasonic probe. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention addresses the above deficiencies, drawbacks, and problems, which will be understood by reading and comprehending the following specification.

[0005] According to one embodiment, an ultrasonic imaging system includes: an ultrasonic probe that includes a cable; and a probe holder that includes a bracket for supporting the ultrasonic probe. The probe holder defines a slot for allowing the cable to pass through and includes a sensor assembly attached to the probe holder. The sensor assembly is configured to detect movement of the cable through the slot, and the sensor assembly includes at least one sensor. A processor is configured to control an activation state of the ultrasonic probe based on a signal from the sensor assembly.

[0006] According to one embodiment, an ultrasonic imaging system includes a processor, a probe holder that includes a bracket for supporting an ultrasonic probe and defining a slot for allowing a cable to pass through. The ultrasonic imaging system includes a sensor assembly attached to the probe holder, the sensor assembly being configured to detect movement of the cable through the slot. The present invention discloses a method for controlling an activation state of an ultrasonic probe, the method including: receiving a signal from the sensor assembly in response to detecting movement of the cable through the slot due to removal of the ultrasonic probe from the bracket or placement of the ultrasonic probe in the bracket, and changing the activation state of the ultrasonic probe based on the signal.

[0007] Various other features, objects, and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the accompanying drawings and their detailed description. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] Figure 1 is a diagram of an ultrasonic imaging system according to one embodiment;

[0009] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an ultrasonic imaging system according to one embodiment;

[0010] Figure 3 is a diagram of a probe holder according to one embodiment;

[0011] Figure 4 is a diagram of a cross-sectional view of a probe holder according to one embodiment;

[0012] Figure 5 is a diagram of a probe holder according to one embodiment;

[0013] Figure 6 is a diagram of a probe holder according to one embodiment;

[0014] Figure 7Illustration of a cross-sectional view of a probe holder according to an embodiment;

[0015] Figure 8 Illustration of a probe holder according to an embodiment;

[0016] And

[0017] Figure 9 Illustration of a cross-sectional view of a probe holder according to an embodiment. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0018] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. The embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that logical, mechanical, electrical, and other changes may be made without departing from the scope of the embodiments. Accordingly, the following detailed description should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0019] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of an ultrasonic imaging system 100 is shown. The ultrasonic imaging system 100 includes a user interface 115, a first ultrasonic probe 131, and a plurality of probe ports: a first probe port 171, a second probe port 172, a third probe port 173, and a fourth probe port 174. Each of the plurality of probe ports (171, 172, 173, 174) is configured to receive an ultrasonic probe, such as the first ultrasonic probe 131. The first ultrasonic probe 131 can be connected to the ultrasonic imaging system 100 by inserting the ultrasonic probe 131 into one of the plurality of probe ports (171, 172, 173, 174).

[0020] The user interface 115 can be used to control the operation of the ultrasound imaging system 100. For example, the user interface 115 can be used to control the input of patient data and / or change scanning or display parameters, etc. The user interface 115 can include a plurality of user inputs and / or controls configured to receive commands from a user or operator. For example, the ultrasound imaging system 100 can include any type of user input control, which includes one or more of the following: a mouse, a trackball, a keyboard, a touchpad, a touchscreen-based user interface, one or more hard buttons, a slider, a rotator, or any other type of physical control. The ultrasound imaging system 100 can also include one or more display devices. The display device can be a touchscreen display, an LED display, an OLED display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a projection display device, or any other type of display configured to display one or more images and / or capable of accepting user input. The display device can be a touchscreen display, which provides a specific implementation of soft buttons for a variety of user inputs and controls. The user interface 115 also includes one or more probe holders for supporting the ultrasound probe. The number of provided probe holders is generally equal to or greater than the number of probe ports, but the number of probe holders can also be a number less than the number of probe ports.

[0021] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an ultrasound imaging system 100 according to one embodiment. The ultrasound imaging system 100 includes a transmit beamformer 101 and a transmitter 102, which are configured to drive transducer elements (not shown) within a probe such as the first probe 131 to transmit pulsed ultrasound signals into the body (not shown). The transducer elements are configured to transmit and receive ultrasound signals. The pulsed ultrasound signals are backscattered from internal structures in the body, such as blood cells or muscle tissue, to produce echoes that return to the transducer elements. The echoes are converted by the transducer elements into electrical signals or ultrasound data, and the electrical signals are received by the receiver 108. The electrical signals representing the received echoes pass through the receive beamformer 110 that outputs the ultrasound data. According to some embodiments, an ultrasound probe such as the ultrasound probe 131 can include electronic circuitry to perform all or part of the transmit beamforming and / or receive beamforming. For example, according to one embodiment, all or part of the beamformer 101, transmitter 102, receiver 108, and receive beamformer 110 can be located within an ultrasound probe such as the first ultrasound probe 131. In the present disclosure, the term "scan" or "scanning" can also be used to refer to the process of acquiring data by transmitting and receiving ultrasound signals. In the present disclosure, the term "data" or "ultrasound data" can be used to refer to one or more data sets acquired with an ultrasound imaging system. The user interface 115 can be used to control the operation of the ultrasound imaging system 100, including the input of patient data and / or the selection of scanning or display parameters.

[0022] The ultrasound imaging system 100 further includes a processor 104 to control the transmit beamformer 101, the transmitter 102, the receiver 108, the receive beamformer 110, the memory 106, the second ultrasound probe 132, the third ultrasound probe 133, and the fourth ultrasound probe 134. The ultrasound imaging system 100 may further include: a first probe holder 121, which includes a sensor assembly 141; a second probe holder 122, which includes a sensor assembly 142; a third probe holder 123, which includes a sensor assembly 143; and a fourth probe holder 124, which includes a sensor assembly 144.

[0023] The processor 104 communicates electronically with the transmit beamformer 101, the transmitter 102, the receiver 108, and the receive beamformer 110. The processor 104 also communicates electronically with a plurality of ultrasound probes (131, 132, 133, 134), a plurality of sensor assemblies (141, 142, 143, 144), the memory 106, and the user interface 115. The processor 104 can control the plurality of ultrasound probes (131, 132, 133, 134) to acquire data. The processor 104 controls which transducer elements in the transducer elements are active and the shape of the beam emitted from one of the plurality of ultrasound probes (131, 132, 133, 134). The processor 104 also communicates electronically with the user interface 115, and the processor 104 can process the data into an image for display on the user interface 115. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "communicates electronically" can be defined to include both wired and wireless connections. According to one embodiment, the processor 104 can include a central processing unit (CPU). According to other embodiments, the processor 104 can include other electronic components capable of performing processing functions, such as a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or a graphics board. According to other embodiments, the processor 104 can include a plurality of electronic components capable of performing processing functions. For example, the processor 104 can include two or more electronic components selected from the list including the following electronic components: central processing unit (CPU), digital signal processor (DSP), field programmable gate array (FPGA), and graphics board. According to another embodiment, the processor 104 can also include a complex demodulator (not shown) that demodulates RF data and generates raw data. In another embodiment, the demodulation can be performed earlier in the processing chain. The processor 104 is adapted to perform one or more processing operations on the data according to a plurality of selectable ultrasound modalities. As echo signals are received, the data can be processed in real time during a scan session. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "real time" is defined to include a process that is performed without any intentional delay. The memory 106 can include volatile memory or non-volatile memory of one or more of the following elements: random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), programmable read only memory (PROM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM), rewritable flash memory, rewritable, byte addressable, symmetric, or any other type of electronic information storage device.

[0024] Each of the ultrasonic probes (131, 132, 133, 134) can be an ultrasonic probe of the same type, or the ultrasonic probes can include two or more different types of ultrasonic probes. For example, the ultrasonic probes can include two or more types of ultrasonic probes selected from the following group: linear ultrasonic probes, convex ultrasonic probes, phased array ultrasonic probes, or any other type of ultrasonic probe capable of transmitting and receiving ultrasonic sound pulses. Each of the plurality of ultrasonic probes (131, 132, 133, 134) can be connected to any one of the plurality of probe ports (171, 172, 173, 174). Each of the plurality of probe holders (121, 122, 123, 124) can be dedicated to holding a specific type of ultrasonic probe, or each of the plurality of probe holders (121, 122, 123, 124) can be configured to hold different types of ultrasonic probes.

[0025] The processor 104 communicates electronically with the plurality of probe ports (171, 172, 173, 174), the plurality of ultrasonic probes (131, 132, 133, 134) connected to the plurality of probe ports (171, 172, 173, 174), the memory 106, the user interface 115, and the plurality of sensor components (141, 142, 143, 144). The processor 104 receives a signal from one of the sensor components (141, 142, 143, 144) that indicates when the ultrasonic probe 131 is removed from or placed in one of the probe holders, a detection cable such as the cable of the ultrasonic probe 131 passes through the slot of one of the plurality of probe holders (121, 122, 123, 124) Figure 1 or Figure 2a signal (not shown in the figure). The processor 104 can also store in the memory 106 configuration information for each of the plurality of probe ports (171, 172, 173, 174), the configuration information including the current state of each probe port, such as whether an ultrasonic probe is connected or not. When an ultrasonic probe is connected, the processor 104 can also store the activation state of the ultrasonic probe, the ultrasonic probe type, and the ultrasonic probe identification (I.D.), as well as the probe holder to which the ultrasonic probe is connected. The processor 104 also stores in the memory 106 the configuration of the plurality of sensor components (141, 142, 143, 144) for each probe holder. Each sensor component includes one or more sensors capable of detecting the cable passing through the slot of the probe holder. When the sensor component includes a single sensor, the sensor component may not be configured to detect the direction of movement of the cable passing through the slot. The sensor component with a single sensor may require the initial state of the ultrasonic probe to be manually configured by the user as being in or outside the probe holder. Thereafter, the processor 104 tracks the current state of the ultrasonic probe in the memory 106 by: in each subsequent case where the sensor component detects the movement of the cable passing through the slot, switching the state of the ultrasonic probe in the memory 106 to being placed in the probe holder or removed from the probe holder. When the ultrasonic probe is removed from the probe holder, the activation state of the ultrasonic probe can be changed to the active state. When placed in the probe holder, the activation state of the ultrasonic probe can be changed to the inactive state. The processor 104 can be configured to update the memory 106 to reflect a change in state, a change in activation state, a change in probe position, or a change in the association between the probe port and the ultrasonic probe.

[0026] For example, when the first ultrasonic probe 131 is connected to the first probe port 171 and the first ultrasonic probe 131 is associated with the first probe holder 121, and the first ultrasonic probe 131 is currently placed in the bracket of the first probe holder 121 ( Figure 1 or Figure 2 not shown in the figure), and the processor 104 receives a signal from the sensor component 141 in response to detecting the movement of the cable passing through the slot due to the removal of the ultrasonic probe from the bracket of the first probe holder 121, the processor 104 is configured to track the removal of the first ultrasonic probe by storing the state of the first ultrasonic probe as removed from the bracket in the memory 106. If each of the plurality of ultrasonic probes (131, 132, 133, 134) is not currently in the active state, the activation state of the first ultrasonic probe 131 can be set to the active state. If the first ultrasonic probe 131 is activated, the memory 106 is updated with the current configuration of the first ultrasonic probe 131 as being away from the first probe holder 121 and in the active state.

[0027] When the first ultrasound probe 131 is connected to the first probe port 171, and the first ultrasound probe 131 is associated with the first probe holder 121, and the first ultrasound probe 131 is set to an active state, and the first ultrasound probe 131 is placed in the bracket of the first probe holder 121, the processor 104 receives a signal from the sensor assembly 141 in response to detecting movement of the cable through the slot due to the first ultrasound probe 131 being placed in the bracket of the first probe holder 121. The processor 104 may set the activation state of the first ultrasound probe 131 to an inactive state. The memory 106 is updated with the current configuration of the first ultrasound probe 131 as being in the first probe holder 121 and in an inactive state. The processor 104 may be configured to update the memory 106 to reflect a change in state, activation state, probe position, or association between the probe port and the ultrasound probe.

[0028] Figure 3 is an illustration of a probe holder 300 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 One or more of the illustrated probe holders (121, 122, 123, 124) may be configured according to Figure 3 the illustrated embodiment. The probe holder 300 includes a housing 316 that is shaped to define a bracket 310 for supporting an ultrasound probe such as the first ultrasound probe 131. The housing 316 is further shaped to define a slot 312 for allowing a cable 313 to pass through the slot 312 when the first ultrasound probe 131 is removed from or set in the bracket 310 of the probe holder 300. A sensor assembly 314 is mounted to the inner surface of the housing 316 of the probe holder 300 in the area defining the slot 312. The sensor assembly 314 may be fixed to the housing 316 using an adhesive, glue, welding, fusion solvent, or any other method capable of securing the sensor assembly 314 to the housing 316. In other embodiments, the sensor assembly 314 may be integrated into the housing 316 defining the slot 312, on the outer surface of the housing 316 within the slot 312, or at any location on the housing 316 of the probe holder 300 that enables the sensor assembly 314 to detect movement of the cable 313 as the cable 313 passes through the slot 312. The sensor assembly 314 communicates electronically with the processor 104. When the first ultrasound probe 131 is removed from or placed in the bracket 310, the sensor assembly 314 sends a signal to the processor 104 based on detection of movement of the cable 313 through the slot 312.

[0029] The sensor assembly 314 includes a single sensor 320. The sensor 320 can be a capacitive sensor, an electromagnetic sensor, an inductive proximity sensor, an optical sensor, or any type of sensor capable of detecting the movement of the cable 313 through the slot 312 when the first ultrasound probe 131 is removed from or returned to the bracket 310. In each case where the movement of the cable 313 through the slot 312 is detected, a signal is sent from the sensor 320 to the processor 104. According to an embodiment in which the sensor 320 is an optical sensor, the optical sensor can include both a transmitter and a receiver located on the same side of the slider 312. For example, the transmitter can emit a signal, such as a light beam. The light beam can be within the optical range of wavelengths, within wavelengths shorter than the optical range, or within wavelengths longer than the optical range of wavelengths. The receiver is configured to receive the reflected light beam in order to determine the distance. When the cable 313 passes through the slot 312, this distance is shorter than in the case where there is no cable obscuring the slot. Even when both the transmitter and the receiver of the optical sensor are located on the same side of the slot 312, the processor 104 can use this information to detect the presence of the cable 313. The processor 104 may not be configured to detect the direction of movement of the cable, thus requiring the user to manually configure the initial state of the first ultrasound probe 131 to be either in or out of the probe holder 300. Thereafter, the processor 104 can be configured to track the current state of the first ultrasound probe 131 in the memory 106 by switching the state of the first ultrasound probe 131 to either placed in the probe holder 300 or removed from the probe holder 300 in each subsequent case where the movement of the cable 313 through the slot 312 is detected by the sensor 320. When the first ultrasound probe 131 is removed from the first probe holder 121, the activation state of the first ultrasound probe 131 can change to an active state, and when placed in the first probe holder 121, the activation state can change to an inactive state. The processor 104 tracks the state changes in the memory 106, which include changes in the activation state, the position of the ultrasound probe relative to the probe holder, and associating the ultrasound probe with different probe ports.

[0030] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the probe holder 300 taken along the dashed line A-A' as shown. Figure 3 The sensor assembly 314 is mounted to the back surface 330 of the housing 316, which is shaped to define the slot 312 of the probe holder 300. The sensor assembly 314 can be fixed to the housing 316 using an adhesive, glue, welding, fusion solvent, or any other method capable of securing the sensor assembly 314 to the housing 316.

[0031] Figure 5 is an illustration of a probe holder 500 according to one exemplary embodiment. Figure 2One or more of the plurality of probe holders (121, 122, 123, 124) shown can be configured according to Figure 5 the embodiments shown. The probe holder 500 includes a housing 516 that is shaped to define a bracket 510 for an ultrasound probe such as the first ultrasound probe 131 to rest thereon. The housing 516 is further shaped to define a slot 512 for allowing a cable 513 to pass through the slot 512 when a probe such as the first ultrasound probe 131 is removed from or placed in the bracket 510 of the probe holder 500. A sensor assembly 514 is mounted to an inner surface of the housing 516 of the probe holder 500 in an area that defines the slot 512. In other embodiments, the sensor assembly 514 can be integrated into the housing 516 that defines the slot 512, on an outer surface of the housing 516 that is within the slot 512, or at any location on the housing 516 of the probe holder 500 that enables the sensor assembly 514 to detect movement of the cable 513 as the cable 513 passes through the slot 512. The sensor assembly 514 communicates electronically with the processor 104. When the first ultrasound probe 131 is removed from or placed in the bracket 510, the sensor assembly 514 sends a signal to the processor 104 based on detection of movement of the cable 513 through the slot 512.

[0032] The sensor assembly 514 includes a first sensor 520 and a second sensor 521. The first sensor 520 and the second sensor 521 are positioned on the same side of the housing 516 relative to the slot 512. In other embodiments, the first sensor 520 and the second sensor 521 may be positioned on opposite sides of the housing 516 relative to the slot 512. The first sensor 520 is positioned closer to the bracket 510 than the second sensor 521. The processor 104 may be configured to determine the direction of movement of the cable 513 through the slot 512 based on the order of signals received from the first sensor 520 and the second sensor 521. When a signal is received from the second sensor 521 before a signal is received from the first sensor 520, the direction of movement is within the bracket 510. When a signal is received from the first sensor 520 before a signal is received from the second sensor 521, the direction of movement is outward from the bracket 510. The processor 104 is configured to control the activation state of the first ultrasound probe 131. If no other ultrasound probes (132, 133, 134) are active, the activation state of the first ultrasound probe 131 may be set to the active state when the direction of movement of the cable is outward from the bracket 510. When the direction of movement of the cable 513 is inward from the bracket 510, the activation state of the first ultrasound probe 131 may be set to the inactive state. The processor 104 updates the memory 106 when a state change occurs, the state change including an activation state change, a position change of the first ultrasound probe 131 (such as entering or leaving the first probe holder 121), the first ultrasound probe 131 being added to or removed from the probe port 171, and the first ultrasound probe 131 returning to a probe holder (122, 123, 124) different from the probe holder from which it was removed.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the sensors 520 and 521 may be capacitive sensors and are configured to detect the direction of movement of the cable 513 through the slot 512. In other embodiments, more than two sensors may be included. In other embodiments, the sensors 520 and 521 may be electromagnetic sensors, inductive proximity sensors, optical sensors, or any other type of sensor capable of being mounted to the housing 516 and detecting the movement of the cable 513 as it passes through the slot 512.

[0034] Figure 6 A probe holder 600 according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 2 One or more of the plurality of shown probe holders (121, 122, 123, 124) may be according to Figure 6configured according to the illustrated embodiment. The probe holder 600 includes a housing 616 that is shaped to define a bracket 610 for an ultrasound probe such as the first ultrasound probe 131. The housing 616 is further shaped to define a slot 612 that allows a cable 613 to pass through the slot 612, for example, when the first ultrasound probe 131 is removed from or placed in the bracket 610 of the probe holder 600. A sensor assembly 614 is positioned within an opening ( Figure 6 not shown) of the housing 616 that is within the portion of the housing 616 shaped to define the slot 612 of the probe holder 600. The sensor assembly 614 can be press-fitted into or mounted to the edge of the opening by using an adhesive, glue, welding, fusion solvent, or any other method capable of securing the sensor assembly 614 to the edge of the housing 616 that defines the opening in the housing 616. The sensor assembly 614 is electrically connected to the processor 104. When the first ultrasound probe 131 is removed from or returned to the bracket 610, the sensor assembly 614 sends a signal to the processor 104 based on the detection of the movement of the cable 613 through the slot 612.

[0035] According to Figure 6 the illustrated embodiment, the sensor assembly 614 includes a first optical sensor 618 and a second optical sensor 619. The first optical sensor 618 includes a first optical transmitter 620 and a first optical receiver 621. The first optical transmitter 620 is located on one side of the housing 616. The first optical receiver 621 is located on the opposite side of the housing 616 relative to the slot 612. The first optical transmitter 620 projects a first light beam (not shown). The first light beam is received by the first optical receiver 621. When the first light beam is interrupted, the first optical receiver 621 sends a signal to the processor 104 indicating the detection of the movement of the cable 613 through the slot 612. The second optical sensor 619 includes a second optical transmitter 630 and a second optical receiver 631. The second optical transmitter 630 is located on one side of the housing 616. The second optical receiver 631 is located on the opposite side of the housing 616 relative to the slot 612. The second optical transmitter 630 projects a second light beam (not shown). The second light beam is received by the second optical receiver 631. When the second light beam is interrupted, the second optical receiver 631 sends a signal to the processor 104 indicating the detection of the movement of the cable 613 through the slot 612.

[0036] The processor 104 is configured to determine the direction of movement of the cable based on the order of signals received from the first optical sensor 618 and the second optical sensor 619. When a signal is received from the second optical sensor 619 before a signal is received from the first optical sensor 618, the direction of movement is inward toward the bracket 610. When a signal is received from the first optical sensor 618 before a signal is received from the second optical sensor 619, the direction of movement is outward from the bracket 610. When the traveling direction of the cable 613 is inward toward the bracket 610, the processor 104 may set the activation state of the first ultrasonic probe 131 to an inactive state. When the direction of movement of the cable is away from the bracket 610, the processor 104 may set the activation state of the first ultrasonic probe 131 to an active state. When a change occurs, the processor 104 updates the memory 106 to reflect the change in state.

[0037] Figure 7 is shown along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the probe holder 600 as observed along the dashed line B-B' is shown. The first optical emitter 620 and the first optical receiver 621 of the sensor 618 are mounted within an opening (not shown) in the housing 616, which is in a portion of the housing 616 that is shaped to define the slot 612 of the probe holder 600. The sensor 618 can be press-fitted into the opening using an adhesive, glue, welding, fusion solvent, or any other method capable of securing the sensor 618 to the housing 616, and is mounted to the edge defined by the opening in the housing 616.

[0038] Figure 8 is an illustration of a probe holder 700 according to one exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 One or more of the illustrated plurality of probe holders (121, 122, 123, 124) may be according to Figure 8configured according to the illustrated embodiment. The probe holder 700 includes a housing 716 that is shaped to define a cradle 710 for an ultrasound probe such as the first ultrasound probe 131 to rest thereon. The housing 716 is further shaped to define a slot 712 for allowing a cable 713 to pass through the slot 712, for example, when the first ultrasound probe 131 is removed from or placed in the cradle 710 of the probe holder 700. A sensor assembly 714 is mounted to an outer surface of the housing 716 of the probe holder 700 in an area that defines the slot 712. In other embodiments, the sensor assembly 714 may be integrated into the housing 716 that defines the slot 712, in an inner surface of the housing 716 that is within the slot 712, or at any location on the housing 716 of the probe holder 700 where the sensor assembly 714 is capable of detecting movement of the cable 713 as the cable 713 passes through the slot 712. The sensor assembly 714 is electrically connected to the processor 104. When the first ultrasound probe 131 is removed from or placed in the cradle 710, the sensor assembly 714 sends a signal to the processor 104 based on detection of movement of the cable 713 through the slot 712.

[0039] The sensor assembly 714 may be a single mechanical sensor 720. According to other embodiments, the sensor 720 may be an electromagnetic sensor, an inductive proximity sensor, or any type of sensor capable of detecting movement of the cable 713 through the slot 712 when the first ultrasound probe 131 is removed from or returned to the cradle 710. In each instance where movement of the cable 713 through the slot 712 is detected, a signal is sent from the sensor 720 to the processor 104. The processor 104 may not be configured to detect the direction of movement of the cable, such that the user is required to manually configure an initial state of the first ultrasound probe 131 to be either within or outside of the probe holder 700. Thereafter, the processor 104 tracks the current state of the first ultrasound probe 131 in the memory 106 by switching the state of the first ultrasound probe 131 in the memory 106 to either within or outside of the probe holder 700 in each subsequent instance where movement of the cable 713 through the slot 712 is detected by the sensor 720. When the ultrasound probe 131 is removed from the first probe holder 121, the activation state of the first ultrasound probe 131 may change to an active state, and when placed in the first probe holder 121, may change to an inactive state. The processor 104 updates the memory 106 when a state change occurs, the state change including an activation state change, the position of the ultrasound probe relative to the probe holder, and associating the ultrasound probe with a different probe port.

[0040] Figure 9 is along the probe holder 700 Figure 8Cross-sectional view along the dashed line C-C'. The sensor assembly 714 is mounted to an outer portion 733 of the housing 716, which is shaped to define a slot 712 of the probe holder 700. The sensor assembly 712 can be fixed to the housing 716 using an adhesive, glue, welding, fusion solvent, or any other method capable of securing the sensor assembly 714 to the housing 716.

[0041] Figures 3 to 9 Exemplary embodiments are shown. It should be understood that other embodiments may use different configurations and types of sensors. Additionally, although many exemplary embodiments have been described above with respect to the first ultrasound probe 131, those skilled in the art should understand that these embodiments can be configured to work with different probes, such as the second ultrasound probe 132, the third ultrasound probe 133, the fourth ultrasound probe 134, or any other ultrasound probe configured to be used with the ultrasound imaging system 100.

[0042] Some embodiments may additionally use inputs from the sensor assembly to control one or more scan parameters of the ultrasound probe. For example, according to one embodiment, the processor 104 may store a set of scan parameters for each type of ultrasound probe or for each specific ultrasound probe. The scan parameters may include parameters such as depth of focus, pulse repetition frequency (PRF), line density, and frequency. According to one embodiment, the processor 104 may store the most recently used scan parameters for each ultrasound probe used with the ultrasound imaging system. For example, after determining a transition from an active state to an inactive state based on a signal from the sensor assembly, the processor 104 may store the most recently used scan parameters in a memory such as the memory 106. Then, the next time the activation state of the specific ultrasound probe is determined to change from an inactive state to an active state based on a signal from the sensor assembly, the processor 104 may access the memory 106 in order to retrieve the previously used scan parameters for that specific ultrasound probe. As previously mentioned, the processor 104 may store the associations between one or more ultrasound probes and one or more probe holders. The processor 104 may use these associations to identify the probe type of the probe being used (i.e., the probe whose activation state has changed from an inactive state to an active state), and then use this information to access the previously used scan parameters for that specific probe. According to other embodiments, the ultrasound imaging system may store a set of previously determined parameter settings for each type of the multiple probe types in the memory 106.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the ultrasound imaging system may not have any parameter settings stored for a particular ultrasound probe. For the case where a new probe is connected to the probe port or the system is powered on for the first time in the morning, the user may need to manually enter some or all of the various parameters or default values to be used. According to one embodiment, the processor 104 may display a prompt on the display device requesting entry of one or more scan parameters for the ultrasound probe and / or an identification of which ultrasound probe is being used. The identification of the probe being used may include the probe type, probe model, or probe name, which may be selected from a display list of the probes most recently used on the system.

[0044] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also enables those skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any device or system and performing any included method. The patent scope of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. If such other examples have structural elements that are indistinguishable from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that have insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims, then such other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic imaging system, comprising: An ultrasonic probe, the ultrasonic probe including a cable; A probe holder, the probe holder including a bracket, the bracket being configured to support the ultrasonic probe and defining a slot for allowing the cable to pass through; A sensor assembly, the sensor assembly being attached to the probe holder and configured to detect movement of the cable through the slot, wherein the sensor assembly includes a first sensor and a second sensor, wherein the first sensor is positioned closer to the bracket than the second sensor, and wherein the first sensor and the second sensor together with the slot form a narrow detection space; And A processor, the processor being configured to control an activation state of the ultrasonic probe based on signals from the sensor assembly, wherein the processor is configured to determine a cable direction based on an order of signals received from the first sensor and the second sensor, wherein the processor is configured to determine that the cable direction is inward toward the bracket when the order of received signals is from the second sensor before the first sensor, wherein the processor is configured to determine that the cable direction is outward from the bracket when the order of received signals is from the first sensor before the second sensor, and wherein the processor is further configured to control the activation state of the ultrasonic probe based on the cable direction.

2. The ultrasonic imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the slot is elongated in a horizontal direction, and wherein the cable must pass through the slot when the ultrasonic probe is removed from the bracket for scanning or when the ultrasonic probe is returned to the bracket after scanning.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to track whether the ultrasonic probe is being removed from the bracket or being placed into the bracket.

4. The ultrasonic imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is selected from an optical sensor, a capacitive sensor, an electromagnetic sensor, an inductive proximity sensor, and a mechanical sensor.

5. The ultrasonic imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the sensor includes an optical sensor, and the optical sensor includes a transmitter configured to project a light beam and a receiver configured to receive the light beam.

6. The ultrasonic imaging system according to claim 1, further comprising a second probe holder, the second probe holder including: A second bracket, the second bracket being configured to support the ultrasonic probe and defining a second slot for allowing the cable to pass through; And a second sensor assembly, the second sensor assembly being attached to the second probe holder and configured to detect movement of the cable through the second slot.

7. The ultrasonic imaging system according to claim 6, wherein the processor is configured to store an association between the ultrasonic probe and the probe holder or the second probe holder.

8. The ultrasonic imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the bracket of the probe holder is configured to support a plurality of different types of ultrasonic probes.

9. The ultrasonic imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the bracket includes a housing defining the slot, the housing including an outer surface defining the slot and an inner surface opposite the outer surface, and wherein the sensor assembly is mounted to the housing.

10. The ultrasonic imaging system according to claim 9, wherein the sensor assembly is mounted on the inner surface of the housing.

11. The ultrasonic imaging system according to claim 9, wherein the sensor assembly is mounted on the outer surface of the housing within the slot.

12. The ultrasonic imaging system according to claim 9, wherein the housing further defines an opening within the slot, and wherein the sensor assembly is positioned within the opening.

13. The ultrasonic imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic imaging system is configured to automatically set a plurality of scan parameters of the ultrasonic probe in response to changing the activation state of the ultrasonic probe from an inactive state to an active state.

14. The ultrasonic imaging system according to claim 13, wherein the processor is configured to automatically set the plurality of scan parameters based on the probe type of the ultrasonic probe.

15. The ultrasonic imaging system according to claim 13, wherein the processor is configured to automatically set the plurality of scan parameters to match the previously used scan parameters of the ultrasonic probe.

16. The ultrasonic imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to provide at least one of a prompt for requesting input of one or more scan parameters and an identification of the ultrasonic probe in use.

17. A method for controlling an activation state of an ultrasonic probe of the ultrasonic imaging system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, the method comprising: receiving a signal from the sensor assembly in response to detecting movement of the cable through the slot caused by removing the ultrasonic probe from the bracket or placing the ultrasonic probe in the bracket; and changing the activation state of the ultrasonic probe based on the signal.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein changing the activation state of the ultrasonic probe includes changing the activation state from an inactive state to an active state.

19. The method according to claim 17, wherein changing the activation state of the ultrasonic probe includes changing the activation state from an active state to an inactive state.

20. The method according to claim 17, wherein the sensor assembly includes a first sensor and a second sensor, wherein the first sensor is positioned closer to the bracket than the second sensor, wherein the processor is configured to determine a cable direction based on an order of signals received from the first sensor and the second sensor, and wherein the processor is further configured to control the activation state of the ultrasonic probe based on the cable direction.

21. The method according to claim 17, further comprising providing a prompt that requests a user input to associate the ultrasound probe with one of a plurality of ports on the ultrasound imaging system.

22. The method according to claim 17, wherein the sensor assembly is not configured to detect cable orientation, and the processor is configured to track the ultrasound probe position.

23. The method according to claim 17, wherein the ultrasound imaging system includes a second probe holder and a second ultrasound probe, and wherein the processor is configured to save associations between the ultrasound probe and one of the probe holder and the second probe holder, and between the second ultrasound probe and the other of the probe holder and the second probe holder.

Images