Ultrasound image acquisition and processing presets sharing and associated systems, devices and methods

Abstract

Disclosed is an ultrasound imaging system including a remote server configured to communicate with a first ultrasound imaging console and a second ultrasound imaging console. The server is configured to receive an upload request for a custom image setting from the first ultrasound imaging console, receive and store the custom image setting. The server is further configured to output data representative of the custom image setting to the second ultrasound imaging console; receive a request for the custom image setting; retrieve and send the custom image setting to the second ultrasound imaging console so that the second ultrasound imaging console can utilize the custom image setting to generate an image.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This article describes a topic concerning the sharing of ultrasound image capture and post-processing settings between remote ultrasound imaging consoles via a distributed network. Such ultrasound setup sharing systems have specific, but not exclusive, applications for medical diagnostic imaging in human patients. Background Technology

[0002] External ultrasound imaging devices have become indispensable diagnostic tools in modern medicine due to their non-invasive nature and ever-improving resolution. Because different tissues in the body have different densities and water contents, they reflect sound waves differently and therefore appear differently on ultrasound images. Ultrasound images can be captured or post-processed using various image settings that affect the contrast, sharpness, and resolution of different tissues or other features within the image. Therefore, ultrasound imaging involves several factory presets to optimize imaging parameters for specific imaging tasks.

[0003] In many cases, users wish to adjust image settings to suit their specific clinical needs, resulting in settings that differ from the factory default settings or factory preset files containing application-specific groups of settings (e.g., presets for imaging specific organs of the body). Users can request changes to the default settings or factory preset files from the manufacturer. However, software updates for ultrasound imaging systems may be infrequent and, in many cases, must be installed by qualified technicians. This can lead to a longer delay between user complaints and the arrival of potential solutions, reducing user satisfaction with the ultrasound system.

[0004] The current approach to addressing diverse image quality requirements among users involves manufacturers sending technicians to the user's site and creating one or more custom settings to resolve the image quality issues the user is concerned about. This can require multiple visits to iteratively resolve problems, which is not cost-effective. In some cases, skilled users are also able to manually create their own custom settings. Once a setting is selected for a specific imaging mode, the user can refine the parameters against a preset baseline to achieve the desired imaging setup. However, many users strive to refine the parameters for optimal image quality, which can lead to several problems: 1) poor image quality; 2) lack of consistency among users; 3) lengthy process of training operators to optimize images; and 4) lengthy process of identifying preset problems affecting a large customer base. Currently, there is no system that allows users to share setup files back to the manufacturer so that the manufacturer can learn how their instruments are used. Nor is there a system that allows different users to share custom setup files with each other.

[0005] Furthermore, users from different regions or professional fields, with varying educational backgrounds and prior experience, may have different image quality preferences or requirements. Currently, ultrasound imaging instrument manufacturers do not provide region-specific factory settings. To provide region-specific or profession-specific factory settings, manufacturers need to understand the image quality preferences for specific regions or user groups. Currently, this is done through customer visits and customer reports, but due to small sample sizes, manufacturers cannot yet fully understand customer requirements.

[0006] The information included in the background section of this specification (including any references cited herein and any descriptions or discussions thereof) is for technical reference purposes only and should not be considered as a subject matter defining the scope of this disclosure. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Disclosed is a system for sharing image capture and post-processing settings for external ultrasound consoles. A remote server communicates with multiple ultrasound imaging consoles, each with an imaging probe that acquires ultrasound imaging data. Each ultrasound imaging console allows a user to adjust individual parameters or controls related to acquiring ultrasound imaging data through the probe and / or processing the imaging data to generate ultrasound images. The user specifies custom image settings on the console they are using, including specific values ​​for acquisition and / or processing parameters that allow the user to obtain ultrasound images with desired image quality. These custom image settings are uploaded from the console to the server using a distributed network system (e.g., server-client or cloud). The server stores these custom image settings and makes them available to other remote users. Remote users at different ultrasound imaging consoles download the custom image settings, which are applied by the different consoles to control the acquisition and / or processing of ultrasound imaging data collected by the remote user's probe. Thus, users in different locations can use the server to upload and download custom image settings. Providing a server for sharing custom ultrasound image settings advantageously facilitates the rapid dissemination of desired settings (e.g., region-specific settings and / or specialty-specific settings) for good image quality.

[0008] A system of one or more computers can be configured to perform specific operations or actions by installing software, firmware, hardware, or a combination thereof on the system, which, in operation, causes the system to perform the aforementioned actions. One or more computer programs can be configured to perform specific operations or actions by including instructions that, when executed by a data processing device, cause the device to perform the aforementioned actions. A general aspect of an ultrasound setup sharing system includes an ultrasound imaging system comprising a server including a processor communicating with a memory, wherein the server is configured to communicate with and remotely communicate with a first ultrasound imaging console and a second ultrasound imaging console, wherein the server is configured to: receive an upload request for a custom image setup from the first ultrasound imaging console; receive the custom image setup from the first ultrasound imaging console; store the custom image setup in the memory; output data representing the custom image setup to the second ultrasound imaging console; receive a request for the custom image setup from the second ultrasound imaging console; retrieve the custom image setup from the memory in response to the request; and output the custom image setup to the second ultrasound imaging console, such that the second ultrasound imaging console is configured to generate a first ultrasound image using the custom image setup. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, apparatuses, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, all configured to perform the actions of the method.

[0009] The implementation may include one or more of the following features. The ultrasound imaging system further includes: a first ultrasound imaging console, a second ultrasound imaging console, a first ultrasound imaging probe communicating with the first ultrasound imaging console, and a second ultrasound imaging probe communicating with the second ultrasound imaging console. In the ultrasound imaging system, the custom image settings differ from the manufacturer's image settings. In the ultrasound imaging system, the server is configured to: receive multiple requests from multiple ultrasound imaging consoles to upload multiple custom image settings; receive the multiple custom image settings from the multiple ultrasound imaging consoles; store the multiple custom image settings in the memory; output data representing each of the multiple custom image settings to the multiple ultrasound imaging consoles; receive selections for one or more of the multiple custom image settings to be downloaded from one or more of the multiple ultrasound imaging consoles; and output the one or more custom image settings to the one or more of the multiple ultrasound imaging consoles. In the ultrasound imaging system, the server is configured to: receive manufacturer image settings from a manufacturer system; store the manufacturer image settings in the memory; output data representing the manufacturer image settings to a plurality of ultrasound imaging consoles; receive a selection of the manufacturer image settings to be downloaded from one or more of the plurality of ultrasound imaging consoles; and output the manufacturer image settings to the one or more of the plurality of ultrasound imaging consoles. The ultrasound imaging system also includes a first ultrasound imaging console, wherein the first ultrasound imaging console includes an additional processor and a display, wherein the additional processor is configured to output a graphical user interface (GUI) to the display, the GUI including instructions for custom image settings and upload options, wherein the additional processor is further configured to output an upload request to the server based on the user's selection of the instructions for the custom image settings and the upload options. In the ultrasound imaging system, the additional processor is configured to receive user input via the GUI to modify the custom image settings. In the ultrasound imaging system, the first ultrasound imaging console includes an additional memory, wherein the additional processor is configured to: store the custom image settings in the additional memory; retrieve the custom image settings from the memory based on the upload request; and output the custom image settings to the server.The ultrasound imaging system further includes a second ultrasound imaging console, wherein the second ultrasound imaging console includes additional memory and a display, wherein the additional processor is configured to output a graphical user interface (GUI) to the display, the GUI including download options and indications of the custom image settings based on data representing the custom image settings, wherein the additional processor is configured to output a request to the server based on the user's selection of the download options and the indications of the custom image settings. According to claim 9, the ultrasound imaging system further includes an additional memory, wherein the additional processor of the second ultrasound imaging console is configured to: store the custom image settings in the additional memory; retrieve the custom image settings from the additional memory based on an implementation request; and apply the custom image settings to generate a second image using the custom image settings. In the ultrasound imaging system, the server is configured to: output an ultrasound imaging preview to the second ultrasound imaging console corresponding to the application of either the custom image settings or the additional custom image settings. The ultrasound imaging system further includes a first ultrasound imaging console and a second ultrasound imaging console, wherein the first ultrasound imaging console is configured to be positioned within a first patient examination area, and the second ultrasound imaging console is configured to be positioned within a second patient examination area spaced apart from the first patient examination area. In the ultrasound imaging system, the customized image settings include at least one of the following: acquisition parameters associated with the operation of the ultrasound imaging probe to acquire ultrasound imaging data, or post-processing parameters associated with processing the ultrasound imaging data to generate a first ultrasound image. Embodiments of the described technology may include hardware, methods, or processes, or computer software on a computer-accessible medium.

[0010] One general aspect includes an ultrasound imaging method comprising: receiving, at a server including a processor communicating with a memory, an upload request for a custom image setting, wherein the processor communicates with and is remote from both a first and a second ultrasound imaging console, wherein the upload request is received from the first ultrasound imaging console; receiving the custom image setting from the first ultrasound imaging console at the server; storing the custom image setting in the memory; outputting data representing the custom image setting to the second ultrasound imaging console via the server; receiving a request for the custom image setting from the second ultrasound imaging console at the server; retrieving the custom image setting from the memory in response to the request; and outputting the custom image setting to the second ultrasound imaging console via the server, such that the second ultrasound imaging console generates an image using the custom image setting. Other embodiments of this aspect include a corresponding computer system, apparatus, and computer program recorded on one or more computer storage devices, all configured to perform the actions of the method.

[0011] Implementations may include one or more of the following features. In the ultrasound imaging method, the custom image settings include at least one of the following: acquisition parameters associated with the operation of an ultrasound imaging probe acquiring ultrasound imaging data, or post-processing parameters associated with processing the ultrasound imaging data to generate the ultrasound image. The ultrasound imaging method further includes: receiving, at the server, multiple requests to upload multiple custom image settings from multiple ultrasound imaging consoles; receiving the multiple custom image settings from the multiple ultrasound imaging consoles at the server; storing the multiple custom image settings in the memory; outputting data representing each of the multiple custom image settings to the multiple ultrasound imaging consoles via the server; receiving, at the server, a selection of one or more of the multiple custom image settings to be downloaded from one or more of the multiple ultrasound imaging consoles; and outputting the one or more custom image settings to the one or more of the multiple ultrasound imaging consoles via the server. The ultrasound imaging method further includes: receiving manufacturer image settings from a manufacturer system at the server; storing the manufacturer image settings in the memory; outputting data representing the manufacturer image settings from the server to a plurality of ultrasound imaging consoles; receiving a selection of the manufacturer image settings to be downloaded from one or more of the plurality of ultrasound imaging consoles at the server; and outputting the manufacturer image settings to the one or more of the plurality of ultrasound imaging consoles via the server. The ultrasound imaging method further includes: outputting a graphical user interface (GUI) to a display of the first ultrasound imaging console via a further processor of the first ultrasound imaging console, wherein the GUI includes instructions and upload options for the custom image settings; and outputting an upload request to the server via the further processor based on the user's selection of the instructions for the custom image settings and the upload options. The ultrasound imaging method further includes: receiving user input via the GUI at the further processor to modify the custom image settings. The ultrasound imaging method further includes: storing the custom image settings in a further memory of the first ultrasound imaging console; retrieving the custom image settings from the memory via the further processor based on the upload request; and outputting the custom image settings to the server via the further processor.The ultrasound imaging method further includes: outputting a graphical user interface (GUI) to a display of the second ultrasound imaging console via a further processor of the second ultrasound imaging console, wherein the GUI includes download options and indications of the custom image settings based on data representing the custom image settings; and outputting a request to the server via the further processor based on the user's selection of the download options and the indications of the custom image settings. The ultrasound imaging method further includes: storing the custom image settings in a further memory of the second ultrasound imaging console; retrieving the custom image settings from the further memory via the further processor based on an implementation request; and applying the custom image settings via the further processor to at least one of: operating the ultrasound imaging probe to acquire ultrasound imaging data based on the acquisition parameters, or generating the second ultrasound image by processing the ultrasound data based on the post-processing parameters. In the ultrasound imaging method, the server is configured to output an ultrasound imaging preview to the second ultrasound imaging console, wherein the ultrasound imaging preview corresponds to at least one of the custom image settings or other custom image settings. Embodiments of the described technology may include hardware, methods, or processes, or computer software on a computer-accessible medium.

[0012] The ultrasound setup / preset sharing system disclosed in this article has specific, but non-exclusive, applications for medical diagnostic imaging of human patients.

[0013] This synopsis is provided to introduce selected concepts in a simplified form, which will be further described in the detailed description below. This synopsis is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. A broader presentation of the features, details, uses, and advantages of an ultrasound setup / preset sharing system as defined in the claims is provided in and illustrated in the following written description of various embodiments of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Illustrative embodiments of this disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] Figure 1 It is a schematic perspective view of an ultrasound imaging system based on various aspects of this disclosure.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a display screen of an example ultrasound preset sharing system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 3aThis is a screenshot of an external ultrasound image of a human thyroid gland captured using default imaging parameters.

[0018] Figure 3b Is with Figure 3a The image shown is a screenshot of an external ultrasound image of the same human thyroid gland as the human thyroid gland, but with different image acquisition parameters.

[0019] Figure 4a This is a screenshot of an external ultrasound image of a human thyroid gland captured using default imaging parameters.

[0020] Figure 4b yes Figure 4a The image shown is a screenshot of an external ultrasound image of the same human thyroid gland as the human thyroid gland, but with different image post-processing parameters.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a display screen of an example ultrasound preset sharing system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of an ultrasound preset sharing system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a processor circuit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 8 This is a display screen of an example ultrasound preset sharing system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 9 This is a display screen of an example ultrasound preset sharing system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 10 This is a display screen of an example ultrasound preset sharing system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a display screen of an example ultrasound preset sharing system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 12 This is a flowchart of an example ultrasound preset sharing method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Disclosed is a system for sharing image capture and post-processing settings for an external ultrasound console (hereinafter referred to as the ultrasound settings / preset sharing system), which advantageously provides users of ultrasound imaging systems with a system and process for acquiring new imaging expertise from multiple sources. The ultrasound settings / preset sharing system includes an ultrasound probe comprising: a housing configured for handheld operation by a user; a transducer array coupled to the housing and configured to acquire ultrasound data; a cable coupled to the housing, wherein the cable includes a conduit and a plurality of electrical conductors communicating with the transducer array, wherein the plurality of electrical conductors includes a distal portion disposed within the housing and a proximal portion disposed within the conduit; and a computer communicating with the transducer array via the plurality of electrical conductors and configured to generate ultrasound images based on the ultrasound data and display the ultrasound images on a display. The ultrasound preset sharing system also includes systems, apparatus, and methods for modifying factory image presets, storing these factory image presets as custom image setting files, and sharing these custom image setting files over a network via a remote server. Because custom setup files are based on manufacturer presets or manufacturer image setup files, manufacturers can distribute custom setup files, or customers can share them with each other without requiring separate regulatory approval for each file or group of files. Custom image settings can be one or more selected image capture and / or post-processing parameters. In some instances, custom image settings can also be referred to as presets or default settings. For example, presets or default settings can be pre-programmed image settings, such as factory settings. In some instances, custom image settings can be user-selected parameters that differ from the parameters selected by the factory.

[0030] The ultrasound preset sharing system efficiently generates customized ultrasound image settings for clients by aggregating image setting data from a user group. This image parameter data includes deviations from system presets. By using the aggregated image setting data, the ultrasound preset sharing system provides a database that allows other users to access each other's image setting data and / or generate customized presets based on the aggregated image parameter data. The system can retrieve user image settings and corresponding image data from a first user, where the user image settings differ from the manufacturer's default image settings or manufacturer-defined image setting presets. Manufacturer presets can be distributed using new systems or via a network through imaging consoles, servers, or other manufacturer-controlled computing systems. The system can also store user image settings in a database that exists on computer memory accessible to multiple users and can generate reports for user image settings. These reports include at least a comparison of the user image settings with preset image settings and are accessible in the database. Users can further customize the user image settings based on these reports, creating customized user settings, and allowing second users to select or customize user image settings for subsequent imaging.

[0031] In this way, the ultrasound preset sharing system allows users to learn from each other. Users may be more receptive to presets shared by physicians or institutions they know. One scenario is: User A is an ultrasound physician at Hospital A. He or she is dissatisfied with the performance of the "small part" factory preset, so he or she searches the database on the manufacturer-controlled server to see if there are any "small part" custom presets shared by other users. He or she finds that the ultrasound director at Hospital B has shared a custom preset for small parts. Hospital B is one of the most prestigious hospitals in China, specializing in small part imaging. User A downloads the preset and begins using it to see if it provides the expected image quality for small part imaging. In some cases, the download can be a complete custom image setting (e.g., as a custom image setting file). In such instances, the custom image setting can be stored in persistent and / or non-volatile memory on the console and is available for use by the console in any future imaging workflow. In other cases, the download can be a temporary cache or temporary cache file that includes all or at least part of the custom image setting. In such instances, the custom image setting can be stored in volatile memory and is available for use in the current workflow. Such temporary cache files can advantageously provide users with the ability to try multiple downloadable custom image settings without having to download them all and store them locally on the ultrasound imaging console. For example, the console can download the temporary cache file and apply it locally to ultrasound imaging data to generate a preview of how the custom image settings will produce ultrasound images.

[0032] This disclosure significantly assists clinicians and other users in achieving the desired ultrasound image quality by improving user access to application- or region-specific customized image settings. The ultrasound preset sharing system disclosed herein, implemented on a processor communicating with a remote server via a wide area network, provides users with practical access to the image setting customization work and experiences of other users on the system. This improved information exchange transforms the cumbersome process of individual customization into a simple and direct comparison and selection process, eliminating the normal daily need to wait for manufacturer-released software updates. This unconventional approach improves the functional operation of ultrasound imaging systems by ensuring that each registered user has access to the best possible image presets.

[0033] An ultrasound preset sharing system can be implemented as a menu system that accesses a remote server and can be viewed on a display, and is operated by a control process running on a processor that accepts user input (e.g., from a keyboard, mouse, or touchscreen interface) and communicates with processors of one or more additional users. In this respect, the control process performs certain specific operations in response to different inputs or selections made at different points in the use of the system. Certain structures, functions, and operations of the processor, display, sensors, and user input system are known in the art, while other structures, functions, and operations described herein particularly realize novel features or aspects of this disclosure.

[0034] These descriptions are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the ultrasound preset sharing system. Features may be added, removed, or modified without departing from the spirit of the claimed subject matter.

[0035] To facilitate an understanding of the principles of this disclosure, embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings will now be described using specific language. Nevertheless, it should be understood that this disclosure is not intended to limit its scope. Any changes and further modifications to the described devices, systems, and methods, as well as any additional applications of the principles of this disclosure, are readily conceivable and included within this disclosure, as will occur to those skilled in the art. In particular, it is fully contemplated that features, components, and / or steps described with respect to one embodiment may be combined with features, components, and / or steps described with respect to other embodiments of this disclosure. However, for the sake of brevity, numerous iterations of these combinations will not be described separately.

[0036] Figure 1This is a schematic perspective view of an ultrasound imaging system 100 according to various aspects of this disclosure. The ultrasound imaging system 100 includes a console 102 and an ultrasound probe 108. The ultrasound imaging system 100 can be used to acquire and display ultrasound images of anatomical structures. In some cases, the system 100 may include additional components and / or may be available without them. Figure 1 Implemented in the case of one or more of the elements shown.

[0037] An ultrasound probe 108 may be designed in size and shape, structurally arranged, and / or otherwise configured to be placed on or near the anatomical structures of an object to visualize the internal anatomical structures of the object's body. The object may be a human patient or an animal. The ultrasound probe 108 may be positioned externally to the object's body. In some embodiments, the ultrasound probe 108 is positioned close to and / or in contact with the object's body. For example, the ultrasound probe 108 may be placed directly on and / or adjacent to the object's body. The view of the anatomical structures shown in the ultrasound image depends on the position and orientation of the ultrasound probe 108. To obtain ultrasound data of the anatomical structures, the ultrasound probe 108 can be appropriately positioned and oriented by a user (e.g., a physician, sonographer, and / or other medical personnel) such that the transducer array 112 emits ultrasound waves and receives echoes from the desired portions of the anatomical structures. The ultrasound probe 108 may be portable and suitable for use in a medical setting. In some instances, the ultrasound probe 108 may be referred to as an ultrasound imaging device, a diagnostic imaging device, an external imaging device, a transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) probe, and / or combinations thereof.

[0038] The ultrasound probe 108 includes a housing 110, which is structurally arranged, sized, and shaped and / or otherwise configured for handheld grip by a user. In some instances, the housing 110 may be referred to as a handle. In some instances, the proximal portion 107 of the housing 110 may be referred to as a handle. The housing 110 surrounds and protects various components of the imaging device 108, such as electronic circuitry 116 and transducer array 112. Internal structures (e.g., space frames for securing the various components) may be positioned within the housing 110. In some embodiments, the housing 110 comprises two or more portions joined together during manufacturing. The housing 110 can be formed from any suitable material, including plastics, polymers, composite materials, or combinations thereof.

[0039] The housing 110 and / or ultrasound probe 108 include a proximal portion 107 terminating at a proximal end 117 and a distal portion 105 terminating at a distal end 115. In some instances, the ultrasound probe 108 can be described as having a proximal portion 107 and a distal portion 105. An imaging component of the ultrasound probe 108, including a transducer array 112, is disposed at the distal portion 105. All or part of the imaging component of the ultrasound probe 108 can define the distal end 115. The transducer array 112 can be directly or indirectly coupled to the housing 110. An operator of the ultrasound probe 108 can bring the distal end 115 of the ultrasound probe 108 into contact with the patient's body, such that anatomical structures can be compressed in an elastic manner. For example, the imaging component including the transducer array 112 can be placed directly on or near the subject's body. In some instances, the distal portion 105 is positioned in direct contact with the subject's body, such that the transducer array 112 is adjacent to the subject's body.

[0040] Ultrasound probe 108 is configured to acquire ultrasound imaging data associated with any suitable anatomical structure of the patient. For example, ultrasound probe 108 can be used to examine any number of anatomical locations and tissue types, including but not limited to organs (including the liver, heart, kidneys, gallbladder, pancreas, and lungs), ducts, intestines, nervous system structures (including the brain, dural sac, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves), the urinary tract, and valves within blood vessels, blood, heart chambers, or other parts of the heart and / or other systems of the body. Anatomical structures can be blood vessels, such as arteries or veins of the patient's vascular system (including the cardiac vascular system, peripheral vascular system, neurovascular system, and renal vascular system) and / or any other suitable lumen within the body. In addition to natural structures, ultrasound probe 108 can also be used to examine artificial structures, such as, but not limited to, heart valves, stents, shunts, filters, and other devices.

[0041] Transducer array 112 is configured to emit ultrasound signals and receive ultrasound echo signals corresponding to the emitted ultrasound signals. The echo signals are signals reflected from anatomical structures within the body of an object. The ultrasound echo signals can be processed by electronic circuitry 116 in ultrasound probe 108 and / or console 102 to generate ultrasound images. Transducer array 112 is part of the imaging assembly of ultrasound probe 108 and includes an acoustic window / lens and matching material on the emitting side of transducer array 112 and an acoustic backing material on the back side of transducer array 112. The acoustic window and matching material have acoustic properties that promote the propagation of ultrasound energy from the emitting side of transducer array 112 in a desired (e.g., outward into the patient's body) direction. The backing material has acoustic properties that impede or limit the propagation of ultrasound energy from the back side of transducer array 112 in an undesired (e.g., inward away from the patient's body) direction.

[0042] The transducer array 112 may include any number of transducer elements. For example, the array can include acoustic elements ranging from 1 to 10,000, including, for example, 2, 4, 15, 64, 128, 500, 812, 3,000, 9,000, and / or more or fewer. The transducer elements of the transducer array 112 can be arranged in any suitable configuration, such as a linear array, planar array, curved array, sculpted array, circular array, ring array, phased array, matrix array, one-dimensional (1D) array, 1.x-dimensional array (e.g., 1.5D array), or two-dimensional (2D) array. The array of transducer elements (e.g., arranged in one or more rows, columns, and / or one or more orientations) can be controlled and activated uniformly or independently. The transducer array 112 can be configured to acquire one-dimensional, two-dimensional, and / or three-dimensional images of the patient's anatomy. The ultrasound transducer elements can be piezoelectric / piezoresistive elements, piezoelectric micromechanical ultrasound transducer (PMUT) elements, capacitive micromechanical ultrasound transducer (CMUT) elements, and / or any other suitable type of ultrasound transducer element.

[0043] The transducer array 112 communicates with (e.g., is electrically coupled to) electronic circuitry 116. Electronic circuitry 116 can be any suitable passive or active electronic component (including integrated circuits (ICs)) used to control the transducer array 112 to acquire and / or process the acquired ultrasound imaging data. For example, electronic circuitry 116 can include one or more transducer control logic dies. Electronic circuitry 116 can include one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). In some embodiments, one or more ICs can include a microwave beamformer (μBF), an acquisition controller, a transceiver, a power supply circuit, a multiplexer circuit (MUX), etc. In some embodiments, electronic circuitry 116 can include a processor, memory, a gyroscope, and / or an accelerometer. Electronic circuitry 116 is disposed within the ultrasound probe 108 and surrounded by a housing 110.

[0044] The ultrasound probe 108 includes a cable 114 to provide signal communication between the console 102 and one or more components of the ultrasound probe 108 (e.g., transducer array 112 and / or electronic circuitry 116). The cable 114 includes a plurality of electrical conductors 120 configured to transmit electrical signals between the console 102 and the ultrasound probe 108. The electrical conductors 120 can be bare wires surrounded by one or more layers of insulating material. The insulating material is typically a polymer-based composite material, nylon, and / or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) synthetic plastic polymer. For example, electrical signals representing imaging data acquired by the transducer array 112 can be transmitted from the ultrasound probe 108 to the console 102 via the electrical conductors 120. Control signals and / or power can be transmitted from the console 102 to the ultrasound probe 108 via the electrical conductors 120. The cable 114 and / or the electrical conductors 120 can provide any type of wired connection, such as a proprietary connection, an Ethernet connection, any version of a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection, or any version of a mini-USB.

[0045] Cable 114 may also include a conduit 118 surrounding electrical conductor 120. Conduit 118 is shaped like a tube and serves to protect and route electrical conductor 120 within cable 114 of ultrasound imaging device 108. Conduit 118 may be flexible and made of polymers, plastics, metals, fibers, other suitable materials, and / or combinations thereof. Conduit 118 protects electrical conductor 120 by preventing direct exposure to external components. The distal portion 109 of cable 114 is coupled to the proximal portion 107 of housing 110 of ultrasound probe 108.

[0046] Connector 124 is positioned at the proximal portion 113 of cable 114. Connector 124 is configured for removable coupling with console 102. When connector 124 is received within socket 103 of console 102, signal communication is established between ultrasound probe 108 and console 102. In this respect, ultrasound probe 108 can be electrically and / or mechanically coupled to console 102. In some instances, console 102 can be referred to as a computer or computing device. Console 102 includes user interface 104 and display 106. Console 102 is configured to process ultrasound imaging data acquired by ultrasound probe 108 to generate ultrasound images and output the ultrasound images to display 106. The user can control various aspects of ultrasound probe 108 acquiring ultrasound imaging data and / or displaying ultrasound images by providing input at user interface 104. Imaging device 108 and display 106 can be directly or indirectly communicatively coupled to console 102.

[0047] One or more image processing steps can be performed by console 102 and / or ultrasound probe 108. Console 102 and / or ultrasound probe 108 can include one or more processors communicating with memory. The processor can be an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), central processing unit (CPU), digital signal processor (DSP), another hardware device, firmware device, or any combination thereof configured to perform the operations described herein. In some embodiments, the memory is random access memory (RAM). In other embodiments, the memory is cache memory (e.g., processor cache memory), magnetoresistive RAM (MRAM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, solid-state memory device, hard disk drive, other forms of volatile and non-volatile memory, or a combination of different types of memory. In some embodiments, the memory may include a non-transient computer-readable medium. The memory can store instructions. The instructions can include instructions that, when run by a processor, cause the processor to perform the operations described herein.

[0048] Although Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, console 102 is a movable cart; however, it should be understood that console 102 can also be a mobile device (e.g., a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or personal digital assistant (PDA)) integrated with one or more processors, memory, and a display. For example, the touchscreen of the mobile device can be user interface 104 and display 106.

[0049] Before proceeding, it should be noted that the examples above are provided for illustrative purposes and are not intended to be limiting. Other devices and / or device configurations can be used to perform the operations described herein.

[0050] Figure 2This is a display screen 200 of an example ultrasound preset sharing system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The display screen 200 allows a user to adjust image acquisition parameters 210 and image post-processing parameters 220. Image acquisition parameters 210 affect the operation of the ultrasound sensor array 112 and may include, but are not limited to, line density, transmission frequency, field of view, depth of field, and gain. Line density can refer to the angular distance between scan lines in an ultrasound image or the number of ultrasound beams or pulses used to inquire about the field of view in the ultrasound image. Increasing line density can improve the spatial resolution of the image but reduce the temporal resolution and / or frame rate. Decreasing line density can reduce the spatial resolution of the image but increase the temporal resolution and / or frame rate. Transmission frequency can refer to the frequency (e.g., the reciprocal of the wavelength) of the sound waves or pulses generated by the ultrasound scanner. Higher frequencies can be associated with higher spatial resolution but also with greater absorption / attenuation of the signal by tissue, while lower frequencies can be associated with lower resolution but also with greater reflection and therefore with a larger amplitude of the returned echo. Field of view can refer to the angular window of the ultrasound scanner (e.g., in degrees or radians). In a given image, a larger field of view reveals more content but takes more time to capture that content, while a smaller field of view shows less content per frame but allows for capturing those frames at a higher rate. Depth of field refers to the depth to which an ultrasound signal is expected or desired to penetrate into the tissue. Increasing the desired depth of field allows each image to show more of the tissue being scanned, but because pulses travel at the speed of sound over longer outgoing and return paths, the time between pulses (e.g., scan lines) must be increased. Therefore, scan depth is inversely proportional to frame rate. Gain is the amplification of the signal returning from each ultrasound pulse or scan line and can be used, for example, to compensate for attenuation. Increasing gain results in a stronger signal (e.g., a brighter image) but also leads to more noise (e.g., speckle) and reduced image contrast.

[0051] Image post-processing parameters 220 do not affect the operation of the ultrasound transducer array, but they do affect how the captured image is displayed on the display 106. Image post-processing parameters 220 may include, but are not limited to, resolution, dynamic range, grayscale, color, brightness, contrast, smoothness / sharpness, and ringback toll removal. Resolution can refer to the number of pixels used to display a particular image. Higher resolution can be associated with a more detailed image and a lower frame rate, while lower resolution can be associated with a less detailed image and a higher frame rate. Dynamic range can refer to the overall range of intensity of the returned signal. A large dynamic range can display more subtle details in an ultrasound image (which can indicate lower tissue density), but will have more noise, while a small dynamic range may preferably only show tissue of a specific density or component. Contrast can refer to the difference in display brightness between pixels of different signal intensities. High contrast can be associated with higher sharpness between areas of different densities and with reduced sharpness between areas of similar density. Smoothness and sharpness are inverse parameters that define the sharpness of edges between areas of different signal intensities. High sharpness produces clearer images but introduces more noise and can diminish the appearance of some features while enhancing others. Ringback refers to secondary or harmonic echoes, which carry information about tissue density and composition but distort ultrasound images. Ringback removal uses image processing to remove ringback artifacts from images.

[0052] In this example, a preview pane 230 is provided, displaying a series of real-time captured ultrasound images, allowing real-time viewing of the effects of different image acquisition parameters 210 and image post-processing parameters 220. The display 200 also includes a file control 240, which allows the current image acquisition parameters 210 and image post-processing parameters 220 to be applied to the current image or imaging process, saved as a preset file, or replaced with a preset file already stored locally or on a remote server. If the user chooses to save the current parameters 210 and 220 as a preset file, the user is prompted with the author's name (e.g., "Dr. John Smith"), filename (e.g., "John Smith CambridgeBone Screw Ultrasound Parameters"), and description, which will be saved along with the currently selected parameters 210 and 220. In some embodiments, the system may also prompt the user to upload sample images in PC format (e.g., JPEG) or a medical industry format (e.g., Dicom).

[0053] Image presets can include image acquisition parameters, post-processing parameters, or combinations thereof. Depending on the implementation, modifying the parameters within a preset can include modifying one or more values ​​of the parameters, adding parameters, or removing parameters included in the preset.

[0054] Figure 3a This is a screenshot of an external ultrasound image 300 of a human thyroid gland captured using default imaging parameters. The left lobe and isthmus of the thyroid gland 310, as well as the trachea 320, sternocleidomastoid muscle 330, and carotid artery 340, are visible. The isthmus of the thyroid gland 310 extends over the trachea 320 toward the right lobe of the thyroid gland (not drawn). This image shows room for improvement in spatial resolution and homogeneity.

[0055] Figure 3b Is with Figure 3a The image shown is a screenshot of an external ultrasound image 300 of the same human thyroid gland, but with different image acquisition parameters 210. Specifically, the line density is increased (e.g., by using the “Res / Spd” control on the touch panel), where Res increases resolution (resulting in more emission lines and a slower frame rate), while Spd increases speed (resulting in fewer emission lines and a faster frame rate). The emission frequency is also increased, for example, by changing the transmit / receive frequency using the “2D Opt” (2D frequency option) control on the touch panel. As a result of these changes, the image exhibits improved spatial resolution and uniformity, while reducing penetration, for example, compared to... Figure 3a In comparison, a cleaner clarity and higher resolution are visible in the thyroid gland 310 and the sternocleidomastoid muscle 330 and their boundaries. The skin layer 350 and the muscle layer 360 are also depicted more clearly.

[0056] Figure 4a This is a screenshot of an external ultrasound image 300 of a human thyroid gland captured using default imaging parameters. The thyroid gland 310, trachea 320, sternocleidomastoid muscle 330, and carotid artery 340 are visible. The image shows room for improvement in the sharpness of tissue boundaries and tissue contrast resolution of the thyroid gland 310.

[0057] Figure 4b Is with Figure 4a The image shown is a screenshot of an external ultrasound image 300 of the same human thyroid gland, but with different image post-processing parameters 220. Specifically, (e.g., via XRES on a touch panel) TM The controls increase image processing power, decrease the dynamic range (e.g., via the "Dynamic Range" control on the touch panel), and shift the grayscale image (e.g., via the "Grayscale" control on the touch panel), resulting in improved clarity of tissue boundaries and tissue contrast resolution, for example, compared to... Figure 4aIn comparison, improved tissue boundary clarity and tissue contrast resolution are visible in the boundaries and internal texture of thyroid 310. This improved visualization allows for visualization of the mass 410 within the thyroid gland, while... Figure 4a The mass 410 could not be clearly distinguished in the image.

[0058] Figure 5 This is a display screen 500 of an example ultrasound preset sharing system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, a user can select a local preset 510 from local storage media (e.g., non-volatile memory or hard disk drive). Parameters stored in the currently selected preset 520 can be loaded into the ultrasound imaging system 100 by activating the "Use" button 525, or uploaded to a remote server via the "Upload" button 530, or deleted from the currently selected preset 520 using the "Delete" button 535. The user can also select a remote preset or server preset 540 stored on a remote server. Information on the server indicates to the local system that a given preset file is available for download. The currently selected preset 550 can be copied to a list of local presets 510, where it will be locally accessible, by activating the "Download" button 560. In some cases, downloaded preset files can be displayed with different colors, fonts, or styles than manufacturer preset files and locally created preset files to distinguish them as content generated by other users. Manufacturer preset files may be presented on the system at the time of purchase and may be uneditable; however, edited versions may be saved as new local presets and made available to other users via the network. In some embodiments, presets in the list of remote or server presets 540 are only made available to remote users after they have been reviewed / examined by the manufacturer to ensure patient health and safety and proper use of the ultrasound imaging equipment.

[0059] Other displays and user controls may be used in place of or to supplement the examples depicted herein. In some embodiments, in addition to the title and description, each preset may also include example images, thumbnail images, previous and subsequent images, or difference or subtraction images comparing previous and subsequent images. In some embodiments, several different images may be uploaded to provide a sense of the functionality, purpose, and advantages of a particular custom preset file. In some embodiments, the ultrasound preset sharing system displays a comparison of the system's current settings with the selected preset. In some embodiments, the ultrasound preset sharing system displays a comparison of settings in two different presets. In some embodiments, a preset file can be selected from a menu containing only a title. In other embodiments, the selection menu may include a description, author name, author qualifications, user rating of the file, manufacturer rating of the file, user reviews on the file, manufacturer reviews on the file, example images, number of times the preset has been downloaded, and other necessary information conveying the content, purpose, and use of the preset file. In other embodiments, when a specific user control is activated on a particular preset file name (e.g., by right-clicking), the description, author name, author qualifications, user rating of the file, user reviews on the file, manufacturer rating of the file, manufacturer reviews on the file, example images, and other information may be obtained.

[0060] In some embodiments, a remote server is configured to automatically generate custom presets based on aggregated presets stored on the server. For example, the server may use artificial intelligence or other analytical methods to identify common elements or average results across all presets containing the word "thyroid," and then automatically generate consensus or crowdsourced presets that include these common features or average results. Alternatively, a manufacturer may observe, for example, that 80% of presets uploaded by users for a particular application have smoother image quality than the factory presets for the same application, which can improve the smoothness settings of future versions of the factory presets for that application. Manufacturers can also begin to understand differences between different regions and can use this information to begin building geographically specific presets. Manufacturers can also perform analyses on preset files, including but not limited to statistical analysis, data mining, and deep learning for all controls, to find preferred values ​​for certain controls in general or for specific regions, groups, or applications. The results of the analysis can also help manufacturers identify the most frequently used custom controls. This information can help manufacturers prioritize these controls. For example, if the XRES setting is the most frequently changed, the manufacturer can provide more options under XRES, or can change the UI to make XRES options more accessible. This analysis can be performed in a region-specific manner (e.g., Asia vs. North America) or a facility-specific manner (e.g., large hospitals vs. small clinics) to understand the differences between different regions or facilities, so that manufacturers can begin to establish specific presets for these regions or groups.

[0061] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, the preset is identified by its filename or a brief text description. However, in other embodiments, the preset can also be uniquely identified by alphanumeric text, shapes, symbols, and / or combinations thereof. Other embodiments may include similar... Figure 2 The preview pane is shown. In some embodiments, the server is configured to refuse uploads containing titles or image settings identical to files currently existing on the server, or to warn users attempting to upload duplicate files. In some embodiments, only registered users are allowed access to the server, and only registered users are allowed to enter comments or ratings for preset files they have already downloaded. In some embodiments, the system is configured to allow manufacturers to "push" custom presets to a set of ultrasound systems in a manner similar to smartphone upgrades. In these embodiments, each individual user can have the option to install or reject custom presets.

[0062] Figure 6This is a schematic diagram of an ultrasound preset sharing system 600 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. As described above, image presets 605 are stored and used within the ultrasound imaging system 100. These presets 605 can be stored as files (e.g., stored as backup copies) on a physical data storage medium 610 such as a flash drive or optical disc. Image presets 605 can also be uploaded to and stored on a remote server 640, where the stored preset files 605 can serve as personal backups and can also be accessed by the instruments of other users 650 (e.g., other users' laptops, workstations, mobile devices, and ultrasound imaging systems). Other users 650 can download the presets 605 for use on their own ultrasound imaging systems. Presets 605 created by other users 650 and uploaded to remote server 640 can also be downloaded from remote server 640 to ultrasound imaging system 100 for local use by clinicians and other users in medical imaging processes and (e.g., for reporting or archiving purposes) medical image post-processing.

[0063] In some implementations, the ultrasound imaging system 100 may communicate directly with a remote server via a wide area network (WAN) 630 (e.g., the Internet or a cellular data network). In other implementations, network access to the ultrasound imaging system 100 is restricted (e.g., to ensure the privacy of medical data and / or the physical and software integrity of the ultrasound imaging system 100). In these cases, communication with the remote server 640 may be via an office workstation 601. The office workstation 601 may be a laptop or desktop computer, notebook computer or tablet computer, smartphone, handheld device, or other computing device capable of accessing the WAN 630. Image preset files 605 may be transmitted to the office workstation 601 via a physical medium 610 or via a local area network (LAN) 620. Examples of LAN 620 may include, but are not limited to, medical digital imaging and communication (DICOM) systems, picture archiving and communication systems (PACS), and / or hospital information systems (HIS) accessed via a network connection. In some instances, the ultrasound system 100 may also communicate with the office workstation 601 via the WAN 630.

[0064] In the example, a clinician or other user creates an image preset file 605 for a specific clinical application (e.g., imaging a patient's skin to observe bone screws located within the patient's body). Preset file 605 may contain one or more image acquisition presets or one or more image post-processing presets, or any combination thereof, which are cropped to maximize the quality of the ultrasound images acquired and stored for that application. The user then saves image preset file 605 to flash drive 610 and from flash drive 610 to office workstation 201. The user uploads image preset file 605, along with its title and description, from office workstation 601 to remote server 640 via the Internet 630. The user can now access image preset file 605 via remote server 640 as a backup or archive file. Other users 650 can also access image preset file 605, read the title and description, and download preset file 605 for use on their own ultrasound imaging system 100. Other users can rate the preset file (e.g., on a scale of 0-5 stars), and the remote server 640 can display the average rating, the number of ratings, rating statistics (e.g., a histogram), and a list of individual ratings. In some implementations, users can also leave brief text comments on the preset file 605 to help other users get guidance or advice on using or not using the image preset file 605.

[0065] In another example, remote user 650 uploads image preset file 605 to a remote server, and a local user operating office workstation 601 reads the description of image preset file 605 and decides to download it. Server 640 then copies preset file 605 to office workstation 601, which stores a copy of preset file 605 in a list of local presets 510.

[0066] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of processor circuitry 750 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Processor circuitry 750 can be implemented in any of the following: an ultrasound imaging system 100 necessary for implementing the method, an office workstation 601, a remote server 640, or other user's instrument 650 or other device or workstation (e.g., a third-party workstation, network router, etc.). As shown, processor circuitry 750 may include processor 760, memory 764, and communication module 768. These components may communicate directly or indirectly with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0067] Processor 760 may include a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an ASIC, a controller, or any combination of the following: a general-purpose computing device, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) device, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other associated logic devices (including mechanical computers and quantum computers). Processor 760 may also include another hardware device, firmware device, or any combination thereof configured to perform the operations described herein. Processor 760 may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a combination of multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors incorporating a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

[0068] Memory 764 may include cache memory (e.g., the cache memory of processor 760), random access memory (RAM), magnetoresistive RAM (MRAM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, solid-state storage devices, hard disk drives, other forms of volatile and non-volatile memory, or combinations of different types of memory. In embodiments, memory 764 includes a non-transient computer-readable medium. Memory 764 may store instructions 766. Instructions 766 may include instructions that, when executed by processor 760, cause processor 760 to perform operations described herein with reference to ultrasound imaging system 100, office workstation 601, remote server 640, or other user's instrument 650. Instructions 766 may also be referred to as code. The terms "instruction" and "code" should be interpreted broadly to include any type of computer-readable statement (one or more). For example, the terms "instruction" and "code" may refer to one or more programs, routines, subroutines, functions, processes, etc. "Instructions" and "codes" can include one or more computer-readable statements.

[0069] The communication module 768 can include any electronic and / or logic circuitry to facilitate direct or indirect data communication between the processor circuitry 750, the ultrasound probe 108, the display 106, the networks 620 and 630, the physical medium 610, and other processors located in other components of the ultrasound preset shared system. In this respect, the communication module 768 can be an input / output (I / O) device. In some instances, the communication module 768 facilitates direct or indirect communication between the processor circuitry 750 and / or various components of the ultrasound imaging system 100, the office workstation 601, the remote server 640, the LAN 620, the WAN 630, and other users' instruments 650. The communication module 768 can communicate within the processor circuitry 750 via various methods or protocols. Serial communication protocols may include, but are not limited to, US SPI, I...2 C. Serial communication may be transmitted via RS-232, RS-485, CAN, Ethernet, ARINC 429, MODBUS, MIL-STD-1553, or any other suitable method or protocol. Parallel protocols include, but are not limited to, ISA, ATA, SCSI, PCI, IEEE-488, IEEE-1284, and other suitable protocols. Where appropriate, serial and parallel communication may be bridged via UART, USART, or other suitable subsystems.

[0070] External communication (including, but not limited to, software updates, firmware updates, preset sharing between the processor and a central server, or readings from ultrasound devices) can be accomplished using any suitable wireless or wired communication technology (e.g., cable interfaces such as USB, mini-USB, Lightning, or FireWire, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, Li-Fi, or cellular data connections such as 2G / GSM, 3G / UMTS, 4G / LTE / WiMax, or 5G). For example, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) radios can be used to establish connections to cloud services, transmit data, and receive software patches. The controller can be configured to communicate with remote servers or local devices (e.g., laptops, tablets, or handheld devices) or may include a display capable of showing status variables and other information. Information can also be transferred on physical media 610 such as a USB flash drive or memory stick.

[0071] Image presets can be used to automatically select values ​​for individual imaging parameters, thereby affecting how images are captured and displayed. Therefore, users can advantageously avoid having to set each value independently. In some embodiments, even when using presets, users can still adjust these values ​​independently when they wish to do so. Figure 8-11 The UI shown in the image is used to perform this task.

[0072] Figure 8 The display 200 is an example ultrasound preset sharing system display screen 200 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The display screen 200 allows the user to adjust image parameters 800, including image acquisition parameters 210 and image post-processing parameters 220, which have been combined together rather than grouped separately for aesthetic and functional reasons. In this example, the SonoCT option 810 has been selected. SonoCT enables coplanar tomography, which uses beam steering to capture images at multiple angles without moving the ultrasound probe.

[0073] Figure 9This is a display screen 200 of an example ultrasound preset sharing system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, the SonoCT option 810 has been selected, and the Res / Spd setting 815 has been set to a value higher than... Figure 8 The value is lower than the value in the middle.

[0074] Figure 10 This is a display screen 200 of an example ultrasound preset sharing system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, the SonoCT option 810 and the XRES option 820 have been selected, the XRES value 825 has been set to 2, and the dynamic range value 830 has been set to 76.

[0075] Figure 11 The display 200 is an example ultrasound preset sharing system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, the SonoCT option 810 and the XRES option 820 have been selected, the XRES value 825 has been increased to 3, and the dynamic range value 830 has been decreased to 66.

[0076] Figure 12 This is a flowchart of an example ultrasound preset sharing method 1200 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, method 1200 includes a plurality of enumerated steps, but embodiments of method 1200 may also include additional steps before, after, and between the enumerated steps. In some embodiments, one or more of the enumerated steps may be omitted, one or more of the enumerated steps may be performed in a different order, or one or more of the enumerated steps may be performed simultaneously. Processor circuitry implemented in an ultrasound console (e.g., ultrasound imaging system 100), a computer (e.g., office workstation 601), and / or a remote server (e.g., remote server 640) communicating with multiple ultrasound consoles and / or workstations. Figure 7 The processor circuit 750 is capable of executing the steps of method 1200.

[0077] In step 1210, the method loads the default image settings to be used by the system. In step 1220, the method displays to the user a list of image presets available on the local system, such as... Figure 5 As shown. In step 1230, the method displays a list of remotely available image presets to the user, for example, such as Figure 5As shown. Data or information available from a remote server via a network enables the ultrasound imaging console to recognize that imaging presets are stored in the server's memory and are available for download. Therefore, a list of available imaging presets can be compiled and displayed. In step 1240, the method receives user input regarding the selection of either a local or remote image preset to be applied to the current image or the current imaging process. For example, this could be touch input on a touchscreen or touchpad / mouse / button / knob input. In step 1250, the method displays a menu or other selections of available imaging parameter options to the user, such as... Figure 2 As shown. In step 1260, the method receives the user's selection of imaging parameters (e.g., through user manipulation of sliders, buttons, soft keys, menus, etc.). This can be touch input on a touchscreen that is changing parameter values ​​displayed on the GUI, or touchpad / mouse / button / knob input, for example, as... Figure 2 As shown. In some embodiments, the imaging console can preview the effects of applying different parameters or presets to the current ultrasound image or imaging process. This can be done on the same UI screen or on a separate UI screen. In step 1270, the method receives a user request to save the imaging parameters as a new preset (e.g., as shown). Figure 2 (As shown). In step 1280, the method saves the imaging parameters as a new preset available to the local system. In step 1290, the method enables a remote user to obtain the new preset via a network, for example, as... Figure 6 As shown.

[0078] Those skilled in the art will readily understand, upon familiarity with the teachings herein, that the ultrasound preset sharing system addresses many concerns in the art by providing users with a system that allows them to share their imaging expertise with one another and to rapidly receive imaging expertise from other users, while simultaneously providing ultrasound imaging system manufacturers with a system for distributing image presets and other information co-developed with the assistance of skilled users. Various variations can be made to the examples and embodiments described above. For example, a remote server can also be used to share other information, including but not limited to protocols, user-defined computational software packages, and other custom settings (e.g., UI layout (moving buttons) and workflows). Additionally, the system can be used to share imaging presets for other types of medical imaging systems, including but not limited to intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), intracardiac echocardiography (ICE), transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), X-ray, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In some embodiments, the medical imaging system is capable of acquiring images of the patient's body when positioned outside the patient's body. In some embodiments, the medical imaging system is capable of acquiring images of the patient's body when positioned inside the patient's body using, for example, catheters, guidewires, guiding catheters, and / or other endoluminal imaging devices.

[0079] Therefore, the logical operations constituting embodiments of the technology described herein are referred to differently as operations, steps, objects, elements, components, or modules. Furthermore, it should be understood that these logical operations can be performed in any order unless a specific order is expressly claimed otherwise or the language of the claims inherently requires it.

[0080] All directional references (e.g., up, down, inside, outside, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, front, back, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, counterclockwise, proximal, and distal) are used for identification purposes only to aid the reader's understanding of the claimed subject matter and do not impose limitations, particularly on the location, orientation, or use of the ultrasound preset sharing system. Unless otherwise stated, connection references (e.g., attachment, coupling, connection, and engagement) are to be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between element sets and relative movement between elements. Therefore, a connection reference does not necessarily mean that two elements are directly connected and in a fixed relationship with each other. The term "or" should be interpreted as "and / or" rather than "exclusively or". Unless otherwise stated in the claims, the specified values ​​should be interpreted only as illustrative and should not impose limitations.

[0081] The specifications, examples, and data above provide a complete description of the structure and use of exemplary embodiments of the ultrasound preset sharing system as defined in the claims. While various embodiments of the claimed subject matter have been described above with a degree of specificity or by reference to one or more individual embodiments, those skilled in the art can make many modifications to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0082] Other embodiments are also contemplated. The purpose is to interpret all that is contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings as merely illustrative of particular embodiments and not as limiting. Changes may be made to details or structure without departing from the essential elements of the subject matter as defined in the claims.

Claims

1. A server for sharing image settings between external ultrasound control consoles, comprising: A processor that communicates with a memory, wherein the processor is configured to communicate with and remotely communicate with a first ultrasound imaging console and a second ultrasound imaging console, wherein the processor is configured to: Receive an upload request for custom image settings from the first ultrasound imaging console; Receive the custom image settings from the first ultrasound imaging console; The custom image settings are stored in the memory; Output data representing the custom image settings to the second ultrasound imaging console; Receive a request for the custom image settings from the second ultrasound imaging console; In response to the request, the custom image settings are retrieved from the memory; and The custom image settings are output to the second ultrasound imaging console, such that the second ultrasound imaging console is configured to generate a first ultrasound image using the custom image settings.

2. The server according to claim 1, wherein, The custom image settings differ from the manufacturer's image settings.

3. The server according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is also configured to: Receive multiple requests from multiple ultrasound imaging consoles to upload multiple custom image settings; Receive the multiple custom image settings from the multiple ultrasound imaging consoles; The multiple custom image settings are stored in the memory; Output data representing each of the multiple custom image settings to the plurality of ultrasound imaging consoles; Receive a selection of one or more custom image settings from one of the plurality of ultrasound imaging consoles to be downloaded; and Output one or more of the multiple custom image settings to one or more of the multiple ultrasound imaging consoles.

4. The server according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is also configured to: Receive manufacturer image settings from the manufacturer system; The manufacturer image settings are stored in the memory; Output data representing the manufacturer's image settings to multiple ultrasound imaging consoles; Receive selection of manufacturer image settings to be downloaded from one or more of the plurality of ultrasound imaging consoles; and The manufacturer's image settings are output to one or more of the plurality of ultrasound imaging consoles.

5. An ultrasound imaging system, comprising: A first ultrasound imaging console, comprising a processor and a display, wherein the processor is configured to output a graphical user interface (GUI) to the display, the GUI including instructions for custom image settings and upload options; and A communication module that communicates with the processor and is configured to output an upload request to an external server configured according to claim 1 based on the user's instruction on the custom image settings and the selection of the upload option.

6. The ultrasound imaging system according to claim 5, wherein, The processor is configured to receive user input via the GUI to modify the custom image settings.

7. The ultrasound imaging system according to claim 6, wherein, The first ultrasound imaging console includes a memory, wherein the processor is configured to: The custom image settings are stored in the memory; Based on the upload request, the custom image settings are retrieved from the storage; and The custom image settings are output to the external server.

8. The ultrasound imaging system according to claim 5, wherein, The processor is also configured to output a graphical user interface (GUI) to the display, the GUI including download options and an indication of the custom image settings based on data representing the custom image settings, wherein a further processor is configured to output a download request to the server based on the user's selection of the download options and the indication of the custom image settings.

9. The ultrasound imaging system according to claim 8, wherein, The second ultrasound imaging console includes additional memory, wherein the additional processor of the second ultrasound imaging console is configured to: The custom image settings are stored in the additional memory; Based on the implementation request, the custom image settings are retrieved from the additional memory; and The custom image settings are applied to generate a second image.

10. The ultrasound imaging system according to claim 8, further comprising: The server according to claim 1; as well as The second ultrasound imaging console is arranged substantially the same as the ultrasound imaging console according to claim 8.

11. The ultrasound imaging system according to claim 10, in, The first ultrasound imaging console is configured to be positioned within a first patient examination area, and the second ultrasound imaging console is configured to be positioned within a second patient examination area spaced apart from the first patient examination area.

12. The ultrasound imaging system according to claim 10, further comprising: A first ultrasound imaging probe, which communicates with the first ultrasound imaging console; and The second ultrasound imaging probe communicates with the second ultrasound imaging console.

13. The ultrasound imaging system according to claim 5, wherein, The custom image settings include at least one of the following: acquisition parameters associated with the operation of the ultrasound imaging probe to acquire ultrasound imaging data, or post-processing parameters associated with processing the ultrasound imaging data to generate a first ultrasound image.

14. An ultrasound imaging method, comprising: An upload request for custom image settings is received at a server including a processor that communicates with memory, wherein the processor communicates with and is remote from the first and second ultrasound imaging consoles, and wherein the upload request is received from the first ultrasound imaging console. The custom image settings are received from the first ultrasound imaging console at the server. The custom image settings are stored in the memory; The server outputs data representing the custom image settings to the second ultrasound imaging console. The server receives a request for the custom image settings from the second ultrasound imaging console. In response to the request, the custom image settings are retrieved from the memory; and The server outputs the custom image settings to the second ultrasound imaging console, enabling the second ultrasound imaging console to generate images using the custom image settings.

15. The ultrasound imaging method according to claim 14, wherein, The custom image settings include at least one of the following: acquisition parameters associated with the operation of the ultrasound imaging probe to acquire ultrasound imaging data, or post-processing parameters associated with processing the ultrasound imaging data to generate an ultrasound image.

16. The ultrasound imaging method according to claim 14, further comprising: The server receives multiple requests from multiple ultrasound imaging consoles to upload multiple custom image settings. The server receives the multiple custom image settings from the multiple ultrasound imaging consoles. The multiple custom image settings are stored in the memory; The server outputs data representing each of the multiple custom image settings to the multiple ultrasound imaging consoles. The server receives a selection of one or more custom image settings from one of the plurality of ultrasound imaging consoles to be downloaded; and The server outputs one or more custom image settings from the plurality of custom image settings to one or more of the plurality of ultrasound imaging consoles.

17. The ultrasound imaging method according to claim 14, further comprising: Receive manufacturer image settings from the manufacturer system at the server; The manufacturer image settings are stored in the memory; The server outputs data representing the manufacturer's image settings to multiple ultrasound imaging consoles; The server receives a selection of the manufacturer's image settings to be downloaded from one or more of the plurality of ultrasound imaging consoles; and The server outputs the manufacturer's image settings to one or more of the plurality of ultrasound imaging consoles.

18. The ultrasound imaging method according to claim 14, further comprising: A separate processor of the first ultrasound imaging console outputs a graphical user interface (GUI) to the display of the first ultrasound imaging console, wherein the GUI includes instructions for the custom image settings and upload options; and The additional processor outputs the upload request to the server based on the user's instructions regarding the custom image settings and the selection of the upload options.

19. The ultrasound imaging method according to claim 18, further comprising: User input is received via the GUI at the additional processor to modify the custom image settings.

20. The ultrasound imaging method according to claim 19, further comprising: The custom image settings are stored in a separate memory of the first ultrasound imaging console; The additional processor retrieves the custom image settings from the memory based on the upload request; and The custom image settings are output to the server via the additional processor.

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