An ultrasound imaging method and related apparatus

Abstract

The application discloses an ultrasonic imaging method, comprising: an ultrasonic imaging host computer receiving M groups of ultrasonic signals from M ultrasonic probes simultaneously; wherein M is greater than or equal to 1; parallel preprocessing is performed on the M groups of ultrasonic signals by using an X-path ultrasonic signal processing circuit to obtain M groups of preprocessing data; wherein X is greater than or equal to M; parallel imaging processing is performed by using the M groups of preprocessing data. The M groups of ultrasonic signals are preprocessed by the X-path ultrasonic signal processing circuit, the number of the ultrasonic signal processing circuits is greater than the number of the groups of ultrasonic signals, parallel preprocessing is simultaneously realized, the imaging response speed is improved, and the clinical application convenience of the ultrasonic is improved. The application also discloses an ultrasonic imaging host computer, a computing device and a computer readable storage medium, which have the above beneficial effects.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of ultrasonic imaging, and in particular to an ultrasonic imaging method, an ultrasonic imaging host, a computing device, and a computer readable storage medium. BACKGROUND

[0002] With the continuous development of ultrasonic clinical diagnosis needs, a dual-plane ultrasonic probe appears to realize imaging operation of two probes, and the dual-plane probe has wide clinical application value in urology department and rectal application.

[0003] In the related art, two ultrasonic probes are generally connected to one high-voltage switch, and ultrasonic imaging is realized by constantly switching the two ultrasonic probes through the high-voltage switch. However, only the ultrasonic signal of one ultrasonic probe is in real-time response in the switching process of the high-voltage switch, and the ultrasonic signal of the other ultrasonic probe cannot be responded in time, which reduces the overall imaging frame rate, and also cannot realize parallel processing of the ultrasonic signals of the two probes, resulting in that the two probes cannot realize different imaging functions in real time, and finally reduces the diagnostic value of the dual-plane probe in the clinic.

[0004] Therefore, how to improve the parallel ultrasonic imaging processing capability of the dual-plane probe ultrasonic system is an important problem for those skilled in the art. SUMMARY

[0005] The purpose of the present application is to provide an ultrasonic imaging method, an ultrasonic imaging host, a computing device, and a computer readable storage medium to solve the problem of response speed of the dual-plane probe ultrasonic system imaging.

[0006] To solve the above technical problems, the present application provides an ultrasonic imaging method, comprising:

[0007] The ultrasonic imaging host simultaneously receives M groups of ultrasonic signals from M ultrasonic probes; wherein M is greater than or equal to 1;

[0008] Parallel pre-processing of the M groups of ultrasonic signals is performed using an X-way ultrasonic signal processing circuit to obtain M groups of pre-processed data; wherein X is greater than or equal to M;

[0009] Parallel imaging processing is performed using the M groups of pre-processed data.

[0010] Optionally, the ultrasonic imaging host simultaneously receives M groups of ultrasonic signals from M ultrasonic probes, comprising:

[0011] The ultrasonic imaging host simultaneously receives signals from floor(N / M) channels corresponding to each ultrasonic probe using M-way receiving sub-circuits to obtain the M groups of ultrasonic signals; wherein N is the total number of channels of the ultrasonic imaging host, and floor represents rounding down.

[0012] Optionally, the X-path ultrasonic signal processing circuit is used to perform parallel preprocessing on the M groups of ultrasonic signals to obtain M groups of preprocessing data, including:

[0013] When the X is equal to the M, an M-path beam processing sub-circuit is used to simultaneously perform beam synthesis processing on each group of ultrasonic signals corresponding thereto to obtain M groups of preprocessing signals;

[0014] An M-path signal algorithm processing sub-circuit is used to simultaneously perform signal algorithm processing on each group of preprocessing signals corresponding thereto to obtain the M groups of preprocessing data; wherein the M-path receiving sub-circuit, the M-path beam processing sub-circuit and the M-path signal algorithm processing sub-circuit are located in the same board card.

[0015] Optionally, the M-path beam processing sub-circuit is used to simultaneously perform beam synthesis processing on each group of ultrasonic signals corresponding thereto to obtain M groups of preprocessing signals, including:

[0016] A frequency multiplication circuit and an M-path beam processing sub-circuit are used to simultaneously perform beam synthesis processing on each group of ultrasonic signals corresponding thereto to obtain the M groups of preprocessing signals.

[0017] Optionally, the M-path beam processing sub-circuit is used to simultaneously perform beam synthesis processing on each group of ultrasonic signals corresponding thereto to obtain M groups of preprocessing signals, including:

[0018] floor(L / M) beam synthesizers of an FPGA in the beam processing sub-circuit are used to simultaneously perform beam synthesis on each group of ultrasonic signals corresponding to each beam processing sub-circuit to obtain the M groups of preprocessing signals; wherein L is the total number of beam synthesizers of the FPGA, and floor represents rounding down.

[0019] Optionally, the X-path ultrasonic signal processing circuit is used to perform parallel preprocessing on the M groups of ultrasonic signals to obtain M groups of preprocessing data, including:

[0020] When the X is a multiple of the M, the ultrasonic imaging host uses X independent board cards to simultaneously perform preprocessing on the ultrasonic signals of corresponding floor(N / X) channels to obtain X groups of preprocessing data; wherein each board card includes a separate ultrasonic signal processing circuit, and floor represents rounding down;

[0021] When the X is equal to the M, the X groups of preprocessing data are taken as the M groups of preprocessing data;

[0022] When the X is not equal to the M, the X groups of preprocessing data are combined according to the connection relationship between each ultrasonic head and the channel to obtain the M groups of preprocessing data.

[0023] Optionally, further comprising:

[0024] The ultrasonic imaging host uses an X-path ultrasonic signal transmitting circuit to simultaneously perform high-voltage emission on the M ultrasonic probes, so that each ultrasonic probe receives the ultrasonic signal.

[0025] Optionally, further comprising:

[0026] When the number of array elements of the ultrasonic probe is less than or equal to floor(N / M), each ultrasonic probe is a probe connected to a channel of the ultrasonic imaging host;

[0027] When the number of array elements of the ultrasonic probe is greater than floor(N / M), each ultrasonic probe is a probe connected to a channel of the ultrasonic imaging host through a high-voltage switch.

[0028] The application also provides an ultrasonic imaging host, comprising:

[0029] A signal receiving module is configured to simultaneously receive M groups of ultrasonic signals from M ultrasonic probes; wherein M is greater than or equal to 1;

[0030] A signal processing module is configured to use an X-path ultrasonic signal processing circuit to perform parallel preprocessing on the M groups of ultrasonic signals to obtain M groups of preprocessed data; wherein X is greater than or equal to M;

[0031] An ultrasonic imaging module is configured to use the M groups of preprocessed data to perform parallel imaging processing.

[0032] The application also provides a computing device, comprising:

[0033] A memory is configured to store a computer program;

[0034] A processor is configured to execute the computer program to implement the steps of the ultrasonic imaging method described above.

[0035] The application also provides a computer readable storage medium, wherein the computer readable storage medium stores a computer program, and the computer program is executed by a processor to implement the steps of the ultrasonic imaging method described above.

[0036] The application provides an ultrasonic imaging method, comprising: an ultrasonic imaging host simultaneously receiving M groups of ultrasonic signals from M ultrasonic probes; wherein M is greater than or equal to 1; using an X-path ultrasonic signal processing circuit to perform parallel preprocessing on the M groups of ultrasonic signals to obtain M groups of preprocessed data; wherein X is greater than or equal to M; and using the M groups of preprocessed data to perform parallel imaging processing.

[0037] The M groups of ultrasonic signals are preprocessed by the X-path ultrasonic signal processing circuit. Since the number of ultrasonic signal processing circuits is greater than or equal to the number of probes, the ultrasonic signals can be preprocessed simultaneously in parallel, and preprocessed data is obtained. Finally, M groups of preprocessed data are used for parallel imaging processing, instead of imaging the ultrasonic signals of different ultrasonic heads at different times, which avoids the problem that one group of ultrasonic signals needs to wait while another group of ultrasonic signals is being imaged during imaging. M groups of ultrasonic signals are simultaneously and real-time imaged, the overall imaging response speed is improved, and the effect of ultrasonic imaging and the ease of use of ultrasonic clinical application are ultimately improved.

[0038] The application also provides an ultrasonic imaging host, a computing device and a computer readable storage medium, which have the above beneficial effects, which are not described here. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0039] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application or the prior art, the drawings needed in the embodiments or prior art description will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings in the following description are only embodiments of the present application, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings according to the provided drawings without creative labor.

[0040] Figure 1 Flow chart of the first ultrasonic imaging method provided by the embodiments of the present application;

[0041] Figure 2 Flow chart of the second ultrasonic imaging method provided by the embodiments of the present application;

[0042] Figure 3 First structural schematic diagram of the second ultrasonic imaging method provided by the embodiments of the present application;

[0043] Figure 4 Second structural schematic diagram of the second ultrasonic imaging method provided by the embodiments of the present application;

[0044] Figure 5 Flow chart of the third ultrasonic imaging method provided by the embodiments of the present application;

[0045] Figure 6 First structural schematic diagram of the third ultrasonic imaging method provided by the embodiments of the present application;

[0046] Figure 7 Second structural schematic diagram of the third ultrasonic imaging method provided by the embodiments of the present application;

[0047] Figure 8 Structural schematic diagram of an ultrasonic imaging host provided by the embodiments of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] The core of the present application is to provide an ultrasonic imaging method, an ultrasonic imaging host, a computing device and a computer readable storage medium to solve the problem of low response speed of the dual-probe ultrasonic system imaging.

[0049] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present application clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be described below in connection with the drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some of the embodiments of the present application, rather than all the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by a person of ordinary skill in the art without creative work fall within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0050] In the related art, two ultrasonic probes are generally connected to one high-voltage switch, and ultrasonic imaging is realized by constantly switching the two ultrasonic probes through the high-voltage switch. However, only the ultrasonic signal of one ultrasonic probe is in real-time response during the switching process of the high-voltage switch, and the ultrasonic signal of the other ultrasonic probe cannot be responded in time, which reduces the overall imaging frame rate and also cannot realize parallel processing of the ultrasonic signals of the two probes, resulting in that the two probes cannot realize different imaging functions in real time, and finally reduces the diagnostic value of the dual-plane probe in the clinic.

[0051] Therefore, the present application provides an ultrasonic imaging method, which pre-processes M groups of ultrasonic signals through an X-path ultrasonic signal processing circuit. Since the number of ultrasonic signal processing circuits is greater than the number of groups of ultrasonic signals, the ultrasonic signals can be pre-processed simultaneously in parallel, and pre-processing data is obtained. Finally, M groups of pre-processing data are used for parallel imaging processing, instead of imaging the ultrasonic signals of different ultrasonic probes in time division, thereby avoiding the problem that one group of ultrasonic signals needs to wait while imaging another group of ultrasonic signals, realizing real-time imaging of M groups of ultrasonic signals at the same time, improving the overall imaging response speed, and finally improving the effect of ultrasonic imaging.

[0052] It can be seen that the main consideration is that the existing technology adopts time-division imaging, which leads to the problem of low response speed of the imaging process and reduces the imaging effect. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the ultrasonic signals are pre-processed by the ultrasonic signal processing circuit which is greater than or equal to the number of ultrasonic probes, and then further imaging is performed, realizing parallel real-time processing instead of time-division processing, improving the response speed and imaging effect.

[0053] The following describes an ultrasonic imaging method provided by the present application through an embodiment.

[0054] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 The flowchart of the first ultrasonic imaging method provided by the present application embodiment.

[0055] In this embodiment, the method can include:

[0056] S101, the ultrasound imaging host simultaneously receives M groups of ultrasound signals from M ultrasound probes; wherein M is greater than or equal to 1;

[0057] It can be seen that this step aims to enable the ultrasound imaging host to simultaneously receive M groups of ultrasound signals from M ultrasound probes. Here, M is greater than or equal to 1. That is, the number of ultrasound probes used by the ultrasound imaging host in this embodiment is greater than or equal to 1. That is, the probe used is a common single-probe probe, a dual-plane probe, or a multi-plane probe.

[0058] Further, the ultrasound imaging host is generally connected to the ultrasound probe through channels in the host. In the prior art, due to the use of time-sharing imaging technology, only the channel of the element number of the ultrasound probe is used at any time. When the element number of the probe is greater than the number of channels, all channels are occupied. That is, at any time, the ultrasound imaging host only receives a group of ultrasound signals corresponding to one ultrasound probe and uses the group of ultrasound signals for imaging. When the signal is switched to the next ultrasound probe, the ultrasound imaging host will process the ultrasound signal of the next ultrasound probe. Therefore, at any time, there is a problem that the ultrasound signal of the ultrasound probe cannot be responded to, resulting in the problem that the imaging response speed of the ultrasound host is not timely.

[0059] Therefore, in the technical scheme of the present application, the ultrasound imaging host directly receives M groups of ultrasound signals from M ultrasound probes at the same time. Specifically, in order to maintain the processing effect of the ultrasound signal of each ultrasound probe, that is, the performance of each ultrasound probe for processing is the same, the ultrasound imaging host simultaneously receives signals from floor(N / M) channels corresponding to each ultrasound probe, N being the total number of channels of the ultrasound imaging host, so that M groups of ultrasound signals can be obtained at the same time. It can be envisaged that each ultrasound probe is connected to floor(N / M) channels in the ultrasound imaging host, so that the channels of the ultrasound imaging host are evenly distributed to each ultrasound probe.

[0060] Here, the M ultrasound probes can be ultrasound probes arranged in the same ultrasound probe, or ultrasound probes arranged in different ultrasound probes, which are not specifically limited here.

[0061] S102, using an X-way ultrasound signal processing circuit to perform parallel preprocessing on the M groups of ultrasound signals to obtain M groups of preprocessed data; wherein X is greater than or equal to M;

[0062] On the basis of S101, the step aims to use X-way ultrasonic signal processing circuit to perform parallel preprocessing on M groups of ultrasonic signals to obtain M groups of preprocessed data. Wherein, X is greater than or equal to M. Obviously, through the embodiment, the number of ultrasonic signal processing circuits greater than or equal to the number of ultrasonic probes can be used to process each corresponding ultrasonic signal, which realizes the average allocation of the processing performance of the ultrasonic imaging host to each ultrasonic probe, so as to realize parallel preprocessing. Instead of time-sharing imaging of the ultrasonic signal of each ultrasonic probe.

[0063] Wherein, the X-way ultrasonic signal processing circuit can be a processing circuit arranged in the same board card, which is equivalent to splitting the original processing circuit resources into X parts, so that one or more resources correspond to one ultrasonic probe, so as to realize parallel processing, reduce the implementation threshold, improve the performance utilization rate, and easily control the cost. The X-way ultrasonic signal processing circuit can also be X single board cards, each of which includes a separate ultrasonic signal processing circuit, which has faster processing efficiency and faster response speed, and has good heat dissipation. The X-way ultrasonic signal processing circuit can also be multiple control logics split at the software level, each of which corresponds to at least one ultrasonic probe to realize parallel processing.

[0064] Regardless of the form of the ultrasonic signal processing circuit, the method of processing the ultrasonic signal can adopt the method of processing the ultrasonic signal in the prior art. The difference lies in that in the embodiment, M groups of ultrasonic signals are processed at the same time.

[0065] Wherein, when the number of ultrasonic signal processing circuits is equal to the number of ultrasonic probes, that is, X is equal to M, each ultrasonic signal processing circuit corresponds to one ultrasonic probe for processing. When the number of ultrasonic signal processing circuits is greater than the number of ultrasonic probes, and X is a multiple of M, the ultrasonic signal corresponding to each ultrasonic probe can be distributed to X / M ultrasonic signal processing circuits, so that multiple ultrasonic signal processing circuits process the ultrasonic signal of one ultrasonic probe, so as to further improve the processing performance and efficiency.

[0066] In addition, when the number of ultrasonic signal processing circuits is greater than the number of ultrasonic probes, and X is not a multiple of M, uneven distribution can also be performed. Further, more ultrasonic signal processing circuits can be allocated according to the performance requirements or functional requirements corresponding to each ultrasonic probe. For example, when the number of ultrasonic probes is 2 and the number of ultrasonic signal processing circuits is 3, two ultrasonic signal processing circuits can be allocated to the first ultrasonic probe, and the remaining one ultrasonic signal processing circuit can be allocated to the second ultrasonic probe. Or the ultrasonic probe A is Color imaging, and the ultrasonic probe B is shear wave imaging. Among them, the processing resources corresponding to the ultrasonic probes of different ultrasonic imaging modes are different, and the ultrasonic processing circuit can be allocated according to the required processing resources. For example, Color imaging requires more processing resources, and more ultrasonic signal processing circuits are allocated.

[0067] S103, parallel imaging processing is performed using the M groups of preprocessed data.

[0068] On the basis of S102, the step aims to perform parallel imaging processing using the M groups of preprocessed data. Further, the step can be to perform imaging processing using the M groups of preprocessed data at the same time, realizing real-time imaging of multiple probes.

[0069] Among them, the way of performing imaging processing on the basis of obtaining preprocessed data can adopt any one of the imaging processing ways provided by the prior art, which is not limited here.

[0070] In summary, the embodiment pre-processes the M groups of ultrasonic signals through X ultrasonic signal processing circuits. Since the number of ultrasonic signal processing circuits is greater than the number of groups of ultrasonic signals, the ultrasonic signals can be pre-processed simultaneously in parallel, and preprocessed data can be obtained. Finally, parallel imaging processing is performed using the M groups of preprocessed data, instead of imaging the ultrasonic signals of different ultrasonic probes at different times, avoiding the problem that one group of ultrasonic signals needs to wait while another group of ultrasonic signals is being imaged. Real-time imaging of M groups of ultrasonic signals is realized, the overall imaging response speed is improved, and the effect of ultrasonic imaging is ultimately improved.

[0071] Further, in order to reduce the cost of the ultrasonic imaging host, reduce the threshold for improvement and change, improve the utilization rate of hardware, and improve the implementation effect on the original ultrasonic imaging host. The following further illustrates the ultrasonic imaging method provided by the present application through another specific embodiment.

[0072] Please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 2 the flowchart of the second ultrasonic imaging method provided by the embodiment of the present application.

[0073] In this embodiment, since all the ultrasonic signal processing circuits are integrated in one board card, the performance resources are not excessively divided, the number of ultrasonic signal processing circuits is set to be equal to the number of groups of ultrasonic signals, that is, X is equal to M, and the method can include:

[0074] In S201, the ultrasonic imaging host simultaneously receives signals from floor(N / M) channels corresponding to each ultrasonic probe head by using M receiving sub-circuits, and obtains M groups of ultrasonic signals.

[0075] In S202, each group of ultrasonic signals is simultaneously subjected to beam synthesis processing by using M beam processing sub-circuits corresponding to the M groups of ultrasonic signals, and M groups of preprocessed signals are obtained.

[0076] In S203, each group of preprocessed signals is simultaneously subjected to signal algorithm processing by using M signal algorithm processing sub-circuits corresponding to the M groups of preprocessed signals, and M groups of preprocessed data are obtained. The M receiving sub-circuits, the M beam processing sub-circuits, and the M signal algorithm processing sub-circuits are located in the same board card.

[0077] In S204, parallel imaging processing is performed by using the M groups of preprocessed data.

[0078] That is, in this embodiment, the receiving sub-circuit, the beam processing sub-circuit, and the signal algorithm processing sub-circuit corresponding to each ultrasonic probe head are set. In fact, the resources of the receiving circuit in the board card are divided into multiple receiving sub-circuits, the resources of the beam processing are divided into multiple beam processing sub-circuits, and the resources of the signal algorithm processing are divided into multiple signal algorithm processing sub-circuits. That is, the resources are divided at the software level, rather than dividing the hardware circuit into multiple independent circuits. The implementation threshold of the existing ultrasonic imaging host can be reduced, the performance utilization rate can be effectively improved, the modification cost can be reduced, and only one board card, that is, only one front-end board card, is used.

[0079] Taking two ultrasonic probe heads as an example, there is only one front-end board card, and half of the transmission and reception circuits are responsible for the first ultrasonic probe head, and the other half of the transmission and reception circuits are responsible for the second ultrasonic probe head. Accordingly, the two ultrasonic probe heads can transmit and receive in parallel. After the channel data (ultrasonic signals) pass through the DAC (Digital to analog converter, digital to analog converter), the channel digital signals enter the FPGA or DSP to perform beamforming (beam synthesis) and signal processing algorithm operations in 2 paths, and preprocessed data is obtained. If the channel digital signals are directly transmitted to the CPU / GPU, the calculation is performed in the CPU or GPU. As can be seen, the resources are divided into 2 paths and processed in parallel, which can meet the independent transmission and reception processing of the two ultrasonic probe heads, so that double-plane double-real-time imaging can be realized, and the function is not limited.

[0080] Further, in actual application environment, the parameters of each ultrasonic probe are different. Therefore, multiple sets of scan controls need to be implemented simultaneously in a general board system, and each set of scan controls corresponds to one ultrasonic probe.

[0081] Further, in order to improve the efficiency of beam synthesis processing, S202 in the embodiment can include:

[0082] Each set of ultrasonic signals corresponding to each of the M ultrasonic probes is simultaneously subjected to beam synthesis processing by the frequency multiplication circuit and the M beam processing sub-circuits to obtain the M sets of preprocessed signals.

[0083] That is, the efficiency and processing speed of the beam synthesis process are improved by the frequency multiplication circuit, so as to improve the frame number of the synthesized beam.

[0084] Further, in order to maintain the cost of beam processing, S202 in the embodiment can include:

[0085] Each set of ultrasonic signals corresponding to each of the M ultrasonic probes is simultaneously subjected to beam synthesis processing by the frequency multiplication circuit and the M beam processing sub-circuits to obtain the M sets of preprocessed signals.

[0086] That is, according to the allocation of the beam synthesizers in the existing FPGA to each ultrasonic probe, the FPGA resources remain unchanged, and the beam synthesis is completed by reducing the number of beam synthesizers corresponding to each ultrasonic probe, which can maintain the cost unchanged and improve the hardware utilization rate. Even if this optional scheme is adopted, it is better than the time-sharing control of the switching high-voltage switch, and different probes can be flexibly configured to realize different functions of imaging in parallel.

[0087] Further, in the embodiment, ultrasonic probes with different element numbers can match different connection relationships to improve the imaging effect and efficiency. The embodiment can further include:

[0088] When the element number of the ultrasonic probe is less than or equal to floor(N / M), each ultrasonic probe is a probe connected to a channel of the ultrasonic imaging host.

[0089] When the element number of the ultrasonic probe is greater than floor(N / M), each ultrasonic probe is a probe connected to a channel of the ultrasonic imaging host through a high-voltage switch.

[0090] It can be seen that, in the embodiment, when the element number of the ultrasonic probe is less than or equal to floor(N / M), the ultrasonic probe is directly connected to the ultrasonic imaging host. When the element number of the ultrasonic probe is greater than floor(N / M), the ultrasonic probe is connected to the ultrasonic imaging host through a high-voltage switch.

[0091] Please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 3 for a first structural schematic diagram of a second ultrasonic imaging method provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0092] Figure 3 In the case where the number of array elements of the ultrasonic probe is less than or equal to N / 2, each ultrasonic probe is directly connected to the channel of the ultrasonic imaging host. That is, the channel resource of the ultrasonic imaging host is greater than or equal to the resource required by the ultrasonic probe, and the switching of array elements does not need a high-voltage switch, avoiding the attenuation of the signal by the high-voltage switch and improving the imaging effect.

[0093] Please refer to Figure 4 , Figure 4 for a second structural schematic diagram of the second ultrasonic imaging method provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0094] Figure 4 In the case where the number of array elements of the ultrasonic probe is greater than N / 2, each ultrasonic probe is connected to the channel of the ultrasonic imaging host through a high-voltage switch. That is, the channel resource of the ultrasonic imaging host is less than the resource required by the ultrasonic probe, and the number of channels required by the array elements needs to be mapped and connected through the high-voltage switch to ensure that all array elements can be normally used. One high-voltage switch is connected to each ultrasonic probe to achieve the switching of array elements, and the high-voltage switch is configured to enable multiple probes to simultaneously and independently achieve the imaging processing of the array elements greater than N / M.

[0095] It can be seen that the M ultrasonic signal processing circuits are used to pre-process the M groups of ultrasonic signals. Since the number of ultrasonic signal processing circuits is equal to the number of groups of ultrasonic signals, the ultrasonic signals can be pre-processed simultaneously in parallel, and pre-processed data can be obtained. Finally, the M groups of pre-processed data are used for parallel imaging processing, instead of imaging the ultrasonic signals of different ultrasonic probes in time division, thereby avoiding the problem that one group of ultrasonic signals needs to wait while another group of ultrasonic signals is being imaged. The M groups of ultrasonic signals are simultaneously and real-time imaged, the overall imaging parallel processing capability is improved, and the effect of ultrasonic imaging is ultimately improved.

[0096] Further, the processing effect and efficiency of the ultrasonic imaging method are improved, the time delay of the ultrasonic imaging processing process is reduced, and the response speed of the imaging is further improved. The following further describes an ultrasonic imaging method provided by the present application through another specific embodiment.

[0097] Please refer to Figure 5 , Figure 5 for a flowchart of a third ultrasonic imaging method provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0098] In the embodiment, the method can include:

[0099] S301, the ultrasound imaging host receives M sets of ultrasound signals from M ultrasound probes simultaneously; wherein M is greater than or equal to 1;

[0100] S302, when X is a multiple of M, the ultrasound imaging host uses X independent boards to simultaneously preprocess the ultrasound signals of floor(N / X) channels to obtain X sets of preprocessing data; wherein each board includes a separate ultrasound signal processing circuit;

[0101] S303, when X is equal to M, the X sets of preprocessing data are taken as the M sets of preprocessing data;

[0102] S304, when X is not equal to M, the X sets of preprocessing data are merged according to the connection relationship between each ultrasound probe and the channel to obtain M sets of preprocessing data;

[0103] S305, M sets of preprocessing data are used for parallel imaging processing.

[0104] It can be seen that the ultrasound imaging host in the embodiment realizes imaging processing of M sets of ultrasound signals through X boards. Wherein X is a multiple of M, that is, X can be 1*M, or 2*M. It can also be 8*M, which is not limited here. Each board is used for processing N / X channel ultrasound signals and channel transmission and reception processing. The way each board processes the signal can refer to any signal processing method provided by the prior art, which is not limited here.

[0105] That is, it is not limited to dividing the front end of the ultrasound imaging host into 2 boards, but also into 4 boards, so that each ultrasound probe is connected to the corresponding 2 front end boards. For example, the total number of channels is N, if it is 2 boards, then the number of channels corresponding to each board is N / 2, if it is 4 boards, then the number of channels corresponding to each board is N / 4. Wherein, the connection relationship between the probe and the channel only needs to be corresponding.

[0106] In addition, in actual operation, all independent boards can only use a few of them, that is, all independent boards do not need to be used at the same time.

[0107] In actual working conditions, taking two ultrasound probes as an example, the hardware architecture of the ultrasound imaging host is improved. Assuming that the physical channel number of the system is N (wherein N is generally even, commonly used 64 / 128 / 192 / 256), and the number of elements of a single ultrasound probe is P1 and P2. When P1≤N / 2, P2≤N / 2, the ultrasound host system is divided into 2 front end boards, and each board is responsible for the transmission and reception processing of N / 2 channels.

[0108] Two ultrasonic probes are respectively connected with one of the two board cards. Therefore, the two board cards are respectively responsible for the independent transmission and reception processing of one of the two probes. Since the two front-end board cards are independent in carrying out the ultrasonic scanning control, i.e., the transmission and reception processing, the two probes can perform imaging in parallel in real time, realizing the scheme of dual-plane dual real-time imaging, which has very good guarantee for frame rate and real-time performance.

[0109] Further, in the embodiment, the ultrasonic probes with different element numbers can be matched with different connection relationships, so as to improve the imaging effect and efficiency. The embodiment can further include:

[0110] When the element number of the ultrasonic probe is less than or equal to floor(N / M), each ultrasonic probe is a probe connected with a channel of the ultrasonic imaging host.

[0111] When the element number of the ultrasonic probe is greater than floor(N / M), each ultrasonic probe is a probe connected with a channel of the ultrasonic imaging host through a high-voltage switch.

[0112] It can be seen that, in the embodiment, when the element number of the ultrasonic probe is less than or equal to floor(N / M), the ultrasonic probe is directly connected with the ultrasonic imaging host. When the element number of the ultrasonic probe is greater than floor(N / M), the ultrasonic probe is connected with the ultrasonic imaging host through a high-voltage switch.

[0113] Taking two ultrasonic probes as an example, refer to Figure 6 , Figure 6 which is a first structural schematic diagram of a third ultrasonic imaging method provided by the embodiment of the application.

[0114] Figure 6 In the embodiment, when the element number of the ultrasonic probe is less than or equal to N / 2, each ultrasonic probe is directly connected with a channel of the ultrasonic imaging host. That is, the channel resource of the ultrasonic imaging host is greater than or equal to the resource required by the ultrasonic probe, so that a high-voltage switch is not needed to reduce the connection quantity, avoiding the attenuation of the signal by the high-voltage switch and improving the imaging effect.

[0115] Taking two ultrasonic probes as an example, refer to Figure 7 , Figure 7 which is a second structural schematic diagram of the third ultrasonic imaging method provided by the embodiment of the application.

[0116] Figure 7When the number of array elements of the ultrasonic probe is greater than N / 2, each ultrasonic probe is connected to the channel of the ultrasonic imaging host through a high-voltage switch. That is, the channel resource of the ultrasonic imaging host is less than the resource required by the ultrasonic probe, and the high-voltage switch is required to reduce the number of channels required by the array element, thereby improving the hardware utilization rate. Each ultrasonic probe is connected to a high-voltage switch, and the high-voltage switch is configured to realize imaging processing of the array element number greater than N / M.

[0117] Specifically, a high-voltage switch is arranged for each ultrasonic probe, so that real-time imaging of two ultrasonic probes in parallel can be ensured under the configuration of the high-voltage switch. Each ultrasonic probe has an independent high-voltage switch configuration, which is equivalent to the connection of two half-channel ultrasonic imaging hosts and two ultrasonic probes. The high-voltage switches of the two ultrasonic probes are independently configured and switched, and real-time imaging of the two ultrasonic probes with high-voltage switches in parallel can be ensured.

[0118] In the ultrasonic imaging system, when the number of probe array elements is greater than the number of host channels, a high-voltage switch needs to be used for switching to ensure that each array element can be used. For example, a 64-physical-channel system is connected to a 128-array-element probe, which generally requires a one-level high-voltage switch (the mapping relationship is generally 1 and 65 array elements corresponding to 1 channel, 2 and 66 array elements corresponding to 2 channels, ……, 64 array elements and 128 array elements corresponding to 64 channels). If a 192 / 256 array element probe is connected, a two-level high-voltage switch switching scheme is required. The more the number of high-voltage switches, the greater the attenuation of the channel signal.

[0119] In the ultrasonic system aspect of the embodiment, the parameter control mechanism is that the upper computer downloads M independent imaging parameters of the ultrasonic probes to X boards respectively. The M ultrasonic probes are equivalent to M independent systems, but are controlled by the parameters downloaded by the upper computer. For a conventional probe, there is only one ultrasonic probe. If the number of array elements of the ultrasonic probe is greater than the channel data of one board, the ultrasonic probe is connected to another board. Therefore, the system itself does not need special design and can be compatible with all types of probes.

[0120] It can be seen that the M groups of ultrasonic signals are preprocessed by the X-path ultrasonic signal processing circuit. Since the number of ultrasonic signal processing circuits is greater than the number of groups of ultrasonic signals, the ultrasonic signals can be preprocessed in parallel at the same time, and preprocessed data can be obtained. Finally, M groups of preprocessed data are used for parallel imaging processing, instead of imaging the ultrasonic signals of different ultrasonic probes at different times, thereby avoiding the problem that one group of ultrasonic signals needs to wait while another group of ultrasonic signals is being imaged. M groups of ultrasonic signals are simultaneously and real-time imaged, the overall imaging parallel processing capability is improved, and the clinical application value is ultimately improved.

[0121] On the basis of all the above embodiments, in order to make the ultrasonic wave signals be transmitted at the same time, so that M groups of ultrasonic signals are received at the same time. All the above embodiments can also include:

[0122] The ultrasonic imaging host uses an X-way ultrasonic signal transmitting circuit to simultaneously perform high-voltage transmission on the M ultrasonic probes, so that each ultrasonic probe receives an ultrasonic signal.

[0123] That is, in this optional solution, the number of ultrasonic signal transmitting circuits is greater than or equal to the number of ultrasonic probes, so that the ultrasonic wave transmission process of each ultrasonic probe does not occupy the hardware of other ultrasonic probes, parallel transmission of ultrasonic signals is realized, and ultrasonic echoes can be received in parallel, that is, ultrasonic signals are received. That is, each ultrasonic signal processing circuit and the transmitting circuit jointly control the transmission and reception of the channel.

[0124] On the basis of all the above embodiments, taking two ultrasonic probes as an example, they can be arranged in the same dual-plane probe. Specifically, the dual-plane probe refers to two ultrasonic probes in different directions, and the types of the two ultrasonic probes can be convex array and convex array or convex array and linear array.

[0125] All the above embodiments realize independent transmission and reception of M ultrasonic probes, as long as the interface design of the ultrasonic probe and the connection of the host can be maintained. For a non-dual-plane probe, the conventional ultrasonic connection relationship can be used, and no special design is required. In addition, real-time imaging of any function can also be realized, that is, multiple probes can be configured with different imaging modes, thereby improving the clinical application value of the dual-plane probe.

[0126] The ultrasonic imaging host provided in the embodiments of the present application will be described below. The ultrasonic imaging host described below can be correspondingly referred to the ultrasonic imaging method described above.

[0127] Please refer to Figure 8 , Figure 8 A structure diagram of an ultrasonic imaging host provided in the embodiments of the present application.

[0128] In this embodiment, the host can include:

[0129] The signal receiving module 100 is configured to simultaneously receive M groups of ultrasonic signals from the M ultrasonic probes; wherein M is greater than or equal to 1.

[0130] The signal processing module 200 is configured to perform parallel preprocessing on the M groups of ultrasonic signals by using an X-way ultrasonic signal processing circuit, to obtain M groups of preprocessed data; wherein X is greater than or equal to M.

[0131] The ultrasonic imaging module 300 is configured to perform parallel imaging processing by using the M groups of preprocessed data.

[0132] Optionally, the signal receiving module 100 is specifically configured to receive signals from each ultrasonic probe corresponding to floor(N / M) channels simultaneously by using M-way receiving sub-circuits to obtain M groups of ultrasonic signals; wherein, N is the total number of channels of the ultrasonic imaging host.

[0133] Optionally, the signal processing module 200 is specifically configured to perform beam synthesis processing on each group of ultrasonic signals corresponding to the M-way beam processing sub-circuit simultaneously by using the M-way beam processing sub-circuit when X is equal to M to obtain M groups of preprocessed signals; and perform signal algorithm processing on each group of preprocessed signals corresponding to the M-way signal algorithm processing sub-circuit simultaneously by using the M-way signal algorithm processing sub-circuit to obtain M groups of preprocessed data; wherein, the M-way receiving sub-circuit, the M-way beam processing sub-circuit and the M-way signal algorithm processing sub-circuit are located in the same board card.

[0134] Optionally, the signal processing module 200 is specifically configured to perform beam synthesis on each group of ultrasonic signals corresponding to each beam processing sub-circuit simultaneously by using N / M beam synthesizers of the FPGA in the beam processing sub-circuit to obtain M groups of preprocessed signals.

[0135] Optionally, the signal processing module 200 is specifically configured to perform beam synthesis on each group of ultrasonic signals corresponding to each beam processing sub-circuit simultaneously by using L / M beam synthesizers of the FPGA in the beam processing sub-circuit to obtain M groups of preprocessed signals; wherein, L is the total number of beam synthesizers of the FPGA.

[0136] Optionally, the signal processing module 200 is specifically configured to perform preprocessing on the ultrasonic signals of the corresponding floor(N / X) channels simultaneously by using X board cards when X is a multiple of M to obtain X groups of preprocessed data; wherein, each board card includes a separate ultrasonic signal processing circuit; when X is equal to M, the X groups of preprocessed data are taken as M groups of preprocessed data; when X is not equal to M, the X groups of preprocessed data are merged according to the connection relationship between each ultrasonic probe and the channel to obtain M groups of preprocessed data.

[0137] Optionally, the device can further include:

[0138] The signal transmitting module is configured to perform high-voltage transmission on the M ultrasonic probes simultaneously by using X-way ultrasonic signal transmitting circuits so that each ultrasonic probe receives ultrasonic signals.

[0139] Optionally, when the number of array elements of the ultrasonic probe is less than or equal to floor(N / M), each ultrasonic probe is a probe connected to the channel of the ultrasonic imaging host; when the number of array elements of the ultrasonic probe is greater than floor(N / M), each ultrasonic probe is a probe connected to the channel of the ultrasonic imaging host through a high-voltage switch.

[0140] The embodiment of the present application further provides a computing device, comprising:

[0141] a memory for storing a computer program;

[0142] a processor for executing the computer program to implement the steps of the ultrasonic imaging method according to the above embodiment.

[0143] The embodiment of the present application further provides a computer readable storage medium, which stores a computer program, and the computer program is executed by a processor to implement the steps of the ultrasonic imaging method according to the above embodiment.

[0144] The embodiments in the specification are described in a progressive manner, and each embodiment focuses on the difference from other embodiments. The same or similar parts of each embodiment can be referred to each other. For the device disclosed in the embodiments, since it corresponds to the method disclosed in the embodiments, the description is relatively simple, and the related parts can be referred to the method part.

[0145] The skilled person can further realize that the units and algorithm steps of the examples described in combination with the embodiments disclosed herein can be realized by electronic hardware, computer software or a combination of both. In order to clearly illustrate the interchangeability of hardware and software, the components and steps of the examples have been described in general terms in the above description. Whether the functions are realized in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. The skilled person can use different methods to realize the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of the present application.

[0146] The steps of the method or algorithm described in combination with the embodiments disclosed herein can be directly implemented by hardware, a software module executed by a processor, or a combination of both. The software module can be placed in a random access memory (RAM), a memory, a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically programmable ROM, an electrically erasable programmable ROM, a register, a hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art.

[0147] The above describes in detail the ultrasonic imaging method, ultrasonic imaging host, computing device and computer readable storage medium provided by the present application. The principles and implementation modes of the present application are described by applying specific examples. The above embodiment description is only used to help understand the method and core idea of the present application. It should be pointed out that, for those skilled in the art, without departing from the principles of the present application, some improvements and modifications can be made to the present application, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the protection scope of the claims of the present application.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic imaging method, characterized by, The method comprises the following steps: An ultrasonic imaging host receives M groups of ultrasonic signals from M ultrasonic probes simultaneously; wherein, M is greater than or equal to 1; one ultrasonic probe corresponds to one group of ultrasonic signals; X ultrasonic signal processing circuits are used to perform parallel preprocessing on the M groups of ultrasonic signals, and M groups of preprocessed data are obtained; wherein, X is greater than or equal to M; one or more ultrasonic signal processing circuits correspond to one group of ultrasonic signals of one ultrasonic probe; Parallel imaging processing is performed by using the M groups of preprocessed data.

2. The ultrasound imaging method of claim 1, wherein, The ultrasonic imaging host receives M groups of ultrasonic signals from M ultrasonic probes simultaneously, which comprises the following steps: The ultrasonic imaging host receives signals from floor (N / M) channels corresponding to each ultrasonic probe by using M receiving sub-circuits simultaneously, and M groups of ultrasonic signals are obtained; wherein, N is the total number of channels of the ultrasonic imaging host, and floor represents rounding down.

3. The ultrasound imaging method of claim 2, wherein, The X ultrasonic signal processing circuits are used to perform parallel preprocessing on the M groups of ultrasonic signals, and M groups of preprocessed data are obtained, which comprises the following steps: When X is equal to M, M beam processing sub-circuits are used to perform beam synthesis processing on each group of ultrasonic signals corresponding to the M beam processing sub-circuits simultaneously, and M groups of preprocessed signals are obtained; M signal algorithm processing sub-circuits are used to perform signal algorithm processing on each group of preprocessed signals corresponding to the M signal algorithm processing sub-circuits simultaneously, and the M groups of preprocessed data are obtained; wherein, the M receiving sub-circuits, the M beam processing sub-circuits and the M signal algorithm processing sub-circuits are located in the same board card.

4. The ultrasound imaging method of claim 3, wherein, The M beam processing sub-circuits are used to perform beam synthesis processing on each group of ultrasonic signals corresponding to the M beam processing sub-circuits simultaneously, and M groups of preprocessed signals are obtained, which comprises the following steps: floor (L / M) beam synthesizers of the FPGA or DSP in the beam processing sub-circuit are used to perform beam synthesis on each group of ultrasonic signals corresponding to each beam processing sub-circuit simultaneously, and the M groups of preprocessed signals are obtained; wherein, L is the total number of beam synthesizers of the FPGA or DSP, and floor represents rounding down.

5. The ultrasound imaging method of claim 3, wherein, The M beam processing sub-circuits are used to perform beam synthesis processing on each group of ultrasonic signals corresponding to the M beam processing sub-circuits simultaneously, and M groups of preprocessed signals are obtained, which comprises the following steps: A frequency multiplication circuit and M beam processing sub-circuits are used to perform beam synthesis processing on each group of ultrasonic signals corresponding to the M beam processing sub-circuits simultaneously, and the M groups of preprocessed signals are obtained.

6. The ultrasound imaging method of claim 1, wherein, The X ultrasonic signal processing circuits are used to perform parallel preprocessing on the M groups of ultrasonic signals, and M groups of preprocessed data are obtained, which comprises the following steps: If X is a multiple of M, the ultrasonic imaging host uses X independent board cards to perform preprocessing on the ultrasonic signals of floor (N / X) channels corresponding to the X independent board cards simultaneously, and X groups of preprocessed data are obtained; wherein, each board card comprises a separate ultrasonic signal processing circuit, and floor represents rounding down; When X is equal to M, the X groups of preprocessed data are used as the M groups of preprocessed data; When X is not equal to M, the X groups of preprocessed data are combined according to the connection relationship between each ultrasonic probe and the channel, and the M groups of preprocessed data are obtained.

7. The ultrasound imaging method of any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The method further comprises the following steps: The ultrasonic imaging host adopts an X-way ultrasonic signal transmitting circuit to simultaneously perform high-voltage emission on M ultrasonic probes, so that each ultrasonic probe receives the ultrasonic signal.

8. The ultrasound imaging method of claim 7, wherein, When the number of array elements of the ultrasonic probe is less than or equal to floor (N / M), each ultrasonic probe is a probe connected with a channel of the ultrasonic imaging host; when the number of array elements of the ultrasonic probe is greater than floor (N / M), each ultrasonic probe is a probe connected with a channel of the ultrasonic imaging host through a high-voltage switch, and the high-voltage switch is used for switching array elements of the M ultrasonic probes respectively and independently.

9. An ultrasound imaging host, characterized by, The method comprises the steps of: The signal receiving module is configured to simultaneously receive M groups of ultrasonic signals from M ultrasonic probes; wherein M is greater than or equal to 1; one ultrasonic probe corresponds to one group of ultrasonic signals; The signal processing module is configured to perform parallel preprocessing on the M groups of ultrasonic signals by using an X-way ultrasonic signal processing circuit to obtain M groups of preprocessing data; wherein X is greater than or equal to M; one way or more ways of the ultrasonic signal processing circuit correspond to one group of ultrasonic signals of one ultrasonic probe; The ultrasonic imaging module is configured to perform parallel imaging processing by using the M groups of preprocessing data.

10. A computing device, comprising: The computer readable storage medium stores a computer program, and the computer program is executed by the processor to realize the steps of the ultrasonic imaging method according to any one of claims 1 to 8. The computer readable storage medium stores a computer program, and the computer program is executed by the processor to realize the steps of the ultrasonic imaging method according to any one of claims 1 to 8. ​ 11. A computer readable storage medium, characterized in that, ​

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