Method and system for monitoring wireless link quality of a handheld ultrasound device

Abstract

A system and method for providing feedback to a user of a wireless ultrasound probe regarding a quality of a wireless link between the ultrasound probe and a display device is provided. The method includes receiving, by a display processor of a display device, a capture frame rate from a wireless ultrasound probe. The method includes determining, by the display processor, an analysis interval length based on the capture frame rate and a wireless connection state loss threshold. The method includes receiving and counting, during the analysis interval length, ultrasound image frames wirelessly transmitted from the wireless ultrasound probe to the display device. The method includes determining that a number of ultrasound frames lost during the analysis interval length exceeds the wireless connection state loss threshold. The method includes causing a display system of the display device to present a poor connection state identifier.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Certain embodiments relate to ultrasound imaging. More specifically, certain embodiments relate to a method and system for providing feedback to a user of a wireless ultrasound probe regarding the quality of a wireless link between the ultrasound probe and a display device. BACKGROUND

[0002] Ultrasound imaging is a medical imaging technique used to image organs and soft tissues in the human body. Ultrasound imaging uses real-time, non-invasive high-frequency sound waves to produce a series of two-dimensional (2D) images and / or three-dimensional (3D) images.

[0003] A wireless ultrasound probe transmits ultrasound data wirelessly to a display device. The ultrasound data can be transmitted using a protocol based on unreliable UDP. As a result, image frames can be lost during transmission or reception of the image frames from the wireless ultrasound probe to the display device, such as if the network socket is not ready to accept more data when an image frame is ready to be sent, or if one of the UDP packets is dropped in transmission. Additionally, image frames can be lost within the wireless ultrasound probe, such as when the frame processing of the wireless ultrasound probe is temporarily limited due to high processor load.

[0004] Further limitations and disadvantages of conventional and traditional approaches will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art through comparison of such systems with aspects of the present disclosure as set forth in the remainder of the present application with reference to the drawings. SUMMARY

[0005] A system and / or method for providing feedback to a user of a wireless ultrasound probe regarding the quality of a wireless link between the ultrasound probe and a display device is disclosed substantially as shown in and / or described in connection with at least one of the figures, as set forth more completely in the claims.

[0006] These and other advantages, aspects and novel features of the present disclosure, as well as details of an illustrated embodiment thereof, will be more fully understood from the following description and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary ultrasound system according to various embodiments operable to provide feedback to a user of a wireless ultrasound probe regarding the quality of a wireless link between the ultrasound probe and a display device.

[0008] Figure 2 A screenshot of an exemplary ultrasound image display with an indication of a good connection status is shown according to various embodiments.

[0009] Figure 3Screen shots of example ultrasound image displays with indications of poor connection status are shown in accordance with various embodiments.

[0010] Figure 4 A flowchart showing example steps that can be used to provide feedback to a user of a wireless ultrasound probe regarding the quality of a wireless link between the ultrasound probe and a display device is shown in accordance with various embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] Certain embodiments can be found in methods and systems for providing feedback to a user of a wireless ultrasound probe regarding the quality of a wireless link between the ultrasound probe and a display device. For example, aspects of the present disclosure have the technical effect of providing a display device with a capture frame rate of a wireless ultrasound probe. Further, aspects of the present disclosure have the technical effect of determining an analysis interval length for received ultrasound image frames based on the capture frame rate and a wireless connection status threshold. Further, aspects of the present disclosure have the technical effect of dynamically updating the analysis interval length based on a change in the capture frame rate at the wireless ultrasound probe. Additionally, aspects of the present disclosure have the technical effect of presenting a connection status at a display system of the display device.

[0012] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain embodiments, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. To the extent that the figures illustrate various embodiments, the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. As such, the dimensions of the various features can be expanded or reduced for the clarity of the certain embodiments. The drawings illustrate the principles of the present disclosure. Other arrangements and tools can be utilized and structural, logical, and electrical changes can be made without departing from the scope of the various embodiments. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

[0013] As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and preceded with the word "a" or "an" should be understood as not excluding plural of said elements or steps, unless explicitly stated that such exclusion exists. Furthermore, references to "example implementation," "various embodiments,” “certain embodiments,” “representative implementation,” etc., indicate that the described features, items, etc. are among numerous possible implementations, modifications, etc. that have been or can be made. Moreover, unless specifically stated otherwise, embodiments “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” “consisting of,” “consisting essentially of,” etc., one or more elements or steps can include additional elements or steps not expressly mentioned.

[0014] Additionally, as used herein, the term "image" broadly refers to both a visual image and the data representing that image. However, many embodiments generate (or are configured to generate) at least one visual image. Furthermore, as used herein, the phrase "image" is used to refer to ultrasound modes such as B-mode (2D mode), three-dimensional (3D) mode, 3D scaling mode (e.g., thin plate), M-mode, CF-mode, PW Doppler, CW Doppler, contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), and / or submodes of B-mode and / or CF such as harmonic imaging, shear wave elastography (SWEI), strain elastography, TVI, PDI, B-flow, MVI, UGAP, and in some cases also MM, CM, TVD, where "image" and / or "plane" includes a single beam or multiple beams.

[0015] Furthermore, as used herein, the term processor or processing unit refers to any type of processing unit capable of performing the required computations required for various implementation schemes, such as single-core or multi-core: CPU, Accelerated Processing Unit (APU), Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), DSP, FPGA, ASIC, or combinations thereof.

[0016] It should be noted that the various embodiments of generating or forming images described herein may include processing for forming the image, which in some embodiments includes beamforming, while in others does not. For example, an image may be formed without beamforming, such as by multiplying a matrix of demodulated data by a coefficient matrix such that the product is an image, and wherein the process does not form any “beams.” Alternatively, image formation may be performed using a combination of channels that may originate from more than one transmission event (e.g., synthetic aperture technology).

[0017] In various implementations, ultrasound processing to form an image is performed, for example, in software, firmware, hardware, or a combination thereof, including ultrasound beamforming, such as receive beamforming. One specific implementation of an ultrasound system having a software beamformer architecture formed according to various implementations is... Figure 1 As shown in the image.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an exemplary ultrasound system 100 according to various embodiments, which is operable to provide feedback to a user of a wireless ultrasound probe 104 regarding the quality of the wireless link between the ultrasound probe 104 and a display device 150. Reference Figure 1An ultrasound system 100 including a wireless ultrasound probe 104 and a display device 150 is shown. The wireless ultrasound probe 104 includes a transmitter 102, a transmit beamformer 110, a receiver 118, a receive beamformer 120, a transducer element 106, transmit 114 and receive 116 sub-aperture beamformers, an A / D converter 122, an RF processor 124, an RF / IQ buffer 126, a probe signal processor 132, and a probe transceiver.

[0019] The transmitter 102 of the wireless ultrasound probe 104 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code that may be operable to drive the wireless ultrasound probe 104. The wireless ultrasound probe 104 may include a two-dimensional (2D) array of piezoelectric elements. In various embodiments, the wireless ultrasound probe 104 may include a matrix array transducer or any suitable transducer operable to acquire 2D and / or 3D (including 4D) ultrasound image datasets. The wireless ultrasound probe 104 may include a set of transmitting transducer elements 106 and a set of receiving transducer elements 108 that generally constitute the same elements. In some embodiments, the wireless ultrasound probe 104 may be operable to acquire ultrasound image data covering at least a majority of anatomical structures, such as the heart, fetus, lungs, blood vessels, or any suitable anatomical structure.

[0020] The transmitting beamformer 110 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to control the transmitter 102, which drives the set of transmitting transducer elements 106 via the transmitting sub-aperture beamformer 114 to transmit ultrasonic signals to a region of interest (e.g., a person, animal, underground cavity, physical structure, etc.). The transmitted ultrasonic signals may be backscattered from structures (such as blood cells or tissue) within the object of interest to generate echoes. The echoes are received by the receiving transducer element 108.

[0021] A set of receiving transducer elements 108 in the wireless ultrasound probe 104 may be operable to convert the received echo into an analog signal, perform sub-aperture beamforming via a receiving sub-aperture beamformer 116, and then transmit it to a receiver 118. The receiver 118 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to receive the signal from the receiving sub-aperture beamformer 116. The analog signal may be transmitted to one or more A / D converters 122.

[0022] Multiple A / D converters 122 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code that are operable to convert analog signals from receiver 118 into corresponding digital signals. Multiple A / D converters 122 are disposed between receiver 118 and RF processor 124. However, this disclosure is not limited in this respect. Therefore, in some embodiments, multiple A / D converters 122 may be integrated within receiver 118.

[0023] RF processor 124 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to demodulate digital signals output from a plurality of A / D converters 122. According to one embodiment, RF processor 124 may include a multiplexer (not shown) operable to demodulate digital signals to form I / Q data pairs representing corresponding echo signals. The RF or I / Q signal data can then be transmitted to an RF / IQ buffer 126. RF / IQ buffer 126 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to provide temporary storage of the RF or I / Q signal data generated by RF processor 124.

[0024] The receiver beamformer 120 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to perform digital beamforming processing, such as summing a delayed channel signal received from the RF processor 124 via the RF / IQ buffer 126 and outputting a beam sum signal. The resulting processed information may be a beam sum signal output from the receiver beamformer 120 and transmitted to the probe signal processor 132. According to some embodiments, the receiver 118, multiple A / D converters 122, the RF processor 124, and the beamformer 120 may be integrated into a single beamformer, which may be digital. In various embodiments, the ultrasound system 100 includes multiple receiver beamformers 120.

[0025] The probe signal processor 132 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to process ultrasound scan data (i.e., summed IQ signals) to generate ultrasound image frames for transmission to a display device 150 via a transceiver (not shown). The probe signal processor 132 is operable to perform one or more processing operations based on multiple selectable ultrasound modes on the acquired ultrasound scan data. Acquired ultrasound scan data can be processed in real-time during a scanning session as echo signals are received. Additionally or alternatively, ultrasound scan data may be temporarily stored in the RF / IQ buffer 126 during a scanning session and processed in a less real-time manner during online or offline operation.

[0026] The probe signal processor 132 may be one or more central processing units, graphics processing units, microprocessors, microcontrollers, and / or the like. The probe signal processor 132 may include an acquisition frame rate processor 140 and may be able to receive input information from the display device 150, transmit the acquisition frame rate to the display device 150, and transmit ultrasound image frames to the display device 150, etc. The probe signal processor 132 and the acquisition frame rate processor 140 may be able to perform, for example, any of the methods and / or instruction sets discussed herein according to various embodiments.

[0027] The ultrasound system 100 is capable of continuously acquiring ultrasound scan data at an acquisition frame rate suitable for the imaging situation under consideration. Typical acquisition frame rates range from 5 to 30 frames per second, but can be lower or higher. The acquired ultrasound scan data, processed into ultrasound image frames by the probe signal processor 132, can be wirelessly transmitted to the display device 150 for further processing and display on the display system 134 at a display rate that may be the same as, slower than, or faster than the frame rate. The wireless connection between the wireless probe 104 and the display device 150 can be Wi-Fi or any suitable wireless connection. In various embodiments, the probe transceiver can be configured to transmit ultrasound image frames from the probe signal processor 132 to the display device transceiver of the display device 150 via a wireless connection according to the User Datagram Protocol (UDP) communication protocol. In some embodiments, the probe transceiver can be configured to transmit the acquisition frame rate and other suitable messages from the acquisition frame rate processor 140 and / or the probe signal processor 132 to the display device transceiver of the display device 150 via a wireless connection according to the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) communication protocol. In a representative implementation, the probe transceiver may be configured to receive messages from the display transceiver of the display device 150 via a wireless connection according to the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) communication protocol. For example, the probe transceiver may receive messages related to imaging modes, imaging parameters, imaging presets, settings, and / or the like from the display signal processor 152 of the display device 150 via the display transceiver. These messages may be provided by the probe transceiver to the probe signal processor 132 to control the configuration and / or operation of the wireless ultrasound probe 104.

[0028] The probe signal processor 132 may include an acquisition frame rate processor 140, which includes suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to determine the acquisition frame rate of the wireless ultrasound probe 104. For example, the probe signal processor 132 may receive imaging modes, imaging parameters, imaging presets, settings, and / or the like from a display device 150 via a wireless connection (e.g., using TCP) to configure the wireless ultrasound probe 104 for ultrasound image acquisition. The acquisition frame rate processor 140 may be configured to determine the acquisition frame rate based on the configuration and operating conditions of the wireless ultrasound probe 104. The acquisition frame rate processor 140 may be configured to transmit the determined acquisition frame rate to the display device 150 via a probe transceiver communicating with the display device transceiver. The acquisition frame rate processor 140 may dynamically update the acquisition frame rate and transmit the updated frame rate to the display device based on changes in the configuration and / or operating conditions (e.g., temperature) of the wireless ultrasound probe 104. In various implementations, the acquisition frame rate can be transmitted wirelessly from the sampling frame rate processor 140 to the display device transceiver of the display device 150 via the probe transceiver according to the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) communication protocol.

[0029] Display device 150 can be a handheld device (e.g., a smartphone, tablet, etc.), a laptop computer, a desktop computer, and / or any suitable device with a display system. Display device 150 includes a user input device 130, a display signal processor 152, an image buffer 136, a display system 134, a file 138, and a display transceiver. User input device 130 can be used to input patient data, imaging modes, image acquisition and scanning parameters, settings, configuration parameters, select protocols and / or templates, select wireless connection status thresholds, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, user input device 130 may be operable to configure, manage, and / or control the operation of one or more components and / or modules in ultrasound system 100. In this regard, user input device 130 may be operable to configure, manage, and / or control transmitter 102, ultrasound probe 104, transmit beamformer 110, receiver 118, receive beamformer 120, RF processor 124, RF / IQ buffer 126, user input device 130, probe signal processor 132, image buffer 136, display system 134, file 138, and / or probe and display transceiver. For example, imaging modes, imaging parameters, imaging presets, settings, and / or the like received via user input device can be transmitted to wireless ultrasound probe 104 to configure probe 104. User input device 130 may include one or more buttons, one or more rotary encoders, a touchscreen, motion tracking, voice recognition, a mouse device, a keyboard, a camera, and / or any other device capable of receiving user commands. In some embodiments, for example, one or more of user input devices 130 may be integrated into other components such as display system 134. For example, user input device 130 may include a touchscreen display.

[0030] Display signal processor 152 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to process ultrasound image frames received from wireless ultrasound probe 104 for presentation at display system 134. Display signal processor 152 is operable to perform one or more processing operations based on multiple selectable ultrasound modes on the received ultrasound image frames. In exemplary embodiments, display signal processor 150 may be operable to perform display processing and / or control processing, etc. In various embodiments, the processed ultrasound image frames may be presented at display system 134 and / or stored at archive 138. Archive 138 may be a local archive, a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS), or any suitable device for storing images and related information.

[0031] Display signal processor 152 may be one or more central processing units, graphics processing units, microprocessors, microcontrollers, and / or the like. For example, display signal processor 152 may be an integrated component or may be distributed in various locations. In an exemplary embodiment, display signal processor 152 may include imaging mode processor 160, counter processor 170, and connection status processor 180, and may be able to receive input information from user input device 130 and / or file 138, generate output that can be displayed by display system 134, and manipulate the output in response to input information from user input device 130, etc. For example, display signal processor 152, imaging mode processor 160, counter processor 170, and connection status processor 180 may be able to perform any of the methods and / or instruction sets discussed herein according to various embodiments.

[0032] The display signal processor 152 may include an imaging mode processor 160, which includes suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to receive and / or retrieve imaging modes, imaging parameters, imaging presets, settings, and / or the like (i.e., imaging settings of the wireless ultrasound probe 104) from the user input device 130 and / or the file 138 to configure the wireless ultrasound probe 104. For example, the imaging mode processor 160 may receive user instructions via the user input device 130 to set or change the imaging settings of the wireless ultrasound probe 104. Additionally and / or alternatively, the imaging mode processor 160 may retrieve default and / or stored imaging settings of the wireless ultrasound probe 104 from the file 138 and / or any suitable data storage medium. The imaging mode processor 160 may be configured to transmit the imaging settings of the wireless ultrasound probe 104 to the probe signal processor 132 of the wireless ultrasound probe 104 via a wireless connection through a display device transceiver. The display transceiver can be configured to transmit imaging settings of the wireless ultrasound probe 104 to the wireless ultrasound probe 104 via a wireless connection according to the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) communication protocol. The imaging settings of the wireless ultrasound probe 104 can be provided by the probe transceiver to the probe signal processor 132 to control the configuration and / or operation of the wireless ultrasound probe 104.

[0033] The display signal processor 152 may include a counter processor 170, which includes suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to count the number of multiple ultrasound image frames received from the wireless ultrasound probe 104 over an analysis interval length determined by the connection state processor 180, as described below. The counter processor 170 may be configured to provide the connection state processor 180 with the number of received ultrasound image frames at each analysis interval length. The counter processor 170 may be configured to reset the count to zero (0) after each analysis interval length. The counter processor 170 may be configured to reset the count to zero (0) in response to an instruction from the connection state processor 180. For example, as described below, the connection state processor 180 may instruct the counter processor 170 to reset in response to receiving an updated acquisition frame rate from the wireless ultrasound probe 104.

[0034] The display signal processor 152 may include a connection status processor 180, which includes appropriate logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to determine the connection status of the wireless connection between the wireless ultrasound probe 104 and the display device 150 and to cause the display system 134 to present an indication of the connection status. The connection status processor 180 may be configured to receive an acquisition frame rate from the wireless ultrasound probe 104. The connection status processor 180 may be configured to determine at least one wireless connection status threshold. For example, the connection status processor 180 may determine a first threshold for changing from a good connection status to a poor connection status and a second threshold for changing from a poor connection status to a good connection status. In various embodiments, the first threshold and the second threshold may be different. For example, the first threshold may be a 10% loss of ultrasound image frames expected to be received based on the acquisition frame rate to change from a good connection status to a poor connection status, and the second threshold may be a 5% loss of ultrasound image frames expected to be received based on the acquisition frame rate to change from a poor connection status to a good connection status. The second threshold may have less loss to ensure that a good connection has been re-established. At least one threshold can be default, user-selected, and / or determined based on the received acquisition frame rate. For example, the connection state processor 180 may define at least one wireless connection state loss threshold that allows for greater loss at higher frame rates and less loss at lower frame rates. Alternatively, the connection state processor 180 may define at least one wireless connection state loss threshold based on user input received via a user input device, which selects at least one loss threshold. In various embodiments, a default loss threshold may be predefined and stored in file 138 and / or any suitable data storage medium for retrieval by the connection state processor 180. The connection state processor 180 may be configured to dynamically determine and / or update at least one wireless connection state loss threshold in response to receiving and / or updating the acquisition frame rate from the wireless ultrasound probe 104.

[0035] The connectivity status processor 180 can be configured to determine an analysis interval length based on the received acquisition frame rate and a wireless connectivity loss threshold. The interval length is the amount of time taken to count the received ultrasound image frames to determine connectivity. In various embodiments, the interval length can be between one (1) second and six (6) seconds, but may be lower or higher. The connectivity status processor 180 can determine a longer interval length (e.g., 4 to 6 seconds) for a smaller loss threshold (e.g., 5% loss) and / or a smaller acquisition frame rate (e.g., 5 to 15 frames per second). The connectivity status processor 180 can determine a smaller interval length (e.g., 1 to 3 seconds) for a larger loss threshold (e.g., 10% loss) and / or a higher acquisition frame rate (e.g., 20 to 30 frames per second). The connectivity status processor 180 can determine the interval length in a weighted or unweighted manner based on the received acquisition frame rate and the wireless connectivity loss threshold. The connectivity status processor 180 can be configured to periodically retrieve the number of received ultrasound image frames counted by the counter processor 170 at the end of the determined interval length. The connection status processor 180 can dynamically determine and / or update the interval length in response to receiving the acquisition frame rate and / or an updated acquisition frame rate from the wireless ultrasound probe 104. The connection status processor 180 can instruct the counter processor 170 to reset in response to receiving the acquisition frame rate and / or an updated acquisition frame rate from the wireless ultrasound probe 104.

[0036] The connection status processor 180 can be configured to determine whether the ultrasound image frame loss exceeds a wireless connection status loss threshold based on the acquisition frame rate and the interval length. For example, if the current wireless connection status is good, the acquisition frame rate is 25 frames per second, the analysis interval length is 1.0 second, the loss threshold is 10% of the expected received ultrasound image frames, and the number of received ultrasound image frames counted over the analysis interval length is 20 frames, the number of ultrasound image frame losses (i.e., expected 25 - received 20 = 5 frames) will exceed the 2.5 frame loss threshold (i.e., 10% of 25 frames / second * 1.0 second). Therefore, the connection status processor 180 changes the connection status from good to bad.

[0037] The connection status processor 180 can be configured to change or maintain the connection status based on the current connection status and whether the ultrasound image frame loss exceeds a wireless connection status loss threshold. For example, when the ultrasound image frame loss exceeds the wireless connection status loss threshold, the connection status processor 180 can update the connection status from good to bad. When the ultrasound image frame loss does not exceed the wireless connection status loss threshold, the connection status processor 180 can update the connection status from bad to good. When the ultrasound image frame loss does not exceed the wireless connection status loss threshold, the connection status processor 180 can maintain the connection status in good. When the ultrasound image frame loss exceeds the wireless connection status loss threshold, the connection status processor can maintain the connection status in bad. The connection status processor 180 can be configured to cause the display system 134 of the display device 150 to display the connection status. For example, the connection status can be represented by icons, color codes, text, and / or the like. The connection status can be continuously displayed on the display system 134, and / or alarms regarding changes in the connection status can be displayed on the display system 134.

[0038] Figure 2 Screenshots are shown of exemplary ultrasound image displays 200 with a good connection status indicator 202 according to various embodiments. References Figure 2 The ultrasound image display 200 includes an exemplary wireless icon 202, which may be color-coded green to indicate a good connection status. The good connection status indicator 202 is shown at the top of the ultrasound image display 200, but may be displayed at any suitable location on the ultrasound image display 200. The good connection status indicator 202 may be continuously displayed and / or dynamically updated to provide user feedback on the connection status, allowing the user to know whether the acquired ultrasound image frames are substantially present or whether an unacceptable number of ultrasound image frames may be lost.

[0039] Figure 3 Screenshots of exemplary ultrasound image displays 200 with an indication 204 of poor connectivity status according to various embodiments are shown. References Figure 3 The ultrasound image display 200 includes an exemplary wireless icon 204, which may be color-coded gray, while an exclamation mark may be color-coded yellow or red to indicate a poor connection status. The poor connection status indication 204 is shown at the top of the ultrasound image display 200, but may be displayed at any suitable location on the ultrasound image display 200. The poor connection status indication 204 may be continuously displayed and / or dynamically updated to provide user feedback on the connection status, allowing the user to know whether acquired ultrasound image frames are substantially present or whether an unacceptable number of ultrasound image frames may be lost.

[0040] Refer again Figure 1 The display device 150 includes an image buffer 136 for storing processed frames of received ultrasound image frames that are not scheduled for immediate display. Preferably, the image buffer 136 has sufficient capacity to store ultrasound image frames for at least several minutes. The ultrasound image frames are stored in a manner that facilitates retrieval based on their acquisition order or time. The image buffer 136 can be embodied in any known data storage medium.

[0041] Display system 134 can be any device capable of transmitting visual information to a user. For example, display system 134 may include a liquid crystal display, a light-emitting diode display, and / or any suitable one or more displays. Display system 134 may be operable to present ultrasound image frames, connection status 202, 204, and / or any suitable information.

[0042] File 138 may be one or more computer-readable storage devices integrated with and / or communicatively coupled (e.g., via a network) to display device 150, such as a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS), server, hard disk, floppy disk, CD, CD-ROM, DVD, compact memory, flash memory, random access memory, read-only memory, electrically erasable and programmable read-only memory, and / or any suitable memory. For example, file 138 may include a database, library, information set, or other memory accessed and / or combined with display device signal processor 152. For example, file 138 may be able to temporarily or permanently store data. File 138 may be able to store medical image data, data generated by display device signal processor 152, probe signal processor 132, and / or instructions readable by signal processors 132 and 152, etc. In various implementations, file 138 stores, for example, ultrasound images, wireless ultrasound probe settings, received acquisition frame rate, wireless connection status loss threshold, analysis interval length, instructions for determining the loss threshold, instructions for determining the analysis interval length, instructions for determining whether the lost frames exceed the loss threshold, and / or instructions for presenting the connection status.

[0043] The components of the ultrasound system 100 may be implemented in software, hardware, firmware, and / or the like. The various components of the ultrasound system 100 may be communicatively connected. The components of the ultrasound system 100 may be implemented individually and / or integrated in various forms. For example, the display system 134 and the user input device 130 may be integrated as a touchscreen display.

[0044] Figure 4A flowchart 300 illustrating exemplary steps 302 to 330 according to various embodiments is provided for providing feedback 202, 204 to a user of the wireless ultrasound probe 104 regarding the quality of the wireless link between the ultrasound probe 104 and the display device 150. Reference Figure 4 The diagram illustrates a flowchart 300 including exemplary steps 302 through 330. Some embodiments may omit one or more steps, and / or perform the steps in a different order than listed, and / or combine certain steps discussed below. For example, some steps may not be performed in some embodiments. Also, some steps may be performed in a different chronological order than listed below, including simultaneous execution.

[0045] In step 302, the display device 150 transmits the wireless ultrasound probe imaging settings to the wireless ultrasound probe 104. For example, the imaging mode processor 160 of the display device signal processor 152 of the display device may be operable to receive and / or retrieve imaging modes, imaging parameters, imaging presets, settings, and / or the like (i.e., wireless ultrasound probe imaging settings) from the user input device 130 and / or file 138 to configure the wireless ultrasound probe 104. The wireless ultrasound probe imaging settings may be user-selected settings and / or default settings. The imaging mode processor 160 may be configured to transmit the wireless ultrasound probe imaging settings to the probe signal processor 132 of the wireless ultrasound probe 104 via a wireless connection through the display device transceiver according to the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) communication protocol. The wireless ultrasound probe imaging settings may be provided by the probe transceiver to the probe signal processor 132 for controlling the configuration and / or operation of the wireless ultrasound probe 104.

[0046] In step 304, the wireless ultrasound probe 104 determines the acquisition frame rate based on the wireless ultrasound probe imaging settings received from the display device 150. For example, the acquisition frame rate processor 140 of the probe signal processor 132 of the wireless ultrasound probe 104 may be operable to determine the acquisition frame rate of the wireless ultrasound probe 104. The probe signal processor 132 may receive imaging modes, imaging parameters, imaging presets, settings, and / or the like from the display device 150 via a wireless connection (e.g., using TCP) to configure the wireless ultrasound probe 104 for ultrasound image acquisition at step 302. The acquisition frame rate processor 140 may be configured to determine the acquisition frame rate based on the configuration and operating conditions of the wireless ultrasound probe 104. The acquisition frame rate processor 140 may dynamically update the acquisition frame rate based on changes in the configuration and / or operating conditions (e.g., temperature) of the wireless ultrasound probe 104.

[0047] In step 306, the wireless ultrasound probe 104 transmits the determined acquisition frame rate to the display device 150. For example, the acquisition frame rate processor 140 may be configured to transmit the determined acquisition frame rate to the display device 150 via a wireless connection through a probe transceiver communicating with the display device transceiver, in accordance with the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) communication protocol.

[0048] In step 308, display device 150 determines a wireless connectivity loss threshold. For example, the connectivity state processor 180 of display device signal processor 152 of display device 150 may be configured to determine at least one wireless connectivity loss threshold. The connectivity state processor 180 may determine a first threshold for changing from a good connectivity state to a poor connectivity state and a second threshold for changing from a poor connectivity state to a good connectivity state. In various embodiments, the first threshold and the second threshold may be different. The at least one wireless connectivity loss threshold may be default, user-selected, and / or determined based on the received acquisition frame rate (e.g., a larger loss threshold for a higher acquisition frame rate). The connectivity state processor 180 may be configured to dynamically determine and / or update the at least one wireless connectivity loss threshold in response to receiving an acquisition frame rate and / or an updated acquisition frame rate from the wireless ultrasound probe 104.

[0049] In step 310, display device 150 determines the analysis interval length based on the acquisition frame rate and the wireless connectivity loss threshold. For example, the analysis interval length is the amount of time taken to count the received ultrasound image frames to determine connectivity status. In various embodiments, the interval length may be between one (1) second and six (6) seconds, but may be lower or higher. Connectivity processor 180 may determine a longer interval length (e.g., 4 to 6 seconds) for a smaller loss threshold (e.g., 5% loss) and / or a smaller acquisition frame rate (e.g., 5 to 15 frames per second). Connectivity processor 180 may determine a smaller interval length (e.g., 1 to 3 seconds) for a larger loss threshold (e.g., 10% loss) and / or a higher acquisition frame rate (e.g., 20 to 30 frames per second). Connectivity processor 180 may determine the interval length in a weighted or unweighted manner based on the received acquisition frame rate and the wireless connectivity loss threshold. The connection status processor 180 can dynamically determine and / or update the interval length in response to receiving the acquisition frame rate and / or updated acquisition frame rate from the wireless ultrasound probe 104.

[0050] In step 312, the wireless ultrasound probe 104 acquires ultrasound image data and transmits ultrasound image frames to the display device 150. For example, the wireless ultrasound probe 104 in the ultrasound system 100 may be able to operate to continuously acquire ultrasound scan data at a frame rate suitable for the imaging situation under consideration. Typical acquisition frame rates are in the range of 5 to 30 frames per second, but may be lower or higher. The acquired ultrasound scan data, processed into ultrasound image frames by the probe signal processor 132, may be wirelessly transmitted to the display device 150 for further display processing and display on the display system 134 at a display rate that may be the same as, slower than, or faster than the frame rate. The wireless connection between the wireless probe 104 and the display device 150 may be Wi-Fi or any suitable wireless connection. In various embodiments, the probe transceiver may be configured to transmit ultrasound image frames from the probe signal processor 132 to the display device transceiver of the display device 150 via a wireless connection according to the User Datagram Protocol (UDP) communication protocol.

[0051] In step 314, the display device 150 counts the received ultrasound image frames. For example, the counter processor 170 of the display device signal processor 152 may be operable to count the number of multiple ultrasound image frames received from the wireless ultrasound probe 104 over an analysis interval length determined by the connection status processor 180 at step 310. The counter processor 170 may be configured to provide the connection status processor 180 with the number of received ultrasound image frames at each analysis interval length. The counter processor 170 may be configured to reset the count to zero (0) after each analysis interval length. The counter processor 170 may be configured to reset the count to zero (0) in response to an instruction from the connection status processor 180, such as in response to receiving an updated acquisition frame rate from the wireless ultrasound probe 104.

[0052] In step 316, if the connection status between the wireless ultrasound probe 104 and the display device is a good connection, then method 300 proceeds to step 318. If the connection status between the wireless ultrasound probe 104 and the display device is a poor connection, then method 300 proceeds to step 324. Initially, the connection status can begin in either a good or poor connection state via default, user selection, or any suitable connection status analysis process.

[0053] In step 318, the display device 150 determines whether the number of lost ultrasound image frames exceeds a first wireless connectivity loss threshold. For example, the connectivity processor 180 can determine the number of lost frames by subtracting the count of received ultrasound image frames determined by the counter processor 170 from the expected number of received ultrasound image frames determined based on the acquisition frame rate and analysis interval length (e.g., 25 frames / second over a 2.0-second analysis interval length would equal 50 expected ultrasound image frames). The connectivity processor 180 compares the number of lost frames to a threshold loss number determined by multiplying the determined loss threshold by the acquisition rate and then multiplying the result by the analysis interval length (e.g., 10% loss threshold * 25 frames / second * 2.0 seconds = 5 frames). If the number of lost frames exceeds the threshold loss number, the connectivity processor 180 determines that the number of lost ultrasound image frames exceeds the first wireless connectivity loss threshold. If the number of lost frames is less than the threshold loss number, the connectivity processor 180 determines that the number of lost ultrasound image frames does not exceed the first wireless connectivity loss threshold. In various implementations, the first wireless connectivity loss threshold may be a threshold specific to a good connectivity state and may differ from the second wireless connectivity loss threshold specific to a poor connectivity state.

[0054] In step 320, if the number of lost frames exceeds the first wireless connectivity state loss threshold, the method proceeds to step 322. If the number of lost frames does not exceed the first wireless connectivity state loss threshold, the method proceeds to step 330.

[0055] In step 322, display device 150 changes the connection status from a good connection status to a bad connection status and updates the display status. For example, when the loss of ultrasound image frames exceeds a wireless connection status loss threshold determined in step 318, connection status processor 180 may update the connection status from a good status to a bad status. The connection status may be represented by icons, color codes, text, and / or the like. The connection status may change from a good connection status to a bad connection status and is continuously presented at display system 134 so that the user is aware of the possible loss of an unacceptable number of ultrasound image frames.

[0056] In step 324, display device 150 determines whether the lost ultrasound image frames exceed a second wireless connectivity loss threshold. For example, connectivity processor 180 can determine the number of lost frames by subtracting the count of received ultrasound image frames determined by counter processor 170 from the expected number of received ultrasound image frames determined based on the acquisition frame rate and analysis interval length. Connectivity processor 180 compares the number of lost frames with a threshold loss number determined by multiplying the determined loss threshold by the acquisition rate and the result by the analysis interval length. If the number of lost frames exceeds the threshold loss number, connectivity processor 180 determines that the lost ultrasound image frames exceed the second wireless connectivity loss threshold. If the number of lost frames is less than the threshold loss number, connectivity processor 180 determines that the lost ultrasound image frames do not exceed the second wireless connectivity loss threshold. In various embodiments, the second wireless connectivity loss threshold may be a threshold specific to a poor connectivity state and may differ from a first wireless connectivity loss threshold specific to a good connectivity state used in step 318. For example, the first threshold could be a 10% loss (or any suitable percentage) of ultrasound image frames expected to be received when the acquisition frame rate changes from a good connection state to a bad connection state, and the second threshold could be a 5% loss (or any suitable percentage) of ultrasound image frames expected to be received when the acquisition frame rate changes from a bad connection state to a good connection state. The second threshold could be a lower loss threshold to ensure that a good connection has been re-established.

[0057] In step 326, if the number of lost frames exceeds the second wireless connectivity state loss threshold, the method proceeds to step 330. If the number of lost frames does not exceed the first wireless connectivity state loss threshold, the method proceeds to step 328.

[0058] In step 328, display device 150 changes the connection status from a poor connection status to a good connection status and updates the display status. For example, when the ultrasound image frame loss does not exceed the wireless connection status loss threshold determined in step 324, connection status processor 180 may update the connection status from a poor status to a good status. The connection status may be represented by icons, color codes, text, and / or the like. The connection status may change from a poor connection status to a good connection status and is continuously presented at display system 134, so that the user knows that the acquired ultrasound image frames are substantially present.

[0059] In step 330, the display device 150 maintains and continues to present the connectivity status. For example, when the ultrasound image frame loss does not exceed a wireless connectivity status loss threshold, the connectivity status processor 180 can maintain the connectivity status in a good state. When the ultrasound image frame loss exceeds the wireless connectivity status loss threshold, the connectivity status processor can maintain the connectivity status in a poor state. The connectivity status processor 180 can be configured to cause the display system 134 of the display device 150 to present the connectivity status. For example, the connectivity status can be represented by icons, color coding, text, and / or the like. The connectivity status can be continuously presented at the display system 134, allowing the user to know whether the acquired ultrasound image frames are substantially present or whether an unacceptable number of ultrasound image frames may be lost.

[0060] Steps 316 through 330 may be repeated periodically. For example, at the end of the interval length determined in step 310, the connection state processor 180 may be configured to periodically retrieve the number of received ultrasound image frames counted by the counter processor 170 at step 314.

[0061] This disclosure provides a method 300 and a system 100 for providing a user of a wireless ultrasound probe 104 with feedback 202, 204 regarding the quality of the wireless link between the ultrasound probe 104 and a display device 150. Method 300 may include receiving 306 an acquisition frame rate from the wireless ultrasound probe 104 by at least one display processor 152, 160 of the display device 150. Method 300 may include determining 310 a first analysis interval length by at least one display processor 152, 180 based on the acquisition frame rate and a first wireless connectivity loss threshold. Method 300 may include receiving 312 and counting 314 ultrasound image frames wirelessly transmitted from the wireless ultrasound probe 104 to the display device 150 during the first analysis interval length by at least one display processor 152, 170. Method 300 may include determining 318 by at least one display processor 152, 180 that a first number of ultrasound frames lost during the first analysis interval length exceeds the first wireless connectivity loss threshold. Method 300 may include displaying a faulty connection status identifier 204 on display system 134 of display device 150 by at least one display processor 152, 180.

[0062] In a representative embodiment, method 300 may include determining a second analysis interval length 310 by at least one display processor 152, 180 based on the acquisition frame rate and a second wireless connectivity loss threshold. Method 300 may include receiving 312 and counting 314 ultrasound image frames wirelessly transmitted from the wireless ultrasound probe 104 to the display device 150 during the second analysis interval length by at least one display processor 152, 170. Method 300 may include determining 324 by at least one display processor 152, 180 that a second number of ultrasound frames lost during the second analysis interval length exceeds the second wireless connectivity loss threshold. Method 300 may include causing at least one display processor 152, 180 to cause the display system 134 to continue displaying the poor connectivity status identifier 204. In an exemplary embodiment, method 300 may include determining the second analysis interval length 310 by at least one display processor 152, 180 based on the acquisition frame rate and a second wireless connectivity loss threshold. Method 300 may include receiving 312 and counting 314 ultrasound image frames wirelessly transmitted from wireless ultrasound probe 104 to display device 150 during a second analysis interval length by at least one display processor 152, 170. Method 300 may include determining 324 that a second number of ultrasound frames lost during the second analysis interval length does not exceed a second wireless connectivity loss threshold by at least one display processor 152, 180. Method 300 may include causing display system 134 328 to change from displaying a poor connectivity state identifier 204 to displaying a good connectivity state identifier 202 by at least one display processor 152, 180. In various embodiments, a first wireless connectivity loss threshold corresponds to a good connectivity state, and a second wireless connectivity loss threshold corresponds to a poor connectivity state. In some embodiments, the first wireless connectivity loss threshold is greater than the second wireless connectivity loss threshold. In a representative embodiment, the first wireless connectivity loss threshold is based on the acquisition frame rate. In an exemplary embodiment, method 300 may include transmitting 302 wireless ultrasound probe imaging settings 302 from display device 150 to wireless ultrasound probe 104. The acquisition frame rate can be determined by the wireless ultrasound probe 104 based on the wireless ultrasound probe imaging settings.

[0063] Various embodiments provide an ultrasound system 100 for providing a user of a wireless ultrasound probe 104 with feedback 202, 204 regarding the quality of the wireless link between the ultrasound probe 104 and a display device 150. The ultrasound system 100 may include a wireless ultrasound probe 104, a display device 150, and at least one processor 132, 140, 152, 160, 170, 180. The wireless ultrasound probe 104 may be operable to wirelessly transmit an acquisition frame rate to the display device 150. The wireless ultrasound probe 104 may be operable to wirelessly transmit ultrasound image frames to the display device 150. The ultrasound device 150 may include at least one display processor 152, 160, 170, 180 and a display system 134. At least one display processor 152, 180 may be configured to determine an analysis interval length based on the acquisition frame rate and a wireless connectivity loss threshold. At least one display processor 152, 170 may be configured to count ultrasound image frames received from the wireless ultrasound probe 104 during the analysis interval length. At least one display processor 150, 180 may be configured to determine whether the number of lost ultrasound frames during the analysis interval exceeds a wireless connectivity loss threshold. When the number of lost ultrasound frames during the analysis interval exceeds the wireless connectivity loss threshold, the display system 134 may be configured to display a poor connectivity status identifier. When the number of lost ultrasound frames during the analysis interval does not exceed the wireless connectivity loss threshold, the display system 134 may be configured to display a good connectivity status identifier.

[0064] In an exemplary embodiment, ultrasound image frames are wirelessly transmitted to display device 150 according to the User Datagram Protocol (UDP) communication protocol. In various embodiments, display device 150 is configured to wirelessly transmit wireless ultrasound probe imaging settings to wireless ultrasound probe 104. Wireless ultrasound probe 104 may include at least one probe processor 132, 140, configured to determine an acquisition frame rate based on the wireless ultrasound probe imaging settings. In some embodiments, the wireless ultrasound probe imaging settings are wirelessly transmitted from display device 150 to wireless ultrasound probe 104 according to the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) communication protocol. In a representative embodiment, the acquisition frame rate is wirelessly transmitted from wireless ultrasound probe 104 to display device 150 according to the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) communication protocol. In an exemplary embodiment, a wireless connection state loss threshold is based on the current state of the wireless connection between wireless ultrasound probe 104 and display device 150. In various embodiments, the wireless connection state loss threshold is based on the acquisition frame rate. In some embodiments, the wireless connection between wireless ultrasound probe 104 and display device 150 is a Wi-Fi connection.

[0065] Some embodiments provide a non-transitory computer-readable medium on which a computer program is stored, the computer program having at least one code segment. The at least one code segment is executable by a machine to cause the machine to perform step 300. Step 300 may include receiving 306 an acquisition frame rate from a wireless ultrasound probe 104 at a display device 150. Step 300 may include determining 310 a first analysis interval length based on the acquisition frame rate and a first wireless connectivity loss threshold. Step 300 may include receiving 312 and counting 314 ultrasound image frames wirelessly transmitted from the wireless ultrasound probe 104 to the display device 150 during the first analysis interval length. Step 300 may include determining 318 that a first number of ultrasound frames lost during the first analysis interval length exceeds the first wireless connectivity loss threshold. Step 300 may include causing 322 a display system 134 of the display device 150 to display a poor connectivity status identifier 204.

[0066] In various embodiments, step 300 may include determining a second analysis interval length 310 based on the acquisition frame rate and a second wireless connectivity loss threshold. Step 300 may include receiving 312 and counting 314 ultrasound image frames wirelessly transmitted from the wireless ultrasound probe 104 to the display device 150 during the second analysis interval length. Step 300 may include determining 324 that a second number of ultrasound frames lost during the second analysis interval length exceeds the second wireless connectivity loss threshold. Step 300 may include causing the display system 134 to continue displaying the poor connectivity status identifier 204. In some embodiments, step 300 may include determining a second analysis interval length 310 based on the acquisition frame rate and a second wireless connectivity loss threshold. Step 300 may include receiving 312 and counting 314 ultrasound image frames wirelessly transmitted from the wireless ultrasound probe 104 to the display device 150 during the second analysis interval length. Step 300 may include determining 324 that a second number of ultrasound frames lost during the second analysis interval length does not exceed the second wireless connectivity loss threshold. Step 300 may include changing the display system 134 from displaying a poor connection state identifier 204 to displaying a good connection state identifier 202. In a representative embodiment, a first wireless connection state loss threshold corresponds to a good connection state, and a second wireless connection state loss threshold corresponds to a poor connection state. The first wireless connection state loss threshold may be greater than the second wireless connection state loss threshold. In an exemplary embodiment, the first wireless connection state loss threshold is based on the acquisition frame rate.

[0067] As used herein, the term "circuit" refers to physical electronic components (i.e., hardware) and any software and / or firmware ("code") that is configurable hardware, executed by the hardware, and / or otherwise associated with the hardware. For example, as used herein, a particular processor and memory may include a first "circuit" when executing one or more lines of first code, and a particular processor and memory may include a second "circuit" when executing one or more lines of second code. As used herein, "and / or" means any one or more items in a list linked by "and / or". For example, "x and / or y" means any element in the three-element set {(x),(y),(x,y)}. As another example, "x, y and / or z" means any element in the seven-element set {(x),(y),(z),(x,y),(x,z),(y,z),(x,y,z)}. As used herein, the term "exemplary" means used as a non-limiting example, instance, or illustration. As used herein, the terms “eg” and “for example” refer to a list of one or more non-limiting examples, instances, or illustrations. As used herein, a circuit is “operable to” and / or “configured to” perform a function whenever the circuit includes the necessary hardware and code to perform the function, if required, regardless of whether the execution of the function is disabled or not enabled by some user-configurable settings.

[0068] Other embodiments may provide a computer-readable device and / or a non-transitory computer-readable medium, and / or a machine-readable device and / or a non-transitory machine-readable medium, wherein such device and / or medium stores machine code executable by a machine and / or a computer program having at least one code segment, thereby enabling the machine and / or computer to perform the steps as described herein to provide feedback to a user of the wireless ultrasound probe regarding the quality of the wireless link between the ultrasound probe and the display device.

[0069] Therefore, this disclosure can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. This disclosure may be implemented centrally in at least one computer system or distributed, wherein different elements are distributed across several interconnected computer systems. Any kind of computer system or other apparatus suitable for performing the methods described herein is appropriate.

[0070] Various implementation schemes may also be embedded in a computer program product that includes all the features of the methods described herein and is capable of executing those methods when loaded into a computer system. As used herein, a computer program means any expression of a set of instructions represented in any language, code, or notation, which is intended to cause a system with information processing capabilities to perform a particular function directly or after being: a) translated into another language, code, or notation; or b) reproduced in a different material form.

[0071] While this disclosure has been described with reference to certain embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and substitutions can be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, many modifications can be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of this disclosure without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, but rather to include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for providing feedback on the quality of a wireless link between a wireless ultrasound probe and a display device, the method comprising: The acquisition frame rate is received from the wireless ultrasound probe by at least one display processor of the display device; The first analysis interval length is determined by the at least one display processor based on the acquisition frame rate and the first wireless connection state loss threshold; The at least one display processor receives and counts ultrasound image frames wirelessly transmitted from the wireless ultrasound probe to the display device during the first analysis interval length; The at least one display processor determines that a first number of ultrasound frames lost during the first analysis interval length exceeds the first wireless connection state loss threshold. as well as The at least one display processor causes the display system of the display device to display a faulty connection status identifier.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The at least one display processor determines the second analysis interval length based on the acquisition frame rate and the second wireless connection state loss threshold. The at least one display processor receives and counts the ultrasound image frames wirelessly transmitted from the wireless ultrasound probe to the display device during the second analysis interval length; The at least one display processor determines that a second number of ultrasound frames lost during the second analysis interval length exceeds the second wireless connection state loss threshold. as well as The display system continues to display the bad connection status identifier by the at least one display processor.

3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The at least one display processor determines the second analysis interval length based on the acquisition frame rate and the second wireless connection state loss threshold. The at least one display processor receives and counts the ultrasound image frames wirelessly transmitted from the wireless ultrasound probe to the display device during the second analysis interval length; The at least one display processor determines that the second number of lost ultrasound frames during the second analysis interval length does not exceed the second wireless connection state loss threshold. as well as The at least one display processor causes the display system to change from displaying the bad connection status identifier to displaying the good connection status identifier.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the first wireless connection state loss threshold corresponds to a good connection state, and the second wireless connection state loss threshold corresponds to a poor connection state.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the first wireless connection state loss threshold is greater than the second wireless connection state loss threshold.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the first wireless connection state loss threshold is based on the acquisition frame rate.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the method comprises: The display device transmits the imaging settings of the wireless ultrasound probe to the wireless ultrasound probe. The acquisition frame rate is determined by the wireless ultrasound probe based on its imaging settings.

8. An ultrasound system, the ultrasound system comprising: A wireless ultrasonic probe, wherein the ultrasonic probe is operable as follows: The captured frame rate is wirelessly transmitted to the display device; as well as The ultrasound image frames are wirelessly transmitted to the display device; as well as The display device includes: At least one display processor, said at least one display processor being configured to: The analysis interval length is determined based on the acquisition frame rate and the wireless connection state loss threshold. Count the ultrasound image frames received from the wireless ultrasound probe during the analysis interval length; and Determine whether the number of lost ultrasound frames during the analysis interval exceeds the wireless connection state loss threshold; and The control system is configured to: When the number of lost ultrasound frames during the analysis interval exceeds the wireless connection state loss threshold, a poor connection state identifier is displayed; and A good connectivity status identifier is presented when the number of lost ultrasound frames during the analysis interval does not exceed the wireless connectivity status loss threshold.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the ultrasound image frame is wirelessly transmitted to the display device according to the User Datagram Protocol (UDP) communication protocol.

10. The system according to claim 8, wherein: The display device is configured to wirelessly transmit the imaging settings of the wireless ultrasound probe to the wireless ultrasound probe, and The wireless ultrasound probe includes at least one probe processor, which is configured to determine the acquisition frame rate based on the imaging settings of the wireless ultrasound probe.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the wireless ultrasound probe imaging settings are wirelessly transmitted from the display device to the wireless ultrasound probe according to the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) communication protocol.

12. The system of claim 8, wherein the acquisition frame rate is wirelessly transmitted from the wireless ultrasound probe to the display device according to the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) communication protocol.

13. The system of claim 8, wherein the wireless connection state loss threshold is based on the current state of the wireless connection between the wireless ultrasound probe and the display device.

14. The system of claim 8, wherein the wireless connection state loss threshold is based on the acquisition frame rate.

15. The system of claim 8, wherein the wireless connection between the wireless ultrasound probe and the display device is a Wi-Fi connection.

16. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing a computer program, the computer program having at least one code segment, the at least one code segment being executable by a machine to cause the machine to perform steps including: The acquisition frame rate is received from the wireless ultrasound probe at the display device; The first analysis interval length is determined based on the acquisition frame rate and the first wireless connection state loss threshold. Receive and count ultrasound image frames wirelessly transmitted from the wireless ultrasound probe to the display device during the first analysis interval length; Determining that a first number of ultrasound frames lost during the first analysis interval exceeds the first wireless connection state loss threshold; and The display system of the display device displays a faulty connection status identifier.

17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 16, further comprising: The second analysis interval length is determined based on the acquisition frame rate and the second wireless connection state loss threshold. The ultrasound image frames wirelessly transmitted from the wireless ultrasound probe to the display device are received and counted during the second analysis interval length. Determining that a second number of ultrasound frames lost during the second analysis interval exceeds the second wireless connectivity state loss threshold; and The display system continues to display the faulty connection status identifier.

18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 16, further comprising: The second analysis interval length is determined based on the acquisition frame rate and the second wireless connection state loss threshold. The ultrasound image frames wirelessly transmitted from the wireless ultrasound probe to the display device are received and counted during the second analysis interval length. Determine that the second number of lost ultrasound frames during the second analysis interval does not exceed the second wireless connection state loss threshold; and The display system is changed from displaying the bad connection status identifier to displaying the good connection status identifier.

19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to claim 18, wherein: The first wireless connection state loss threshold corresponds to a good connection state, the second wireless connection state loss threshold corresponds to a poor connection state, and the first wireless connection state loss threshold is greater than the second wireless connection state loss threshold.

20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 16, wherein the first wireless connection state loss threshold is based on the acquisition frame rate.

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