Elastography system based on ultrasound signals

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of ultrasonic technology, specifically to an ultrasonic signal-based elastography system. In this ultrasonic signal-based elastography system, a shear wave elastography probe uses a first piezoelectric sensor to detect a first contact pressure. When the first contact pressure meets a first preset pressure condition, it emits a target ultrasonic signal to generate a target shear wave. A transient elastography probe uses a second piezoelectric sensor to detect a second contact pressure. When the second contact pressure meets a second preset pressure condition, it generates a target shear wave. A control component selects at least one target probe from among the shear wave elastography probes and the transient elastography probes, and adjusts the first and / or second contact pressures according to the selection result. The control component tracks and processes the target shear wave generated by the target probe to determine the measurement result of the object under test. Therefore, it is more convenient to use and improves the operator's detection efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of ultrasound technology, and more specifically to an elastic imaging system based on ultrasound signals. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of medical equipment, elastography has emerged. Elastography quantitatively estimates and images the distribution of elastic modulus in tissues. Currently, elastography has become a research hotspot in medical ultrasound imaging, and is widely used in the detection and evaluation of lesions caused by the breast, prostate, atherosclerotic plaques, myocardial dynamics, and high-intensity focused ultrasound and radiofrequency ablation.

[0003] Current elastography systems typically include only one type of detection probe, requiring the selection of different systems for different objects under test. This significantly limits the application of elastography systems and reduces detection efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, embodiments of the present invention provide an elastography system based on ultrasound signals, which aims to solve the problem that the existing elastography system has great limitations in use and reduces detection efficiency.

[0005] According to a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide an elastic imaging system based on ultrasonic signals. The ultrasonic signal-based elastic imaging system includes: at least one shear wave elastic imaging probe, at least one transient elastic imaging probe, and a control component. Each shear wave elastic imaging probe and each transient elastic imaging probe are communicatively connected to the control component via different interfaces. Each shear wave elastic imaging probe includes a first piezoelectric sensor, and each transient elastic imaging probe includes a second piezoelectric sensor and a vibrator, wherein:

[0006] A shear wave elastography probe is used to detect the first contact pressure between the shear wave elastography probe and the object under test using a first piezoelectric sensor. When the first contact pressure meets the first preset pressure condition, a target ultrasonic signal is emitted to the object under test to generate a target shear wave.

[0007] A transient elastic imaging probe is used to detect the second contact pressure between the transient elastic imaging probe and the object under test using a second piezoelectric sensor. When the second contact pressure meets the second preset pressure condition, a target shear wave is generated based on the vibrator.

[0008] A control component is used to select at least one target probe from each shear wave elastography probe and each instantaneous elastography probe, and according to the selection result, control the shear wave elastography probe to adjust the first contact pressure and / or control the instantaneous elastography probe to adjust the second contact pressure, so that the first contact pressure meets the first preset pressure condition and / or the second contact pressure meets the second preset pressure condition.

[0009] The control component is also used to track and process the target shear wave generated by the target probe to determine the measurement result of the object under test.

[0010] The ultrasonic signal-based elastography system provided in this invention includes: at least one shear wave elastography probe, at least one instantaneous elastography probe, and a control component. Each shear wave elastography probe and each instantaneous elastography probe are communicatively connected to the control component via different interfaces. Each shear wave elastography probe includes a first piezoelectric sensor, and each instantaneous elastography probe includes a second piezoelectric sensor and a vibrator. The shear wave elastography probe is used to detect the first contact pressure between the probe and the object under test using the first piezoelectric sensor. When the first contact pressure meets a first preset pressure condition, it emits a target ultrasonic signal to the object under test to generate a target shear wave. This avoids emitting the target ultrasonic signal when the applied first contact pressure is too high or too low, ensuring that the standard for emitting the target ultrasonic signal is the same when different operators use the shear wave elastography probe for testing. A transient elastography probe is used to detect the second contact pressure between the probe and the object under test using a second piezoelectric sensor. When the second contact pressure meets a second preset pressure condition, a target shear wave is generated based on a vibrator. This avoids generating a target shear wave through the vibrator when the applied second contact pressure is too high or too low, ensuring that the standard for generating the target shear wave based on the vibrator is the same when different operators use the transient elastography probe for testing. A control component is used to select at least one as the target probe from among the shear wave elastography probes and the transient elastography probes. Based on the selection result, it controls the shear wave elastography probe to adjust the first contact pressure and / or controls the transient elastography probe to adjust the second contact pressure, so that the first contact pressure meets the first preset pressure condition and / or the second contact pressure meets the second preset pressure condition. This ensures the accuracy of the first contact pressure applied by the shear wave elastography probe to the object under test, and also ensures the accuracy of the second contact pressure applied by the transient elastography probe to the object under test. The control component is also used to track and process the target shear wave generated by the target probe to determine the measurement result of the object under test. This ensures that the ultrasound-based elastography system can select the appropriate probe to detect the object under test, thereby guaranteeing the accuracy and stability of the measurement results. Furthermore, the ultrasound-based elastography system is more convenient to use, improving the detection efficiency for medical personnel.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, in the first embodiment of the first aspect, the control component is used to acquire the name and attribute information of the object to be tested, determine the detection requirements corresponding to the object to be tested based on the name and attribute information of the object to be tested, and select at least one as the target probe from each shear wave elastography probe and each instantaneous elastography probe according to the detection requirements corresponding to the object to be tested.

[0012] The ultrasonic signal-based elastography system provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a control component for acquiring the name and attribute information of the object under test, determining the detection requirements corresponding to the object under test based on the name and attribute information, ensuring the accuracy of the determined detection requirements, and selecting at least one target probe from various shear wave elastography probes and various instantaneous elastography probes based on the detection requirements, ensuring the accuracy of the target probe selection by the control component.

[0013] In conjunction with the first embodiment of the first aspect, in the second embodiment of the first aspect, the detection requirement includes horizontal detection of the object under test, and a control component for selecting a shear wave elastography probe as the target probe according to the detection requirement of horizontal detection of the object under test.

[0014] The ultrasonic signal-based elastography system provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a detection requirement of horizontal detection of the object under test. A control component is used to select a shear wave elastography probe as the target probe according to the detection requirement of horizontal detection of the object under test, thus ensuring the accuracy of the control component in selecting the shear wave elastography probe as the target probe.

[0015] In conjunction with the first embodiment of the first aspect, in the third embodiment of the first aspect, the detection requirement includes depth direction detection of the object under test, and a control component for selecting a transient elastic imaging probe as the target probe according to the detection requirement for depth direction detection of the object under test.

[0016] The ultrasonic signal-based elastography system provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a detection requirement of depth direction detection of the object under test. A control component is used to select a transient elastography probe as the target probe according to the detection requirement of depth direction detection of the object under test, thus ensuring the accuracy of the control component in selecting the transient elastography probe as the target probe.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect, in the fourth embodiment of the first aspect, the shear wave elastic imaging probe further includes: a first piezoelectric layer, a sound-absorbing layer, a second piezoelectric layer, a matching layer, and an acoustic lens layer; a first piezoelectric sensor is disposed within the first piezoelectric layer; one end of the sound-absorbing layer is connected to the first piezoelectric sensor, the other end of the sound-absorbing layer is connected to the piezoelectric layer, the other end of the piezoelectric layer is connected to the matching layer, and the other end of the matching layer is connected to the acoustic lens layer; wherein:

[0018] The first piezoelectric layer is disposed on the side close to the object to be tested. It is used to obtain the initial electrical signal corresponding to the first contact pressure based on the first piezoelectric sensor, and convert the initial electrical signal into electrical parameters. By measuring the electrical parameters, the pressure value of the first contact pressure is obtained.

[0019] Sound-absorbing layer, used to reduce vibration of shear wave elastography probe;

[0020] The second piezoelectric layer is used to transmit ultrasonic signals from the target.

[0021] A matching layer is used for acoustic impedance matching between the piezoelectric layer and the acoustic lens;

[0022] Acoustic lens layer, used for focusing in a direction perpendicular to the imaging plane.

[0023] The ultrasonic signal-based elastography system provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a shear wave elastography probe further comprising: a first piezoelectric layer, a sound-absorbing layer, a second piezoelectric layer, a matching layer, and an acoustic lens layer. A first piezoelectric sensor is disposed within the first piezoelectric layer. One end of the sound-absorbing layer is connected to the first piezoelectric layer, and the other end is connected to the second piezoelectric layer. The other end of the second piezoelectric layer is connected to the matching layer, and the other end of the matching layer is connected to the acoustic lens layer. The first piezoelectric layer, located near the object under test, is used to obtain the initial electrical signal corresponding to the first contact pressure based on the first piezoelectric sensor and convert the initial electrical signal into electrical parameters, ensuring the accuracy of this conversion. Then, by measuring the electrical parameters, the pressure value of the first contact pressure is obtained, thus ensuring the accuracy of the obtained pressure value corresponding to the first contact pressure. The sound-absorbing layer is used to reduce the vibration of the shear wave elastography probe, shorten the wavelength of the target ultrasonic signal, and improve axial resolution. The second piezoelectric layer is an ultrasonic transducer array used to emit the target ultrasonic signal. The matching layer is used to perform acoustic impedance matching between the piezoelectric layer and the acoustic lens layer, ensuring that more signal propagates to the object under test. An acoustic lens layer is used to focus the image along a direction perpendicular to the imaging plane, reducing signal loss.

[0024] In conjunction with the fourth embodiment of the first aspect, in the fifth embodiment of the first aspect, the first piezoelectric sensor comprises a piezoelectric sheet, an elastic body, and a strain circuit. One side of the piezoelectric sheet is in contact with the elastic body, and one end of the piezoelectric sheet is connected to a resistor in the strain circuit to form a piezoresistive transducer, which is then connected to the strain circuit; wherein:

[0025] A piezoelectric element is used to receive the first contact pressure and transmit the first contact pressure to an elastomer;

[0026] An elastomer is used to support the piezoelectric element and convert the initial contact pressure received by the piezoelectric element into the elastic force of the elastomer.

[0027] The strain gauge circuit is used to convert the elastic force into a resistance value based on the piezoresistor, and to determine the initial electrical signal corresponding to the first contact pressure based on the resistance value.

[0028] The ultrasonic signal-based elastic imaging system provided in this invention includes a piezoelectric element for receiving a first contact pressure and transmitting it to an elastomer, ensuring that the elastomer can convert the first contact pressure. The elastomer supports the piezoelectric element and converts the received first contact pressure into the elastic force of the elastomer, ensuring the accuracy of this conversion. A strain gauge circuit converts the elastic force into a resistance value using a varistor; and based on the resistance value, determines the initial electrical signal corresponding to the first contact pressure, ensuring the accuracy of the determined initial electrical signal.

[0029] In conjunction with the fifth embodiment of the first aspect, in the sixth embodiment of the first aspect, the number of piezoelectric sheets is at least one.

[0030] The elastic imaging system based on ultrasonic signals provided in this embodiment of the invention has at least one piezoelectric element, which enables the resistance of the varistor to be changed through at least one piezoelectric element, thus ensuring the accuracy of the detection by the first piezoelectric sensor.

[0031] In conjunction with the first aspect, in the seventh embodiment of the first aspect, the elastic imaging system based on ultrasonic signals further includes: an alarm component, which is communicatively connected to the control component;

[0032] The control component is also used to acquire the first target pressure corresponding to the object under test by the shear wave elastography probe and / or the second target pressure corresponding to the object under test by the instantaneous elastography probe; and to compare the first contact pressure with the first target pressure and / or the second contact pressure with the second target pressure; when the first contact pressure is greater than the first target pressure and / or the second contact pressure is greater than the second target pressure, the alarm component is controlled to output a high pressure alarm; when the first contact pressure is less than the first target pressure and / or the second contact pressure is less than the second target pressure, the alarm component is controlled to output a low pressure alarm.

[0033] The ultrasonic signal-based elastography system provided in this invention further includes: an alarm component, which is communicatively connected to a control component; the control component is further configured to acquire a first target pressure corresponding to the object under test by the shear wave elastography probe and / or a second target pressure corresponding to the object under test by the instantaneous elastography probe, ensuring the accuracy of the acquired first and second target pressures. The system compares the first contact pressure with the first target pressure and / or the second contact pressure with the second target pressure, ensuring the accuracy of the comparison results; when the first contact pressure is greater than the first target pressure and / or the second contact pressure is greater than the second target pressure, the alarm component is controlled to output a high pressure alarm, ensuring the accuracy of the output high pressure alarm; when the first contact pressure is less than the first target pressure and / or the second contact pressure is less than the second target pressure, the alarm component is controlled to output a low pressure alarm, ensuring the accuracy of the output low pressure alarm. This allows the user to receive either a high pressure alarm or a low pressure alarm. Attached Figure Description

[0034] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the elastic imaging system based on ultrasound signals provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first piezoelectric sensor in the first piezoelectric layer of the elastic detection component provided in the embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure when the number of piezoelectric elements in the first piezoelectric sensor of the elastic detection component provided in the embodiment of the present invention is 1;

[0038] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure when the number of piezoelectric elements in the first piezoelectric sensor of the elastic detection component provided in the embodiment of the present invention is 2;

[0039] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure when the number of piezoelectric elements in the first piezoelectric sensor of the elastic detection component provided in the embodiment of the present invention is 4;

[0040] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the elastic imaging system based on ultrasound signals provided in the embodiments of the present invention;

[0041] in:

[0042] 1. Shear wave elastography probe;

[0043] 111. First piezoelectric sensor;

[0044] 1111, Piezoelectric element;

[0045] 1112. Elastomers;

[0046] 1113. Strain gauge circuit;

[0047] 2. Transient elastography probe;

[0048] 211. Second piezoelectric sensor;

[0049] 22. Vibrator;

[0050] 3. Control components;

[0051] 4. Alarm components. Detailed Implementation

[0052] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0053] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can also refer to the internal connection of two components; and they can refer to a wireless connection or a wired connection. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0054] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the term "and / or" as used in this application specification and the appended claims refers to any combination of one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations, and includes such combinations.

[0055] Furthermore, the technical features involved in the different embodiments of the present invention described below can be combined with each other as long as they do not conflict with each other.

[0056] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0057] In one embodiment of this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, an ultrasound-based elastography system is provided. The system includes at least one shear wave elastography probe 1, at least one instantaneous elastography probe 2, and a control component 3. Each shear wave elastography probe 1 and each instantaneous elastography probe 2 is communicatively connected to the control component 3 via different interfaces. Each shear wave elastography probe 1 includes a first piezoelectric sensor 111, and each instantaneous elastography probe 2 includes a second piezoelectric sensor 211 and a vibrator 22.

[0058] The shear wave elastography probe 1 is used to detect the first contact pressure between the shear wave elastography probe and the object under test using the first piezoelectric sensor 111. When the first contact pressure meets the first preset pressure condition, the probe emits a target ultrasonic signal to the object under test to generate a target shear wave.

[0059] Specifically, the shear wave elastography probe 1 can detect the first contact pressure between itself and the object under test using a first piezoelectric sensor 111. Then, the control component 3 can determine the relationship between the first contact pressure and a first preset pressure condition. When it is determined that the first contact pressure does not meet the first preset pressure condition, the shear wave elastography probe 1 adjusts the first contact pressure. When it is determined that the first contact pressure meets the first preset pressure condition, a target ultrasonic signal can be emitted to the object under test through its internal ultrasonic transducer to generate a target shear wave. The first contact pressure is the pressure applied by the shear wave elastography probe to the skin surface corresponding to the object under test.

[0060] The subjects to be tested can be tissues such as the thyroid gland, liver, and breast.

[0061] The instantaneous elastic imaging probe 2 is used to detect the second contact pressure between the instantaneous elastic imaging probe and the object under test using the second piezoelectric sensor 211. When the second contact pressure meets the second preset pressure condition, a target shear wave is generated based on the vibrator 22.

[0062] Specifically, the transient elastography probe 2 can use the second piezoelectric sensor 211 to detect the second contact pressure between itself and the object under test. Then, the control component 3 can determine the relationship between the second contact pressure and a second preset pressure condition. When it is determined that the second contact pressure does not meet the second preset pressure condition, the second contact pressure is adjusted. When it is determined that the second contact pressure meets the second preset pressure condition, a target shear wave is generated based on the vibration of the vibrator 22. Similarly, the second contact pressure is the pressure applied by the transient elastography probe to the skin surface corresponding to the object under test.

[0063] The first preset pressure condition and the second preset pressure condition can be either a pressure range or a pressure value. This application embodiment does not specifically limit the first preset pressure condition and the second preset pressure condition.

[0064] The control component 3 is used to select at least one target probe from each shear wave elastography probe and each instantaneous elastography probe, and according to the selection result, control the shear wave elastography probe to adjust the first contact pressure and / or control the instantaneous elastography probe to adjust the second contact pressure, so that the first contact pressure meets the first preset pressure condition and / or the second contact pressure meets the second preset pressure condition.

[0065] Specifically, the control component 3 can select each shear wave elastography probe 1 and each instantaneous elastography probe 2 according to the detection requirements of the object under test, and determine the probe (i.e., the target probe) to be used for detection. The control component also obtains the contact pressure corresponding to the target probe based on the selection result, and when the contact pressure does not meet the relevant detection conditions (i.e., the preset pressure conditions), it controls the target probe to adjust its corresponding contact pressure so that the adjusted contact pressure meets the relevant detection conditions. When the contact pressure meets the relevant detection conditions (i.e., the preset pressure conditions), there is no need to control the target probe to adjust its corresponding contact pressure.

[0066] The target probe may consist only of a shear wave elastography probe, only of a transient elastography probe, or both, depending on the detection requirements of the object under test. In other words, the most suitable probe is selected based on the detection requirements of the object under test.

[0067] When the target probe includes only a shear wave elastography probe, it may optionally include one or more shear wave elastography probes. If the target probe is a shear wave elastography probe, it can be any shear wave elastography probe in the elastography system or the shear wave elastography probe most convenient for the operator to use. Similarly, when the target probe includes only a transient elastography probe, it may optionally include one or more transient elastography probes. If the target probe is a transient elastography probe, it can be any transient elastography probe in the elastography system or the transient elastography probe most convenient for the operator to use.

[0068] Control component 3 is also used to track and process the target shear wave generated by the target probe to determine the measurement result of the object under test.

[0069] Specifically, the control component controls the target probe to transmit ultrasonic signals to the object under test via an ultrasonic transducer, thereby tracking the target shear wave. The control component also controls the target probe to receive the echo signal of the ultrasonic signal. Based on the echo signal, the tracking result of the shear wave propagation can be obtained. This tracking result is then processed to obtain the measurement result of the object under test. This measurement result can be a parameter related to the elastic state of the object under test, such as the elastic modulus.

[0070] Next, the explanation will take a shear wave elastography probe selected by the control component as an example. The control component receives the first contact pressure transmitted by the shear wave elastography probe and then determines whether the first contact pressure meets the first preset pressure condition. If the determination result is that it does not meet the condition, the control component will control the shear wave elastography probe to lift or press down to adjust the first contact pressure so that it meets the first preset pressure condition. If the determination result is that it meets the condition, no adjustment is required. When the first contact pressure meets the first preset pressure condition, the control component first controls the shear wave elastography probe to emit a target ultrasonic signal towards the object under test to generate a target shear wave inside the object. Then, the control component controls the shear wave elastography probe to emit an ultrasonic signal to track the target shear wave towards the object and receives the corresponding echo signal. The control component processes the echo signal to obtain the measurement result of the object under test.

[0071] The ultrasonic signal-based elastography system provided in this embodiment of the invention includes: at least one shear wave elastography probe 1, at least one instantaneous elastography probe 2, and a control component 3. Each shear wave elastography probe 1 and each instantaneous elastography probe 2 are communicatively connected to the control component 3 via different interfaces. Each shear wave elastography probe 1 includes a first piezoelectric sensor 111, and each instantaneous elastography probe 2 includes a second piezoelectric sensor 211 and a vibrator 22. The shear wave elastography probe 1 is used to detect the first contact pressure between the probe and the object under test using the first piezoelectric sensor. When the first contact pressure meets a first preset pressure condition, a target ultrasonic signal is emitted towards the object under test to generate a target shear wave. This avoids emitting the target ultrasonic signal when the applied first contact pressure on the object under test is too high or too low, ensuring that the timing of target ultrasonic signal emission is the same when different operators use the shear wave elastography probe for detection. The transient elastography probe 2 is used to detect the second contact pressure between the transient elastography probe and the object under test using the second piezoelectric sensor 211. When the second contact pressure meets the second preset pressure condition, a target shear wave is generated based on the vibrator 22. This avoids generating the target shear wave through the vibrator when the second contact pressure applied to the object under test is too high or too low, ensuring that the timing of target shear wave generation by the vibrator 22 is the same when different operators use the transient elastography probe 2 for testing. The control component 3 is used to select at least one as the target probe from each shear wave elastography probe and each transient elastography probe, and according to the selection result, controls the shear wave elastography probe to adjust the first contact pressure and / or controls the transient elastography probe to adjust the second contact pressure, so that the first contact pressure meets the first preset pressure condition and / or the second contact pressure meets the second preset pressure condition. This ensures the accuracy of the first contact pressure applied by the shear wave elastography probe 1 to the object under test, and also ensures the accuracy of the second contact pressure applied by the transient elastography probe 2 to the object under test. Control component 3 is also used to track and process the target shear wave generated by the target probe to determine the measurement result corresponding to the object under test. This ensures that the ultrasound-based elastography system can select the appropriate probe to detect the object under test, thereby guaranteeing the accuracy and stability of the measurement results. Furthermore, the ultrasound-based elastography system is more convenient to use, improving the detection efficiency for medical personnel.

[0072] Optionally, the control component can also perform analysis based on the measurement results to obtain an evaluation result of the object under test.

[0073] Specifically, based on parameters related to elasticity, quantitative assessment results can be obtained for aspects such as the degree of fibrosis and the degree of fatty liver.

[0074] In an optional embodiment of this application, the control component 3 is used to acquire the name and attribute information of the object to be tested, determine the detection requirements corresponding to the object to be tested based on the name and attribute information of the object to be tested, and select at least one as the target probe from each shear wave elastography probe 1 and each instantaneous elastography probe 2 according to the detection requirements corresponding to the object to be tested.

[0075] Specifically, control component 3 can receive the name and attribute information of the object under test sent by other devices, and can also acquire an image of the object under test, and recognize the image of the object under test. Based on the recognition result, it determines the name and attribute information corresponding to the object under test. This application embodiment does not specifically limit the method by which control component 3 acquires the name and attribute information of the object under test.

[0076] Optionally, the control component 3 can query the detection requirements corresponding to the object under test in the preset storage space based on the name and attribute information of the object under test.

[0077] The ultrasound signal-based elastography system provided in this embodiment of the invention ensures the accuracy of the control component in selecting the target probe.

[0078] In an optional embodiment of this application, the detection requirements include horizontal detection of the object under test, and the control component 3 is used to select the shear wave elastography probe 1 as the target probe according to the detection requirements for horizontal detection of the object under test.

[0079] Specifically, based on the name and attribute information of the object under test, control component 3 determines that the detection requirement for the object under test is horizontal detection. Based on this horizontal detection requirement, control component 3 selects shear wave elastography probe 1 as the target probe.

[0080] The ultrasonic signal-based elastography system provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a detection requirement of horizontal detection of the object under test. The control component 3 is used to select the shear wave elastography probe 1 as the target probe according to the detection requirement of horizontal detection of the object under test, thus ensuring the accuracy of the control component 3 in selecting the shear wave elastography probe 1 as the target probe.

[0081] In an optional embodiment of this application, the detection requirements include depth direction detection of the object under test, and the control component 3 is used to select the transient elastography probe 2 as the target probe according to the detection requirements for depth direction detection of the object under test.

[0082] Specifically, based on the name and attribute information of the object under test, control component 3 determines that the detection requirement for the object under test is depth direction detection. Based on this depth direction detection requirement, control component 3 selects the transient elastography probe 2 as the target probe.

[0083] The ultrasonic signal-based elastography system provided in this embodiment of the invention includes a detection requirement of depth direction detection of the object under test. The control component 3 is used to select the instantaneous elastography probe 2 as the target probe according to the detection requirement of depth direction detection of the object under test, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the control component 3 in selecting the instantaneous elastography probe 2 as the target probe.

[0084] In an optional embodiment of this application, the shear wave elastography probe 1 further includes: a first piezoelectric layer, a sound-absorbing layer, a second piezoelectric layer, a matching layer, and an acoustic lens layer. A first piezoelectric sensor 111 is disposed within the first piezoelectric layer. One end of the sound-absorbing layer is connected to the first piezoelectric layer, the other end of the sound-absorbing layer is connected to one end of the second piezoelectric layer, the other end of the second piezoelectric layer is connected to the matching layer, and the other end of the matching layer is connected to the acoustic lens layer; wherein:

[0085] The first piezoelectric layer is disposed on the side close to the object to be tested. It is used to obtain the initial electrical signal corresponding to the first contact pressure based on the first piezoelectric sensor 111, and convert the initial electrical signal into electrical parameters. By measuring the electrical parameters, the pressure value corresponding to the first contact pressure is obtained.

[0086] The sound-absorbing layer is used to reduce the vibration of the shear wave elastography probe 1, shorten the wavelength of the target ultrasonic signal, and improve the axial resolution.

[0087] The second piezoelectric layer is used to transmit ultrasonic signals from the target.

[0088] A matching layer is used for acoustic impedance matching between the second piezoelectric layer and the acoustic lens layer;

[0089] Acoustic lens layer, used for focusing in a direction perpendicular to the imaging plane.

[0090] Specifically, the second piezoelectric layer is an ultrasonic transducer, which can also be used to transmit the ultrasonic signals mentioned above and receive the reflected echo signals.

[0091] In one optional embodiment of this application, such as Figure 2 As shown, the first piezoelectric sensor 111 consists of a piezoelectric element 1111, an elastic body 1112, and a strain circuit 1113. One side of the piezoelectric element 1111 is in contact with the elastic body 1112, and one end of the piezoelectric element 1111 is connected to a resistor in the strain circuit 1113 to form a piezoresistive transducer, which is connected to the strain circuit 1113; wherein:

[0092] The piezoelectric element 1111 is used to receive the first contact pressure and transmit the first contact pressure to the elastomer 1112;

[0093] The elastomer 1112 is used to support the piezoelectric sheet 1111 and convert the first contact pressure received by the piezoelectric sheet 1111 into the elastic force of the elastomer 1112;

[0094] The strain circuit 1113 is used to convert the elastic force into a resistance value based on the piezoresistor; and to determine the initial electrical signal corresponding to the first contact pressure based on the resistance value.

[0095] The elastomer can be a material that is less affected by temperature, such as ferritic steel or silicon dioxide.

[0096] In one optional embodiment of this application, the number of piezoelectric elements is at least one.

[0097] For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first piezoelectric sensor 111 can be composed of a piezoelectric element 1111, an elastic body 1112, and a single-arm bridge strain gauge circuit 1113. In the single-arm bridge strain gauge circuit 1113, Vo is the power supply, R1 and R4 are connected in series, R2 and R3 are connected in series, and the branch with R1 and R4 connected in series is connected in parallel with the branch with R2 and R3 connected in series. R1 and the piezoelectric element 1111 form a varistor.

[0098] In another alternative embodiment of this application, such as Figure 4 As shown, the first piezoelectric sensor 111 can be composed of two piezoelectric sheets 1111, an elastic body 1112, and a double-arm bridge strain gauge circuit 1113. The two piezoelectric sheets 1111 in the first piezoelectric sensor 111 can both be located on one side of the elastic body 1112, or they can be arranged as follows: Figure 4 As shown, two piezoelectric sheets 1111 are located on both sides of the elastomer 1112.

[0099] In another alternative embodiment of this application, such as Figure 5 As shown, the first piezoelectric sensor 111 can be composed of four piezoelectric sheets 1111, an elastic body 1112, and a full-bridge strain circuit 1113. The four piezoelectric sheets 1111 in the first piezoelectric sensor 111 can all be located on one side of the elastic body 1112, or they can be located on both sides of the elastic body 1112.

[0100] Optionally, the two piezoelectric pieces 1111 in the first piezoelectric sensor 111 can be located on one side of the elastomer 1112 respectively.

[0101] The elastic imaging system based on ultrasonic signals provided in this embodiment of the invention has at least one piezoelectric element, which enables the resistance value of the varistor to be changed through at least one piezoelectric element, thus ensuring the accuracy of the first piezoelectric sensor.

[0102] In one optional embodiment of this application, the ultrasound signal-based elastography system further includes an alarm component 4, which is communicatively connected to the control component 3.

[0103] Control component 3 is also used to acquire the first target pressure corresponding to the object under test by shear wave elastography probe 1 and / or the second target pressure corresponding to the object under test by instantaneous elastography probe 2; and to compare the first contact pressure with the first target pressure and / or the second contact pressure with the second target pressure; when the first contact pressure is greater than the first target pressure and / or the second contact pressure is greater than the second target pressure, control alarm component 4 to output a high pressure alarm; when the first contact pressure is less than the first target pressure and / or the second contact pressure is less than the second target pressure, control alarm component 4 to output a low pressure alarm.

[0104] Alarm component 4 is used to output a high pressure alarm or a low pressure alarm under the control of control component 3.

[0105] Specifically, the control component 3 can obtain the first target pressure and / or the second target pressure by receiving user input, receiving data from other devices, or querying from storage space. This application embodiment does not specifically limit the method of obtaining the first target pressure and / or the second target pressure.

[0106] Then, control component 3 can compare the first contact pressure with the first target pressure and / or compare the second contact pressure with the second target pressure. When the first contact pressure is greater than the first target pressure and / or the second contact pressure is greater than the second target pressure, control alarm component 4 to output an overpressure alarm. When the first contact pressure is less than the first target pressure and / or the second contact pressure is less than the second target pressure, control alarm component 4 to output an underpressure alarm.

[0107] Optionally, alarm component 4 can output voice prompts or text prompts. This embodiment does not specifically limit the method by which alarm component 4 outputs alarms.

[0108] The ultrasonic signal-based elastography system provided in this embodiment of the invention further includes: an alarm component 4, which is communicatively connected to a control component 3; the control component 3 is further configured to acquire the first target pressure corresponding to the object under test by the shear wave elastography probe 1 and / or the second target pressure corresponding to the object under test by the instantaneous elastography probe 2, ensuring the accuracy of the acquired first and second target pressures. The first contact pressure is compared with the first target pressure and / or the second contact pressure is compared with the second target pressure, ensuring the accuracy of the comparison results; when the first contact pressure is greater than the first target pressure and / or the second contact pressure is greater than the second target pressure, the alarm component 4 is controlled to output a high pressure alarm, ensuring the accuracy of the high pressure alarm output; when the first contact pressure is less than the first target pressure and / or the second contact pressure is less than the second target pressure, the alarm component 4 is controlled to output a low pressure alarm, ensuring the accuracy of the low pressure alarm output. The alarm component 4, under the control of the control component 3, outputs either a high pressure alarm or a low pressure alarm, allowing the user to receive either a high pressure alarm or a low pressure alarm.

[0109] Although embodiments of the invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An elastography system based on ultrasound signals, characterized in that, The ultrasound-based elastography system includes: at least one shear wave elastography probe, at least one instantaneous elastography probe, and a control component. Each shear wave elastography probe and each instantaneous elastography probe are communicatively connected to the control component via different interfaces. Each shear wave elastography probe includes a first piezoelectric sensor, and each instantaneous elastography probe includes a second piezoelectric sensor and a vibrator. The shear wave elastography probe is used to detect the first pressure applied to the object under test using the first piezoelectric sensor, and when the first pressure meets the first preset pressure requirement, it emits a target ultrasonic signal to generate a target shear wave. The instantaneous elastic imaging probe is used to detect the second pressure applied to the object under test using the second piezoelectric sensor, and when the second pressure meets the second preset pressure requirement, it generates a target shear wave based on the vibrator. The control component is used to select the shear wave elastography probe and the instantaneous elastography probe, and according to the selection result, control the shear wave elastography probe to adjust the first pressure and / or control the instantaneous elastography probe to adjust the second pressure, so that the first pressure meets the first preset pressure requirement and / or the second pressure meets the second preset pressure requirement. The control component is further configured to select at least one as a target probe from each of the shear wave elastography probes and each of the instantaneous elastography probes, track the target ultrasound signal and / or the target shear wave corresponding to the target probe, generate ultrasound data, process the ultrasound data, and determine the processing result corresponding to the object under test; The control component is used to acquire the name and attribute information of the object under test, determine the detection requirements corresponding to the object under test based on the name and attribute information of the object under test, and select at least one as the target probe from each of the shear wave elastography probes and each of the instantaneous elastography probes according to the detection requirements corresponding to the object under test. The detection requirements include performing horizontal detection on the object to be tested, and / or performing depth detection on the object to be tested; If the detection requirement includes horizontal detection of the object under test, then the control component is used to select the shear wave elastography probe as the target probe according to the detection requirement of horizontal detection of the object under test; If the detection requirement includes depth direction detection of the object under test, then the control component is used to select the instantaneous elastography probe as the target probe according to the detection requirement of depth direction detection of the object under test.

2. The elastography system based on ultrasound signals according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shear wave elastic imaging probe further includes: a first piezoelectric layer, a sound-absorbing layer, a second piezoelectric layer, a matching layer, and an acoustic lens layer. A first piezoelectric sensor is installed within the first piezoelectric layer. One end of the sound-absorbing layer is connected to the first piezoelectric sensor, and the other end is connected to the piezoelectric layer. The other end of the piezoelectric layer is connected to the matching layer, and the other end of the matching layer is connected to the acoustic lens layer. Wherein: The first piezoelectric layer is disposed on the side close to the object to be tested, and is used to obtain the initial electrical signal corresponding to the first pressure based on the first piezoelectric sensor, and convert the initial electrical signal into electrical parameters, and obtain the pressure value of the first pressure by measuring the electrical parameters; The sound-absorbing layer is used to reduce the vibration of the shear wave elastography probe; The second piezoelectric layer is used to transmit and receive the target ultrasonic signal; The matching layer is used to perform acoustic impedance matching between the piezoelectric layer and the acoustic lens; The acoustic lens layer is used for focusing in a direction perpendicular to the imaging plane.

3. The elastic imaging system based on ultrasound signals according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first piezoelectric sensor comprises a piezoelectric element, an elastic body, and a strain gauge circuit. One side of the piezoelectric element is in contact with the elastic body, and one end of the piezoelectric element is connected to a resistor in the strain gauge circuit to form a piezoresistive transducer, which is then connected to the strain gauge circuit. The piezoelectric element is used to receive the first pressure and transmit the first pressure to the elastomer; The elastomer is used to support the piezoelectric sheet and convert the first pressure received by the piezoelectric sheet into the elastic force of the elastomer. The strain circuit is used to convert the elastic force into a resistance value based on the piezoresistor; and to determine the initial electrical signal corresponding to the first pressure based on the resistance value.

4. The elastic imaging system based on ultrasound signals according to claim 3, characterized in that, The number of piezoelectric elements is at least one.

5. The elastography system based on ultrasound signals according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ultrasound-based elastography system further includes an alarm component, which is communicatively connected to the control component. The control component is further configured to acquire the first target pressure corresponding to the object under test by the shear wave elastography probe and / or the second target pressure corresponding to the object under test by the instantaneous elastography probe; and compare the first pressure with the first target pressure and / or compare the second pressure with the second target pressure; when the first pressure is greater than the first target pressure and / or the second pressure is greater than the second target pressure, control the alarm component to output a high pressure alarm; when the first pressure is less than the first target pressure and / or the second pressure is less than the second target pressure, control the alarm component to output a low pressure alarm.

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