Miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device

Abstract

The invention provides a miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device, the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device comprises a shell, at least one ultrasonic transduction assembly and a driving assembly, the bottom surface of the shell is provided with a scanning opening, the ultrasonic transduction assembly comprises a one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe, a clamping part and a transmission worm gear, the clamping part is provided with a driven shaft, and the driving worm gear is provided with a driven shaft; the transmission worm gear is fixedly arranged on the driven shaft, the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe is fixedly arranged on the clamping part, and the detection part faces the scanning opening; the driving assembly comprises a driving unit and a transmission worm, the transmission worm is meshed with the transmission worm gear of each ultrasonic transduction assembly, and the driving unit drives the transmission worm to rotate so as to drive each one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe to rotate around the corresponding driven shaft through the transmission worm gear and the clamping part. According to the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device, the miniaturization degree and portability of the ultrasonic imaging device can be improved, and the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device can be conveniently applied to a brain three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging scene of a small animal in a free moving state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging, and in particular to a miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device. Background Art

[0002] In brain science research, rapid, three-dimensional whole-brain imaging in a freely moving, non-anesthetized state is crucial. Currently, rodent models (especially mice) have become irreplaceable research vehicles due to their highly conserved brain structure with humans, mature genetic manipulation techniques, and rich disease models.

[0003] In brain science, cerebral hemodynamics is indirectly coupled to neural activity. Therefore, achieving real-time, three-dimensional observation of hemodynamics across the entire brain in non-anesthetized, freely moving mice is crucial for revealing the spatiotemporal dynamics of neural circuits and their functional associations. This not only allows for closer immersion in true physiological states, but also provides valuable experimental evidence and theoretical support for exploring brain function, the pathological mechanisms of brain diseases, and the relationship between neural signaling and hemodynamic coupling.

[0004] In the field of brain science research, ultrasound imaging has become an ideal tool for studying cerebral hemodynamics due to its low cost, strong portability, no radiation, large penetration depth, and high imaging frame rate. Ultrasound-based imaging technology has broad application prospects in brain science research.

[0005] Currently, there are two main methods for achieving three-dimensional ultrasound imaging: one is based on electronic scanning of a fixed two-dimensional or three-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array to achieve three-dimensional imaging. This method can achieve flexible deflection and focusing of the beam in space without mechanical components, and can quickly and stably acquire three-dimensional image data. However, due to the complex manufacturing process and processing difficulty of two-dimensional or three-dimensional transducer arrays, as well as the difficulty of lead layout, miniaturization is difficult to achieve. Currently, the maximum number of array elements in a two-dimensional full-channel array transducer can only reach 32×32, and the signal crosstalk between array elements and the limited array element area further restrict its detection sensitivity and resolution.

[0006] The second type is based on mechanical scanning of a one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array to obtain three-dimensional images. This approach avoids the technical challenges of two-dimensional array processing and lead management due to the relatively simple transducer array design and signal routing. However, mechanical scanning structures struggle to achieve both miniaturization and high precision, and they cannot achieve the compatibility between motion artifact suppression and high dynamic response in free-range conditions. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In view of this, the embodiments of the present application are directed to providing a miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device to solve the problem that high-density miniaturization is difficult to achieve in existing miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging devices.

[0008] A first aspect of the present application provides a miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device, comprising:

[0009] A housing, wherein a scanning opening is provided on a bottom surface of the housing;

[0010] at least one ultrasonic transducer assembly, the ultrasonic transducer assembly comprising a one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe, a clamping portion, and a transmission worm gear, the clamping portion being provided with a driven shaft, the transmission worm gear being fixedly disposed on the driven shaft, the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe being configured to be fixedly disposed on the clamping portion, with the detection portion of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe facing the scanning opening;

[0011] A drive assembly, the drive assembly comprising a drive unit and a transmission worm, the transmission worm being engaged with the transmission worm gear of each of the ultrasonic transducer assemblies, the drive unit being configured to drive the transmission worm to rotate, so as to drive each of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probes to rotate around the corresponding driven shaft through the transmission worm gear and the clamping portion.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present application, a first fixing portion is provided on a first side surface of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe, and a second fixing portion is provided on a second side surface of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe, and the first side surface and the second side surface are two opposite side surfaces respectively located on both sides of an extension direction of the detection portion of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe;

[0013] The clamping part includes a first clamping split and a second clamping split, the first clamping split is provided with a first matching part, and the first matching part is constructed to match with the first fixing part, and the second clamping split is provided with a second matching part, and the second matching part is constructed to match with the second fixing part, so that the first clamping split and the second clamping split are respectively clamped on the first side and the second side of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present application, one of the first fixing portion and the first matching portion is a cross-shaped fixing portion, and the other is a matching cross-shaped fixing groove;

[0015] And / or, one of the second fixing portion and the second matching portion is a cross-shaped fixing portion, and the other is a matching cross-shaped fixing groove.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present application, the driven shaft is provided on a side of the first clamping portion away from the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe.

[0017] An auxiliary shaft is provided on a side of the second clamping portion away from the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe;

[0018] The driven shaft and the auxiliary shaft are rotatably matched with openings provided on the housing through bearings.

[0019] In one embodiment of the present application, the driven shaft is configured to partially extend to the outside of the housing, and the portion of the driven shaft extending to the outside of the housing is provided with a first annular limiting groove, and a limiting block is provided on the first annular limiting groove;

[0020] The auxiliary shaft is configured to partially extend to the outside of the shell, and the portion of the auxiliary shaft extending to the outside of the shell is provided with a second annular limiting groove, and a limiting blocking piece is provided on the second annular limiting groove.

[0021] In one embodiment of the present application, the shell includes a first partial shell and a second partial shell fixedly connected to each other, the first partial shell is constructed to cooperate with the driven shaft of each ultrasonic transducer assembly, and the second partial shell is constructed to cooperate with the auxiliary shaft of each ultrasonic transducer assembly.

[0022] In one embodiment of the present application, the housing further includes a third partial shell, the third partial shell is fixedly connected to the first partial shell and the second partial shell, and the transmission worm is rotatably engaged with an opening provided in the third partial shell through a bearing.

[0023] In one embodiment of the present application, the housing further includes a fourth partial shell, the fourth partial shell being fixedly connected to at least one of the first partial shell and the second partial shell, and the fourth partial shell being provided with a through hole;

[0024] The driving unit is configured to be fixedly disposed on the fourth partial shell, and the output shaft of the driving unit is configured to pass through the through hole.

[0025] In one embodiment of the present application, the driving unit includes a driving body and an output shaft, and the driving body is configured to be fixedly disposed on a side of the fourth partial shell facing away from the scanning opening.

[0026] In one embodiment of the present application, an output worm gear is provided on the transmission worm; the drive assembly further comprises an output worm gear, which is fixedly provided on the output shaft of the drive unit and meshes with the output worm gear.

[0027] Compared to existing ultrasonic imaging devices, the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device of the embodiment of the present application can achieve real-time three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging of the brains of small animals. Through the aforementioned transmission structure, the mechanical scanning structure is effectively optimized, effectively ensuring the precise fixation and flexible rotation of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe. This ensures the accuracy of ultrasonic imaging while significantly improving the miniaturization and portability of the ultrasonic imaging device, making it convenient for use in three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging scenarios of the brains of small animals in a freely moving state. According to actual measurements, the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device of the embodiment of the present application can effectively suppress ultrasonic imaging artifacts generated during the movement of small animals, obtain real-time three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging data of the brains of small animals, and effectively meet the monitoring needs of high dynamic response. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Figure 1 The figure shows the overall structure of the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device of the present application.

[0029] Figure 2 A partial structural schematic diagram of the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device of the present application is shown.

[0030] Figure 3 A partial structural schematic diagram of the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device of the present application is shown.

[0031] Figure 4 The figure shows the overall structure of the ultrasonic transducer assembly provided by the present application.

[0032] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the ultrasonic transducer assembly provided in this application is shown.

[0033] Figure 6 The figure shows the overall structure of the transmission worm, transmission worm wheel and output worm provided by the present application.

[0034] Figure 7 The figure shows the exploded structural diagram of the transmission worm, transmission worm wheel and output worm provided by the present application.

[0035] Figure 8 It shows a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the first partial shell, the second partial shell and the third partial shell provided by the present application.

[0036] Figure 9 It shows a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the first partial shell, the second partial shell and the third partial shell provided by the present application.

[0037] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the overall structure of the fourth sub-shell and the drive unit provided in this application is shown.

[0038] Figure 11A schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the fourth sub-shell and the driving unit provided in this application is shown.

[0039] Figure ID:

[0040] 10. Housing; 11. First sub-shell; 12. Second sub-shell; 13. Third sub-shell; 14. Fourth sub-shell; 15. Scanning opening; 20. Ultrasonic transducer assembly; 21. One-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe; 211. Detection unit; 212. Signal connection unit; 213. First fixing unit; 214. Second fixing unit; 22. Clamping unit; 221. First clamping unit; 2211. Driven shaft; 2212. First matching unit The first and second clamping parts are as follows: 2213, first annular limiting groove; 222, second clamping body; 2221, auxiliary shaft; 2222, second matching part; 2223, second annular limiting groove; 223, limiting baffle; 23, transmission worm gear; 31, transmission worm; 311, worm part; 312, long axis part; 313, output worm gear; 32, drive unit; 321, drive body; 322, output shaft; 323, output worm. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of this application to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0042] Should be noted that: unless otherwise specifically stated, otherwise the relative arrangement, numerical expression and numerical value of the parts and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the application. In all examples shown and discussed here, any specific value should be interpreted as merely exemplary, rather than as a restriction. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments can have different values.

[0043] The following description sets forth numerous specific details to facilitate a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways than those described herein, and those skilled in the art may make similar generalizations without violating the scope of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific implementations disclosed below. Techniques, methods, and apparatus known to persons of ordinary skill in the relevant art may not be discussed in detail, but, where appropriate, should be considered part of the specification.

[0044] The terms used in one or more embodiments of the present application are for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and are not intended to limit one or more embodiments of the present application. The singular forms "a", "an", "the" and "the" used in one or more embodiments of the present application and the appended claims are also intended to include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term "and / or" used in one or more embodiments of the present application refers to and includes any or all possible combinations of one or more associated listed items.

[0045] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, etc. may be used to describe various information in one or more embodiments of the present application, such information should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish information of the same type from each other. For example, without departing from the scope of one or more embodiments of the present application, the first may also be referred to as the second, and similarly, the second may also be referred to as the first. Depending on the context, the word "if" as used herein may be interpreted as "at the time of" or "when" or "in response to a determination". In this article, "upper", "lower", "front", "back", "left", "right", etc. are only used to indicate the relative positional relationship between the relevant parts, rather than to limit the absolute position of these relevant parts. In this article, "equal", "same", etc. are not strict mathematical and / or geometric limitations, but also include errors that can be understood by those skilled in the art and are allowed by manufacturing or use. Unless otherwise specified, the numerical ranges herein include not only the entire range within its two endpoints, but also several sub-ranges contained therein.

[0046] like Figures 1 to 11 As shown, an embodiment of the present application provides a miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device, which is mainly used on small animals such as mice. When using the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device, the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device needs to be worn and fixed on the head of the small animal, thereby realizing three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging of the brain of the small animal.

[0047] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device includes a housing 10, at least one ultrasonic transducer assembly 20 and a driving assembly. The housing 10 is mainly used to install the ultrasonic transducer assembly 20 and the driving assembly.

[0048] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, each ultrasonic transducer assembly 20 includes a one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21, a clamping portion 22 and a transmission worm gear 23. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21 is provided with a detection part 211, and the detection part 211 is provided with a plurality of ultrasonic transducer units arranged in a linear shape, and the plurality of ultrasonic transducer units can form a one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array. Figure 5 As shown, the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21 further includes a signal connection portion 212, which is used to electrically connect to each ultrasonic transducer unit, thereby driving each ultrasonic transducer unit to operate and transmit corresponding electrical signals. It is understood that the other end of the signal connection portion 212 can be connected to a signal processing device such as a computer, which can process the received signals to obtain ultrasonic imaging results.

[0049] like Figure 8 As shown, a scanning opening 15 is provided on the bottom surface of the housing 10 , and the detection portion 211 of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21 faces the scanning opening 15 , so that the ultrasonic transducer unit will not be blocked when transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals.

[0050] like Figures 3 to 5 As shown, the clamping portion 22 is provided with a driven shaft 2211, the transmission worm gear 23 is fixedly arranged on the driven shaft 2211, and the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21 is constructed to be fixedly arranged on the clamping portion 22. In this way, when the driven shaft 2211 rotates, it can drive the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21 to rotate, thereby realizing mechanical scanning of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer.

[0051] like Figure 1 、 Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the drive assembly includes a drive unit 32 and a transmission worm 31. The transmission worm 31 is engaged with the transmission worm gear 23 of each ultrasonic transducer assembly 20. The drive unit 32 is configured to drive the transmission worm 31 to rotate, so as to drive each one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21 to rotate around the corresponding driven shaft 2211 through the transmission worm gear 23 and the clamping portion 22.

[0052] Specifically, during operation of the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasound imaging device of the embodiment of the present application, the drive unit 32 is capable of driving the transmission worm 31 to rotate. When the transmission worm 31 rotates, each transmission worm gear 23 is capable of rotating along with the transmission worm 31, thereby driving the clamping portion 22 and each one-dimensional ultrasound transducer array probe 21 to rotate about the corresponding driven shaft 2211. During the rotation of each one-dimensional ultrasound transducer array probe 21 about the corresponding driven shaft 2211, ultrasound signals can be simultaneously transmitted and received, thereby enabling the one-dimensional ultrasound transducer array to rotate to multiple positions and transmit and receive ultrasound signals. The signal processing device is capable of processing the received signals to obtain three-dimensional ultrasound imaging results of the brain of a small animal. Specifically, the signal processing device is capable of splicing the two-dimensional ultrasound images obtained by scanning the one-dimensional transducer array into a three-dimensional ultrasound image according to the rotation angle information, thereby achieving real-time three-dimensional ultrasound imaging, particularly three-dimensional ultrasound imaging results of the brain of a small animal.

[0053] Compared to existing ultrasonic imaging devices, the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device of the embodiment of the present application can achieve real-time three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging of the brains of small animals. Through the above-mentioned transmission structure, the mechanical scanning structure is effectively optimized, effectively ensuring the precise fixation and flexible rotation of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21. This ensures the accuracy of ultrasonic imaging while significantly improving the miniaturization and portability of the ultrasonic imaging device, making it convenient for use in three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging scenarios of the brains of small animals in a freely moving state. According to actual measurements, the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device of the embodiment of the present application can effectively suppress ultrasonic imaging artifacts generated during the movement of small animals, obtain three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging data of the brains of small animals in real time, and effectively meet the monitoring needs of high dynamic response.

[0054] The miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device of the embodiment of the present application may include one ultrasonic transducer assembly 20, or may include at least two ultrasonic transducer assemblies 20, for example, Figure 1 In an embodiment of the present application, the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasound imaging device of the present application is provided with four ultrasound transducer assemblies 20. When the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasound imaging device of the present application includes at least two ultrasound transducer assemblies 20, the one-dimensional ultrasound transducer array probes 21 of each ultrasound transducer assembly 20 can form a two-dimensional array of ultrasound transducer assemblies 20, thereby enabling the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasound imaging device of the present application to cover most areas of the periphery of the brain of a small animal. During the rotation of the at least two one-dimensional ultrasound transducer array probes 21 about the corresponding driven shaft 2211, they can simultaneously transmit and receive ultrasound signals, thereby enabling each one-dimensional ultrasound transducer array to rotate to multiple positions and transmit and receive ultrasound signals. The signal processing device can stitch the two-dimensional ultrasound images obtained by scanning the at least two one-dimensional transducer arrays into a three-dimensional ultrasound imaging result of the small animal's brain according to the rotation angle information, thereby achieving real-time three-dimensional monitoring of hemodynamics throughout the brain of non-anesthetized, freely moving small animals.

[0055] Since the transmission worm 31 can simultaneously drive the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probes 21 of each ultrasonic transducer assembly 20 to rotate in coordination, it can ensure that the rotational positions of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probes 21 of each ultrasonic transducer assembly 20 remain consistent, which is beneficial to improving the accuracy of the overall three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging results of the brain of small animals obtained by the signal processing equipment.

[0056] like Figure 5 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, a first fixing portion 213 is provided on a first side surface of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21, and a second fixing portion 214 is provided on a second side surface of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21. The first side surface and the second side surface are two opposite side surfaces located on both sides of the extension direction of the detection portion 211 of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21.

[0057] The clamping part 22 includes a first clamping split body 221 and a second clamping split body 222. The first clamping split body 221 is provided with a first matching portion 2212, and the first matching portion 2212 is constructed to match with the first fixing portion 213. The second clamping split body 222 is provided with a second matching portion 2222, and the second matching portion 2222 is constructed to match with the second fixing portion 214, so that the first clamping split body 221 and the second clamping split body 222 are respectively clamped on the first side and second side of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21.

[0058] Since the first clamping split body 221 and the second clamping split body 222 of the clamping part 22 are respectively located on the first side surface and the second side surface of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21, the first side surface and the second side surface are two opposite side surfaces respectively located on both sides of the extension direction of the detection part 211 of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21, which can effectively reduce the overall width of the ultrasonic transducer assembly 20, thereby facilitating the reduction of the overall width of the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device of the embodiment of the present application.

[0059] Since the first matching portion 2212 on the first clamping body 221 cooperates with the first fixing portion 213, and the second matching portion 2222 on the second clamping body 222 cooperates with the second fixing portion 214, the clamping portion 22 can effectively fix the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21, thereby avoiding displacement of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21 relative to the clamping portion 22 during rotation, thereby avoiding the relative displacement from affecting the three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging results.

[0060] Specifically, such as Figure 5 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, the first fixing portion 213 and the second fixing portion 214 are both cross-shaped fixing portions, and the first matching portion 2212 and the second matching portion 2222 are both matched cross-shaped fixing grooves. In this way, the matching accuracy between the first fixing portion 213 and the first matching portion 2212 can be further improved, and the matching accuracy between the second matching portion 2222 and the second fixing portion 214 can be improved, which can not only avoid the displacement of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21 relative to the clamping portion 22 during the rotation process, but also ensure that the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21 can accurately rotate the corresponding angle with the driven shaft 2211, and there will be no angle difference between the two in the rotation direction.

[0061] Similarly, in one embodiment of the present application, one of the first fixing portion 213 and the first matching portion 2212 is a cross-shaped fixing portion, and the other is a corresponding cross-shaped fixing groove; and / or, one of the second fixing portion 214 and the second matching portion 2222 is a cross-shaped fixing portion, and the other is a corresponding cross-shaped fixing groove. The effects are referred to above and will not be repeated here.

[0062] It is understandable that the first fixing portion 213 , the first matching portion 2212 , the second fixing portion 214 and the second matching portion 2222 may also be fixing portions or fixing grooves of other shapes, which are not limited here.

[0063] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, a driven shaft 2211 is provided on the side of the first clamping portion 22 away from the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21, and an auxiliary shaft 2221 is provided on the side of the second clamping portion 22 away from the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21. The driven shaft 2211 and the auxiliary shaft 2221 are rotatably engaged with an opening provided in the housing 10 via bearings. In this way, the ultrasonic transducer assembly 20 is rotatably mounted on the housing 10 via the driven shaft 2211 and the auxiliary shaft 2221, facilitating rotation of the ultrasonic transducer assembly 20 relative to the housing 10. Furthermore, the driven shaft 2211 and the auxiliary shaft 2221 are rotatably engaged with the opening provided in the housing 10 via the bearings, effectively reducing friction generated during rotation, thereby reducing friction loss and ensuring rotation accuracy.

[0064] Specifically, the first clamping split 221 and the second clamping split 222 of the clamping part 22 can be made of aluminum alloy material to ensure the installation stability of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21, and the first clamping split 221 and the second clamping split 222 are not easy to rust, which effectively extends the service life; the first clamping split 221 containing the driven shaft 2211 and the second clamping split 222 containing the auxiliary shaft 2221 can be processed using CNC technology, which can effectively improve the processing accuracy and ensure that the surface of the first clamping split 221 and the second clamping split 222 are smooth, which can reduce the friction generated when the driven shaft 2211 and the auxiliary shaft 2221 rotate, and improve the rotation accuracy.

[0065] like Figure 5 As shown, the driven shaft 2211 is constructed to partially extend outside the housing 10, and the portion of the driven shaft 2211 extending outside the housing 10 is provided with a first annular limiting groove 2213, on which a limiting block 223 is provided. The auxiliary shaft 2221 is constructed to partially extend outside the housing 10, and the portion of the auxiliary shaft 2221 extending outside the housing 10 is provided with a second annular limiting groove 2223, on which a limiting block 223 is provided. That is, the limiting blocks 223 on the driven shaft 2211 and the limiting blocks 223 on the auxiliary shaft 2221 are respectively provided on the outside of both ends of the housing 10. In this way, the front and rear position of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21 in the extension direction of the driven shaft 2211 during rotation can be effectively limited, thereby improving imaging accuracy.

[0066] In one specific embodiment, the machining accuracy of the first and second clamping parts 221, 222 of the clamping portion 22 is ±0.01 mm. The combined diameter of the driven shaft 2211 and auxiliary shaft 2221 is 0.99 mm. The driven shaft 2211 is tightly fitted with the transmission worm gear 23, which has a through-hole diameter of 1 mm. The first and second annular limiting grooves 2213, 2223 are 0.1 mm deep and 0.2 mm long. The limiting block 223 can be an E-type open retaining ring made of 304 spring steel to ensure high strength and toughness. The E-type open retaining ring has an inner diameter of 0.8 mm, an outer diameter of 2 mm, and a thickness of 0.2 mm.

[0067] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, the housing 10 includes a first sub-shell 11 and a second sub-shell 12 fixedly connected to each other, the first sub-shell 11 is configured to cooperate with the driven shaft 2211 of each ultrasonic transducer assembly 20, and the second sub-shell 12 is configured to cooperate with the auxiliary shaft 2221 of each ultrasonic transducer assembly 20. Specifically, as Figure 9 As shown, the first and second sub-shells 11, 12 are respectively provided with through-holes corresponding to the driven shaft 2211 and the auxiliary shaft 2221. Since the housing 10 includes the first and second sub-shells 11, 12 fixedly connected to each other, the first and second sub-shells 11, 12 can be machined separately during processing and then fixedly connected to each other via fixings during assembly, thereby reducing processing difficulty and facilitating assembly with the ultrasonic transducer assembly 20.

[0068] It is understandable that if Figure 9 As shown, in this embodiment, the first partial shell 11 is L-shaped as a whole, and the second partial shell 12 is plate-shaped. In another embodiment, the second partial shell 12 may be L-shaped as a whole, and the first partial shell 11 may be plate-shaped.

[0069] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, the housing 10 further includes a third sub-shell 13, which is fixedly connected to both the first sub-shell 11 and the second sub-shell 12, and the transmission worm 31 is rotatably engaged with an opening provided on the third sub-shell 13 via a bearing. Figure 7As shown, the transmission worm 31 includes a worm portion 311 with a spiral thread and a long axis portion 312. The long axis portion 312 rotatably engages with an opening in the third housing 13 via a bearing. This effectively reduces friction during rotation of the transmission worm 31 and effectively limits the position of the transmission worm 31, preventing positional deviation of the transmission worm 31 during operation of the miniaturized 3D ultrasonic imaging device of this embodiment. The worm portion 311 can be composed of multiple worms, each of which is assembled on the long axis portion 312. Furthermore, a stopper can be provided on the long axis portion 312 to secure the transmission worm 31 to the third housing 13, preventing the transmission worm 31 from moving forward or backward in its own extension direction during rotation. In one specific embodiment, the inner diameter of the through hole can be 3 mm, and the bearing can be a miniature ball bearing with an inner diameter of 1 mm and an outer diameter of 3 mm, each weighing 0.032 g, to facilitate the miniaturization of the miniaturized 3D ultrasonic imaging device of this embodiment.

[0070] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, the housing 10 further includes a fourth sub-shell 14, which is fixedly connected to at least one of the first sub-shell 11 and the second sub-shell 12. The drive unit 32 is configured to be fixedly disposed on the fourth sub-shell 14. The fourth sub-shell 14 is primarily used to mount and secure the drive unit 32. During installation, the drive unit 32 can be first mounted on the fourth sub-shell 14, and then the drive unit 32 and the fourth sub-shell 14 can be fixedly connected to the rest of the housing 10.

[0071] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, the transmission worm 31 is provided with an output 313; the drive assembly further includes an output worm 323, which is fixedly disposed on the output shaft 322 of the drive unit 32 and meshes with the output worm gear 313. Thus, during the driving process of the drive unit 32, the output worm 323 rotates along with the output shaft 322. Since the output worm 323 meshes with the output worm gear 313, and the output worm gear 313 is fixedly disposed on the transmission worm 31, the transmission worm 31 can be driven to rotate, thereby driving the rotation of each ultrasonic transducer assembly 20.

[0072] like Figure 11 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, the driving unit 32 includes a driving body 321 and an output shaft 322. The driving body 321 is constructed to be fixedly arranged on the side of the fourth shell 14 away from the scanning opening 15. Since the driving body 321 is fixedly arranged on the side of the fourth shell 14 away from the scanning opening 15, it does not occupy the space on the side of the fourth shell 14 adjacent to the scanning opening 15, which facilitates the miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device of the embodiment of the present application to be fitted and fixed on the head of a small animal.

[0073] In one embodiment of the present application, the driving body 321 is a stepper motor, and the stepper motor is constructed to drive the output shaft 322 to rotate a corresponding angle based on the received drive pulse signal; that is, the stepper motor in the embodiment of the present application drives the output shaft 322 to rotate a corresponding angle based on the received drive pulse signal, so that the drive pulse signal received by the stepper motor corresponds to the transmission angle of the transmission worm 31 and the rotation angle of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe 21, effectively improving the rotation accuracy and thus improving the imaging accuracy. Specifically, the frequency and value of the electric pulse output by the stepper motor driver board can be controlled by a control unit such as an STM32 microcontroller, thereby adjusting the speed and rotation direction of the output shaft 322 of the stepper motor.

[0074] Specifically, in one embodiment of the present application, the driving body 321 can be a miniature two-phase four-wire stepper motor with a motor diameter of 8 mm, a height of 8.2 mm, an input voltage of 5-6 V, a driving current of 0.12 A, and a phase internal resistance of 39.2 Ω. The motor has a simple structure and a relatively light size.

[0075] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, in one embodiment of the present application, a through hole is provided on the fourth sub-shell 14; the output shaft 322 of the drive unit 32 is constructed to pass through the through hole; by providing a through hole on the fourth sub-shell 14, the output shaft 322 of the drive unit 32 passes through the through hole, thereby facilitating transmission connection with the transmission worm 31.

[0076] It is understandable that if Figure 10 As shown, in this embodiment, the output shaft 322 and the output worm 323 of the drive unit 32 can pass through the through hole together, and the inner diameter of the through hole is larger than the outer diameter of the output worm 323; in another embodiment of the present application, only the output shaft 322 of the drive unit 32 can pass through the through hole, and the output worm 323 is fixedly connected to the output shaft 322 from the other side relative to the drive unit 32 to reduce the required size of the through hole.

[0077] It is understood that the angles between the output worm gear 313 and the output worm 323, as well as the transmission worm 31 and the transmission worm gear 23, are all 90°, to facilitate power transmission between the intersecting axes at a 90° angle. The output worm gear 313 and the output worm 323, as well as the transmission worm 31 and the transmission worm gear 23, can be made of brass to reduce wear and improve transmission accuracy.

[0078] In a specific embodiment, the module of the output worm wheel 313 and the output worm 323 is 0.2, the transmission ratio is 15, the output worm wheel diameter is 3.4 mm, the output worm 323 diameter is 2.4 mm, and the worm wheel and worm center distance is 2.49 mm; the module of the transmission worm 31 and the transmission worm wheel 23 is 0.2, the transmission ratio is 12, the transmission worm wheel diameter is 2.814 mm, the screw portion diameter of the transmission worm 31 is 2.412 mm, the inner hole diameter is 1 mm, and the worm wheel and worm center distance is 2.211 mm; the long axis portion 312 of the transmission worm 31 is made of 65Mn spring steel material with a tensile strength of 735 MPa and a yield strength of 430 MPa to ensure high hardness and good plasticity, and is not easy to bend under force, which can ensure stability during power transmission. The diameter is 1 mm to fit tightly with the screw portion.

[0079] In one embodiment of the present application, the housing 10 is constructed using a photosensitive resin material through 3D printing technology. Since the housing 10 is made of a photosensitive resin material through 3D printing technology, it can ensure that the housing 10 has high strength and toughness, and has good processing accuracy and good surface finish.

[0080] In one embodiment, the housing 10 is made of photosensitive resin using 3D printing technology with a precision of ±0.05mm, ensuring precise assembly of the miniaturized 3D ultrasound imaging device of this application. To ensure strength, each component of the housing 10 is at least 0.6mm thick, with overall dimensions of 23.4mm x 19.6mm x 8.06mm.

[0081] The above are only preferred embodiments of the present application and are not intended to limit the present application. Any modifications, equivalent replacements, etc. made within the spirit and principles of the present application should be included in the scope of protection of the present application.

[0082] Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein is selected to best explain the principles of the embodiments, their practical applications, or technological improvements in the marketplace, or to enable others skilled in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein. The scope of this application is defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device, characterized in that: include: A housing (10), wherein a scanning opening (15) is provided on a bottom surface of the housing (10); At least one ultrasonic transducer assembly (20), the ultrasonic transducer assembly (20) comprising a one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe (21), a clamping portion (22), and a transmission worm gear (23), the clamping portion (22) being provided with a driven shaft (2211), the transmission worm gear (23) being fixedly disposed on the driven shaft (2211), the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe (21) being configured to be fixedly disposed on the clamping portion (22), and the detection portion (211) of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe (21) facing the scanning opening (15); A drive assembly, comprising a drive unit (32) and a transmission worm (31), wherein the transmission worm (31) is engaged with the transmission worm gear (23) of each of the ultrasonic transducer assemblies (20), and the drive unit (32) is configured to drive the transmission worm (31) to rotate, so as to drive each of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probes (21) to rotate around the corresponding driven shaft (2211) through the transmission worm gear (23) and the clamping portion (22).

2. The miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first side surface of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe (21) is provided with a first fixing portion (213), and the second side surface of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe (21) is provided with a second fixing portion (214), and the first side surface and the second side surface are two opposite side surfaces located on both sides of an extension direction of the detection portion (211) of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe (21); The clamping portion (22) includes a first clamping split body (221) and a second clamping split body (222), wherein the first clamping split body (221) is provided with a first matching portion (2212), and the first matching portion (2212) is configured to match with the first fixing portion (213), and the second clamping split body (222) is provided with a second matching portion (2222), and the second matching portion (2222) is configured to match with the second fixing portion (214), so that the first clamping split body (221) and the second clamping split body (222) are respectively clamped on the first side surface and the second side surface of the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe (21).

3. The miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device according to claim 2, characterized in that: One of the first fixing portion (213) and the first matching portion (2212) is a cross-shaped fixing portion, and the other is a matching cross-shaped fixing groove; And / or, one of the second fixing portion (214) and the second matching portion (2222) is a cross-shaped fixing portion, and the other is a matching cross-shaped fixing groove.

4. The miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The driven shaft (2211) is provided on a side of the first clamping portion (22) away from the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe (21). An auxiliary shaft (2221) is provided on a side of the second clamping portion (22) away from the one-dimensional ultrasonic transducer array probe (21); The driven shaft (2211) and the auxiliary shaft (2221) are rotatably engaged with openings provided on the housing (10) via bearings.

5. The miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The driven shaft (2211) is constructed to partially extend to the outside of the housing (10), and the portion of the driven shaft (2211) extending to the outside of the housing (10) is provided with a first annular limiting groove (2213), and a limiting block piece (223) is provided on the first annular limiting groove (2213); The auxiliary shaft (2221) is constructed to partially extend to the outside of the shell (10), and the part of the auxiliary shaft (2221) extending to the outside of the shell (10) is provided with a second annular limiting groove (2223), and a limiting block plate (223) is provided on the second annular limiting groove (2223).

6. The miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The housing (10) comprises a first sub-shell (11) and a second sub-shell (12) fixedly connected to each other, the first sub-shell (11) being configured to cooperate with the driven shaft (2211) of each ultrasonic transducer assembly (20), and the second sub-shell (12) being configured to cooperate with the auxiliary shaft (2221) of each ultrasonic transducer assembly (20).

7. The miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The housing (10) further comprises a third sub-shell (13), the third sub-shell (13) being fixedly connected to both the first sub-shell (11) and the second sub-shell (12), and the transmission worm (31) being rotatably engaged with an opening provided on the third sub-shell (13) via a bearing.

8. The miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The housing (10) further comprises a fourth sub-shell (14), the fourth sub-shell (14) being fixedly connected to at least one of the first sub-shell (11) and the second sub-shell (12), and the fourth sub-shell (14) being provided with a through hole; The driving unit (32) is configured to be fixedly arranged on the fourth partial shell (14), and the output shaft (322) of the driving unit (32) is configured to pass through the through hole.

9. The miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device according to claim 8, characterized in that: The driving unit (32) comprises a driving body (321) and an output shaft (322); the driving body (321) is configured to be fixedly arranged on a side of the fourth shell (14) facing away from the scanning opening (15).

10. The miniaturized three-dimensional ultrasonic imaging device according to claim 9, characterized in that: An output worm wheel (313) is provided on the transmission worm (31); the drive assembly further comprises an output worm (323), the output worm (323) is fixedly provided on an output shaft (322) of the drive unit (32) and meshes with the output worm wheel (313).

Images