Ultrasound imaging apparatus and method of operating same

Abstract

An ultrasound imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a display that displays an ultrasound image generated based on an ultrasound signal generated from a transducer of a probe, and receives a user input through a touch screen; and a controller that determines whether the foreign matter has contacted with a region of the display that displays the ultrasound image, where the controller may adjust a touch sensitivity on the region of the display when it is determined that the foreign matter has contacted with the region of the display that displays the ultrasound image.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an ultrasonic imaging device and an operating method thereof. Background Art

[0002] Ultrasonic imaging devices illuminate an object using ultrasound signals generated by a transducer in a probe and receive information about echo signals reflected from the object to obtain images of the object's internal parts. Ultrasonic imaging devices are particularly used for medical purposes, such as observing the interior of an object, detecting foreign matter, and measuring lesions. Compared to imaging devices using X-rays, such ultrasound imaging devices offer advantages such as increased stability, the ability to display images in real time, and safety due to the lack of radiation exposure. Therefore, such ultrasound imaging devices are widely used, along with other imaging devices.

[0003] Electronic devices utilizing touch screens are becoming increasingly common, and accordingly, ultrasound imaging devices that interact with users using touch screens have been developed.

[0004] When foreign matter (ultrasound gel, disinfectant, etc.) appears on the touchscreen of ultrasound imaging equipment, problems may occur, such as failure to recognize touches or recognition of untouched parts. When examining an object, foreign matter frequently appears on the touchscreen, causing users the inconvenience of having to frequently wipe the touchscreen.

[0005] Therefore, in an ultrasonic imaging device using a touch screen, it is necessary to provide a method and a device that enable a user to operate the device more conveniently. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues The present disclosure provides a method and apparatus for enabling a user to conveniently operate an ultrasonic imaging apparatus using a touch screen.

[0007] Solution to the problem According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an ultrasonic imaging device includes: a display, which displays an ultrasonic image generated based on an ultrasonic signal generated from a transducer of a probe and receives user input through a touch screen; and a controller, which determines whether a foreign object has contacted an area of ​​the display displaying the ultrasonic image, wherein, when it is determined that the foreign object has contacted an area of ​​the display displaying the ultrasonic image, the controller can adjust the touch sensitivity on the said area of ​​the display.

[0008] Specifically, when a user input is received in an area where a foreign object has contacted, the controller may adjust the touch sensitivity on an area of ​​the display displaying the ultrasound image.

[0009] Specifically, the controller may adjust the touch sensitivity of an area in contact with the foreign object.

[0010] Specifically, the controller may compare the user input received from the display with recognition criteria for a valid touch to determine whether the user input is a valid input.

[0011] Specifically, the recognition criterion of a valid input may include the magnitude of a change in electrostatic capacitance.

[0012] Specifically, the controller may lower the recognition standard of the valid input, and process the user input for the ultrasound image having a strength less than the recognition standard of the valid input before the lowering as a valid input.

[0013] Specifically, the display may further display setting buttons for adjusting the ultrasound image.

[0014] Specifically, when it is determined that a foreign object has come into contact with the setting button, the controller may freeze the ultrasound image or cause a warning alarm window to pop up on the display.

[0015] Specifically, when determining that the foreign object has contacted the setting button, the controller may raise the recognition standard of valid input and process the user input to the setting button having a strength greater than the recognition standard of valid input before the raising as an invalid input.

[0016] Specifically, the user input may include setting a region of interest or a measurement object on the ultrasound image.

[0017] According to the operating method of the ultrasonic imaging device of the present disclosure, the method includes: displaying an ultrasonic image generated based on an ultrasonic signal generated from a transducer of a probe and receiving user input through a touch screen; and determining whether a foreign object has contacted an area of ​​the display displaying the ultrasonic image, wherein, when it is determined that the foreign object has contacted an area of ​​the display displaying the ultrasonic image, the touch sensitivity on the area of ​​the display can be adjusted.

[0018] Specifically, when a user input is received in an area where a foreign object has contacted, the touch sensitivity on an area of ​​the display displaying an ultrasound image may be adjusted.

[0019] Specifically, the touch sensitivity of the area in contact with the foreign object may be adjusted.

[0020] Specifically, the user input received from the display may be compared with recognition criteria for a valid touch to determine whether the user input is a valid input.

[0021] Specifically, the recognition criterion of a valid input may include the magnitude of a change in electrostatic capacitance.

[0022] Specifically, the recognition standard for valid input may be lowered, and the user input for the ultrasound image having a strength less than the recognition standard for valid input before the lowering may be processed as a valid input.

[0023] Specifically, a setting button for adjusting the ultrasound image may also be displayed.

[0024] Specifically, when it is determined that a foreign object has come into contact with the setting button, the ultrasound image may be frozen or a warning alarm window may be caused to pop up on the display.

[0025] Specifically, when it is determined that a foreign object has contacted the setting button, the recognition standard for valid input may be raised, and user input to the setting button having a strength greater than the recognition standard for valid input before the raising may be processed as invalid input.

[0026] Specifically, the user input may include setting a region of interest or a measurement object on the ultrasound image.

[0027] A computer-readable recording medium is provided, the computer-readable recording medium including a program for executing an operating method of an ultrasonic imaging device according to the present disclosure, wherein the operating method includes: displaying an ultrasonic image generated based on an ultrasonic signal generated from a transducer of a probe and receiving user input through a touch screen; and determining whether a foreign object has contacted an area of ​​the display displaying the ultrasonic image, wherein, when it is determined that the foreign object has contacted the area of ​​the display displaying the ultrasonic image, adjusting the touch sensitivity on the area of ​​the display displaying the ultrasonic image.

[0028] Advantageous Effects of the Invention According to the ultrasonic imaging apparatus and the operating method thereof disclosed herein, it is possible to prevent the touch screen from being unable to receive touch input or from receiving erroneous input when the touch screen is contaminated by foreign matter or the like.

[0029] The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-described effects, and effects not described herein can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the present specification and the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Figure 1 is a structural block diagram of an ultrasonic imaging device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 2 is an enlarged view of a display according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the display including an area of ​​a display region in which an ultrasound image generated based on an ultrasound signal generated from a transducer of an ultrasound probe is output.

[0032] Figure 3 2 is a diagram illustrating measuring a region for outputting an ultrasound image based on an ultrasound signal on a display according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 4 3 is a diagram illustrating changing a region of interest of a region where an ultrasound image generated based on an ultrasound signal is output on a display according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating occurrence of a warning alarm in an ultrasonic imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 6 is a flowchart of an operating method of an ultrasonic imaging apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 7 is a flowchart of an operating method of an ultrasonic imaging apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 8 is a flowchart of an operating method of an ultrasonic imaging apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 9 is a flowchart of an operating method of an ultrasonic imaging apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] This specification clarifies the scope of the present disclosure and explains the principles of the present disclosure, and discloses examples to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present disclosure. The disclosed embodiments can be implemented in various forms.

[0040] Throughout this specification, when a component is referred to as being “connected” to another component, this includes not only a direct connection but also an indirect connection, and the indirect connection includes a connection via a wireless communication network.

[0041] In addition, the terms used herein are only used for the purpose of describing the embodiments and are not intended to limit and / or constrain the disclosed disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, singular expressions include plural expressions. In this specification, terms such as "including" or "having" are intended to specify the presence of features, quantities, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, but do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, quantities, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0042] In addition, terms including ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" used herein may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms, and the terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. For example, a first component may be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component may also be referred to as a first component without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0043] In addition, in this specification, expressions such as "first," "second," or "1st" are exemplary terms used to refer to different components, objects, images, pixels, or slices. Therefore, the expressions "first," "second," or "1st," etc. do not indicate any order or priority between components.

[0044] In addition, terms such as "unit," "device," "block," "member," and "module" may indicate a unit that processes at least one function or operation. For example, the above terms may indicate at least one hardware such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA) / application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), at least one software stored in a memory, or at least one process processed by a processor.

[0045] The symbols following each operation are used to identify each operation and do not indicate the order of the operations, and the operations may be performed in an order different from that described unless the context clearly indicates a specific order.

[0046] In addition, in the present specification, images may include medical images obtained by medical imaging devices such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) devices, computed tomography (CT) devices, ultrasound imaging devices, or X-ray imaging devices, and ultrasound images and medical images of modalities other than ultrasound may also be provided or controlled.

[0047] In addition, in this specification, "subject" refers to an object to be photographed, and may include a person, an animal, or a part thereof. For example, the subject may include a part of the body (such as an organ or system) or a phantom.

[0048] Throughout the specification, the term "ultrasound image" refers to an image of an object processed based on an ultrasound signal transmitted to and reflected from the object.

[0049] Hereinafter, the term “on an ultrasound image” or “on a setting button” refers to an area on a display in which an ultrasound image or a setting button is displayed.

[0050] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] Figure 1 is a structural block diagram of an ultrasonic imaging apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] The ultrasonic imaging apparatus 100 according to an embodiment may include a probe 20 , an ultrasonic transceiver 110 , a controller 120 , an image processor 130 , a display 140 , a memory 150 , a communicator 160 , and an input unit 170 .

[0053] The ultrasound imaging device 100 may be implemented in a portable form as well as a cart form. Examples of portable ultrasound imaging devices may include, but are not limited to, smartphones, laptop computers, PDAs, tablet PCs, etc. that include probes and applications.

[0054] The probe 20 may include multiple transducers. The multiple transducers may transmit ultrasound signals to the subject 10 based on the transmission signal received from the transmitter 111. The multiple transducers may receive the ultrasound signals reflected from the subject 10 and form a received signal. In addition, the probe 20 may be implemented as an integral part of the ultrasound imaging apparatus 100, or may be implemented as a separate part connected to the ultrasound imaging apparatus 100 via a wired or wireless method. In addition, the ultrasound imaging apparatus 100 may include one or more probes 20 depending on the implementation form.

[0055] The controller 120 controls the transmitter 111 to form a transmission signal to be applied to each of the plurality of transducers by considering the positions and focal points of the plurality of transducers included in the probe 20 .

[0056] The controller 120 controls the receiver 112 while considering the positions and focal points of the plurality of transducers to generate ultrasound data by analog-to-digital converting reception signals received from the probe 20 and adding the digitally converted reception signals.

[0057] The image processor 130 generates an ultrasound image by using the ultrasound data generated by the ultrasound receiver 112 .

[0058] In addition, the ultrasound image may be an ultrasound image obtained as a result of scanning an object according to A mode (amplitude mode), B mode (brightness mode), and M mode (motion mode), may be an ultrasound image representing the movement of the object as a Doppler image, or may be a grayscale ultrasound image.

[0059] A-mode is the most basic form of ultrasound image display method. It is a method that displays the intensity of reflected sound as amplitude on the time (distance) axis. When the reflected sound is relatively strong, the amplitude is high, and when the reflected sound is relatively weak, the amplitude is low. Therefore, this method is convenient for distance measurement. However, it is rarely used currently because the image changes even slightly when the probe is facing a certain direction.

[0060] M-mode is a modified form of A-mode, and is a mode in which the distance to a moving reflector is displayed as a temporal change. This is used to designate a region of interest (ROI) in a 2D image as an M line and display temporal changes in that region. It is primarily used for observing heart valves and can also record fetal heart sounds, but has recently been replaced by Doppler methods.

[0061] B-mode displays reflected sound as dots of brightness and is currently used in most ultrasound imaging devices. The brightness of each dot is proportional to the amplitude of the reflected signal. Recently, B-mode has been offering brightness levels of 256 or higher and is also a mode for displaying organ movement in real time. 2D modes (typically represented by B (brightness) mode) display a cross-section of an object on the screen in real time using black and white shading and are the most commonly used mode.

[0062] Doppler mode is a mode that typically measures blood flow by detecting the flow of red blood cells in blood vessels. This mode uses the principle that the wavelength shortens as red blood cells approach the probe and lengthens as they move away. Blood flow can be displayed using various methods, including color Doppler, pulsed wave Doppler (PW), and continuous wave Doppler (CW). Doppler images include blood flow Doppler images (also called color Doppler images) that show blood flow, tissue Doppler images that show tissue motion, and spectral Doppler images that display the velocity of an object as a waveform.

[0063] In addition, there is a composite mode that applies two modes or three modes to one image at the same time, the composite mode displays other modes together with 2D while mainly displaying 2D, and there is a 3D mode that displays a three-dimensional stereoscopic image.

[0064] During B-mode processing, B-mode components are extracted from the ultrasound data and processed, and during image generation, an ultrasound image representing signal intensity as brightness can be generated based on the B-mode components extracted during B-mode processing. During Doppler processing, Doppler components are extracted from the ultrasound data, and during image generation, a Doppler image representing the motion of the subject 10 as color or waveform can be generated based on the extracted Doppler components.

[0065] During the image generation process, a two-dimensional ultrasound image or a three-dimensional image of the object can be generated, and an elastic image that visualizes the degree of deformation of the object 10 according to pressure can also be generated. In addition, various additional information can be displayed in text and graphic formats on the ultrasound image. In addition, the generated ultrasound image can be stored in a memory.

[0066] In the process of measuring an object in an ultrasound image, a measurement tool for measuring the object may be determined, and one of a plurality of measurement tools may be selected based on a user input.

[0067] For example, a measurement tool selection menu for selecting one of a plurality of measurement tools may be provided, and the measurement tool selection menu may be displayed on a single screen together with the ultrasound image. In addition, the measurement tool selection menu may be displayed on a screen separate from the touch screen on which the ultrasound image is displayed.

[0068] Additionally, one of the plurality of measuring tools may be determined based on a user input selecting one of the plurality of measurement items to be measured. The measurement items may include, but are not limited to, length, width, or angle.

[0069] Upon receiving a user input for selecting one of the measurement items, a predetermined measurement tool may be determined to correspond to the selected measurement item.

[0070] The image processor 130 can generate a time-intensity curve representing the image signal values ​​of each ultrasound image frame within a set region of interest. Specifically, the image processor 130 extracts the image signal values ​​of pixels within the region of interest in the ultrasound image, for example, the brightness values ​​of the pixels within the region of interest, digitizes these values, and calculates the sum and average of the brightness values ​​of each pixel for each ultrasound image frame. The image processor 130 can generate a graph showing the average values ​​of the brightness values ​​of the pixels within the region of interest calculated for each ultrasound image frame and generate a time-intensity curve (TIC) based on this graph. The time-intensity curve is primarily used in ultrasound examinations using ultrasound contrast agents.

[0071] Errors such as the probe not being in contact with the object, the object moving out of the region of interest, or the size of the region of interest changing may occur, which will result in flaws in the readings based on the time intensity curve. When an error such as the one described above is determined to have occurred, the time intensity curve may be obtained again.

[0072] The image processor 130 may analyze the trend of the time-intensity curve based on a predefined mathematical model, and generate a curve graph for the frame of the ultrasound image based on the value of the analyzed trend. In an embodiment, the predefined mathematical model may include at least one of a polynomial model, an exponential rise model, a gamma variant model, and a Gompertz model. The image processor 130 may generate a fitting curve representing the trend of the time-intensity curve based on user input selecting at least one of the polynomial model, the exponential rise model, the gamma variant model, and the Gompertz model. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the image processor 130 may also generate a fitting curve based on a preset mathematical model among the mathematical models listed above. The technology for generating a fitting curve representing the trend of the time-intensity curve based on at least one of the polynomial model, the exponential rise model, the gamma variant model, and the Gompertz model is a technology known to those skilled in the art, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0073] The display 140 may display a generated ultrasound image and various information processed by the ultrasound imaging apparatus 100. According to an implementation form, the ultrasound imaging apparatus 100 may include one or more displays 140. In addition, the display 140 may be combined with a touch panel to be implemented as a touch screen.

[0074] The controller 120 may control the overall operation of the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 100 and the signal flow between the internal components of the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 100. The controller 120 may include a memory storing programs or data for executing the functions of the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 100 and a processor for processing the programs or data. In addition, the controller 120 may receive a control signal from the input unit 170 or an external device to control the operation of the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 100.

[0075] The ultrasound imaging apparatus 100 may include a communicator 160 and be connected to an external device (eg, a server, a medical device, a portable device (smartphone, tablet PC, wearable device, etc.)) through the communicator 160 .

[0076] The communicator 160 may include one or more components that enable communication with external devices, and may include, for example, at least one of a short-range communication module, a wired communication module, and a wireless communication module.

[0077] The communicator 160 may transmit a control signal to an external device, receive a control signal and data from the external device, and transmit the received control signal to the controller 120 so that the controller 120 may control the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 100 according to the received control signal.

[0078] Alternatively, the controller 120 may control the external device according to a control signal of the controller by transmitting the control signal to the external device via the communicator 160 .

[0079] For example, the external device may process data of the external device according to a control signal received through the communicator 160 from the controller.

[0080] The external device may be installed with a program (artificial intelligence, etc.) capable of controlling the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 100 , and the program may include a command for executing a part or all of the operations of the controller 120 .

[0081] The program may be pre-installed on the external device, or a user of the external device may download and install the program from a server providing the application. The server providing the application may include a storage medium on which the program is stored.

[0082] In addition, the program may include the storage medium of the server or the storage medium of a client device in a system including a server and a client device. Alternatively, when there is a third device (such as a smartphone, tablet PC, wearable device, etc.) that communicates with the server or client device, the program product may include the storage medium of the third device. Alternatively, the program may include the software program itself, which is transmitted from the server to the client device or third device, or from the third device to the client device.

[0083] In this case, one of the server, client device, and third device may execute a program to perform the method according to the disclosed embodiment. Alternatively, two or more of the server, client device, and third device may execute the program to implement the method according to the disclosed embodiment in a distributed manner.

[0084] For example, a server (eg, a cloud server or an artificial intelligence server, etc.) may execute a program stored on the server to control a client device communicating with the server to perform a method according to the disclosed embodiments.

[0085] The method for operating an ultrasonic imaging device according to an embodiment can be implemented in the form of program commands, which can be executed by various computer devices and recorded on a computer-readable medium. The computer-readable medium may include program commands, data files, data structures, etc., individually or in combination. The program commands recorded on the medium may be program commands specifically designed and configured for the present disclosure, or they may be program commands known and available to those skilled in the art of computer software. Examples of computer-readable recording media include magnetic media (such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes), optical media (such as CD-ROMs and DVDs), magneto-optical media (such as magneto-optical floppy disks), and hardware devices specifically configured to store and execute program instructions (such as ROM, RAM, and flash memory). Examples of program instructions include machine language code (such as machine language code generated by a compiler) and high-level language code that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter, etc.

[0086] In addition, the ultrasonic imaging apparatus and the operating method of the ultrasonic imaging apparatus according to the disclosed embodiments may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a commodity between a seller and a buyer.

[0087] A computer program product may include a software program and a computer-readable storage medium on which the software program is stored. For example, a computer program product may include a product (e.g., a downloadable app) in the form of a software program that is electronically distributed by the manufacturer of an electronic device or through an electronic marketplace (e.g., Google Play Store, App Store). For electronic distribution, at least a portion of the software program may be stored on a storage medium or temporarily created. In this case, the storage medium may be a storage medium on a manufacturer's server, an electronic marketplace server, or a relay server that temporarily stores the software program.

[0088] The memory 150 may store various data or programs for driving and controlling the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 100 , inputting / outputting ultrasonic data, obtaining ultrasonic images, and the like.

[0089] The input unit 170 may receive user input for controlling the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 100. For example, the user input may include, but is not limited to, input from manipulating buttons, a keypad, a mouse, a trackball, a micro switch, a knob, etc., input from touching a touchpad or a touch screen, voice input, motion input, biometric input (e.g., iris recognition, fingerprint recognition, etc.), etc.

[0090] Figure 1The block diagram of the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 100 shown in FIG is a block diagram of an embodiment, and may be integrated, added, or omitted according to the specifications of the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 100 actually implemented. Figure 1 Each component of the block diagram is shown. That is, two or more components may be combined into one component, or one component may be divided into two or more components as needed. In addition, the functions performed in each block are intended to explain the embodiments, and the specific operations or devices thereof do not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0091] Figure 2 is an enlarged view of a display according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the display including an area of ​​a display region in which an ultrasound image generated based on an ultrasound signal generated from a transducer of an ultrasound probe is output.

[0092] Reference Figure 2 , the display 140 displays an ultrasound image 141. Here, the display 140 may display an area 142 where a foreign object has contacted on the ultrasound image using a color or a line.

[0093] The display 140 is formed as a touch screen and can display a user interface screen and receive user input (eg, touch) through the displayed user interface screen. The display 140 can be implemented in various ways such as electrostatic capacitance, pressure, infrared, or ultrasound.

[0094] The display 140 may use a capacitive touch input method and may receive at least one touch via the user's body (e.g., fingers including a thumb) or an input unit with a touch function (e.g., a stylus pen, an electronic pen). Input applied to the display 140 may occur not only when the user physically contacts the display 140 with an input tool such as a finger or a stylus pen, but also when an electrical contact is made by approaching the display 140 at a close distance without making contact (floating touch).

[0095] Furthermore, for example, conductive foreign matter, such as water, may come into contact with (be attached to) the display 140. In particular, when using the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 100, foreign matter, such as ultrasound gel and disinfectant, may frequently appear on the display 140. Foreign matter, such as ultrasound gel, may block touch input to the display 140 or cause the display 140 to malfunction. Therefore, the display 140 needs to display the location and size of the foreign matter so that the user can identify the location of the foreign matter.

[0096] The controller 120 may check the electrostatic capacitance of the area where the touch input area or the area where the foreign object is located on the panel of the display 140. When the memory 150 stores information about the change in electrostatic capacitance according to the contact of the foreign object or the touch input, the controller 120 may determine the touch input or the contact of the foreign object based on the change in electrostatic capacitance and display the position and size of the foreign object on the display 140 by using color, lines, etc.

[0097] In addition, the controller 120 may adjust the touch sensitivity of the display 140 for the area 142 on the ultrasound image that has been contacted by the foreign object. For example, the controller 120 may determine that a foreign object containing moisture such as water or sweat has been in contact with the display 140, and increase the touch sensitivity of the area 142 that has been in contact with the foreign object so that a touch can be input even in the area 142 that has been in contact with the foreign object.

[0098] Specifically, the controller 120 may receive touch information (e.g., touch coordinates, touch time, or touch intensity) from the display 140. Furthermore, the controller 120 may determine whether the touch input corresponding to the received touch information is a valid touch input. For example, the controller 120 may compare the touch intensity (e.g., the magnitude of the change in electrostatic capacitance) with a valid touch recognition standard to determine whether the touch input is a valid touch input.

[0099] Controller 120 may include functionality for differently determining the validity of touch input by varying the touch sensitivity of display 140 for region 142 on the ultrasound image where a foreign object has contacted. For example, upon determining that a foreign object has contacted display 140, controller 120 may increase the touch sensitivity of display 140 to ensure valid input of the user's touch even in the presence of foreign matter, such as water or sweat. In other words, controller 120 may reduce the magnitude of the change in electrostatic capacitance (processed as a valid touch input). Therefore, even if a touch (a weak touch) with a smaller magnitude than the change in electrostatic capacitance (processed as a valid touch and input before the reduction) is input in region 142 on the ultrasound image where a foreign object has contacted, the touch may still be processed as a valid touch.

[0100] The controller 120 may adjust the touch sensitivity of the entire display 140 , and may adjust the touch sensitivity only in the entire region where the ultrasound image is displayed or in a region 142 where a foreign object has contacted on the ultrasound image.

[0101] Figure 3 2 is a diagram illustrating measuring a region for outputting an ultrasound image based on an ultrasound signal on a display according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0102] Figure 43 is a diagram illustrating changing a region of interest of a region where an ultrasound image generated based on an ultrasound signal is output on a display according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0103] Reference Figure 3 , the display 140 displays an ultrasound image 141 and a region 142 on the ultrasound image where the foreign matter has contacted, and measurement may be performed on the display 140 .

[0104] Specifically, you can touch and measure an object in ultrasound image 141. Measurement items may include, but are not limited to, the length, width, or angle of a part of an organ or a bone. For example, you can touch two points on display 140 to measure the length of a line connecting the two points, or you can touch a point other than the two points to measure an area or angle.

[0105] To facilitate measurement, an image of a measuring tool may be displayed on the ultrasound image 141. For example, an image of a length measuring tool used to measure the length of a portion of an organ or a bone may be displayed. The image of the measuring tool allows the user to intuitively identify the measurement method. The position of the length measuring tool may be changed to facilitate measurement.

[0106] Reference Figure 4 The ultrasonic imaging apparatus 100 can set a region of interest 143 on the ultrasonic image 141 based on the positions of the plurality of measurement points and obtain measurement values ​​for the set region of interest 143. The region of interest 143 can be resized or moved by touching and dragging the plurality of measurement points. Measurements can be performed within the region of interest 143.

[0107] For example, the ultrasonic imaging apparatus 100 may set a gate on the ultrasonic image 141 based on the positions of the two measurement points, and measure the blood flow velocity in the area pointed by the gate.

[0108] When it is determined that a foreign object has come into contact with the display 140, the controller 120 may increase the touch sensitivity of the display 140 to allow the user's touch to be effectively input in the presence of a foreign object such as water or sweat. Thus, the size or position of the region of interest may be adjusted, and measurement may be performed in the region 142 on the ultrasound image where the foreign object has come into contact.

[0109] The controller 120 may adjust the touch sensitivity immediately when the foreign matter contacts the display 140, and may adjust the touch sensitivity of the display 140 only until a touch is input and ends when the foreign matter contacts the display 140. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0110] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating occurrence of a warning alarm in an ultrasonic imaging apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0111] Reference Figure 5 The display 140 may also display one or more setting buttons 144 that may affect the ultrasound image. A plurality of setting buttons 144 may be included in the GUI of the display 140 and may include buttons that may adjust the ultrasound image. Figure 5 , a setting button 144 is displayed below the ultrasound image 141 , but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0112] Considering the functions and operations provided by the ultrasound imaging apparatus 100, the settings buttons 144 can be configured in various ways. For example, the settings buttons 144 may include buttons for adjusting the ultrasound image 141, such as harmonics, time gain compensation (TGC), dual real-time display (simultaneously displaying a 2D image and a Doppler image), panoramic imaging (panoramic view), multi-field of view (using multiple beams to improve image quality), clear view (removing noise from the image), freeze (pause), save, B-mode (2D mode), C-mode (color mode), PW mode (pulsed wave Doppler mode - for examining blood flow velocity), M-mode (motion mode - drawing a virtual line in 2D and indicating movement corresponding to the line), scan area (adjusting the width of the image), angle (adjusting the angle of the image), and dynamic range (adjusting the contrast by adjusting the ratio of the minimum and maximum values ​​of the input signal). Furthermore, the settings buttons 144 may include buttons for adjusting the interface, such as L / R flip (switching the display mode of the GUI) and top-bottom dual zone (switching the layout of the input buttons on the display 140 from left to right to top to bottom).

[0113] For example, touching the Harmonic button turns on / off the Optimal Harmonic Imaging (OHI) function, which optimizes images using high frequencies, and touching the TGC button adjusts the gain according to the depth of the ultrasound image.

[0114] When a foreign object comes into contact with the setting button 144 for adjusting the ultrasound image 141, the user may unintentionally adjust the ultrasound image 141. Therefore, when determining that a foreign object has come into contact with the setting button 144, the controller 120 may control the display 140 to pop up a warning alarm window 145. Here, the ultrasound image 141 may be automatically frozen.

[0115] like Figure 5 As shown, the warning alert window 145 may include a phrase urging the user to clean the setting button 144 (eg, please clean the touch panel).

[0116] Furthermore, when determining that a foreign object has come into contact with the setting button 144, the controller 120 may reduce the touch sensitivity of the display 140 to prevent the user's touch, such as due to foreign matter such as water or sweat, from being input as a valid touch. Specifically, the controller 120 may increase the magnitude of the change in electrostatic capacitance (processed as a valid touch input). Therefore, even if a touch (strong touch) with a magnitude greater than the magnitude of the change in electrostatic capacitance (processed as a valid touch input before the increase) is input in the region 142 on the ultrasound image where the foreign object has come into contact, the controller 120 may process the touch as an invalid touch.

[0117] Figure 6 is a flowchart of an operating method of an ultrasonic imaging apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0118] Reference Figure 6 In operation S610, the controller 120 may determine whether the area where the touch is input on the panel of the display 140 is an area on the ultrasound image, and when at least a portion of the area on the ultrasound image includes an area where a foreign object is located, the controller 120 may check the electrostatic capacitance of at least a portion of the area on the ultrasound image.

[0119] When the memory 150 stores information about a change in electrostatic capacitance according to a touch input or contact with a foreign object, the controller 120 may determine the touch input or contact with the foreign object based on the change in electrostatic capacitance, and display the position and size of the foreign object on the ultrasound image of the display 140 by using a color or line, etc. When it is determined that no contact with the foreign object has occurred, the controller 120 may not adjust the touch sensitivity on the ultrasound image of the display 140.

[0120] In operation S620, the controller 120 may adjust the touch sensitivity of the display 140 for the area 142 on the ultrasound image where the foreign object has contacted. For example, the controller 120 may determine that a foreign object containing moisture such as water or sweat has contacted the display 140, and increase the touch sensitivity of the area 142 on the ultrasound image where the foreign object has contacted, so that a touch can be input even in the area 142 on the ultrasound image where the foreign object has contacted.

[0121] Figure 7 is a flowchart of an operating method of an ultrasonic imaging apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0122] In operation S710, the controller 120 may determine whether there is contact with a foreign object on the ultrasound image based on the change in electrostatic capacitance. The position and size of the foreign object may be displayed on the display 140 using color or lines, etc. When it is determined that there is no foreign object contact on the ultrasound image, the controller 120 may not adjust the touch sensitivity of the display 140.

[0123] In operation S720, the controller 120 may determine whether a touch is input based on the change in electrostatic capacitance. When it is determined that a touch input is not made, the controller 120 may not adjust the touch sensitivity of the display 140.

[0124] In operation S730, the controller 120 may adjust the touch sensitivity in the area 142 on the ultrasound image where the foreign object has contacted. The touch sensitivity may be increased for the area 142 on the ultrasound image where the foreign object has contacted, so that a touch may be input even in the area 142 on the ultrasound image where the foreign object has contacted.

[0125] In operation S740, the controller 120 may determine whether the touch input has ended. The controller 120 may adjust the touch sensitivity in the region 142 on the ultrasound image where the foreign matter has contacted until the touch input ends.

[0126] In operation S750, when the touch input ends, the controller 120 may terminate the adjustment of the touch sensitivity. That is, when it is determined that the foreign matter has come into contact with the display 140, the controller 120 may adjust the touch sensitivity while the touch is input.

[0127] Figure 8 is a flowchart of an operating method of an ultrasonic imaging device according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 Describe the details.

[0128] In operation S820 , the controller 120 may determine whether a touch is input based on the change in electrostatic capacitance. When it is determined that no touch input occurs in the region 142 on the ultrasound image where the foreign matter has contacted, the controller 120 may not adjust the touch sensitivity of the display 140 .

[0129] In operation S830, the controller 120 may adjust the touch sensitivity in the area 142 on the ultrasound image where the foreign matter has contacted. The touch sensitivity may be increased so that a touch may be input even in the area 142 where the foreign matter has contacted.

[0130] In operation S840 , the controller 120 may determine whether the touch input has ended. The controller 120 may adjust the touch sensitivity in the area 142 on the ultrasound image where the foreign matter has contacted until the touch input in the area 142 where the foreign matter has contacted ends.

[0131] In operation S850, when the touch input ends, the controller 120 may terminate the touch sensitivity adjustment. That is, when it is determined that the foreign object has contacted the display 140, the controller 120 may adjust the touch sensitivity while inputting a touch to the area 142 on the ultrasound image where the foreign object has contacted.

[0132] Reference Figures 6 to 8 , the controller 120 adjusts the touch sensitivity for the region on the ultrasound image where the foreign object exists (region 142 where the foreign object contacts). However, the touch sensitivity may be adjusted for the entire display 140 including the region on the ultrasound image where the foreign object exists, or for the entire region displaying the ultrasound image.

[0133] Figure 9 is a flowchart of an operating method of an ultrasonic imaging apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0134] In operation S910, the controller 120 may determine whether there is contact with a foreign object based on the change in electrostatic capacitance. The position and size of the foreign object may be displayed on the display 140 using colors or lines, etc. When it is determined that there is no contact with a foreign object, the controller 120 may not adjust the touch sensitivity of the display 140.

[0135] In operation S920, when it is determined that the foreign matter has come into contact with the setting button 144, the controller 120 may control a warning alarm window 145 to pop up on the display 140. Here, the ultrasound image 141 may be automatically frozen.

[0136] As described above, the disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is readily apparent to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure may be practiced in other forms than the disclosed embodiments without changing the technical spirit or essential features of the present disclosure. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic imaging device comprising: a display that displays an ultrasound image generated based on the ultrasound signal generated from the transducer of the probe and receives a user input through the touch screen; as well as a controller that determines whether a foreign object has come into contact with a region of the display that displays an ultrasound image, When it is determined that a foreign object has come into contact with a region of the display displaying an ultrasound image, the controller adjusts touch sensitivity on the region of the display.

2. The ultrasonic imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: When a user input is received in an area where a foreign object has contacted, the controller adjusts the touch sensitivity on an area of ​​the display displaying an ultrasound image, or adjusts the touch sensitivity of an area in contact with the foreign object.

3. The ultrasonic imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The controller compares the user input received from the display with recognition criteria for a valid touch to determine whether the user input is a valid input.

4. The ultrasonic imaging apparatus according to claim 3, wherein: The identification criterion for a valid input includes a magnitude of a change in electrostatic capacitance.

5. The ultrasonic imaging apparatus according to claim 4, wherein: The controller lowers the recognition standard of a valid input and processes a user input with respect to the ultrasound image having a strength smaller than the recognition standard of a valid input before the lowering as a valid input. The ultrasonic imaging apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein: The display further displays a setting button for adjusting the ultrasound image. When it is determined that a foreign object has come into contact with the setting button, the controller freezes the ultrasound image or causes a warning alarm window to pop up on the display.

7. The ultrasonic imaging apparatus according to claim 6, wherein: When determining that a foreign object has come into contact with the setting button, the controller raises the recognition standard for valid input and processes a user input to the setting button having a strength greater than the recognition standard for valid input before raising as an invalid input.

8. A method for operating an ultrasonic imaging device, the method comprising: displaying an ultrasound image generated based on an ultrasound signal generated from a transducer of the probe, and receiving a user input through a touch screen; as well as determining whether a foreign object has come into contact with an area of ​​the display displaying an ultrasound image, When it is determined that a foreign object has come into contact with a region of the display displaying an ultrasound image, the touch sensitivity on the region of the display is adjusted.

9. The operating method according to claim 8, wherein: When a user input is received in the area where the foreign object has contacted, the touch sensitivity on the area of ​​the display displaying the ultrasound image is adjusted, or the touch sensitivity of the area in contact with the foreign object is adjusted.

10. The operating method according to claim 8, wherein: The user input received from the display is compared to recognition criteria for a valid touch to determine whether the user input is a valid input.

11. The operating method according to claim 10, wherein: The identification criterion for a valid input includes a magnitude of a change in electrostatic capacitance.

12. The operating method according to claim 11, wherein: The recognition standard for valid input is lowered, and a user input for the ultrasound image having a strength smaller than the recognition standard for valid input before the lowering is processed as a valid input.

13. The operating method according to claim 10, wherein: A setting button for adjusting the ultrasound image is also displayed, and When it is determined that a foreign object has come into contact with the setting button, the ultrasound image is frozen, or a warning alarm window is caused to pop up on the display.

14. The operating method according to claim 13, wherein: When it is determined that a foreign object has come into contact with the setting button, the recognition standard for valid input is raised, and a user input to the setting button having a strength greater than the recognition standard for valid input before the raising is processed as an invalid input.

15. A computer-readable recording medium comprising a program for executing an operating method of an ultrasonic imaging apparatus, wherein: The operation method includes: displaying an ultrasound image generated based on an ultrasound signal generated from a transducer of the probe and receiving a user input through a touch screen; and determining whether a foreign object has come into contact with an area of ​​the display displaying an ultrasound image, When it is determined that a foreign object has come into contact with a region of the display displaying the ultrasound image, the touch sensitivity on the region of the display is adjusted.

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