Medical imaging system, control method thereof and non-transient computer readable medium

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a medical imaging system, a control method of the medical imaging system and a non-transient computer readable medium, and the medical imaging system comprises scanning equipment which is used for scanning an object to be detected so as to obtain imaging data containing the information of the object to be detected, the scanning equipment is provided with a front end part for sending a signal to the to-be-detected object and receiving the signal; the control method comprises the step of detecting the fault type of the front end part of the scanning equipment according to data obtained by scanning a predetermined to-be-detected object by the scanning equipment. The stability of the medical imaging system can be improved, and the waiting time of hospitals and patients is shortened.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of the present application relate to the field of medical equipment technology, and in particular to a medical imaging system, a control method thereof, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium. Background Art

[0002] Medical imaging equipment can obtain images of the internal tissues of an object to be imaged in a non-invasive manner. For example, a scanning device of the medical imaging equipment can scan a predetermined part of the object to be imaged to obtain imaging data containing information about the predetermined part.

[0003] Common medical imaging equipment includes, for example, ultrasound imaging systems, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems, and computed tomography (CT) scanning systems.

[0004] It should be noted that the above introduction to the technical background is only intended to provide a clear and complete description of the technical solution of the present application and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] When medical imaging equipment is damaged or malfunctioning, operators often need to wait for specialized personnel to repair the equipment. This waiting period typically takes a long time, causing significant inconvenience for both the hospital and the patient. Often, during this waiting period, the equipment cannot be used, as operators lack the necessary skills to detect and repair damage.

[0006] In order to solve at least one of the above technical problems or similar technical problems, the embodiments of the present application provide a medical imaging system and a control method thereof, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium. In the control method of the medical imaging system, the type of fault at the front end of the scanning device is detected based on the data obtained by the scanning device scanning a predetermined object to be detected. The inventors realized that the front end of the medical imaging device usually has multiple imaging channels, which to a certain extent makes it possible for the medical imaging device itself to bypass the fault and perform temporary work. Specifically, after the front end including multiple imaging channels is fault detected using the embodiment of the present application, the faulty channels in the multiple channels can be subsequently processed (for example, shielded, etc.) according to the detection results, while the working state of the normal channels is retained. Based on this, the availability of the medical imaging system can be judged according to the type of fault, so that the medical imaging system can be appropriately applied while waiting for the medical imaging system to be repaired to improve the stability of the medical imaging system and shorten the waiting time for hospitals and patients.

[0007] According to one aspect of an embodiment of the present application, a control method for a medical imaging system is provided, the medical imaging system comprising:

[0008] A scanning device for scanning an object to be detected to obtain imaging data containing information of the object to be detected, wherein the scanning device has a front end portion for sending signals to and receiving signals from the object to be detected;

[0009] The control method includes:

[0010] The type of failure of the front end portion of the scanning device is detected based on data obtained by the scanning device scanning a predetermined object to be detected.

[0011] According to another aspect of an embodiment of the present application, a medical imaging system is provided, comprising:

[0012] A scanning device for scanning an object to be detected to obtain imaging data containing information of the object to be detected, wherein the scanning device has a front end portion for sending and receiving signals to the object to be detected; and

[0013] A control device detects the type of failure of the front end portion of the scanning device based on data obtained by the scanning device scanning a predetermined object to be detected.

[0014] According to another aspect of an embodiment of the present application, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium stores a computer program, wherein the computer program has at least one code segment, and the at least one code segment can be executed by a machine so that the machine performs the steps of the method described in the above embodiment.

[0015] One of the beneficial effects of the embodiments of the present application is that, in the control method of the medical imaging system, the type of fault occurring in the front end portion of the scanning device is detected based on the data obtained by the scanning device scanning a predetermined object to be detected. In the embodiments, the front end portion is selected as the fault detection target, considering that it typically has multiple imaging channels and that the front end portion may still be able to function even when a less serious imaging channel is damaged. Using the method provided in the embodiments of the present application, the availability of the medical imaging system can be determined based on the type of fault, thereby allowing the medical imaging system to be appropriately used while waiting for repairs, thereby improving the stability of the medical imaging system and shortening the waiting time for hospitals and patients.

[0016] With reference to the following description and drawings, specific implementations of the embodiments of the present application are disclosed in detail, indicating how the principles of the embodiments of the present application can be employed. It should be understood that the embodiments of the present application are not limited in scope. Within the spirit and scope of the appended claims, the embodiments of the present application include many variations, modifications, and equivalents. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The included drawings are used to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of the present application, which constitute a part of the specification, are used to illustrate the implementation methods of the present application, and together with the text description, explain the principles of the present application. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application. For those skilled in the art, other implementation methods can be obtained based on these drawings without inventive work. In the drawings:

[0018] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a control method for a medical imaging system according to some embodiments of the present application;

[0019] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an ultrasound imaging system;

[0020] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a spectrum of an imaging channel obtained by the control device 12 performing spectrum analysis on the first data;

[0021] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the control device 12 performing energy pulse analysis on the first data to obtain an energy pulse analysis result;

[0022] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram of another way to express the results of energy pulse analysis;

[0023] Figure 6 is another schematic diagram of the control device 12 performing energy pulse analysis on the first data to obtain an energy pulse analysis result;

[0024] Figure 7 is another schematic diagram showing another way of expressing the results of energy pulse analysis;

[0025] Figure 8 is another schematic diagram of a spectrum of an imaging channel obtained by the control device 12 performing spectrum analysis on the first data;

[0026] Figure 9 This is another schematic diagram of the energy pulse analysis results;

[0027] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a screen displayed by the display device 13 for reflecting the detection result;

[0028] Figure 11 is another schematic diagram of a screen displayed by the display device 13 for reflecting the detection result;

[0029] Figure 12 is another schematic diagram of a screen displayed by the display device 13 for reflecting the detection result;

[0030] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of a medical image generated based on operation 104;

[0031] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of an ultrasound imaging system according to an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] The foregoing and other features of the embodiments of the present application will become apparent through the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description and drawings, specific embodiments of the present application are disclosed in detail, which illustrate some embodiments in which the principles of the embodiments of the present application can be adopted. It should be understood that the present application is not limited to the described embodiments. On the contrary, the embodiments of the present application include all modifications, variations and equivalents that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0033] In the embodiments of the present application, the terms "first", "second", etc. are used to distinguish different elements in terms of title, but do not indicate the spatial arrangement or temporal order of these elements, and these elements should not be limited by these terms. The term "and / or" includes any one and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed terms. The terms "comprising", "including", "having", etc. refer to the presence of the stated features, elements, components or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components or components. The terms "pixel" and "voxel" are used interchangeably.

[0034] In the embodiments of this application, the singular forms "a," "the," etc. include plural forms and should be broadly understood to mean "a" or "a type" rather than being limited to "one." Furthermore, the term "said" should be understood to include both singular and plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, the term "according to" should be understood to mean "at least in part based on...", and the term "based on" should be understood to mean "at least in part based on...", unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0035] Features described and / or illustrated for one embodiment may be used in the same or similar manner in one or more other embodiments, combined with features in other embodiments, or substituted for features in other embodiments. The term "include / comprise" as used herein refers to the presence of a feature, an integral part, a step, or a component, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integral parts, steps, or components.

[0036] Some embodiments of the present application provide a method for controlling a medical imaging system.

[0037] Figure 1: is a schematic diagram of a control method for a medical imaging system in some embodiments of the present application. The scanning device of the medical imaging system is used to scan an object to be detected to obtain imaging data containing information of the object to be detected, wherein the scanning device has a front end for sending and receiving signals to the object to be detected. Figure 1 As shown, the control method of the medical imaging system includes:

[0038] Operation 101 : Detect the type of failure of a front end portion of the scanning device based on data obtained by scanning a predetermined object to be detected by the scanning device.

[0039] The control method can be implemented by a control device such as a processor of a medical imaging system through an algorithm. Through the above-mentioned control method, the availability of the medical imaging system can be judged according to the type of fault, so that the medical imaging system can be appropriately used while waiting for the medical imaging system to be repaired to improve the stability of the medical imaging system. Specifically, the front end of the medical imaging system usually includes a plurality of imaging channels (which will be described in detail below), and each or several of the plurality of imaging channels respectively include components independent of other channels. In this way, if the components in a part of the channels are damaged, there is still the possibility of using the remaining channels to temporarily perform the medical imaging function. The above-mentioned control method of the present application gives a possibility judgment of temporarily performing the imaging function by detecting the fault type of the front end. Compared with the conventional method in which the operator can only wait for repair once there is any fault, the embodiment of the present application can improve the availability of the medical imaging system.

[0040] In the following description of this application, the medical imaging system will be described as an ultrasound imaging system as an example, but the content of these descriptions is not limited to the ultrasound imaging system, and can also be applied to other types of medical imaging systems.

[0041] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an ultrasound imaging system. Figure 2 As shown, the medical imaging system 1 as an ultrasonic imaging system includes a scanning device 11 and a control device 12. The scanning device 11 has a front end portion 110. The front end portion 110 can transmit a signal (for example, the signal can be an ultrasonic wave) to the part to be imaged of the object to be imaged (i.e., the object to be detected), and the front end portion 110 can also receive a signal returned by the part to be imaged (i.e., the object to be detected) (for example, the returned signal can be an echo of the ultrasonic wave), thereby obtaining imaging data. The imaging data can be used to generate a medical image, and the medical image currently scanned and obtained refers to a medical image (for example, an anatomical image of a specific section, etc.) that can reflect the state (for example, morphology) of the imaging part (for example, organs or tissues such as blood vessels and heart) of the object to be imaged at the current time (i.e., in real time).

[0042] In addition, if Figure 2 As shown, the medical imaging system 1 may further include a display device 13. The display device 13 may display medical images. In addition, the display device 13 may also display a user interface (UI).

[0043] like Figure 2 As shown, the front end portion 110 may include: a voltage generator 1101 , a probe 1102 and a receiver 1103 .

[0044] The voltage generator 1101 may generate a pulse voltage. For example, the voltage generator 1101 may be a pulser chip.

[0045] The probe 1102 may have a plurality of primitives 1104 . The primitives 1104 may transmit signals or receive signals under the drive of the pulse voltage generated by the voltage generator 1101 . The signals received by the primitives 1104 may be transmitted to the receiver 1103 .

[0046] The element 1104 may include piezoelectric materials (e.g., piezoelectric ceramics, etc.), whereby: when the element 1104 for emitting ultrasonic waves receives the pulse voltage generated by the voltage generator 1101, the element 1104 may generate mechanical vibrations, thereby emitting ultrasonic waves; in addition, when the element 1104 for receiving the echo of ultrasonic waves receives the ultrasonic waves, it may generate corresponding electrical signals (e.g., voltage signals).

[0047] The receiver 1103 can process the electrical signal corresponding to the signal received by the primitive 1104. For example, the receiver 1103 can be an analog front end (AFE) chip, which can perform processing such as sampling, filtering, and amplifying the electrical signal.

[0048] The front end portion 110 may have N imaging channels, which may be divided into M groups, each group including n imaging channels, where N and n are both natural numbers, and n is less than or equal to N.

[0049] The front end portion 110 includes a plurality of voltage generators 1101. The number of voltage generators 1101 is equal to the number of imaging channel groups, and each group corresponds to one voltage generator 1101. The front end portion 110 includes a plurality of receivers 1103. The number of receivers 1103 is equal to the number of imaging channel groups, and each group corresponds to one receiver 1103.

[0050] In the present application, the medical imaging system 1 may be equipped with one or more probes 1102. When performing a medical imaging scan, one of the probes 1102 is activated, and the activated probe 1102 is connected to the front end portion 110 to send and receive signals.

[0051] The plurality of primitives 1104 of each probe 1102 may be divided into a plurality of groups, each group including at least one primitive 1104. In each probe 1102, the number of groups of primitives 1104 may be the same as the number of imaging channels or the number of groups of imaging channels, and each group of primitives 1104 may correspond to a respective imaging channel or a group of imaging channels.

[0052] Different imaging channels or groups of different imaging channels of the front end portion 110 may correspond to different regions of a medical image. That is, the imaging data corresponding to each imaging channel or group of imaging channels may be used to generate a complete medical image, which may be displayed on the display device 13. For example, the imaging data corresponding to each imaging channel or group of imaging channels may be assigned a certain weight value, and the control device 12 may generate a complete medical image based on the imaging data corresponding to each imaging channel or group of imaging channels and their weight values.

[0053] The following description of the application may be based on the following examples:

[0054] The number of imaging channels of the front end portion 110 is N=128, wherein the imaging channels may be numbered from 0 to 127;

[0055] Starting from the imaging channel numbered 0, every n=16 imaging channels form a group, the number of imaging channel groups is M=8, numbered 0 to 7;

[0056] The front end portion 110 has eight voltage generators 1101 , each voltage generator 1101 corresponding to a group of imaging channels;

[0057] The probe 1102 may have a plurality of primitives 1104 , each primitive 1104 may correspond to an imaging channel;

[0058] The front end portion 110 has eight receivers 1103 , and each receiver 1103 corresponds to a group of imaging channels.

[0059] In operation 101 of the present application, the control device 12 may detect the type of fault in the front end portion 110 of the scanning device 11 based on data obtained by scanning a predetermined object to be detected by the scanning device 11. The predetermined object to be detected may be air.

[0060] In some examples, the scanning device 11 scans a predetermined object to be detected (e.g., air) to obtain first data; in operation 101, the control device 12 performs at least one of spectrum analysis and energy pulse analysis on the first data, and determines the type of fault in the front end 110 of the scanning device 11 based on the analysis results.

[0061] For example, the control device 12 may perform spectrum analysis on the first data to obtain the spectrum of each imaging channel.

[0062] For another example, the control device 12 may integrate the spectra of all imaging channels of the front end portion 110 based on the spectrum analysis to obtain an energy pulse analysis result.

[0063] The control device 12 may determine the type of failure occurring in the front end portion 110 based on at least one of the results of the spectrum analysis and the results of the energy pulse analysis.

[0064] The type of fault occurring in the front-end unit 110 may include at least one of the following faults:

[0065] The voltage generator 1101 fails, for example, one or more voltage generators 1101 fail;

[0066] At least one primitive 1104 of the probe 1102 fails;

[0067] The receiver 1103 fails, for example, one or more receivers 1103 fail;

[0068] The front end portion 110 is disturbed by external signals.

[0069] Next, a method for the control device 12 to determine the type of failure occurring in the front end portion 110 will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0070] Figure 3 3 is a schematic diagram of a spectrum of an imaging channel obtained by the control device 12 performing spectrum analysis on the first data. Figure 3 Shown is the spectrum of the normal imaging channel.

[0071] exist Figure 3 In the figure, the vertical axis represents the signal gain (Gain) of the imaging channel, the unit is decibel (dB); the horizontal axis represents the frequency (Frequency) of the signal of the imaging channel, the unit is megahertz (MHz). Figure 3 In FIG, the center frequency of the signal of the imaging channel is approximately 3.823 MHz; the peak 31 represents noise, and the frequency of the noise is approximately 3.846 MHz.

[0072] In the present application, the control device 12 may also integrate the frequency spectra of all imaging channels of the front end portion 110 to obtain an energy pulse analysis result.

[0073] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram of the control device 12 performing energy pulse analysis on the first data to obtain the energy pulse analysis result.

[0074] exist Figure 4 In FIG, the vertical axis represents the gain of the signal (Gain), the unit is decibel (dB); the horizontal axis represents the identification information (e.g., number) of each imaging channel (channel) of the front end portion 110, for example, the imaging channels are numbered from 0 to 127. The dotted line 41 represents the average value of the gain of all imaging channels of the front end portion 110. The gain of the imaging channel indicated by the dotted circle is significantly lower than the average value. Figure 4 In , for each imaging channel, the gain of the imaging channel at the center frequency can be used as the gain of the imaging channel.

[0075] In the present application, if the difference between the gain of an imaging channel and the average gain of all imaging channels of the front end portion 110 is greater than a first threshold, the control device 12 determines that the imaging channel corresponds to a fault. Furthermore, if the imaging channels corresponding to the fault are dispersed (for example, the imaging channels corresponding to the fault are discontinuous, or the number of continuous imaging channels is less than a second threshold), the control device 12 determines that at least one element 1104 of the probe 1102 has a fault. Figure 4 In the example shown, the control device 12 determines that the primitives 1104 corresponding to the imaging channels numbered 09, 60, 61, and 98 in the probe 1102 are faulty.

[0076] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of another way to express the results of energy pulse analysis.

[0077] exist Figure 5 In the figure, the vertical axis represents the identification information (e.g., number) of each imaging channel of the front end unit 110. For example, the imaging channels are numbered from 0 to 127. The horizontal axis represents the frequency of the signal of each imaging channel, in megahertz (MHz). Different grayscale or color represents the gain of the signal, in decibels (dB).

[0078] Figure 5 and Figure 4 Correspondingly, in Figure 5 In the figure, the gain of the signals of the imaging channels numbered 09, 60, 61, and 98 at each frequency is significantly lower than that of other channels. Therefore, the control device 12 determines that the primitives 1104 corresponding to the imaging channels numbered 09, 60, 61, and 98 in the probe 1102 are faulty.

[0079] Figure 6 This is another schematic diagram of the control device 12 performing energy pulse analysis on the first data to obtain an energy pulse analysis result.

[0080] exist Figure 6 In FIG, the dotted line 61 represents the average value of the gain of all imaging channels of the front end portion 110. The gain of the imaging channel indicated by the dotted circle is significantly lower than the average value. Figure 6 In , for each imaging channel, the gain of the imaging channel at the center frequency can be used as the gain of the imaging channel.

[0081] In the present application, if the difference between the gain of an imaging channel and the average gain of all imaging channels of the front end portion 110 is greater than a first threshold, the control device 12 determines that the imaging channel corresponds to a fault, and if the imaging channels corresponding to the fault are continuous (for example, the numbers of the imaging channels corresponding to the fault are continuous, and the number of the continuous numbers is greater than a third threshold), then the control device 12 determines that at least one voltage generator 1101 or receiver 1103 of the front end portion 110 has a fault. Figure 6 In the example shown, the control device 12 determines that the voltage generators 1101 or receivers 1103 corresponding to the imaging channels numbered 64 to 80 are faulty.

[0082] Figure 7 This is another diagram showing another way to express the results of energy pulse analysis. Figure 7 In the figure, the vertical axis represents the identification information (e.g., number) of each imaging channel of the front end unit 110. For example, the imaging channels are numbered from 0 to 127. The horizontal axis represents the frequency of the signal of each imaging channel, in megahertz (MHz). Different grayscale or color represents the gain of the signal, in decibels (dB).

[0083] Figure 7 and Figure 6 Correspondingly, in Figure 7 In the figure, the gain of the signals of the imaging channels numbered 64 to 80 at each frequency is significantly lower than that of other channels. Therefore, the control device 12 determines that the voltage generator 1101 or the receiver 1103 corresponding to the imaging channels numbered 64 to 80 is faulty.

[0084] exist Figure 6 and Figure 7 Correspondingly, the display device 13 of the medical imaging system 1 can further display the status of each voltage generator 1101 and the status of each receiver 1103, thereby facilitating the operator or maintenance personnel to further determine the fault location.

[0085] Figure 8 FIG. 1 is another schematic diagram of a spectrum of an imaging channel obtained by the control device 12 performing spectrum analysis on the first data. Figure 8 Shown is, for example, the spectrum of the imaging channel 64 .

[0086] exist Figure 8 In the figure, multiple peaks 81 appear (a portion of the peaks 81 is shown), corresponding to noise at multiple frequencies.

[0087] In this application, if noise appears at multiple frequencies of an imaging channel, the control device 12 determines that the front end portion 110 is interfered by external signals. Figure 8 In the example shown, the control device 12 determines that the front end portion 110 is interfered with by an external signal, and that the interference affects the signal of the imaging channel 64 .

[0088] Figure 9 This is another schematic diagram of the energy pulse analysis results, which is similar to Figure 8 Corresponding. Figure 9 As shown, the gain of the signal of the imaging channels numbered 64 to 80 at some frequencies is significantly higher (for example, compared with Figure 8 Therefore, the control device 12 determines that the front end portion 110 is interfered by the external signal, and the interference affects the imaging channels numbered 64 to 80.

[0089] Above, combined Figures 4 to 9 This section describes methods for detecting or determining different types of faults. It should be noted that the aforementioned types of faults may not be unique; for example, more than one type of fault may exist. Therefore, the results of spectrum analysis or energy pulse analysis may be a combination of the aforementioned scenarios.

[0090] like Figure 1 As shown, the control method of the medical imaging system may further include:

[0091] Operation 102: Control the display device 13 of the medical imaging system 1 to display at least one of the following information:

[0092] Information about the imaging channel corresponding to the faulty primitive 1104 in the probe 1102;

[0093] Information of the imaging channel corresponding to the faulty voltage generator 1101;

[0094] Information of the imaging channel corresponding to the failed receiver 1103;

[0095] Information from imaging channels that are interfered with by external signals.

[0096] Thus, information related to the fault occurring in the front end portion 110 can be displayed on the display device 13, and the operator or maintenance personnel of the medical imaging system 1 can easily understand the information related to the fault, thereby appropriately using the medical imaging system 1 or performing maintenance.

[0097] In some examples, the imaging channel corresponding to the faulty primitive 1104 in the probe 1102 may be highlighted. For example, the highlighted display includes: using a first color (e.g., green) to display information about the imaging channel corresponding to the primitive 1104 that has not failed, and using a second color (e.g., red) to display information about the imaging channel corresponding to the faulty primitive 1104. The imaging channel information may include information such as an identification (ID) and / or signal amplitude of the imaging channel, and the imaging channel information may be in at least one of text and image form.

[0098] In other examples, information about the imaging channel corresponding to the faulty voltage generator 1101 may be highlighted. For example, the highlighted display includes using a first color (e.g., green) to represent information about the imaging channel corresponding to a healthy voltage generator 1101, and using a second color (e.g., red) to represent information about the imaging channel corresponding to the faulty voltage generator 1101. The imaging channel information may include information such as an identification (ID) and / or signal amplitude of the imaging channel, and the imaging channel information may be in at least one of text and image form.

[0099] In some further examples, information about the imaging channel corresponding to the failed receiver 1103 may be highlighted. For example, the highlighted display includes: using a first color (e.g., green) to indicate information about the imaging channel corresponding to a healthy receiver 1103, and using a second color (e.g., red) to indicate information about the imaging channel corresponding to the failed receiver 1103. The imaging channel information may include information such as an identification (ID) and / or signal amplitude of the imaging channel, and the imaging channel information may be in at least one of text and image form.

[0100] In some examples, information about imaging channels affected by external signal interference may be highlighted. For example, the highlighted display includes using a first color (e.g., green) to indicate information about imaging channels not affected by external signal interference, and using a third color (e.g., red) to indicate information about imaging channels affected by external signal interference. The imaging channel information may include information such as an identification (ID) and / or signal amplitude of the imaging channel, and the imaging channel information may be in at least one of text and image form.

[0101] like Figure 1 As shown, the control method of the medical imaging system may further include:

[0102] Operation 103 : Control the display device 13 of the medical imaging system 1 to display information about the probe 1102 having the malfunctioning primitive 1104 .

[0103] When the medical imaging system 1 is equipped with multiple probes 1102 and one of the probes 1102 is activated, if a faulty primitive 1104 is detected in the activated probe 1102 during operation 102, the display device 13 may display information about the probe 1102. In some examples, information about the probe 1102 with the faulty primitive 1104 may be highlighted. For example, this highlighted display may include: using a first color (e.g., green) to indicate information about inactive probes 1102 or probes 1102 without faulty primitives 1104, and using a second color (e.g., red) to indicate information about probes 1102 with faulty primitives 1104. The probe 1102 information may include information such as the probe's ID or model number, and may be in at least one of textual and graphical form.

[0104] like Figure 1 As shown, the control method of the medical imaging system may further include:

[0105] Operation 104 : Perform compensation processing for the fault to generate a medical image based on the imaging data.

[0106] In some examples, the compensation process in operation 104 includes at least one of the following processes 1, 2, and 3:

[0107] Solution 1: Adjust the weight value of the imaging data in the imaging channel corresponding to the fault;

[0108] Process 2: discard the imaging data in the imaging channel corresponding to the fault;

[0109] Solution 3: Adjust the filter coefficient of the imaging channel corresponding to the fault.

[0110] For example, in process 1, the weight value of the imaging data in the imaging channel corresponding to the fault can be reduced, thereby making full use of the imaging data in the normal imaging channel to generate the medical image when generating the medical image.

[0111] For another example, in processing 2, the imaging data in the imaging channel corresponding to the fault can be discarded. Thus, when generating a medical image, the interference of the imaging data in the imaging channel corresponding to the fault can be avoided, and the imaging data in the normal imaging channel can be fully utilized to generate the medical image.

[0112] For another example, when the front end 110 is interfered with by external signals, processing 3 can be used to adjust the filter coefficient of the imaging channel affected by the interference. Thus, the interference of the external signal on the front end 110 can be eliminated as much as possible through filtering processing, thereby improving the imaging quality of medical images.

[0113] In operation 104 , for different types of faults of the front end portion 110 , process 1 , process 2 , and process 3 may be used individually or in combination to generate a medical image.

[0114] In the present application, the operator of the medical imaging system 1 can click a predetermined icon (e.g., a "repair" icon) on the user interface or operate a predetermined key or button to perform operation 104. Alternatively, the operation is automatically performed by the control device of the medical imaging system 1.

[0115] Through operation 104, in the event of a failure of the front end portion 110, the medical imaging system 1 can still generate medical images by utilizing the multi-channel characteristics of the front end portion 110, thereby greatly improving the convenience of using the medical imaging system 1. Therefore, while waiting for the medical imaging system 1 to be repaired, the medical imaging system 1 can still be appropriately used for imaging, thereby improving the utilization efficiency of the medical imaging system 1 and shortening the waiting time for hospitals and patients.

[0116] like Figure 1 As shown, the control method of the medical imaging system may further include:

[0117] Operation 105 : Indicate a region corresponding to the fault on the medical image.

[0118] In operation 105, the region corresponding to the fault can be indicated on the medical image generated in operation 104. For example, the region corresponding to the fault on the medical image can be indicated using at least one of text and an icon. This allows the user of the medical imaging system 1 to be informed of the region corresponding to the fault on the medical image, facilitating the user's appropriate judgment and further operation with respect to the region corresponding to the fault. For example, if important diagnostic information appears in the region corresponding to the fault, the user can perform a more detailed scan by replacing the probe or adjusting the probe's orientation, thereby avoiding obtaining diagnostic information based on the region corresponding to the fault.

[0119] In this application, Figure 1 The control method for the medical imaging system 1 shown can be performed periodically or under predetermined conditions. For example, the control method can be performed daily, weekly, etc. For another example, the control method can be performed each time the medical imaging system 1 is powered on, when a new probe 1102 is connected to the medical imaging system 1, or when the active probe 1102 is changed in the medical imaging system 1.

[0120] The control method of the medical imaging system is described below with reference to a specific example.

[0121] This example can be based on the following:

[0122] The number of imaging channels of the front end portion 110 is N=128, wherein the imaging channels may be numbered from 0 to 127;

[0123] Starting from the imaging channel numbered 0, every n=16 imaging channels form a group, the number of imaging channel groups is M=8, numbered 0 to 7;

[0124] The front end portion 110 has eight voltage generators 1101 , each voltage generator 1101 corresponding to a group of imaging channels;

[0125] The probe 1102 may have a plurality of primitives 1104 , each primitive 1104 may correspond to one or more imaging channels;

[0126] The front end portion 110 has eight receivers 1103 , and each receiver 1103 corresponds to a group of imaging channels.

[0127] In this example, each time the medical imaging system 1 is turned on, the scanning device 11 uses the activated probe 1102 to scan the air to obtain first data, and the control device 12 analyzes the first data to detect whether the front end 110 of the scanning device 11 has a fault and the type of fault.

[0128] The detection result of the control device 12 may be displayed on the display device 13 .

[0129] Figure 10 3 is a schematic diagram of a screen for reflecting the test results displayed on the display device 13, showing the screen after the icon 300 is pressed. The icon 300 can, for example, represent an overview of the test results.

[0130] like Figure 10 In the example shown, the medical imaging system 1 is equipped with three probes, namely, probe A, probe B, and probe C. Probe A and probe C are not faulty or inactive, probe B is active, and some primitives in probe B are faulty. Probe A and probe C can be marked with a first color (e.g., green). Figure 10 The probe B can be marked with a second color (e.g., red) in the Figure 10 Shown as a black filled area.

[0131] In probe B, the imaging channels corresponding to the primitives that have not failed can be marked with a first color (eg, green). Figure 10 The imaging channel corresponding to the failed primitive can be marked with a second color (e.g., red). Figure 10 Shown as a black filled area.

[0132] exist Figure 10 In the example shown, the receiver and the voltage generator are not faulty, so the imaging channel group corresponding to the receiver and the voltage generator is marked with a first color (eg, green). Figure 10 An area displayed as a dotted pattern fill.

[0133] Figure 11 FIG3 is another schematic diagram of a screen for reflecting the test results displayed on the display device 13, showing the screen after the icon 300 is pressed. The icon 300 may, for example, represent an overview of the test results.

[0134] exist Figure 11 In the example shown, a receiver fails. The imaging channel corresponding to the failed receiver may be, for example, an imaging channel included in the imaging channel group 4, and may be marked with a second color (for example, red). Figure 11 Shown as a black filled area.

[0135] exist Figure 11 In the example shown, the primitives of the activated probe (e.g., probe B) are normal, and the voltage generators are also normal, so the imaging channels corresponding to the primitives of the activated probe and the imaging channels corresponding to the voltage generators are marked with a first color (e.g., green). Figure 11 An area displayed as a dotted pattern fill.

[0136] Figure 12 3 is another diagram of a screen for reflecting the test results displayed on the display device 13, showing the screen after the icon 300 is pressed. The icon 300 may, for example, represent an overview of the test results.

[0137] exist Figure 12 In the example shown, the front end is interfered by an external signal. The interfered imaging channel may be, for example, an imaging channel included in group 4 of imaging channels. Therefore, in the group of imaging channels corresponding to the receiver, a third color (e.g., yellow) is used to mark the interference. Figure 12 In the figure, the vertical stripes fill the area. In addition, the groups of other imaging channels corresponding to the receivers can be marked with a first color (eg, green). Figure 12 An area displayed as a dotted pattern fill.

[0138] exist Figure 12In the example shown, the primitives of the activated probe (e.g., probe B) are normal, and the voltage generators are also normal, so the imaging channels corresponding to the primitives of the activated probe and the imaging channels corresponding to the voltage generators are marked with a first color (e.g., green). Figure 12 An area displayed as a dotted pattern fill.

[0139] like Figure 10 、 Figure 11 、 Figure 12 As shown, the screen for reflecting the detection result displayed by the display device 13 may further include an icon 400, which may represent analysis. For example, when the operator clicks the icon 400, at least one of the results of the spectrum analysis and the results of the energy pulse analysis for the first data may be displayed on the screen. Figure 10 In the case of Figure 4 and Figure 5 At least one of; corresponding to Figure 11 In the case of Figure 6 and Figure 7 At least one of; corresponding to Figure 12 In the case of Figure 8 and Figure 9 At least one of .

[0140] like Figure 10 、 Figure 11 、 Figure 12 As shown, the screen displayed by the display device 13 for reflecting the detection results may also include an icon 500, and the icon 500 may represent repair. For example, when the operator clicks the icon 500, the control device 12 may perform operation 104 to generate a medical image based on the imaging data.

[0141] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of a medical image generated based on operation 104. Figure 13 As shown, the display device 13 displays a medical image 1300. In addition, the display device 13 also marks a region 1301 corresponding to the fault on the medical image 1300. The region 1301 corresponding to the fault is generated, for example, using imaging data in an imaging channel corresponding to the fault.

[0142] like Figure 10 、 Figure 11 、 Figure 12As shown, the screen displayed by the display device 13 for reflecting the detection results may also include an icon 600. The icon 600 may represent a service. For example, when the operator clicks the icon 600, the analysis result of the control device 12 may be sent to the server. Thus, the equipment or personnel on the server may perform further analysis, or provide maintenance suggestions or services, etc.

[0143] According to an embodiment of the present application, an operator of a medical imaging system can determine the availability of the medical imaging system based on the type of fault, and thereby appropriately use the medical imaging system while waiting for the medical imaging system to be repaired, thereby improving the stability of the medical imaging system. In addition, the operator can also continue to use the medical imaging system to generate medical images when a fault occurs at the front end of the scanning device, thereby reducing the user's waiting time.

[0144] The following describes the working principle of the ultrasound imaging system of the present application as a medical imaging system.

[0145] Figure 14 Schematic diagram of the ultrasonic imaging system of the embodiment of the present application. Figure 14 As shown, the ultrasound imaging system 200 may be configured to provide ultrasound imaging and, therefore, may include suitable circuitry, interfaces, logic and / or code for performing and / or supporting ultrasound imaging related functions. The ultrasound imaging system 200 may correspond to Figure 2 Medical imaging system 1.

[0146] The ultrasound imaging system 200 includes, for example, a transmitter 202, an ultrasound probe 204 (corresponding to the aforementioned scanning device 11), a transmit beamformer 210, a receiver 218, a receive beamformer 220, an RF processor 224, an RF / IQ buffer 226, a user input module 230, a signal processor 240 (corresponding to the aforementioned control device 12), an image buffer 250, a display system 260 (including the aforementioned display device 13), and an archive 270.

[0147] The transmitter 202 may include suitable circuitry, interfaces, logic, and / or code operable to drive the ultrasound probe 204. The ultrasound probe 204 (corresponding to the probe 1102 described above) may include a two-dimensional (2D) array of piezoelectric elements (corresponding to the primitives 1104 described above). The ultrasound probe 204 may include a set of transmitting transducer elements 206 and a set of receiving transducer elements 208, which are generally constructed as identical elements. In certain embodiments, the ultrasound probe 204 may be operable to acquire ultrasound image data covering at least a substantial portion of an anatomical structure, such as the heart or any suitable anatomical structure.

[0148] The transmit beamformer 210 may include suitable circuitry, interfaces, logic, and / or code operable to control the transmitter 202, which drives the set of transmit transducer elements 206 via the transmit subaperture beamformer 214 to transmit ultrasound transmit signals into an area of ​​interest (e.g., a person, an animal, an underground cavity, a physical structure, etc.). The transmitted ultrasound signals may be backscattered from structures in the object of interest (e.g., blood cells or tissue) to produce echoes, which are received by the receive transducer elements 208.

[0149] The set of receive transducer elements 208 in the ultrasound probe 204 is operable to convert the received echoes into analog signals, which are sub-aperture beamformed by the receive sub-aperture beamformer 216 and then transmitted to the receiver 218. The receiver 218 may comprise suitable circuitry, interfaces, logic, and / or code that may be operable to receive the signals from the receive sub-aperture beamformer 216. The analog signals may be transmitted to one or more of the plurality of A / D converters 222.

[0150] The plurality of A / D converters 222 may include suitable circuitry, interfaces, logic, and / or code operable to convert analog signals from the receiver 218 into corresponding digital signals. The plurality of A / D converters 222 are disposed between the receiver 218 and the RF processor 224. However, the present application is not limited in this respect. Thus, in some embodiments, the plurality of A / D converters 222 may be integrated within the receiver 218.

[0151] The RF processor 224 may include suitable circuitry, interfaces, logic, and / or code operable to demodulate the digital signals output by the plurality of A / D converters 222. According to one embodiment, the RF processor 224 may include a complex demodulator (not shown) operable to demodulate the digital signals to form I / Q data pairs representing corresponding echo signals. The RF or I / Q signal data may then be transferred to an RF / IQ buffer 226. The RF / IQ buffer 226 may include suitable circuitry, interfaces, logic, and / or code operable to provide temporary storage of the RF or I / Q signal data generated by the RF processor 224.

[0152] The receive beamformer 220 may include suitable circuitry, interfaces, logic, and / or code operable to perform digital beamforming processing, such as summing delayed channel signals received from the RF processor 224 via the RF / IQ buffer 226 and outputting a beam-summed signal. The resulting processed information may be the beam-summed signal output from the receive beamformer 220 and transmitted to the signal processor 240. According to some embodiments, the receiver 218, the plurality of A / D converters 222, the RF processor 224, and the beamformer 220 may be integrated into a single beamformer, which may be digital. In various embodiments, the ultrasound imaging system 200 includes a plurality of receive beamformers 220.

[0153] The user input device 230 may be used to input patient data, scan parameters, settings, select protocols and / or templates, interact with the artificial intelligence segmentation processor to select tracking targets, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the user input device 230 may be operable to configure, manage, and / or control the operation of one or more components and / or modules in the ultrasound imaging system 200. In this regard, the user input device 230 may be operable to configure, manage, and / or control the operation of the transmitter 202, the ultrasound probe 204, the transmit beamformer 210, the receiver 218, the receive beamformer 220, the RF processor 224, the RF / IQ buffer 226, the user input device 230, the signal processor 240, the image buffer 250, the display system 260, and / or the archive 270.

[0154] For example, the user input device 230 may include buttons, rotary encoders, touch screens, motion tracking, voice recognition, a mouse device, a keyboard, a trackball, a camera, and / or any other device capable of receiving user commands. In certain embodiments, for example, one or more of the user input devices 230 may be integrated into other components (such as the display system 260 or the ultrasound probe 204). As an example, the user input device 230 may include a touch screen display. As another example, the user input device 230 may include an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and / or a magnetometer attached to and / or integrated with the probe 204 to provide gesture motion recognition of the probe 204, such as identifying one or more probe compressions against the patient's body, predefined probe movements, or tilting operations. Additionally and / or alternatively, the user input device 230 may include image analysis processing to identify probe gestures by analyzing the collected image data.

[0155] The signal processor 240 may include suitable circuitry, interfaces, logic, and / or code operable to process ultrasound scan data (i.e., the summed IQ signal) to generate an ultrasound image for presentation on the display system 260. The signal processor 240 may be operable to perform one or more processing operations based on a plurality of selectable ultrasound modalities on the acquired ultrasound scan data. In an exemplary embodiment, the signal processor 240 may be operable to perform display processing and / or control processing, among other things. The acquired ultrasound scan data may be processed in real time during a scanning session as echo signals are received. Additionally or alternatively, the ultrasound scan data may be temporarily stored in the RF / IQ buffer 226 during a scanning session and processed in a less-than-real-time manner in online or offline operations. In various embodiments, the processed image data may be presented at the display system 260 and / or may be stored in an archive 270. The archive 270 may be a local archive, a picture archiving and communication system (PACS), or any other suitable device for storing images and related information.

[0156] The signal processor 240 may be one or more central processing units, microprocessors, microcontrollers, etc. For example, the signal processor 240 may be an integrated component or may be distributed in various locations. The signal processor 240 may be configured to receive input information from the user input device 230 and / or the archive 270, generate output that can be displayed by the display system 260, and manipulate the output in response to the input information from the user input device 230, etc. The signal processor 240 may be capable of executing, for example, any of the one or more methods and / or one or more instruction sets discussed herein according to various embodiments.

[0157] The ultrasound imaging system 200 is operable to continuously acquire ultrasound scan data at a frame rate appropriate for the imaging situation under consideration. Typical frame rates are in the range of 20 to 220, but can be lower or higher. The acquired ultrasound scan data can be displayed in real time on the display system 260 at a display rate that is the same as the frame rate, or slower or faster than the frame rate. An image buffer 250 is included to store processed frames of acquired ultrasound scan data that are not scheduled for immediate display. Preferably, the image buffer 250 has sufficient capacity to store at least several minutes of frames of ultrasound scan data. The frames of ultrasound scan data are stored in a manner that allows for easy retrieval based on their acquisition order or time. The image buffer 250 can be embodied as any known data storage medium.

[0158] In some implementations, the signal processor 240 can be configured to perform or otherwise control at least some of the functions performed thereby based on user instructions via the user input device 230. As an example, a user can provide voice commands, probe gestures, button presses, etc. to issue specific instructions, such as controlling various aspects of automatic strain measurement and strain ratio calculation, and / or providing or otherwise specifying various parameters or settings related thereto, as described in more detail below.

[0159] In operation, the ultrasound imaging system 200 can be used to generate ultrasound images, including two-dimensional (2D), three-dimensional (3D) and / or four-dimensional (4D) images. In this regard, the ultrasound imaging system 200 can be operated to continuously acquire ultrasound scan data at a specific frame rate, which can be suitable for the imaging situation in question. For example, the frame rate can be in the range of 20-70, or lower or higher. The acquired ultrasound scan data can be displayed on the display system 260 at a display rate that is the same as the frame rate, or slower or faster than the frame rate. An image buffer 250 is included to store processed frames of acquired ultrasound scan data that are not scheduled for immediate display. Preferably, the image buffer 250 has sufficient capacity to store at least several seconds of frames of ultrasound scan data. The frames of ultrasound scan data are stored in a manner that can be easily retrieved therefrom based on their acquisition order or time. The image buffer 250 can be embodied as any known data storage medium.

[0160] In some cases, the ultrasound imaging system 200 may be configured to support grayscale and color-based operations. For example, the signal processor 240 may be operable to perform grayscale B-model processing and / or color processing. Grayscale B-model processing may include processing B-model RF signal data or IQ data pairs. For example, grayscale B-model processing may enable the calculation of the amount (I 2 +Q 2 ) 1 / 2 The envelope of the beam-summed receive signal can be formed. The envelope can undergo additional B-model processing, such as logarithmic compression, to form display data. The display data can be converted to an XY format for video display. The scan-converted frame can be mapped to grayscale for display. The B-model frame is provided to the image buffer 250 and / or the display system 260. Color processing can include processing color-based RF signal data or IQ data pairs to form a frame to overlay the B-model frame provided to the image buffer 250 and / or the display system 260. Grayscale and / or color processing can be adaptively adjusted based on user input (e.g., selection from the user input device 230), for example, to enhance grayscale and / or color in a particular area.

[0161] An embodiment of the present application further provides a computer-readable program, wherein when the program is executed, the program enables a computer to execute the control method described in any of the aforementioned embodiments in a medical imaging system.

[0162] An embodiment of the present application further provides a storage medium storing a computer-readable program, wherein the computer-readable program enables a computer to execute the control method described in any of the aforementioned embodiments in a medical imaging system.

[0163] A non-transitory computer-readable medium stores a computer program, wherein the computer program has at least one code segment, and the at least one code segment can be executed by a machine to enable the machine to perform the control method described in any of the aforementioned embodiments.

[0164] The above embodiments are merely exemplary of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Appropriate modifications may be made based on the above embodiments. For example, the above embodiments may be used alone, or one or more of the above embodiments may be combined.

[0165] The present application has been described above in conjunction with specific embodiments. However, those skilled in the art should understand that these descriptions are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present application. Those skilled in the art may make various modifications and variations to the present application based on the spirit and principles of the present application, and such modifications and variations are also within the scope of the present application.

[0166] The preferred embodiments of the present application have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many features and advantages of these embodiments are apparent from this detailed description, and the appended claims are intended to cover all such features and advantages of these embodiments that fall within their true spirit and scope. Furthermore, since numerous modifications and variations will readily occur to those skilled in the art, the embodiments of the present application are not intended to be limited to the precise structure and operation illustrated and described, but are intended to cover all suitable modifications, variations, and equivalents that fall within the scope thereof.

Claims

1. A control method for a medical imaging system, characterized in that: The medical imaging system comprises: a scanning device for scanning an object to be detected to obtain imaging data containing information of the object to be detected, wherein the scanning device has a front end portion for sending and receiving signals to the object to be detected; The control method includes: The type of failure of the front end portion of the scanning device is detected based on data obtained by the scanning device scanning a predetermined object to be detected.

2. The control method of the medical imaging system according to claim 1, wherein: The front end portion comprises: a voltage generator that generates a pulse voltage; A probe having a plurality of primitives, wherein the primitives transmit signals or receive signals under the driving of the pulse voltage; and A receiver processes the electrical signal corresponding to the signal received by the primitive.

3. The control method of the medical imaging system according to claim 2, wherein: The type of failure of the front end portion includes at least one of the following: At least one element of the probe fails; The voltage generator fails; The receiver malfunctions; The front end portion is disturbed by an external signal.

4. The control method of the medical imaging system according to claim 3, wherein: The control method further includes: Controlling a display device of the medical imaging system to display at least one of the following information: Information about the imaging channel corresponding to the element in the probe that has failed; Information of the imaging channel corresponding to the faulty voltage generator; Information of the imaging channel corresponding to the receiver that has failed; Information from imaging channels that are interfered with by external signals.

5. The control method of the medical imaging system according to claim 2, wherein: The number of the probes is more than one, The control method further includes: A display device of the medical imaging system is controlled to display information of the probe having the malfunctioning primitive.

6. The control method of the medical imaging system according to claim 1, wherein: The front end portion includes a plurality of imaging channels; The control method further includes: Compensation processing is performed on the fault to generate a medical image based on the imaging data.

7. The control method of the medical imaging system according to claim 6, wherein: The compensation process includes at least one of the following: Adjusting the weight value of the imaging data in the imaging channel corresponding to the fault; discarding the imaging data in the imaging channel corresponding to the fault; Adjust the filter coefficient of the imaging channel corresponding to the fault.

8. The control method of the medical imaging system according to claim 6, wherein: The control method further includes: An area corresponding to the fault is indicated on the medical image.

9. The control method of the medical imaging system according to claim 1, wherein: The predetermined object to be detected is air.

10. The control method of the medical imaging system according to claim 1, wherein: Detecting the type of fault occurring in the front end portion of the scanning device based on data obtained by scanning a predetermined object to be detected by the scanning device includes: performing at least one of spectrum analysis and energy pulse analysis on data obtained by the scanning device scanning the predetermined object to be detected; and The type of failure of the front end portion of the scanning device is determined based on the analysis result.

11. A medical imaging system, characterized in that: The medical imaging system comprises: A scanning device for scanning an object to be detected to obtain imaging data containing information of the object to be detected, wherein the scanning device has a front end portion for sending and receiving signals to the object to be detected; and A control device configured to execute the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing a computer program, wherein the computer program has at least one code segment, and the at least one code segment can be executed by a machine to cause the machine to perform the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

Images