Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus

Abstract

The invention provides an ultrasonic diagnostic device which prevents a handle arranged on a main body from freely moving under the condition that the main body is arranged on a cart. The cart is provided with a main body unit. The main body unit comprises a main body and a display. A handle (26) is connected to the main body. A handle fixing mechanism (64), a main body fixing mechanism (66), a connecting rod mechanism (68) and a safety mechanism (70) are arranged at the rear part of the cart. A hook part (28) in the handle fixing mechanism (64) is clamped on the handle (44). Therefore, the handle is fixed. The main body fixing mechanism (66) operates by the movement of the hook member (28).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic device, in particular to an ultrasonic diagnostic device consisting of an ultrasonic diagnostic device and a cart provided with the ultrasonic diagnostic device. Background Art

[0002] Many medical institutions are using ultrasonic diagnostic devices that can be carried by hand. This type of mobile ultrasonic diagnostic device consists of a main unit and an ultrasonic probe. The main unit has the form of a notebook PC (Personal Computer), for example. In this case, the main unit consists of a main body that generates ultrasonic images and a display that displays ultrasonic images. Mobile ultrasonic diagnostic devices are usually used while being placed on a dedicated cart or a general-purpose carrier. The mobile ultrasonic diagnostic device and the cart on which the mobile ultrasonic diagnostic device is placed constitute an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. In addition, the mobile ultrasonic diagnostic device itself is sometimes also called an ultrasonic diagnostic device.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses an ultrasonic diagnostic device consisting of an ultrasonic diagnostic device and a cart. The main body has a handle. The cart has a mechanism for securing the main body to the cart by rotating the handle. Patent Document 1 does not disclose a mechanism for securing the handle to the cart.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-23007

[0005] Ultrasound diagnostic equipment has a handle for transporting the device. When the device is mounted on a cart, the handle is unnecessary. In this situation, allowing the handle to move freely could cause it to contact or collide with other components (e.g., a display or ultrasound probe). Alternatively, accidentally lifting the handle could place a heavy load on the mechanism securing the device to the cart. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The purpose of the present invention is to restrict the free movement of the handle provided on the main body when the main body is provided on the cart. Alternatively, the purpose of the present invention is to make the fixing of the main body to the cart more reliable.

[0007] The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention is characterized in that it includes: a main body having a generator for generating ultrasonic images; a handle connected to the main body and moving relative to the main body; and a cart having a platform for supporting the main body, the cart having a handle fixing mechanism that fixes the handle to the cart when the main body is set on the platform.

[0008] Effects of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, when the main body is mounted on a cart, the free movement of the handle provided on the main body is restricted. Therefore, problems caused by the free movement of the handle are eliminated. Alternatively, according to the present invention, the main body can be more securely fixed to the cart. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 This is a first perspective view showing the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a second perspective view showing the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a first perspective view showing the main body unit according to the embodiment.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a second perspective view showing the main body unit according to the embodiment.

[0014] Figure 5 It is a perspective view showing the cart according to the embodiment.

[0015] Figure 6 It is a top view showing the cart according to the embodiment.

[0016] Figure 7 This diagram shows the initial state during the main body setup process.

[0017] Figure 8 This diagram shows a mid-stage state during the main body installation process.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional diagram showing the knob and the inclined surface.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a front view showing the knob and the inclined surface.

[0020] Figure 11 A diagram showing a pressed knob.

[0021] Figure 12 It is a three-dimensional diagram showing a button.

[0022] Figure 13 This diagram shows the completed state of the main body setting process.

[0023] Figure 14 It is a schematic diagram showing multiple mechanisms installed in the cart.

[0024] Figure 15 It is a schematic diagram showing the fixed state of the handle and the fixed state of the main body.

[0025] Figure 16 is a perspective view showing the component in its restricted working state.

[0026] Figure 17 This is a perspective view showing the components in a state where the motion restriction is released.

[0027] Figure 18 It is a flowchart showing the subject setting process.

[0028] Figure 19 This is a flowchart showing the main body removal process.

[0029] Figure 20 This diagram shows the rear space and the standby position.

[0030] Figure 21 This is a perspective view showing the main unit in use.

[0031] Figure 22 This is a side view showing the main unit in use.

[0032] Figure 23 This diagram shows the various postures (rotation angles) that the handle can take.

[0033] Figure 24 It is a diagram showing the suspended state of the main body unit.

[0034] Figure 25 It is a diagram showing a specific example of a hinge mechanism.

[0035] Explanation of symbols:

[0036] 10-ultrasonic diagnostic device, 12-ultrasonic diagnostic device, 14-cart, 16-main unit, 18-main body, 20-display, 22-carrier, 26-handle, 28-hook component, 30-hinge mechanism, 44-handle, 44X-standby position, 58-housing, 60-recessed structure, 64-handle fixing mechanism, 66-main body fixing mechanism, 68-link mechanism, 70-safety mechanism, 117-exhaust port, 118-rear space. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] (1) Overview of Implementation

[0039] An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment includes a main body, a handle, and a cart. The main body includes a generator for generating ultrasonic images. The handle is connected to the main body and moves relative to the main body. The cart includes a platform that supports the main body. The cart includes a handle securing mechanism that secures the handle to the cart when the main body is mounted on the platform.

[0040] According to the above structure, when the main body is in the set-up state, the handle is fixed to the cart. Therefore, problems caused by the handle's free movement are eliminated. For example, collisions with other components are prevented, and excessive loads caused by accidentally lifting the handle are prevented. The set-up state is when the main body is placed on the cart. This state may include a fixed state for the main body.

[0041] In an embodiment, the stroller includes a main body securing mechanism for securing the main body to the stroller when in a set-up position. The main body securing mechanism is a mechanical mechanism distinct from the handle securing mechanism. By combining securing the main body with securing the handle, the main body is more securely secured to the stroller.

[0042] The ultrasonic diagnostic device according to the embodiment includes a link mechanism that coordinates the handle fixing mechanism with the main body fixing mechanism. This structure allows the handle and the main body to be fixed simultaneously or sequentially. This improves the operability when the main body is placed on a cart.

[0043] In an embodiment, the handle fixing mechanism includes a first movable member that is operated by the user to fix the handle. The main body fixing mechanism includes a second movable member that is activated to fix the main body. The linkage mechanism generates movement of the second movable member based on the movement of the first movable member. With this structure, operation of the first movable member fixes the handle and the main body simultaneously. In an embodiment, the first movable member is a member that performs sliding motion.

[0044] In the embodiment, the first movable member includes a hook member that is engaged with the grip of the handle to fix the handle. According to this structure, an inappropriate operation of lifting the handle while the main body is fixed does not occur.

[0045] In an embodiment, the handle is mounted on the rear portion of the main body and the hook is provided on the rear portion of the cart. According to this structure, the handle and the hook will not become an obstacle during ultrasonic examination.

[0046] In an embodiment, the main body has a first engaging portion. The second movable component has a second engaging portion that engages with the first engaging portion to fix the main body. In an embodiment, the first engaging portion includes one or more openings. The second engaging portion includes one or more protrusions that are inserted into the one or more openings. For example, the first engaging portion is a plurality of pin holes described later, and the second engaging portion is a plurality of pins described later. When the first engaging portion and the second engaging portion are engaged, the fixed state of the main body is maintained, that is, the integration of the cart and the main body is maintained as long as the engagement is not released.

[0047] The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment includes a handle locking mechanism and a knob. The handle locking mechanism is provided between the main body and the handle and locks the handle. The knob is operated to unlock the handle. The cart has a contact portion that contacts the knob when the main body is lowered after being placed on the stage, thereby operating the knob.

[0048] According to this structure, when the main body moves downward, the handle lock is automatically released. In other words, the handle can be moved to its standby position. In an embodiment, a hinge mechanism is provided on the main body. The hinge mechanism includes a hinge, a handle locking mechanism, and a knob. In an embodiment, the contact portion has an inclined surface that contacts and presses the knob.

[0049] In an embodiment, the stroller includes a safety mechanism that restricts the operation of the main body securing mechanism when the main body is not installed, and allows the main body securing mechanism to operate when the main body is installed. This structure can prevent collisions between the main body and the main body securing mechanism, thereby protecting the main body and the main body securing mechanism.

[0050] In an embodiment, the main body securing mechanism includes a slider having an engaging portion. When the slider advances, the engaging portion engages with the main body, and when the slider retreats, the engaging portion disengages from the main body. The safety mechanism includes a button and a stopper. When the main body is placed on a stage and the main body descends, the button is pressed by the main body, thereby descending from a first height to a second height. The stopper prohibits forward movement of the slider when the button is at the first height, and permits forward movement of the slider when the button is at the second height.

[0051] (2) Details of implementation methods

[0052] (2-1) Ultrasonic diagnostic equipment

[0053] Figure 1FIG. 1 shows an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 is a medical apparatus used when performing ultrasonic examinations in medical institutions. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 is composed of an ultrasonic diagnostic device 12 and a cart 14. The ultrasonic diagnostic device 12 is composed of a main unit 16 and an ultrasonic probe (not shown). The main unit 16 has a form such as a notebook PC. Specifically, the main unit 16 is composed of a main body 18 and a display 20. Figure 1 In the figure, the x direction is the left-right direction (width direction), the y direction is the front-back direction (depth direction), and the z direction is the top-bottom direction (height direction). Usually, the user is located in front of the main unit 16 and operates the main unit 16.

[0054] The cart 14 has a platform 22 on which the main unit 16 is placed. The platform 22 supports the main unit 16. The platform 22 is slightly tilted relative to the xy plane. This tilt angle is, for example, in the range of 8 to 12 degrees. A connector 24 is provided on the right side of the main unit 18. The connector of the ultrasonic probe is detachably connected to the connector 24. The ultrasonic probe transmits ultrasonic waves to the living body and receives reflected waves from the living body.

[0055] The main body 18 has a housing. Multiple electronic circuits are located within the housing. These circuits include a receiving circuit, a transmitting circuit, and a processor. The processor functions as a generator that generates ultrasonic images based on received signals acquired through ultrasonic transmission and reception. The display 20 is comprised of an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an OLED (Organic LED Display), or the like. During ultrasonic examinations, the ultrasonic image is displayed on the display 20 when it is turned on.

[0056] Figure 2 1 shows the rear portion of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10. A handle 26 is rotatably mounted on the rear portion of the main body 18. Before use, the main body 18 is fixed to the cart 14, and the handle 26 is also fixed to the cart 14. To secure the handle 26 to the cart 14, a hook member 28 is provided as a movable member on the rear portion of the cart 14.

[0057] Figure 3 The rear portion of the main unit 16 is shown in FIG. A1 represents the horizontal rotation axis of the handle 26. When the main unit 16 is carried, the rotation angle of the handle 26 is locked at the first rotation angle. Figure 3 As shown, when the handle 26 is used as a stand, the rotation angle of the handle 26 is locked at the second rotation angle.

[0058] A hinge mechanism 30 is provided on the lower surface of the rear portion of the main body 18. The hinge mechanism 30 includes a hinge, a handle locking mechanism, a knob 32, and the like. The hinge has a bearing. The handle locking mechanism is a mechanism for locking the rotation angle of the handle. The knob 32 is a component that is operated when the handle is unlocked. The hinge mechanism 30 has two openings separated in the left and right directions, specifically, two pin holes 34. When the main unit 16 is fixed to the cart, two pins are inserted into the two pin holes 34. In this case, the two pin holes 34 function as a first engaging portion, and the two pins function as a second engaging portion. The handle 26 is connected to the main body 18 via the hinge mechanism 30.

[0059] A support mechanism 38 is provided between the main body 18 and the display 20. The support mechanism 38 has the function of rotating the display 20 around the vertical rotation axis A2 and the function of rotating the display 20 around the horizontal rotation axis A3. The horizontal rotation axis A3 is provided on the vertical rotation axis A2.

[0060] Figure 4 The rear portion of the main unit 16 is also shown. The rotation angle of the handle 26 is locked at the first rotation angle. In this state, the main unit 16 can be suspended using the handle 26 and carried. The handle 26 consists of a first arm 40 and a second arm 42 connected to the hinge mechanism 30, and a grip 44 connected to the first and second arms 40, 42. The grip 44 is a rod-shaped portion that is grasped by the user. Each arm 40, 42 has a curved shape.

[0061] Figure 5 1 shows the cart 14. The cart 14 has a base 46 on which four casters 48 are mounted. The base 46 supports a support column 50. The support column 50 has a telescopic function and supports the carrier 22.

[0062] The platform 22 is composed of a front portion 22A, a middle portion 22B, and a rear portion 22C. The middle portion 22B is recessed. The main unit is placed on the front portion 22A and the rear portion 22C. The rear portion 22C is integrated with a housing 58, which serves as a structural body. A cart handle 52 is provided to surround the platform 22. The cart handle 52 has two handles 56. The cart handle 52 is fixed to the platform 22 by multiple connecting components. One of the multiple connecting components is a front block 54.

[0063] Figure 6 1 shows the upper surface of the cart 14. A front block 54 is provided in front of the platform 22. A rear surface 54A of the front block 54 serves as a holding surface. The front of the main body abuts against the rear surface 54A, and in this state, the front of the main body is held by the front block 54.

[0064] The housing 58, located at the rear of the cart 14, has a recessed structure 60. The recessed structure 60 includes a first groove 60A, a second groove 60B, and a recess 60C. The recess 60C has a tray-like shape and is connected to the first groove 60A and the second groove 60B. The housing 58 has a contact portion that contacts the knob, and this contact portion has an inclined surface 62 for pressing the knob.

[0065] The cart 14 includes a handle fixing mechanism 64, a main body fixing mechanism 66, a link mechanism 68, and a safety mechanism 70. These mechanisms are all located at the rear of the cart 14. The handle fixing mechanism 64 is located outside the housing 58. The handle fixing mechanism 64 includes a hook member 28. The main body fixing mechanism 66 and the safety mechanism 70, except for some components, are housed within the housing 58. The link mechanism 68 is located across the interior and exterior of the housing 58. The link mechanism 68 can also be located outside or inside the housing 58. The safety mechanism 70 includes a button 71 as a movable component. The housing 58 has an opening through which the button 71 is raised and lowered.

[0066] (2-2) Main body and handle fixation

[0067] Hereinafter, a process of installing the main unit on the cart will be described, and each mechanism installed on the cart will be described.

[0068] Figure 7 The initial state is shown in FIG. The rotation angle of the handle 26 relative to the main body 18 is the first rotation angle. The first rotation angle is 0 degrees. The handle 26 is in a locked state. The user holds the handle 44, and the main unit 16 is suspended. In this state, the front portion 18A of the main body 18 is placed on the front portion 22A of the stage 22 (reference symbol 72). Then, the main unit 16 is tilted. As a result, the main unit 16 performs a downward motion (rotational motion) (reference symbol 74).

[0069] Figure 8 The intermediate state is shown in the figure. The main unit 16 has a tilted posture. The rotation angle of the handle 26 remains locked at the first rotation angle. The handle 26 has a grip 44, a first arm 40, and a second arm 42. As the main unit 16 descends, the first arm 40 is inserted into the first groove 60A, and at the same time, the second arm 42 is inserted into the second groove 60B. An exhaust port 117 is provided on the rear surface of the main body 18. The exhaust port 117 is composed of a plurality of parts arranged in the left-right direction. The exhaust gas (warm air or hot air) discharged from the exhaust port 117 flows to the rear of the main body 18.

[0070] The housing 58 has a flat surface 120. The flat surface 120 extends in the left-right and front-back directions and functions as an exhaust guide. As described later, the rear space is defined behind the main body 18 with the exhaust port 117 as a reference. The flat surface 120 is located close to the lower surface of the rear space and extends along the lower surface. The flat surface 120 is composed of an intermediate portion 120A disposed between the first groove 60A and the second groove 60B, a first end portion 120B disposed outside the first groove 60A in the left-right direction, and a second end portion 120C disposed outside the second groove 60B in the left-right direction. The left-right direction is the direction in which the first groove 60A and the second groove 60B are arranged.

[0071] Figure 9 , showing an intermediate state viewed from another angle. The hinge mechanism provided on the main body has a knob 32. The housing has an inclined surface 62 that contacts the knob. In addition, the first arm 40 of the handle 26 has a curved portion, and a pad 43 is provided on the curved portion. The second arm also has a curved portion, and a pad is also provided on the curved portion. Each pad is made of a component with an anti-slip function. The handle 26 is a hard solid component. Each pad is made of a material softer than the handle 26.

[0072] Figure 10 The middle state is shown from another angle. Figure 10 Equivalent to the main view. Figure 10 In the figure, the main body 18 is indicated by a dotted line. The handle 26 is connected to the hinge mechanism 30. The hinge mechanism 30 includes a knob 32. An inclined surface 62 is provided directly in front of the first groove 60A. During the lowering movement of the main body unit onto the cart, the knob 32 contacts the inclined surface 62, which applies a pressing force to the knob 32. As a result, the knob 32 is pressed toward the handle 26.

[0073] Figure 11 3 shows a state where the knob 32 is pressed by the inclined surface 62 (reference numeral 80). By pressing the knob 32, the handle lock is automatically released, allowing the handle 26 to rotate freely. In this state, the user pushes the handle 26 inward (reference numeral 82), and a portion of the handle 26 enters the recessed structure 60 formed in the housing 58.

[0074] Figure 12 The second slot 60B is shown in the intermediate state. The safety mechanism 70 includes a button 71. The button 71 moves up and down through an opening formed in the bottom surface of the housing (in front of the second slot 60B). Specifically, the button 71 moves up and down between a first height and a second height. The hinge mechanism 30 includes two pin holes 34 that function as the first engaging portion.

[0075] Figure 13The completed state is shown in FIG. The rotation angle of handle 26 reaches the handle fixing angle, which is greater than the first rotation angle and less than the second rotation angle. The handle locking mechanism within the hinge mechanism is not activated and is in the unlocked state. However, the two arms contact the bottom surfaces of the two grooves, restricting further downward movement of handle 26. A portion of handle 44 enters the recessed structure 60 in a non-contact manner.

[0076] exist Figure 13 In the illustrated embodiment, the handle securing mechanism 64 is in an active state. Specifically, the hook member 28 of the handle securing mechanism 64 is in an upright position, with the end (hook) 28A of the hook member 28 engaging the upper surface of the handle 44. This restrains the handle 26, securing it to the cart. When the hook member 28 is in the active state, a hook locking mechanism (not shown) located within the hook member 28 engages, locking the rotation angle of the hook member 28, creating a hook-locked state. The user releases the hook-locked state by operating the release button 83.

[0077] As the handle fixing mechanism 64 operates, the body fixing mechanism 66 operates via the link mechanism 68. Before the body fixing mechanism 66 operates, the safety mechanism 70 operates. This will be described in detail below.

[0078] Figure 14 The figure schematically illustrates the various mechanisms provided on the cart. The handle 26 is rotated to a handle-securing angle (reference symbol 92). The housing 58 has a transverse groove 60D that accommodates the hinge mechanism 30. An opening is formed in the bottom surface of the transverse groove 60D, through which the button is raised and lowered. A handle-securing mechanism 64 is provided on the exterior of the housing 58. This handle-securing mechanism 64 includes a hook member 28. The hook member 28 rotates about a specific rotation axis.

[0079] A main body fixing mechanism 66 and a safety mechanism 70 are provided in the housing 58. A link mechanism 68 is provided between the handle fixing mechanism 64 and the main body fixing mechanism 66. The safety mechanism 70 includes a button pressed by the lower surface of the hinge mechanism and a stopper 90 (reference numerals 94 and 96) that retracts as the button descends.

[0080] When the stopper 90 is in the activated state (reference symbol 90A), the operation of the main body fixing mechanism 66 is prohibited. Specifically, when the main body unit is not installed on the cart and the button is in the floating state, that is, when the button is at the first height, the stopper 90 is in the activated state (reference symbol 90A). On the other hand, when the main body unit is installed on the cart and the button is in the sunken state, that is, when the button is at the second height, the stopper 90 is in the inactivated state.

[0081] The main body fixing mechanism 66 includes a slider 84. The slider 84 includes a frame 86 that performs sliding motion. Two pins 88, which are two protrusions, are fixed to the frame 86. The two pins 88 correspond to the second movable member and also correspond to the second engaging portion.

[0082] A hinge mechanism 30 is provided on the lower surface 18C of the rear portion of the main body 18. The hinge mechanism 30 has two pin holes 34 as two openings. The two pin holes 34 correspond to the first engaging portion. When two pins 88 are inserted into the two pin holes 34, that is, when the second engaging portion engages with the first engaging portion, the main body 18 is fixed to the cart. Unless the fixed state is released, the main body cannot be removed from the cart.

[0083] In summary, Figure 14 When the main body 18 is placed on the cart, the safety mechanism 70 allows the slider 84 to move forward. In this state, the hook member 28 rotates and engages with the handle 44 (reference numeral 98), securing the handle 26. The movement of the hook member 28 is transmitted to the main body securing mechanism 66 via the link mechanism 68. This causes the slider 84 to move forward (reference numeral 102), and the two pins 88 are inserted into the two pin holes 34. This secures the main body.

[0084] Figure 15 shows the main body fixed state and the handle fixed state. The end 28A of the hook member 28 in the handle fixing mechanism 64 presses against the grip 44 on the handle 26, and a pressing force 106 is applied to the grip 44 from the end 28A. The movement of the hook member 28, through the action of the link mechanism 68, generates sliding movement of the slider in the main body fixing mechanism 66. The stopper 90 in the safety mechanism 70 is in the retracted state. The two pins 88 of the main body fixing mechanism 66 are inserted into the two pin holes 34 of the hinge mechanism 30.

[0085] Figure 16 Components provided on the cart are shown in FIG. Components correspond to specific examples of the handle fixing mechanism 64, the body fixing mechanism 66, the link mechanism 68, and the safety mechanism 70. The operation of the body fixing mechanism 66 is restricted by the safety mechanism 70.

[0086] The handle fixing mechanism 64 includes a hook member 28 that rotates about a horizontal rotation axis A4. A member 114 that protrudes forward is provided on the front side of the hook member 28, and this member 114 functions as the link mechanism 68.

[0087] The main body fixing mechanism 66 includes a slider 84, and the slider 84 includes a frame 86. The frame 86 includes a plate 86A and a plate 86B. The pressing force from the link mechanism 68 acts on the plate 86B. Two pins 88 are fixed to the plate 86A. The frame 86 has a protrusion 104.

[0088] The safety mechanism 70 has a button 71 that performs lifting motion and a base 108 having the button 71. The base 108 performs rotational motion (seesaw motion) around a rotation axis 110. The end of the base 108 is a stopper 90. There is a stopper 90 on the front side of the protrusion 104 to prohibit the forward motion of the slider 84. Figure 16 , the Y direction is the sliding direction of the slider 84. The X direction is a horizontal direction perpendicular to the Y direction.

[0089] exist Figure 17 In this state, the safety mechanism 70 allows the main body fixing mechanism 66 to operate. Specifically, the button 71 sinks, and the base 108 tilts. The stopper 90 provided on the base 108 retracts upward. In this state, even if the protrusion 104 advances, it will not collide with the stopper 90. In other words, the forward movement of the slider 84 is permitted. Furthermore, a spring (not shown) applies a retracting force to the slider 84. Therefore, the slider 84 does not naturally move forward.

[0090] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating the main unit installation process. In S10, the front portion of the main unit is placed on the cart. The safety mechanism establishes a slide restriction state, and the handle locking mechanism establishes a handle lock state. The handle lock state is a state in which the handle is locked relative to the main unit, as opposed to a state in which the handle is fixed to the cart.

[0091] In S12, the main body begins descending. In S14, the knob abuts against the inclined surface, pressing the knob. Consequently, in S16, the handle lock is released. Meanwhile, in S18, the bottom surface of the hinge mechanism presses the button. Consequently, in S20, the safety mechanism releases the sliding restriction, enabling the main body securing mechanism to operate.

[0092] In S22, the main body is set on the cart. In S24, the user tilts the handle inward. In S26, the user operates the hook component, so that the hook component is stuck on the handle. That is, the handle is fixed in S28. The movement of the hook component is transmitted to the main body fixing mechanism, and the main body fixing mechanism works. The two pins of the main body fixing mechanism are inserted into the two pin holes on the main body side. Thus, the main body is fixed in S28. Then, in S30, an ultrasonic examination of the subject is performed using an ultrasonic diagnostic device. In S30, the main body unit can be transported using a cart.

[0093] According to the above structure, in addition to the main body being fixed to the cart, the handle is also fixed to the cart, thereby making the main body fixed more firmly. During use of the main body unit, the handle is prohibited from free movement, thereby preventing problems such as the handle colliding with other parts or causing excessive load due to lifting the handle.

[0094] Furthermore, according to the above structure, the handle lock and slide lock are automatically released during the inverting process of the main unit, so this release does not impose a burden on the user. The safety mechanism prohibits the operation of the main unit fixing mechanism when the main unit is not placed on the cart, thus preventing the two pins from inadvertently protruding. Consequently, the main unit will not collide with the two pins.

[0095] Figure 19 This is a flowchart showing the process of unloading the main unit from the cart. In S32, the use of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus ends. The main unit may also be unloaded from the cart for other reasons.

[0096] In S34, the hook member tilts backward by operating the unlock button. In S36, the handle is released, and the main body is released at the same time. In S38, the user grasps the handle and lifts it upward. This causes the main body unit to rotate.

[0097] In S40, the knob is disengaged from the inclined surface and protrudes, and in S42, the handle is locked. The minimum rotation angle of the handle is 0 degrees, which is the first rotation angle, and the handle is locked at this angle. Thereafter, the handle remains locked as long as the knob is not operated.

[0098] Meanwhile, in S44, as the main unit is lifted, the button floats. Specifically, the button rises from the second height to the first height. Consequently, in S46, the operation of the main unit fixing mechanism is inhibited, that is, the sliding of the slider is inhibited. In S48, the main unit is removed from the cart. The slide restriction state is maintained, and the handle lock state is also maintained.

[0099] (2-3) Relationship between rear space and standby position

[0100] Figure 20 The rear part of the main body 18 and the rear part of the cart are shown in the figure. The x direction is the horizontal direction, which is the front-back direction of the ultrasonic diagnostic device. The z direction is the vertical direction, which is the up-down direction of the ultrasonic diagnostic device. The main body 18 is tilted on the cart. The y' direction and the z' direction are directions defined with the tilted main body 18 as a reference. The y' direction is a direction parallel to the central axis of the main body 18, which is the depth direction of the main body 18. The z' direction is a direction perpendicular to the central axis of the main body 18, which is the height direction of the main body 18. The central axis of the main body 18 is an imaginary axis passing through the center of the front part and the center of the rear part of the main body 18.

[0101] The main body 18 has a rear surface 18B facing rearward. In the illustrated example, rear surface 18B is a surface perpendicular to the central axis of the main body 18. An exhaust port 117 is provided on rear surface 18B. Exhaust port 117 is composed of multiple sections arranged in a horizontal direction. A fan unit 116 is provided at the rear of the main body 18. Fan unit 116 is composed of multiple fans arranged in a horizontal direction.

[0102] Rear space 118 is defined by imaginary parallel displacement of exhaust port 117 rearward (in the y' direction). Rear space 118 is a three-dimensional space, specifically, composed of a plurality of cubic spaces corresponding to the portions forming exhaust port 117. The space below rear space 118 is lower space 123.

[0103] The housing 58 supports the rear portion of the main body 18. The housing 58 has a flat surface 120 that functions as an exhaust guide. The flat surface 120 is located near the lower surface of the rear space 118 and extends two-dimensionally along the lower surface. The flat surface 120 is positioned near the exhaust port 117, with a front edge 120a of the flat surface 120 located near the lower edge of the rear surface 18B (the lower edge of the exhaust port 117). An inclined surface 122 extends obliquely downward from the rear edge 120b of the flat surface 120. The inclined surface 122 forms the bottom surface of the recess 60C in the recessed structure 60. The recess 60C has a tray-like shape.

[0104] The handle has two arms. The first arm 40 has a first portion 40A connected to the hinge mechanism and a second portion 40B connected to the handle 44. It also has a curved portion 40C between the first and second portions 40A and 40B. The second arm also has the same structure as the first arm 40.

[0105] First portion 40A and curved portion 40C enter the lower portion of rear space 118. Most of second portion 40B belongs to lower space 123. When viewed from the rear (specifically, in the y' direction) from exhaust port 117, first portion 40A and second portion 40B overlap. In other words, second portion 40B is hidden behind first portion 40A and curved portion 40C. The same applies to the second arm.

[0106] The cart has a standby position 44X provided on the lower side of the rear space 118. The standby position 44X is where the handle 44 is located when the handle is fixed. The standby position 44X belongs to the lower space 123 and is close to the inclined surface 122. When the handle 44 is in the standby position 44X, the handle 44 does not contact the housing 58. There is a gap between the handle 44 and the inclined surface 122 that is large enough for the fingertip to enter. In addition, the first arm and the second arm contact the bottom surface of the first groove and the bottom surface of the second groove, and the floating force of the button acts on the second arm, so that Figure 20 Further clockwise rotation of the middle handle is restricted.

[0107] The exhaust gas discharged from the exhaust port 117 is diffused to a certain extent while being guided to the flat surface 120, and is generally directed to the rear (reference symbol 118a). It can be considered that a portion of the exhaust gas moves in an obliquely downward direction along the inclined surface 122, but the amount of this portion is small. Moreover, a portion of this portion moves while diffusing. The amount of exhaust gas reaching the handle 44 is very small. In other words, the amount of heat imparted from the exhaust gas to the handle 44 is very small. The inclined surface 122 and the handle 44 are in a non-contact relationship, and direct heat conduction between them does not occur. Although the hook component 28 contacts the handle 44, since the hook component 28 is the component arranged closest to the inside of the cart, the heat conduction from the hook component 28 to the handle 44 can actually be ignored.

[0108] Focusing on the first arm 40, the exhaust gas discharged from the exhaust port 117 contacts the first portion 40A and the curved portion 40C, causing a temperature rise in these portions. Heat transfer from the curved portion 40C to the second portion 40B is possible. However, the amount of exhaust gas contacting the second portion 40B is small, and heat is expected to be dissipated to the outside in the second portion 40B. Therefore, the temperature of the second portion 40B decreases as it approaches the handle 44. As a result, the amount of heat transferred from the second portion 40B to the handle 44 is small. The same can be said for the second arm.

[0109] Therefore, even if exhaust gas is released from the exhaust port, the temperature rise of handle 44 is minimal. In other words, standby position 44X is determined so that handle 44 does not reach a high temperature. When the main unit is removed from the cart after an ultrasonic examination, the user does not feel heat or discomfort even when holding handle 44.

[0110] (2-4) Handle and handle lock

[0111] Figure 21 Figure 1 shows an ultrasonic diagnostic device 12 mounted on a universal stage. The ultrasonic probe is not shown. The main unit 16 consists of a main unit 18 that generates ultrasonic images and a display 20 that displays them. The display 20 is in the open position. The main unit 18 includes an operation panel 130 and a touch screen panel 132. The main unit 18 also includes a connector 24 to which the ultrasonic probe is connected.

[0112] A handle 26 is rotatably mounted on the rear portion of the main body 18. Figure 21 In the embodiment, the rotation angle of the handle 26 is locked at the second rotation angle, and the handle 26 serves as a bracket.

[0113] Figure 221 shows the side of the main unit 16. The stage surface 134 is a flat surface on which the main unit is placed. Specifically, the front portion of the main body 18 contacts the stage surface 134 (reference numeral 136), and the two curved portions of the handle 26 contact the stage surface 134 (reference numeral 138).

[0114] Figure 23 2 shows the handle 26 in a stand posture. The rotation angle of the handle 26 is a second rotation angle θ2. Figure 23 FIG2 shows the second arm 42 of the handle 26. The second arm 42 includes a first portion 42A connected to the hinge mechanism 30, a second portion 42B connected to the handle, and a curved portion 42C between the first and second portions 42A and 42B. The lower surface (specifically, the pad) of the curved portion 42C contacts the stage surface. The same applies to the first arm.

[0115] When the handle 26 is used as a stand, the handle does not contact the platform surface. There is a gap 140 between the handle and the platform surface. In each arm, the second portion extends forward from the bent portion, and the two arms are accommodated in the lower space of the main body.

[0116] Symbol 26A indicates a handle for carrying. The first rotation angle θ0 is 0 degrees. Symbol 26B indicates a handle when the handle is fixed. The intermediate rotation angle θ1 is, for example, in the range of 30 to 60 degrees. The second rotation angle θ2 is, for example, 180 degrees. The maximum rotation angle θ3 is, for example, 230 degrees. The handle rotated to the maximum rotation angle θ3 is indicated by symbol 26C. The rotation of the handle is locked at the first rotation angle θ0 and the second rotation angle θ2 by the handle locking mechanism. When the rotation angle of the handle 26 is the first rotation angle θ0 and the handle 26 is locked, the two first parts in the handle are close to the rear surface. In addition, the two first parts each have a curved shape.

[0117] Reference numeral 146 denotes a horizontal line, and reference numeral 144 denotes the central axis of the main body. The inclination angle θa of the central axis 144 relative to the horizontal line 146 is, for example, in the range of 8 to 12 degrees. When the handle 26 is used as a stand, the inclination angle θa of the main body is the same as the inclination angle of the main body on the cart.

[0118] When using handle 26 as a stand, the rotation angle of handle 26 is locked at the second rotation angle θ2, thereby stabilizing the posture of the main unit. Furthermore, as mentioned above, since the handle does not contact the platform surface, it is hygienic. Furthermore, since the handle does not protrude rearward from the main unit, it does not become an obstruction.

[0119] Figure 24, which shows the main unit 16 during transport. The main unit 16 has a center of gravity 148. Reference numeral 152 indicates a plumb line passing through the center of gravity 148. Plumb line 152 passes through the center of the handle 150. Reference numeral 153 indicates a line (unit centerline) that is parallel to the central axis of the main unit and passes through the center of gravity 148. Plumb line 152 passes within the width W of the handle. The inclination angle of unit centerline 153 relative to plumb line 152 is very small, for example, less than 2 degrees or 4 degrees.

[0120] The main unit 16 is carried while being suspended. At this time, the rotation angle of the handle 26 is locked at the first rotation angle, and the inclination angle θb of the main unit 16 relative to the plumb line 152 is very small, thereby reducing the risk of the main unit 16 contacting or colliding with other objects (including the user).

[0121] Figure 25 , a portion of the hinge mechanism 30 is shown. The hinge mechanism 30 includes a hinge 161, a handle locking mechanism 162, and a knob 32. The hinge 161 has a bearing. The handle locking mechanism 162 includes multiple cam plates. An elastic force acts on the knob 32 in the protruding direction. Pressing the knob 32 temporarily releases the handle lock. Reference numeral 166 indicates the connecting portion of the arm. Various mechanisms can be used as the hinge mechanism 30.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic diagnostic device, characterized in that include: a main body having a generator for generating an ultrasonic image; a handle connected to the main body and moving relative to the main body; and A cart having a platform supporting the main body, The cart includes a handle fixing mechanism for fixing the handle to the cart when the main body is disposed on the platform.

2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The cart includes a main body fixing mechanism, which fixes the main body to the cart in the set state.

3. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes a link mechanism that enables the main body fixing mechanism and the handle fixing mechanism to cooperate with each other.

4. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3, wherein The handle fixing mechanism includes a first movable member that is operated by a user when fixing the handle. The main body fixing mechanism includes a second movable member that acts when fixing the main body. The link mechanism generates movement of the second movable member from movement of the first movable member.

5. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 4, wherein The first movable member includes a hook member that is engaged with a grip of the handle to fix the handle.

6. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 5, wherein The handle is mounted on the rear of the main body. The hook component is arranged at the rear portion of the cart.

7. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 4, wherein: The main body has a first engaging portion, The second movable member includes a second engaging portion that engages with the first engaging portion to fix the main body.

8. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7, wherein The first engaging portion includes one or more openings, The second engaging portion includes one or more protrusions inserted into the one or more openings.

9. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein include: a handle locking mechanism, disposed between the main body and the handle, and locking the handle; and a knob, which is operated when unlocking the handle, The cart includes a contact portion that contacts the knob to operate the knob when the main body is placed on the stage and the main body moves downward.

10. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 9, wherein The contact portion has an inclined surface that contacts the knob to press the knob.

11. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, wherein The cart includes a safety mechanism that restricts movement of the main body fixing mechanism when the main body is in a non-set state and allows movement of the main body fixing mechanism when the main body is in the set state.

12. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 11, wherein The main body fixing mechanism has a slider with a locking portion, When the slider moves forward, the engaging portion engages with the main body, and when the slider moves backward, the engaging portion disengages from the main body. The safety mechanism includes: a button that is pressed by the main body when the main body is placed on the stage and performs a descending motion, thereby descending from a first height to a second height; and The stopper prohibits the forward movement of the slider when the button is located at the first height, and allows the forward movement of the slider when the button is located at the second height.

Images