Medical imaging probe and medical imaging system

Abstract

A medical imaging probe and a medical imaging system are provided. The medical imaging probe includes: a housing; the scanning head is movably arranged in the shell, the scanning head comprises a movable transducer module, a transducer array and a backing, and a gap is formed between the transducer array and the contact surface of the shell; a base coupled to the transducer module and disposed opposite the transducer array; an electromagnet disposed on one of the transducer module and the base; the magnetic adsorption material is arranged on the other one of the transducer module and the base; and a sensor configured to sense an acceleration state of the medical imaging probe exceeding a threshold; wherein, in response to the sensor sensing the acceleration state, the electromagnet is powered to attract the magnetic attraction material such that the transducer module approaches the base and the gap between the transducer array and the contact surface increases.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of medical imaging, and more specifically, to a medical imaging probe and a medical imaging system. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, medical imaging probes are used to image the object being examined, thereby enabling scanning and detection. The method used to generate images in medical imaging devices depends on the specific technology.

[0003] For example, ultrasound imaging uses real-time, non-destructive high-frequency sound waves to generate ultrasound images, such as ultrasound images of organs, tissues, or objects within the human body (e.g., a fetus). Images generated or produced by medical imaging devices can be two-dimensional, three-dimensional, and / or four-dimensional images (essentially real-time / continuous 3D images). During medical imaging, imaging datasets (including, for example, volumetric imaging datasets from 3D / 4D imaging devices) are acquired, and corresponding images are generated and rendered in real-time using these datasets.

[0004] Medical imaging probes typically consist of compact components. During use, accidental impacts such as collisions and drops can occur, potentially damaging internal components. This can lead to reliability issues and increased costs associated with probe service exchanges. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the above-mentioned and / or other problems in the prior art. According to the invention, a medical imaging probe and a medical imaging system are provided, which can sense an acceleration state exceeding a threshold of the medical imaging probe and, in response to sensing the acceleration state, allow relative movement of components within the medical imaging probe to protect those components.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a medical imaging probe is provided, comprising: a housing, the front end of which is sealed by a contact surface; a scanning head movably disposed within the housing, wherein the scanning head includes: a movable transducer module, the transducer module including a transducer array and a backing, the transducer array being opposite to and having a gap with the contact surface; a base coupled to the transducer module and disposed opposite to the transducer array; an electromagnet disposed on one of the transducer module and the base; and a magnetic adsorption material disposed on the other of the transducer module and the base; and a sensor configured to sense an acceleration state of the medical imaging probe exceeding a threshold; wherein the electromagnet and the magnetic adsorption material are positioned such that, in response to the acceleration state sensed by the accelerometer, the electromagnet is powered to adsorb the magnetic adsorption material, causing the transducer module to move closer to the base, and increasing the gap between the transducer array and the contact surface.

[0007] In one embodiment, an elastic member is also included, which is coupled between the transducer module and the base and is configured to be compressible to allow relative movement between the base and the transducer module.

[0008] In one embodiment, when the electromagnet is de-energized, the elastic member resets the transducer module to restore the gap.

[0009] In one embodiment, the elastic member includes at least one spring coupled between the transducer module and the base.

[0010] In one embodiment, the electromagnet is disposed on the base, and the magnetic adsorption material is disposed on the transducer module.

[0011] In one embodiment, the magnetic adsorption material is disposed on the bottom surface of the transducer module opposite to the transducer array.

[0012] In one embodiment, when the electromagnet is powered to attract the magnetic adsorption material, the transducer module moves toward the base.

[0013] In one embodiment, the electromagnet can only be energized when the transducer module is not in operation.

[0014] In one embodiment, the housing includes a wet chamber and a dry chamber, the wet chamber being filled with an acoustic liquid, and the transducer module being disposed in the wet chamber, wherein when the electromagnet is energized to adsorb the magnetic adsorption material, the acoustic liquid is further filled into the gap between the transducer module and the contact surface.

[0015] In one embodiment, the distance between the transducer module and the base is configured to gradually increase from the inside to the outside in at least one radial direction.

[0016] In one embodiment, the base includes an axis about which the scanning head is rotatable.

[0017] In one embodiment, a driver is also included, which drives the scanning head to rotate about the axis.

[0018] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a medical imaging system is provided, comprising the medical imaging probe described in any one of the preceding claims. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The invention can be better understood by describing exemplary embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0020] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary medical imaging arrangement.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary ultrasound system.

[0022] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an exemplary ultrasound probe according to one embodiment is shown.

[0023] Figure 4 A partial schematic diagram of an exemplary ultrasonic probe, excluding the housing, is shown according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 5 A partial perspective view of a portion of an ultrasonic probe according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0025] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a scanning head 501 in an adsorption state according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0026] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a medical imaging system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0027] In the accompanying drawings, similar components and / or features may have the same numerical reference numerals. Furthermore, components of the same type may be distinguished by a letter following the reference numeral, which can differentiate between similar components and / or features. If only the first numerical reference numeral is used in the specification, the description applies to any similar component and / or feature having the same first numerical reference numeral, regardless of the letter subscript. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The following describes specific embodiments of the present invention. It should be noted that, in order to provide a concise description, this specification cannot exhaustively describe all features of the actual embodiments. It should be understood that, in the actual implementation of any embodiment, just as in any engineering or design project, various specific decisions are often made to achieve the developer's specific goals and to meet system-related or business-related constraints, and this can change from one embodiment to another. Furthermore, it is understood that although the efforts made in this development process may be complex and lengthy, for those skilled in the art related to the content disclosed in this invention, some design, manufacturing, or production modifications based on the technical content disclosed herein are merely conventional technical means and should not be construed as insufficient content of this disclosure.

[0029] References to "an embodiment," "an embodiment," "an exemplary embodiment," etc., in the specification indicate that the described embodiment may include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic; however, not every embodiment necessarily includes that specific feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Additionally, when a specific feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is believed that the influence of such feature, structure, or characteristic on such feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments, whether explicitly described or not, is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

[0030] For the purposes of this disclosure, the phrase "A and / or B" means (A), (B), or (A and B). For the purposes of this disclosure, the phrase "A, B, and / or C" means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, and C).

[0031] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in the claims and description shall have the ordinary meaning as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Terms such as “comprising” or “including” mean that the elements or objects preceding “comprising” or “including” encompass the elements or objects listed following “comprising” or “including” and their equivalents, but do not exclude other elements or objects.

[0032] Additionally, as used herein, the term "image" broadly refers to both a visual image and the data representing that image. However, many implementations generate (or are configured to generate) at least one visual image. Furthermore, as used herein, and as in the context of ultrasound imaging, the phrase "image" is used to refer to ultrasound modes such as B-mode (2D mode), M-mode, three-dimensional (3D) mode, CF mode, PW Doppler, CW Doppler, MGD, and / or submodes of B-mode and / or CF such as shear wave elastography (SWEI), TVI, Angio, B-flow, BMI, BMI_Angio, and in some cases also MM, CM, TVD, where "image" and / or "plane" includes a single beam or multiple beams.

[0033] Furthermore, as used herein, the term “processor” or “processing unit” refers to any type of processing unit capable of performing the required computations for various implementation schemes, such as single-core or multi-core: CPU, Accelerated Processing Unit (APU), graphics board, DSP, FPGA, ASIC, or combinations thereof.

[0034] It should be noted that the various embodiments of generating or forming images described herein may include processing for forming the image, which in some embodiments includes beamforming, while in others does not. For example, an image may be formed without beamforming, such that the product is an image, by multiplying a matrix of demodulated data by a coefficient matrix, and wherein the process does not form any “beams.” Furthermore, image formation may be performed using a combination of channels that may originate from more than one transmission event (e.g., synthetic aperture technology).

[0035] In various implementations, the image-forming process is performed in software, firmware, hardware, or a combination thereof. This process may include the use of beamforming.

[0036] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary medical imaging arrangement. Figure 1 An exemplary medical imaging arrangement 100 is shown, comprising one or more medical imaging systems 110 and one or more computing systems 120. The medical imaging arrangement 100 (including its various elements) can be configured to support medical imaging and solutions associated therewith.

[0037] Medical imaging system 110 includes suitable hardware, software, or combinations thereof for supporting medical imaging (i.e., enabling the acquisition of data for generating and / or rendering images during a medical imaging examination). An example of medical imaging may be ultrasound imaging. This may require capturing specific types of data in a particular manner, which can then be used to generate images. For example, medical imaging system 110 may be an ultrasound imaging system configured to generate and / or render ultrasound images.

[0038] like Figure 1 As shown, the medical imaging system 110 may include a scanner device 112 and a display / control unit 114. The scanner device may be portable and mobile. The scanner device 112 may be configured to generate and / or capture specific types of imaging signals (and / or corresponding data) by moving over a patient's body (or parts thereof), and may include suitable circuitry for performing and / or supporting such functions. The scanner device 112 may be an ultrasound probe, such as a 4D ultrasound probe. In this scenario, the scanner device 112 may emit ultrasound signals and capture echo ultrasound images.

[0039] Display / control unit 114 may be configured to display images (e.g., via screen 116). In some cases, display / control unit 114 may also be configured to at least partially generate the displayed images. Furthermore, display / control unit 114 may support user input / output. For example, in addition to images, display / control unit 114 may provide (e.g., via screen 116) user feedback (e.g., information related to the system, its functions, its settings, etc.). Display / control unit 114 may also support user input (e.g., via user controls 118) to allow, for example, control of medical imaging. User input may involve controlling the display of images, selecting settings, specifying user preferences, requesting feedback, etc.

[0040] In some implementations, the medical imaging setup 100 may also include additional and dedicated computing resources, such as one or more computing systems 120. In this regard, each computing system 120 may include suitable circuitry, interfaces, logic, and / or code for processing, storing, and / or communicating data. The computing system 120 may be a dedicated device configured specifically for use in conjunction with medical imaging, or it may be a general-purpose computing system (e.g., a personal computer, server, etc.) set up and / or configured to perform the operations described below with respect to the computing system 120. The computing system 120 may be configured to support the operation of the medical imaging system 110, as described below. In this regard, various functions and / or operations may be offloaded from the imaging system. Doing so simplifies and / or centralizes certain aspects of processing to reduce costs, for example, by eliminating the need to increase processing resources in the imaging system.

[0041] The computing system 120 may be configured and / or arranged for use in different ways. For example, in some embodiments, a single computing system 120 may be used; in other embodiments, multiple computing systems 120 are configured to work together (e.g., based on a distributed processing configuration) or to work independently, wherein each computing system 120 is configured to handle specific aspects and / or functions, and / or to process data only for a specific medical imaging system 110. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the computing system 120 may be local (e.g., co-located with one or more medical imaging systems 110, e.g., within the same facility and / or the same local network); in other embodiments, the computing system 120 may be remote and therefore accessible only via a remote connection (e.g., via the Internet or other available remote access technologies). In a particular embodiment, the computing system 120 may be configured in a cloud-based manner and may be accessed and / or used in a manner substantially similar to accessing and using other cloud-based systems.

[0042] Once data is generated and / or configured in computing system 120, it can be copied and / or loaded into medical imaging system 110. This can be done in different ways. For example, data can be loaded via a directed connection or link between medical imaging system 110 and computing system 120. In this regard, communication between different elements in medical imaging setup 100 can be performed using available wired and / or wireless connections and / or according to any suitable communication (and / or networking) standards or protocols. Alternatively or additionally, data can be loaded into medical imaging system 110 indirectly. For example, data can be stored on a suitable machine-readable medium (e.g., a flash memory card, etc.) and then loaded into medical imaging system 110 using that machine-readable medium (on-site, e.g., by the system user (e.g., an imaging clinician) or authorized personnel); or data can be downloaded to a locally communicable electronic device (e.g., a laptop computer, etc.) and then uploaded to medical imaging system 110 on-site using (e.g., by the system user or authorized personnel) via a direct connection (e.g., a USB connector, etc.).

[0043] In operation, the medical imaging system 110 can be used to generate and present (e.g., render or display) images during a medical examination, and / or to support user input / output in conjunction with them. Images can be 2D, 3D, and / or 4D images. Specific operations or functions performed in the medical imaging system 110 to facilitate the generation and / or presentation of images depend on the type of system (i.e., the manner in which data corresponding to the image is acquired and / or generated). For example, in ultrasound imaging, the data is based on emitted and echo ultrasound signals.

[0044] In various specific embodiments of this disclosure, the medical imaging system and / or architecture (e.g., the medical imaging system 110 and / or the medical imaging device 100 as a whole) may be configured to support the implementation and utilization of medical imaging probes.

[0045] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary ultrasound system 200. The ultrasound system 200 includes a transmitter 202, an ultrasound probe 204, a transmit beamformer 210, a receiver 218, a receive beamformer 220, an A / D converter 222, an RF processor 224, an RF / IQ buffer 226, a user input device 230, a signal processor 232, an image buffer 236, a display system 234, and a file 238.

[0046] Transmitter 202 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to drive ultrasound probe 204. Ultrasound probe 204 may be, for example, an E4D probe (electronic 4D probe) or a mechanically rotating probe. An E4D probe may be a linear E4D probe, a curved E4D probe, or a fan-shaped E4D probe. A mechanically rotating probe may be a linear mechanically rotating probe, a curved mechanically rotating probe, or a fan-shaped mechanically rotating probe. Ultrasound probe 204 may be configured to acquire both 2D B-mode data and 2D color flow data, or both 2D B-mode data and another ultrasound mode for detecting blood flow velocity along the vascular axis. Ultrasound probe 204 may include a two-dimensional (2D) array of piezoelectric elements. Ultrasound probe 204 may include a set of transmitting transducer elements 206 and a set of receiving transducer elements 208 that typically constitute the same components. In some embodiments, ultrasound probe 204 is operable to acquire ultrasound image data covering at least a majority of an anatomical structure, such as the heart, blood vessels, or any suitable anatomical structure.

[0047] The transmitting beamformer 210 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to control the transmitter 202, which drives the set of transmitting transducer elements 206 via the transmitting sub-aperture beamformer 214 to transmit ultrasonic signals to a region of interest (e.g., a person, animal, underground cavity, physical structure, etc.). The transmitted ultrasonic signals may be backscattered from structures (such as blood cells or tissue) within the object of interest to generate echoes. The echoes are received by the receiving transducer element 208.

[0048] The set of receiving transducer elements 208 in the ultrasonic probe 204 can be used to convert the received echo into an analog signal, perform sub-aperture beamforming through the receiving sub-aperture beamformer 216, and then transmit it to the receiver 218. The receiver 218 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to receive the signal from the receiving sub-aperture beamformer 216. The analog signal can be transmitted to one or more of a plurality of A / D converters 222.

[0049] Multiple A / D converters 222 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to convert analog signals from receiver 218 into corresponding digital signals. Multiple A / D converters 222 are disposed between receiver 218 and RF processor 224. However, this disclosure is not limited in this respect. Therefore, in some embodiments, multiple A / D converters 222 may be integrated within receiver 218.

[0050] RF processor 224 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to demodulate digital signals output from a plurality of A / D converters 222. According to one embodiment, RF processor 224 may include a multiplexer (not shown) for demodulating digital signals to form I / Q data pairs representing corresponding echo signals. The RF or I / Q signal data can then be transferred to RF / IQ buffer 226. RF / IQ buffer 226 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to provide temporary storage of the RF or I / Q signal data generated by RF processor 224.

[0051] The receiver beamformer 220 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to perform digital beamforming processing, such as summing a delayed channel signal received from the RF processor 224 via the RF / IQ buffer 226 and outputting a beam sum signal. The resulting processed information may be the beam sum signal output from the receiver beamformer 220 and transmitted to the signal processor 232. According to some embodiments, the receiver 218, multiple 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 system 200 includes multiple receiver beamformers 220.

[0052] User input device 230 can be used to input patient data, scan parameters, settings, select protocols and / or templates, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, user input device 230 is operable to configure, manage and / or control the operation of one or more components and / or modules in ultrasound system 200. In this regard, user input device 230 can be used to configure, manage and / or control the operation of transmitter 202, ultrasound probe 204, transmit beamformer 210, receiver 218, receive beamformer 220, RF processor 224, RF / IQ buffer 226, user input device 230, signal processor 232, image buffer 236, display system 234 and / or file 238. User input device 230 may include buttons, rotary encoders, touch screens, motion tracking, voice recognition, mouse devices, keyboards, cameras and / or any other devices capable of receiving user commands. In some embodiments, for example, one or more user input devices in user input device 230 may be integrated into other components (such as display system 234 or ultrasound probe 204). For example, user input device 230 may include a touch screen display.

[0053] Signal processor 232 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code operable to process ultrasound scan data (i.e., summed IQ signals) to generate an ultrasound image for presentation on display system 234. Signal processor 232 is operable to perform one or more processing operations based on multiple selectable ultrasound modalities on the acquired ultrasound scan data. In exemplary embodiments, signal processor 232 may be used to perform display processing and / or control processing, etc. Acquired ultrasound scan data can be processed in real time during a scanning session as echo signals are received. Alternatively or concurrently, ultrasound scan data may be temporarily stored in RF / IQ buffer 226 during a scanning session and processed in a less real-time manner during online or offline operation. In various embodiments, the processed image data may be presented at display system 234 and / or stored at archive 238. Archive 238 may be a local archive, a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS), or any suitable device for storing images and related information.

[0054] Signal processor 232 may be one or more central processing units, microprocessors, microcontrollers, etc. For example, signal processor 232 may be an integrated component or may be distributed in various locations. In an exemplary embodiment, signal processor 232 may be able to receive input information from user input device 230 and / or file 238, generate output that can be displayed by display system 234, and manipulate the output in response to input information from user input device 230, etc. Signal processor 232 may be able to perform, for example, any of the methods and / or instruction sets discussed herein according to various embodiments.

[0055] The ultrasound system 200 can be used to continuously acquire ultrasound scan data at a frame rate suitable for the imaging situation under consideration. Typical frame rates are in the range of 20-120, but can be lower or higher. The acquired ultrasound scan data can be displayed on the display system 234 at the same frame rate, or at a slower or faster display rate. An image buffer 236 is included for storing frames of acquired ultrasound scan data that are not scheduled for immediate display. Preferably, the image buffer 236 has sufficient capacity to store frames of ultrasound scan data for at least several minutes. 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 236 can be embodied in any known data storage medium.

[0056] Display system 234 can be any device capable of conveying visual information to a user. For example, display system 234 may include a liquid crystal display, a light-emitting diode display, and / or any suitable one or more displays. Display system 234 may be operable to present ultrasound images and / or any suitable information.

[0057] File 238 may be one or more computer-readable storage devices integrated with and / or communicatively coupled (e.g., via a network) to ultrasound system 200, such as Image Archiving and Communication System (PACS), server, hard disk, floppy disk, CD, CD-ROM, DVD, compact memory, flash memory, random access memory, read-only memory, electrically erasable and programmable read-only memory, and / or any suitable memory. File 238 may include, for example, a database, library, information set, or other memory accessed by and / or incorporated into signal processor 232. For example, file 238 may be able to temporarily or permanently store data. File 238 may be able to store medical image data, data generated by signal processor 232, and / or instructions readable by signal processor 232, etc.

[0058] The components of the ultrasound system 200 can be implemented in software, hardware, firmware, etc. The various components of the ultrasound system 200 can be communicatively connected. The components of the ultrasound system 200 can be implemented individually and / or integrated in various forms. For example, the display system 234 and the user input device 230 can be integrated into a touchscreen display.

[0059] As mentioned above, the ultrasonic probe 206 can be a mechanical ultrasonic probe. Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an exemplary ultrasound probe according to one embodiment is shown. In one embodiment, the ultrasound probe 300 includes a housing 301, the front end of which is sealed by a contact surface 303. A scanning head 305 is movably disposed within the housing 301. Figure 4A partial schematic diagram of an exemplary ultrasonic probe, excluding the housing, is shown according to one embodiment. Reference is made below. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Describe the structure of an exemplary ultrasonic probe.

[0060] The housing 301 may have a first chamber 310 (e.g., a dry chamber) and a second chamber 320 (e.g., a wet chamber). The first chamber 310 and the second chamber 320 may be formed as a single unit (e.g., an integral construction) or as separate units connected together. In an exemplary embodiment, the first chamber 310 is a dry chamber or air chamber containing drive components for mechanically controlling the transducer array 307 and communication components for electrically controlling the transducer array 307. The drive components generally include a motor 309 (e.g., a stepper motor) and a gear arrangement 311. The communication components generally include a system cable 313 connected to a flexible PCB 315 to communicate with a host system to drive elements of the transducer array 307 (e.g., selectively activate elements of the transducer array 307).

[0061] In some embodiments, only a single dry chamber is provided. Furthermore, while the drive components and communication components are described herein as having specific component parts, they are not limited thereto. For example, the drive components may have different gear arrangements, and the communication components may have different connecting members or transmission lines.

[0062] In this exemplary embodiment, the second chamber 320 is a wet chamber, for example, a chamber containing an acoustic liquid, which includes transducer drive components for moving (e.g., rotating) the transducer array 307 and transducer control components for selectively driving elements (e.g., piezoelectric ceramics) of the transducer array 307.

[0063] The transducer drive components generally include a transducer shaft 321 that is connected to (e.g., coupled to) the scan head 305 and extends within a drive shaft opening formed within the scan head 305. A connector support member 323 is also coupled within the scan head 305 to support a flexible PCB 315 connected to the transducer array 307. The scan head 305 generally defines a transducer carrier or transducer bridge to provide movement of the transducer array 307 mounted thereto as the transducer shaft 321 moves (e.g., rotates) to move the scan head 305. It should be noted that the flexible PCB 315 is coupled between the connector support member 323 and the transducer array 307 and is electrically connected to the transducer array 307.

[0064] The transducer control components generally include a connecting member 317 for interconnecting system cables 313 and a flexible PCB 315 (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board for four scanning heads), the flexible PCB 315 having one or more communication lines for communication between them. In one exemplary embodiment, the connecting member 317 is formed of one or more rigid printed circuit boards that interconnect system cables 313 and flexible PCB 315 via a sealing member 319 (providing a liquid seal between a first chamber 310 and a second chamber 320).

[0065] It should also be noted that while the transducer drive components and transducer control components are described herein as having specific component parts, these components are not limited thereto. For example, the transducer drive components may have different axis arrangements, and the transducer control components may have different control circuits or transmission lines. It should also be noted that additional or different component parts may be provided to connect to the probe 300 as needed or desired and / or based on the specific type and application of the probe 300. It should also be noted that the transducer array 307 can be configured for operation in different modes (such as 1D, 1.25D, 1.5D, 1.75D, 2D, 3D, and 4D operating modes).

[0066] Figure 5 A partial perspective view of an ultrasonic probe 500 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0067] Medical imaging probes (e.g., ultrasound probes) may contain fragile components, such as transducer arrays. These components may be located near the contact surfaces of the probe and may be susceptible to damage or breakage, especially in the event of drops and impacts. Impacts can also damage components inside the medical imaging probe. This can lead to reliability issues and potentially increase the cost of probe service exchanges. Therefore, solutions are needed to mitigate the risk of damage to components inside medical imaging probes. To this end, ultrasound probe 500 may include a sensor (not shown in the figures) configured to sense the acceleration state of the ultrasound probe. The sensor may be positioned at any suitable location within the housing. Ultrasound probe 500 may have a housing whose front end is sealed by a contact surface 512. Ultrasound probe 500 may include a scanning head 501 movably disposed within the housing, and the scanning head includes a movable transducer module 506 comprising a transducer array 510 and a backing 518. The ultrasonic probe 500 may include an electromagnet 502 and a magnetic adsorption material 504, wherein the electromagnet 502 may be disposed on either the transducer module 506 or the base 508, and the magnetic adsorption material 504 may be disposed on the other of the transducer module 506 and the base 508. As an example, in Figure 5In the diagram, electromagnet 502 is shown disposed on base 508, and magnetic adsorption material 504 is shown disposed on transducer module 506. Preferably, magnetic adsorption material 504 is disposed on the bottom surface of transducer module 506 opposite to transducer array 510.

[0068] In this configuration, the electromagnet and the magnetic adsorption material are positioned such that, in response to the sensor detecting that the ultrasonic probe 500 is in an accelerated state, the electromagnet 502 is powered to adsorb the magnetic adsorption material 504, causing the transducer module 506 to move closer to the base 508, thereby increasing the gap 514 between the transducer array 510 and the contact surface 512.

[0069] This configuration ensures that in the event of an accidental drop, the vulnerable transducer module 506 is kept as far away from the housing as possible to avoid impact.

[0070] In some embodiments, the operation of the electromagnet 502 is controlled by a control system and powered by a power source for the electromagnet 502. Optionally, the power source for the electromagnet 502 may be located inside the ultrasonic probe 500, or, if the ultrasonic probe 500 has an external power source to support its operation, the electromagnet 502 may also be powered by the external power source of the ultrasonic probe 500. Furthermore, the type of sensor mentioned above can be any in the art, such as an accelerometer or other sensor that senses changes in the motion state of an object.

[0071] Furthermore, when the ultrasonic probe 500 is in normal operation, the electromagnet 502 can be de-energized, resetting the transducer module 506 to restore the gap 514. Preferably, only one of the electromagnet 502 and the transducer array 510 is powered. That is, during the operation of the transducer array 510, the electromagnet 502 is not powered, and when the sensor detects that the ultrasonic probe 500 is in an accelerated state and the electromagnet 502 is powered, the transducer array 510 does not operate. This configuration ensures that the transducer array 510 in operation is not affected by the potential magnetic field (regardless of its magnitude) of the electromagnet 502, thus affecting the ultrasonic imaging quality. Moreover, when the electromagnet 502 is operating, the transducer array 501 is not operating, thereby extending the lifespan of the transducer components as much as possible.

[0072] Preferably, the ultrasonic probe 500 may further include an elastic member 516. The elastic member 516 may be coupled between the transducer module 506 and the base 508 and is configured to be compressible to allow relative movement between the transducer module 506 and the base 508. The elastic member 516 may provide cushioning for the transducer module 506's approach toward the base 508 and may also provide support for the transducer module 506's return to its original position away from the base 508. Optionally, the elastic member 516 may include at least one spring.

[0073] As previously described, the housing 100 may have a dry chamber 102 and a wet chamber 104, the wet chamber 104 being filled with an acoustic liquid, and the transducer module 506 being disposed within the wet chamber 104. Preferably, when the electromagnet 502 is powered to attract the magnetic adsorption material 504, the gap between the electromagnet 502 and the magnetic adsorption material 504 decreases, and the gap between the transducer array 510 and the contact surface 512 increases. In this case, more of the acoustic liquid in the wet chamber 104 can fill the gap between the transducer array 510 and the contact surface 512.

[0074] To facilitate this objective, as a preferred embodiment, the base of the ultrasonic probe can be configured in other shapes. For example, the upper surface of the base 508 and / or the lower surface of the transducer module 506 can be configured such that the distance between the transducer module 506 and the base 508 gradually increases from the inside to the outside in the radial direction. Alternatively, the upper surface of the base 508 can be configured as an upwardly concave shape and the lower surface of the transducer module 506 can be configured as a downwardly convex shape. In this way, when the transducer module 506 and the base 508 are close to each other, the acoustic fluid is more easily squeezed out from the gap between them, thereby improving the system's response speed.

[0075] When the ultrasound probe is an E4D probe (not shown in the figure), the movable transducer module can include all the modules required for 4D ultrasound imaging. Accordingly, the base can be fixedly installed inside the E4D probe and positioned opposite the transducer module.

[0076] When the ultrasonic probe 500 is a mechanical ultrasonic probe, the base 508 may further include a shaft 520, and preferably, the ultrasonic probe 500 may further include a driver 522. The driver 522 can drive the scanning head 501 to rotate or oscillate back and forth around the shaft 520. The driver 522 may be a motor, and it is transmitted to the base 508 through several gears. The motor rotates continuously in both directions, causing the base to drive the scanning head 501 to oscillate back and forth. The oscillation can be any type of transmission method, for example, Figure 5 The illustration shows a configuration with two pull wires, through which shaft 520 drives the base. It should be noted that the above driving method is an exemplary illustration. Other driving methods for mechanical ultrasonic probes are also permitted in the art.

[0077] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a scanning head 501 in an adsorption state according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0078] exist Figure 6In the indicated state, sensor module 730 detects that the ultrasonic probe 500 is in an acceleration state exceeding a threshold. At this time, electromagnet 502 is powered, magnetic adsorption material 504 is attracted towards electromagnet 502, and the gap 514 between transducer array 510 and contact surface 512 increases to gap 514', keeping the vulnerable transducer module 506 as far away from the housing as possible to mitigate external impacts. When this acceleration state ends, electromagnet 502 is de-energized. Transducer array 510 can then reset to its original position under the elastic force of elastic member 516. Figure 5 The state shown indicates that the positions of the electromagnet 502 and the magnetic adsorption material 504 can be interchanged.

[0079] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a medical imaging system 700 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The medical imaging system 700 may include an imaging module 710, a display system module 720, a sensor module 730, a magnetic adsorption module 740, and a controller / processor 750. The imaging module 710 may be configured to acquire scan data and generate images. The display system module 720 may be configured to display images generated based on scan data to a user. The sensor module 730 may be configured to sense the acceleration state of the medical imaging probe. The controller / processor 750 may be configured to determine whether the acceleration state exceeds a threshold, and when the acceleration state exceeds the threshold, to activate the magnetic adsorption module 740 to adsorb components within the medical imaging probe, thereby reducing or avoiding impact on the components within the medical imaging probe. Furthermore, the controller / processor 750 may also be configured to activate one of the imaging module 710 and the magnetic adsorption module 740 in response to the sensing result. That is, when the magnetic adsorption module 740 is activated, the imaging module 710 is disabled; and when the imaging module 710 is activated, the magnetic adsorption module 740 is disabled.

[0080] While the invention has been described with reference to certain embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and substitutions can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, many modifications can be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, but rather to include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A medical imaging probe, comprising: A housing, the front end of which is sealed by a contact surface; A scanning head, movably disposed within the housing, wherein the scanning head comprises: A movable transducer module, the transducer module including a transducer array and a backing, the transducer array being opposite to the contact surface and having a gap between the transducer array and the contact surface; A base, which is coupled to the transducer module and disposed opposite to the transducer array; An electromagnet, the electromagnet being disposed on one of the transducer module and the base; and Magnetic adsorption material, wherein the magnetic adsorption material is disposed on the other of the transducer module and the base; and A sensor configured to sense an acceleration state exceeding a threshold of the medical imaging probe; The electromagnet and the magnetic adsorption material are positioned such that, in response to the acceleration sensor sensing the acceleration state, the electromagnet is powered to adsorb the magnetic adsorption material, causing the transducer module to move closer to the base, and increasing the gap between the transducer array and the contact surface.

2. The medical imaging probe as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an elastic member coupled between the transducer module and the base and configured to be compressible to allow relative movement between the base and the transducer module.

3. The medical imaging probe as described in claim 2, characterized in that, When the electromagnet is de-energized, the elastic member resets the transducer module to restore the gap.

4. The medical imaging probe as described in claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The elastic member includes at least one spring coupled between the transducer module and the base.

5. The medical imaging probe as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The electromagnet is disposed on the base, and the magnetic adsorption material is disposed on the transducer module.

6. The medical imaging probe as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The magnetic adsorption material is disposed on the bottom surface of the transducer module opposite to the transducer array.

7. The medical imaging probe as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the electromagnet is powered to attract the magnetic adsorption material, the transducer module moves toward the base.

8. The medical imaging probe as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The electromagnet can only be energized when the transducer module is not in operation.

9. The medical imaging probe as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The housing includes a wet chamber and a dry chamber, the wet chamber being filled with an acoustic liquid, and the transducer module being disposed within the wet chamber. When the electromagnet is energized to attract the magnetic adsorption material, the acoustic liquid is filled more into the gap between the transducer module and the contact surface.

10. The medical imaging probe as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The distance between the transducer module and the base is configured to gradually increase from the inside to the outside in at least one radial direction.

11. The medical imaging probe as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The base includes an axis around which the scanning head is rotatable.

12. The medical imaging probe as described in claim 11, characterized in that, It also includes a driver that drives the scanning head to rotate about the axis.

13. A medical imaging system comprising a medical imaging probe according to any one of claims 1-12.

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