Ultrasound probe, system, and method for moving transducer of ultrasound probe between neutral position and offset position based on detecting non-use trigger or use trigger

Abstract

An ultrasound system (100) may include an ultrasound probe (102) including a transducer (104) configured to acquire ultrasound data of a region of interest of a subject; and one or more processors (118) configured to: detect a non-use trigger indicating that ultrasound data of a region of interest of a subject is not acquired using the ultrasound probe (102); and controlling a transducer (104) of the ultrasound probe (102) to move from a neutral position to an offset position based on detecting the non-use trigger.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an ultrasonic probe including a transducer capable of moving between a neutral position and an offset position based on the detection of a non-use trigger or a use trigger. Furthermore, this disclosure relates to a system and method for detecting use triggers or non-use triggers and controlling the transducer of the ultrasonic probe between the neutral and offset positions. Background Technology

[0002] An ultrasound system typically includes a control console that houses the various components of the ultrasound system and supports a display for showing ultrasound images. The ultrasound system may include one or more ultrasound probes, each configured to connect to the control console and acquire ultrasound data of various anatomical regions of interest to the subject. For example, an ultrasound system may include linear probes, phased array probes, intracavitary probes, convex probes, etc.

[0003] An ultrasound probe may include a transducer configured to generate ultrasound signals, transmit ultrasound signals toward a subject's region of interest, receive echo ultrasound signals backscattered from the subject's region of interest, and generate ultrasound data based on the echo ultrasound signals. The ultrasound system may generate ultrasound images based on the echo ultrasound signals. The transducer may include various components such as lenses, acoustic matching layers, piezoelectric layers, acoustic dematching layers, etc.

[0004] To perform ultrasound imaging, the operator can manipulate the ultrasound probe around the anatomical region of interest on the subject to obtain ultrasound data of the region of interest. After ultrasound imaging, the operator can store the ultrasound probe in the probe holder of the console. Alternatively, the operator can disconnect the ultrasound probe from the console, move the ultrasound probe to the storage area, connect the ultrasound probe to another console, or perform a sterilization process, etc. In some cases, the operator may move the console to another location.

[0005] During any of the foregoing circumstances, the ultrasound probe may be susceptible to external impact. For example, an operator may unintentionally drop the ultrasound probe while moving it from the console to the subject, moving it around the subject, moving it from the subject to the console, or moving it from the console to another area. Alternatively, the ultrasound probe may fall from its holder due to external force or movement of the console. Alternatively, the ultrasound probe may unintentionally come into contact with an external object. Specifically, the size, construction, and materials of the transducer components may make the transducer susceptible to damage from external impact. Therefore, after exposure to an external impact resulting from transducer damage, the ultrasound probe may become inoperable for ultrasound imaging. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention provides a more detailed description of concepts in specific embodiments. It should not be used to identify essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor should it be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0007] According to one aspect, an ultrasound system may include: an ultrasound probe including a transducer configured to acquire ultrasound data of a region of interest of a subject; and one or more processors configured to: detect a non-use trigger indicating that the ultrasound probe was not used to acquire ultrasound data of the region of interest of the subject; and control the transducer of the ultrasound probe to move from a neutral position to an offset position based on the detection of the non-use trigger.

[0008] According to another aspect, an ultrasound probe may include a transducer configured to: acquire ultrasound data of a subject's region of interest; move from a neutral position to an offset position based on a non-use trigger indicating that the ultrasound probe is not used to acquire ultrasound data of the subject's region of interest; and move from the offset position to the neutral position based on a use trigger indicating that the ultrasound probe is used to acquire ultrasound data of the subject's region of interest.

[0009] According to another aspect, an ultrasound system may include a memory configured to store instructions; and one or more processors configured to execute the instructions to: detect a non-use trigger indicating that ultrasound data of a region of interest of a subject is not being acquired using an ultrasound probe; and control the transducer of the ultrasound probe to move from a neutral position to an offset position based on the detection of the non-use trigger. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a diagram of an example ultrasound system based on the implementation plan.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a diagram of an example ultrasound system based on the implementation plan.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a diagram of an example ultrasound probe based on the implementation plan.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a diagram of an example ultrasound probe based on the implementation plan.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a diagram of an example transducer for an ultrasonic probe according to the implementation plan.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a diagram of an example ultrasound probe based on the implementation plan.

[0016] Figure 7AThis is a diagram of an example transducer of an ultrasonic probe in a neutral position according to the implementation plan.

[0017] Figure 7B This is a diagram of an example transducer of an ultrasonic probe in an offset position according to the implementation scheme.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of an example method for controlling the movement of an ultrasound probe transducer between a neutral position and an offset position based on the detection of a non-use trigger.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of an example method for controlling the movement of an ultrasound probe transducer between an offset position and a neutral position based on a detected trigger. Detailed Implementation

[0020] As explained above, ultrasonic probes can be easily damaged by external impacts. Specifically, considering the location of the transducer in the ultrasonic probe and the tendency of the ultrasonic probe to come into contact with external objects or surfaces at the transducer location, the transducer of the ultrasonic probe may be particularly vulnerable.

[0021] Some embodiments described herein provide an ultrasonic probe including a transducer capable of moving between a neutral position and an offset position based on the detection of a non-use trigger or an use trigger. Specifically, the transducer can be controlled to move to the offset position based on the detection of a non-use trigger. The transducer can remain in the offset position until it is controlled to move to the neutral position based on the detection of a use trigger. In the offset position, the transducer may be less susceptible to damage from external impacts compared to when it is in the neutral position. In this way, the ultrasonic probe of this disclosure is more robust than ultrasonic probes that include a fixed transducer. Therefore, this disclosure provides an improved ultrasonic probe and a technical improvement in the field of ultrasonic imaging technology.

[0022] Furthermore, this disclosure reduces or eliminates the need for stringent handling procedures for ultrasound probes, which improves the efficiency of non-scanning processes such as cleaning, sterilization, and / or disposal. Additionally, this disclosure allows ultrasound probes to have small form factors and / or reduces the need for various protective features, increased component sizes, or sensors included in the ultrasound probe. For example, in some cases, the ultrasound probe may not require relatively thick external protective features to protect the lens. Such external protective features may increase the gap between the transducer lens and the subject, which can negatively impact image quality, increase signal attenuation, and increase reverberation. Therefore, the ultrasound probe of this disclosure acquires ultrasound data with improved image quality compared to ultrasound probes with external protective features. Furthermore, the ultrasound probe of this disclosure can utilize lenses with relatively small form factors, which improves image quality compared to ultrasound probes implementing thicker lenses. Additionally, the ultrasound probe may not require sensors to detect drop events. Such sensors may have high false positive rates and / or may increase the complexity of the ultrasound probe. By eliminating the need for sensors, the ultrasonic probe of this disclosure reduces various situations caused by false positives and / or may be relatively less complex compared to ultrasonic probes that include such sensors. Furthermore, the ultrasonic probe of this disclosure can maintain the transducer in an offset position until a use trigger is detected. In this way, the ultrasonic probe provides a protection mechanism for additional external impact events besides drop events. Moreover, the ultrasonic probe can maintain the transducer in an offset position after the ultrasonic probe is disconnected from the control panel and / or after the control panel is powered off. In this way, the ultrasonic probe can increase the duration of protection maintained for the transducer.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a diagram of an example ultrasound system 100 according to the implementation plan. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the ultrasound system 100 may include an ultrasound probe 102, a transducer 104, a control console 106, a transmit beamformer 108, a transmitter 110, a receiver 112, a receive beamformer 114, a user input device 116, a processor 118, a display 120, a memory 122, and a communication interface 124. The aforementioned components may be connected via wired or wireless connections.

[0024] The ultrasound probe 102 can be configured to acquire ultrasound data for medical imaging, acquire ultrasound data for measuring blood flow, or transmit ultrasound signals for tissue ablation. For example, the ultrasound probe 102 can be a linear probe, a phased array probe, a curved linear probe coupled to a position tracking system, a mechanically manipulated linear array transducer, an intracavitary probe, a phased array transducer, a curved linear array transducer, an electronically manipulated 2D transducer array, an electronic 3D (e3D) probe, an electronic 4D (e4D) probe, or a low-profile wearable patch version of any of the aforementioned probes. According to an embodiment, the ultrasound probe 102 can be configured to generate ultrasound signals, transmit ultrasound signals to the region of interest of the subject, receive echo ultrasound signals backscattered from the region of interest of the subject, generate ultrasound data based on the echo ultrasound signals, and output the ultrasound data.

[0025] The console 106 may house a transmit beamformer 108, a transmitter 110, a receiver 112, a receive beamformer 114, a user input device 116, a processor 118, a display 120, a memory 122, and a communication interface 124. Additionally, the console 106 may be configured to connect to an ultrasound probe 102 to allow the transmitter 110 and receiver 112 to communicate with the ultrasound probe 102.

[0026] Transmit beamformer 108 can be configured to apply a delay time to the electrical signal provided to transducer 104 of ultrasound probe 102 to focus the corresponding ultrasound signal at the region of interest. Transmitter 110 can be configured to send an electrical signal to transducer 104 to drive transducer 104 to transmit an ultrasound signal toward the region of interest. Transducer 104 can be configured to receive the electrical signal from transmitter 110, convert the electrical signal into an ultrasound signal, and transmit the ultrasound signal toward the region of interest. Transducer 104 can be configured to receive the echo ultrasound signal backscattered from the region of interest, convert the echo ultrasound signal into an electrical signal, and provide the electrical signal to receiver 112. Receiver 112 can be configured to receive the electrical signal from the element and provide the electrical signal to receiver beamformer 114. Receiver beamformer 114 can apply a delay time to the electrical signal received from transducer 104.

[0027] User input device 116 may be configured to receive user input and provide the user input to processor 118. For example, user input device 116 may be a user interface, touchscreen display, keyboard, keypad, mouse, button, switch, or microphone, etc. Additionally or alternatively, user input device 116 may be configured to sense information. For example, user input device 116 may sense information from an electromagnetic positioning system, inertial measurement system, accelerometer, gyroscope, or actuator, etc.

[0028] Processor 118 may be configured to perform the operations described herein. For example, processor 118 may be a central processing unit (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), accelerated processing unit (APU), microprocessor, controller, microcontroller, digital signal processor (DSP), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or another type of processing component. Processor 118 may be implemented in hardware, firmware, or a combination of hardware and software. Processor 118 may include one or more processors 118 configured to perform the operations described herein. For example, a single processor 118 may be configured to perform all the operations described herein. Alternatively, multiple processors 118 may be collectively configured to perform all the operations described herein, and each of the multiple processors 118 may be configured to perform a subset of the operations described herein. For example, a first processor 118 may perform a first subset of the operations described herein, a second processor 118 may be configured to perform a second subset of the operations described herein, and so on.

[0029] Processor 118 can be configured to control ultrasound probe 102 to acquire ultrasound data. Processor 118 can be configured to control which elements of transducer 104 are active and to control the shape of the beam emitted from transducer 104 of ultrasound probe 102. Processor 118 can generate ultrasound images for display. For example, processor 118 can generate B-mode images, color Doppler images, M-mode images, or color M-mode images, etc. Ultrasound images can be 4D images, 3D images, 2D images, single-plane images, dual-plane images, tri-plane images, multi-plane images, etc. Ultrasound images can correspond to various anatomical planes (e.g., sagittal, coronal, and transverse) of the region of interest.

[0030] Display 120 can be configured to display information. For example, display 120 can be a monitor, LED display, cathode ray tube, projector display, touch screen, tablet computer, or mobile phone. Display 120 can display ultrasound images based on ultrasound data in real time. For example, display 120 can display ultrasound images within one second, two seconds, five seconds, etc., of ultrasound data acquired by ultrasound probe 102.

[0031] Memory 122 may be configured to store information and / or instructions for use by processor 118. Memory 122 may be a non-transitory computer-readable medium. For example, memory 122 may be random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), and / or another type of dynamic or static storage device (e.g., flash memory, magnetic memory, and / or optical memory) for storing information and / or instructions for use by processor 118. Memory 122 may be configured to store instructions that, when executed by processor 118, cause processor 118 to perform the operations described herein.

[0032] The communication interface 124 may be configured to enable the processor 118 to communicate with other systems, such as via a wired connection, a wireless connection, or a combination of wired and wireless connections. For example, the communication interface 124 may include an Ethernet interface, an optical interface, a coaxial interface, an infrared interface, a radio frequency (RF) interface, a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a Wi-Fi interface, or a cellular network interface, etc.

[0033] Figure 1 The number and arrangement of components in the ultrasound system 100 shown are provided as an example. In practice, the ultrasound system 100 may include additional components, fewer components, different components, or components with... Figure 1 The components shown are arranged differently. Additionally or alternatively, the assembly of components of ultrasound system 100 (e.g., one or more components) may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another assembly of components of ultrasound system 100. Additionally or alternatively, one or more components shown as being included in console 106 may be disposed in ultrasound probe 102, or vice versa.

[0034] Figure 2 This is a diagram of an example ultrasound system 100 according to the implementation plan. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the ultrasound system 100 may include a console 106, a display 120, and a probe holder 126. The probe holder 126 may be disposed on top of the display 120 and may include a plurality of slots, each configured to hold and support an ultrasound probe 102.

[0035] Figure 3 This is a diagram of an example ultrasonic probe 102 according to the implementation scheme. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the ultrasound probe 102 may include a housing 302, a support 304, a rotating frame 306, and a transducer 104. The housing 302 may be configured to house various components of the ultrasound probe 102. The support 304 may be configured to support the rotating frame 306 and allow the rotating frame to rotate about one or more axes. For example, the rotating frame 306 may rotate about such... Figure 3 The z-axis shown is as follows: Figure 3 The x-axis shown and / or as shown Figure 3 Rotation along the y-axis as shown. The rotating frame 306 can be configured to rotate around, as shown... Figure 3 One or more axes are shown that rotate and can be configured to support transducer 104.

[0036] Figure 4 This is a diagram of an example ultrasonic probe 102 according to the implementation scheme. For example... Figure 4As shown, the ultrasound probe 102 may include a support 304, a rotating frame 306, a transducer 104, a rotating device 402, and a guide wire 404. The rotating device 402 may be connected to the rotating frame 306 via the guide wire 404. Based on the movement of the rotating device 402, the rotating frame 306 may rotate around... Figure 4 Rotation of one or more axes as shown.

[0037] Figure 5 This is a diagram of an example transducer 104 of an ultrasonic probe according to the implementation scheme. (See diagram for example.) Figure 5 As shown, transducer 104 may include a lens 502, an acoustic matching layer 504, a first electrode 506, a piezoelectric layer 508, a second electrode 510, and an acoustic dematching layer 512. Lens 502 may be configured to direct and focus an ultrasound signal toward a region of interest of the subject. For example, lens 502 may be a polymer. Acoustic matching layer 504 may be configured to facilitate impedance matching, which may exist between a relatively high-impedance transducer 104 and a relatively low-impedance subject. For example, acoustic matching layer 504 may be graphite, metal, etc. First electrode 506 may be a signal electrode, and second electrode 510 may be a ground electrode; both electrodes are configured to contact piezoelectric layer 508 to transmit an electrical signal. Alternatively, first electrode 506 may be a ground electrode, and second electrode 510 may be a signal electrode; both electrodes are configured to contact piezoelectric layer 508. For example, first electrode 506 and / or second electrode 510 may be gold, copper, nickel, silver, chromium, aluminum, etc. The piezoelectric layer 508 can be configured to receive an electrical signal, deform based on the electrical signal, generate an ultrasonic signal based on the deformation, and transmit the ultrasonic signal to the region of interest. Additionally or alternatively, the piezoelectric layer 508 can be configured to receive an echo signal reflected from the region of interest, deform based on the echo signal, generate an electrical signal based on the deformation, and transmit the electrical signal. For example, the piezoelectric layer 508 may be Pb(Mg) 1 / 3 Nb 2 / 3 )O3-PbTiO3(“PMN-PT”), Pb(In 1 / 2 Nb 1 / 2 O3-Pb(Mg) 1 / 3 Nb 2 / 3 Pb(ZrTi)O3 (“PIN-PMN-PT”) or Pb(ZrTi) (“PZT”) are examples of materials that can be used. The piezoelectric layer 508 may include electrically insulating regions forming the various elements of the ultrasonic probe 102. The acoustic dematching layer 512 may be configured to reduce insertion loss and enhance the frequency bandwidth of the transducer 104. For example, the acoustic dematching layer 512 may be tungsten carbide, silicon carbide, etc. Although... Figure 5 Specific components are shown, but it should be understood that transducer 104 may include components that are compatible with... Figure 5The components shown are compared to additional components, fewer components, or components arranged differently. Additionally, the transducer 104 may employ mechanisms other than bulk piezoelectric mechanisms for electromechanical conversion. For example, the transducer 104 may be configured as a capacitive micromechanical ultrasonic transducer (cMUT) or a piezoelectric micromechanical ultrasonic transducer (pMUT), etc.

[0038] Figure 6 This is a diagram of an example ultrasonic probe 102 according to the implementation scheme. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the ultrasound probe 102 may include a controller 602, a mobile device 604, and a transducer 104. The controller 602 may be configured to receive signals from a processor 118 and control the mobile device 604 to move the transducer 104 between a neutral position and an offset position. For example, the controller 602 may be configured to receive signals from the processor 118 based on the processor 118 detecting a non-use trigger and control the mobile device 604 to move the transducer 104 from the neutral position to the offset position. As another example, the controller 602 may be configured to receive signals from the processor 118 based on the processor 118 detecting a use trigger and control the mobile device 604 to move the transducer 104 from the offset position to the neutral position. The controller 602 may be a CPU, GPU, APU, microprocessor, microcontroller, DSP, FPGA, ASIC, or another type of processing component. The mobile device 604 may be configured to move the transducer between the neutral position and the offset position. For example, the mobile device 604 may be a rotating device, a motor, actuator, spring, lever, etc.

[0039] Figure 7A This is a diagram of an example transducer 104 of an ultrasonic probe 102 in a neutral position according to the implementation scheme. (See diagram for example.) Figure 7A As shown, axis 702 can correspond to the longitudinal axis of the ultrasonic probe 102, the longitudinal axis of the support 304, or the longitudinal axis of the housing 302 of the ultrasonic probe 102, etc. Furthermore, as... Figure 7A As shown, axis 704 may correspond to the longitudinal axis of transducer 104. The neutral position may be defined as a position where axis 702 and axis 704 are substantially parallel. As used herein, "substantially parallel" may mean that axis 702 and axis 704 are offset by 0°, 2°, or 5°, etc.

[0040] Figure 7B This is a diagram of an example transducer 104 of an ultrasonic probe 102 in an offset position according to the implementation scheme. (See diagram for example.) Figure 7B As shown, axis 702 can correspond to the longitudinal axis of the ultrasonic probe 102, the longitudinal axis of the support 304, or the longitudinal axis of the housing 302 of the ultrasonic probe 102, etc. Furthermore, as... Figure 7BAs shown, axis 704 may correspond to the longitudinal axis of transducer 104. The offset position can be defined as a position where axis 702 is substantially offset from axis 704. As used herein, "substantially offset" may mean an offset of 20°, 25°, 30°, 40°, 45°, 60°, 70°, 90°, or 100° between axis 702 and axis 704. In other words, as shown, axis 702 and axis 704 may be offset by an angle 706. Angle 706 may be 20°, 25°, 30°, 40°, 45°, 60°, 70°, 90°, 100°, etc. In this way, the rotating frame 306 can protect transducer 104 from external impacts to the ultrasonic probe 102 because the rotating frame 306 is in the position where transducer 104 would otherwise be if it were still in a neutral position.

[0041] Although Figure 7 depicts axis 704 as substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the ultrasound probe 102 in the neutral position, it should be understood that axis 704 can be any predetermined axis relative to the ultrasound probe 102 in the neutral position. In any case, the offset position can be a position offset from the neutral position, regardless of the actual location of the neutral position.

[0042] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of an example method 800 for controlling the movement of the transducer 104 of an ultrasound probe 102 between a neutral position and an offset position based on the detection of a non-use trigger. Operation of method 800 may be performed by one or more components of a console 106. However, in other embodiments, one or more operations of method 800 may be performed by one or more components of the ultrasound probe 102.

[0043] like Figure 8 As shown, method 800 may include detecting a non-use trigger (operation 802) indicating that an ultrasound probe is not in use. For example, processor 118 may detect a non-use trigger indicating that an ultrasound probe 102 is not in use. A non-use trigger may be a trigger indicating that an ultrasound probe 102 is not in use. As used herein, "unused" may mean that the ultrasound probe 102 is not currently used for ultrasound imaging, is not intended to be used for ultrasound imaging, etc.

[0044] According to the implementation scheme, a non-use trigger can be a user input via user input device 116 that deselects ultrasound probe 102 for ultrasound imaging via ultrasound system 100. For example, an operator can interact with user input device 116 to input user input that deselects ultrasound probe 102 for ultrasound imaging. Processor 118 can detect a non-use trigger based on the user input.

[0045] Alternatively, a non-use trigger could be user input via user input device 116 to select another ultrasound probe 102 for ultrasound imaging via ultrasound system 100. For example, an operator could interact with user input device 116 to input user input that selects another ultrasound probe 102 for ultrasound imaging. Processor 118 can detect non-use triggers based on user input.

[0046] Alternatively, a non-use trigger can be the positioning of the ultrasound probe 102 within the probe holder 126 of the ultrasound system 100. For example, an operator may position the ultrasound probe 102 within the probe holder 126 of the ultrasound system 100 after performing ultrasound imaging. The processor 118 may detect a non-use trigger based on the positioning of the ultrasound probe 102 within the probe holder 126. For example, the processor 118 may detect a non-use trigger based on signals received from sensors of the ultrasound system 100, tracking data received from an external tracking system, or signals received from the ultrasound probe 102, which indicate that the ultrasound probe 102 is positioned within the probe holder 126.

[0047] Alternatively, a non-use trigger may be the absence of contact between the subject and the ultrasound probe 102. For example, an operator may remove the ultrasound probe 102 from contact with the subject after ultrasound imaging has been performed. The processor 118 may detect a non-use trigger based on the absence of contact between the subject and the ultrasound probe 102. For example, the processor 118 may detect a non-use trigger based on signals received from sensors of the ultrasound system 100, tracking data received from an external tracking system, or signals received from the ultrasound probe 102, which indicate that the ultrasound probe 102 is not in contact with the subject.

[0048] Alternatively, a non-use trigger can be the absence of contact between the operator and the ultrasound probe 102. For example, the operator may release the ultrasound probe 102 after ultrasound imaging. The processor 118 can detect a non-use trigger based on the absence of contact between the operator and the ultrasound probe. For example, the processor 118 can detect a non-use trigger based on signals received from sensors of the ultrasound system 100, tracking data received from an external tracking system, or signals received from the ultrasound probe 102, indicating that the ultrasound probe 102 is not in contact with the operator.

[0049] Alternatively, a non-use trigger may be the absence of an ultrasound image displayed via display 120. For example, if ultrasound probe 102 is not near the subject, display 120 may not display any ultrasound image. Processor 118 may detect a non-use trigger based on the absence of an ultrasound image displayed via display 120.

[0050] Alternatively, a non-use trigger may be the absence of an echo signal received via ultrasound probe 102. For example, ultrasound probe 102 may not receive any echo signal after it is no longer near the subject. Processor 118 may detect a non-use trigger based on the absence of an echo signal received via ultrasound probe 102.

[0051] Alternatively, the non-use trigger may be the generation of an ultrasound image that includes a quality metric that meets a threshold. For example, ultrasound probe 102 may generate an ultrasound image that includes a quality metric (e.g., noise, sharpness, contrast, or resolution) that meets a threshold indicating low quality when ultrasound probe 102 is not near the subject. Processor 118 may detect the non-use trigger based on the generated ultrasound image that includes a quality metric that meets the threshold.

[0052] Alternatively, a non-use trigger could be the position of the ultrasound probe 102 relative to the ultrasound system 100. For example, after ultrasound imaging, the operator can position the ultrasound probe 102 in a position indicating that the ultrasound probe 102 was not used for ultrasound imaging. The processor 118 can detect a non-use trigger based on the position of the ultrasound probe 102 relative to the ultrasound system 100. For example, the processor 118 can detect a non-use trigger based on signals received from sensors of the ultrasound system 100, tracking data received from an external tracking system, or signals received from the ultrasound probe 102, which identify the position of the ultrasound probe 102 relative to the ultrasound system 100.

[0053] Alternatively, the non-use trigger can be a time frame. For example, a time frame can be the elapsed time since the start of ultrasound imaging, the elapsed time since the end of ultrasound imaging, the time of day, a day of week, etc. The processor 118 can detect the non-use trigger based on the time frame.

[0054] Alternatively, a non-use trigger can be a user input via user input device 116 that powers off the ultrasound system 100. For example, an operator can interact with user input device 116 to power off the ultrasound system 100. Processor 118 can detect non-use triggers based on user input.

[0055] Alternatively, a non-use trigger could be the disconnection of the ultrasound probe 102 from the console 106. For example, an operator could disconnect the ultrasound probe 102 from the console 106. The processor 118 could detect a non-use trigger based on the disconnection of the ultrasound probe 102 from the console 106.

[0056] Alternatively, the non-use trigger can be a user input via the input component of the ultrasound probe 102, indicating that the ultrasound probe 102 will not be used for ultrasound imaging. For example, an operator can interact with the input component of the ultrasound probe 102.

[0057] Alternatively, a non-use trigger could be a drop event of the ultrasonic probe 102. For example, an operator of the ultrasonic probe 102 might accidentally drop it, causing a drop event. In this case, the processor 118 could detect the non-use trigger based on the drop event. For example, the processor 118 could receive sensor data from the sensors of the ultrasonic probe 102 and determine that the sensor data meets a threshold indicating a drop event of the ultrasonic probe 102. The sensor data could be acceleration data, rotation data, velocity data, etc.

[0058] like Figure 8 As further shown, method 800 may include controlling the movement of the transducer of the ultrasound probe between a neutral position and an offset position based on the detection of the non-use trigger (operation 804). For example, processor 118 may control the transducer 104 of ultrasound probe 102 to move from a neutral position to an offset position.

[0059] The neutral position can be a position where the axis of the ultrasound probe 102 is substantially parallel to the axis of the transducer 104. For example, the neutral position can be a position with an axis offset of 0°, 2°, or 5°. Alternatively, the neutral position can be a predefined position of the transducer 104. The offset position can be a position where the axis of the ultrasound probe 102 is substantially offset from the axis of the transducer 104. For example, the offset position can be a position with an axis offset of 20°, 25°, 30°, 40°, 45°, 60°, 70°, 90°, or 100°. Additionally or alternatively, the offset position can be a position substantially offset from the neutral position. For example, the offset position can be 20°, 25°, 30°, 40°, 45°, 60°, 70°, 90°, 100°, etc., offset from the neutral position.

[0060] According to one embodiment, processor 118 may transmit a signal to controller 602 of ultrasound probe 102, causing controller 602 to control mobile device 604 to move transducer 104 from a neutral position to an offset position. Alternatively, processor 118 may transmit a signal to mobile device 604, causing mobile device 604 to move transducer 104 from a neutral position to an offset position. Alternatively, controller 602 may control mobile device 604 to move transducer 104 from a neutral position to an offset position.

[0061] According to the implementation scheme, the ultrasonic probe 102 can maintain the transducer 104 in the offset position until a use trigger is detected and / or a signal is received that causes the transducer 104 to move from the offset position to the neutral position. After the ultrasonic probe 102 is disconnected from the control console, the ultrasonic probe 102 can maintain the transducer 104 in the offset position. Additionally or alternatively, the ultrasonic probe 102 can maintain the transducer 104 in the offset position after the ultrasonic system 100 is powered off.

[0062] In this way, the rotating frame 306 can protect the transducer 104 from external impacts on the ultrasonic probe 102, because the rotating frame 306 is in the position where the transducer 104 would normally be while it is still in a neutral position.

[0063] although Figure 8 Specific operations and sequences of operations are described, but it should be understood that other implementations may include those related to... Figure 8 The different operations and / or operations arranged differently are shown.

[0064] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of an example method 900 for controlling the movement of an ultrasound probe transducer between an offset position and a neutral position based on detection using a trigger. Operation of method 900 may be performed by one or more components of console 106. However, in other embodiments, one or more operations of method 900 may be performed by one or more components of ultrasound probe 102.

[0065] like Figure 9 As shown, method 900 may include detecting a use trigger (operation 902) indicating the use of an ultrasound probe. For example, processor 118 may detect a use trigger indicating the use of ultrasound probe 102. A use trigger may be a trigger indicating the use of ultrasound probe 102. As used herein, "use" may mean that ultrasound probe 102 is currently used for ultrasound imaging, intended for ultrasound imaging, etc.

[0066] Alternatively, the use trigger can be user input via the ultrasound probe 102 through the user input device 116, which selects the ultrasound probe 102 for ultrasound imaging via the ultrasound system 100. For example, an operator can interact with the user input device 116 to input user input that selects the ultrasound probe 102 for ultrasound imaging. The processor 118 can detect the use trigger based on the user input.

[0067] Alternatively, a use trigger may be the removal of the ultrasound probe 102 from the probe holder 126 of the ultrasound system 100. For example, an operator may remove the ultrasound probe 102 from the probe holder 126 of the ultrasound system 100 before performing ultrasound imaging. The processor 110 may detect the use trigger based on the removal of the ultrasound probe 102 from the probe holder 126. For example, the processor 118 may detect the use trigger based on signals received from sensors of the ultrasound system 100, tracking data received from an external tracking system, or signals received from the ultrasound probe 102, indicating that the ultrasound probe 102 has been removed from the probe holder 126.

[0068] Alternatively, the use trigger may be based on contact between the subject and the ultrasound probe 102. For example, before performing ultrasound imaging, an operator may position the ultrasound probe 102 so that it contacts the subject. The processor 118 may detect the use trigger based on the presence of contact between the subject and the ultrasound probe 102. For example, the processor 118 may detect the use trigger based on signals received from sensors of the ultrasound system 100, tracking data received from an external tracking system, or signals received from the ultrasound probe 102, which indicate that the ultrasound probe 102 is in contact with the subject.

[0069] Alternatively, the use trigger may be contact between the operator and the ultrasound probe 102. For example, the operator may contact the ultrasound probe 102 before performing ultrasound imaging. The processor 118 may detect the use trigger based on the presence of contact between the operator and the ultrasound probe. For example, the processor 118 may detect the use trigger based on signals received from sensors of the ultrasound system 100, based on tracking data received from an external tracking system, based on signals received from the ultrasound probe 102, etc., indicating that the ultrasound probe 102 is in contact with the operator.

[0070] Alternatively, the use trigger can be the position of the ultrasound probe 102 relative to the ultrasound system 100. For example, between ultrasound imaging sessions, the operator can position the ultrasound probe 102 in a position that indicates the use of the ultrasound probe 102 for ultrasound imaging. The processor 118 can detect the use trigger based on the position of the ultrasound probe 102 relative to the ultrasound system 100. For example, the processor 118 can detect the use trigger based on signals received from sensors of the ultrasound system 100, tracking data received from an external tracking system, or signals received from the ultrasound probe 102, which indicate the position of the ultrasound probe 102 relative to the ultrasound system 100.

[0071] Alternatively, the trigger can be a time frame. For example, a time frame could be the scheduled scan time for the subject, a time of day, a day of the week, etc. The processor 118 can detect the trigger based on the time frame.

[0072] Alternatively, the use trigger can be a user input via user input device 116 that activates the ultrasound system 100. For example, an operator can interact with user input device 116 to activate the ultrasound system 100. Processor 118 can detect the use trigger based on the user input.

[0073] Alternatively, the trigger can be user input via an input component of the ultrasound probe 102, which instructs the ultrasound probe 102 to be used for ultrasound imaging. For example, an operator can interact with the input component of the ultrasound probe 102.

[0074] like Figure 9 As further shown, method 900 may include controlling the movement of the transducer of the ultrasound probe between an offset position and a neutral position based on the detection of the use trigger (operation 904).

[0075] According to one embodiment, processor 118 may transmit a signal to controller 602 of ultrasound probe 102, causing controller 602 to control mobile device 604 to move transducer 104 from an offset position to a neutral position. Alternatively, processor 118 may transmit a signal to mobile device 604, causing mobile device 604 to move transducer 104 from an offset position to a neutral position. Alternatively, controller 602 may control mobile device 604 to move transducer 104 from an offset position to a neutral position.

[0076] According to the implementation scheme, the ultrasonic probe 102 can maintain the transducer 104 in a neutral position until a non-use trigger is detected and / or a signal is received that causes the transducer 104 to move from the neutral position to an offset position.

[0077] although Figure 9 Specific operations and sequences of operations are described, but it should be understood that other implementations may include those related to... Figure 9 The different operations and / or operations arranged differently are shown.

[0078] In this way, some embodiments herein provide an ultrasonic probe including a transducer capable of moving between a neutral position and an offset position based on the detection of a non-use trigger or an use trigger. Specifically, the transducer can be controlled to move to the offset position based on the detection of a non-use trigger. The transducer can remain in the offset position until it is controlled to move to the neutral position based on the detection of a use trigger. In the offset position, the transducer may be less susceptible to damage from external impacts compared to when it is in the neutral position. In this way, the ultrasonic probe of this disclosure is more robust than ultrasonic probes that include a fixed transducer. Therefore, this disclosure provides an improved ultrasonic probe and a technical improvement in the field of ultrasonic imaging technology.

[0079] The embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings and described above are merely illustrative embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims, including any equivalents included within the scope of the claims. Various modifications are possible and will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Any combination of non-mutually exclusive features described herein is intended to be within the scope of the invention. That is, features of the described embodiments may be combined with any suitable aspect described above, and optional features of any aspect may be combined with any other suitable aspect. Similarly, features listed in dependent claims may be combined with non-mutually exclusive features of other dependent claims, particularly where the dependent claims are subordinate to the same independent claim. In some jurisdictions that claim single-claim dependents, such single-claim dependents may have been used in practice, but this should not be construed as meaning that features in dependent claims are mutually exclusive.

Claims

1. An ultrasound system (100), the ultrasound system comprising: An ultrasound probe (102) includes a transducer (104) configured to acquire ultrasound data of a region of interest of a subject; and One or more processors (118), said one or more processors being configured to: The detection indicates a non-use trigger that does not use the ultrasound probe (102) to acquire ultrasound data of the region of interest of the subject; and Based on the detection of the non-use trigger, the transducer (1040) of the ultrasound probe (102) is controlled to move from the neutral position to the offset position.

2. The ultrasound system (100) according to claim 1, wherein, In the neutral position, the longitudinal axis of the transducer (104) is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the ultrasonic probe (102).

3. The ultrasound system (100) according to claim 1, wherein, In the offset position, the longitudinal axis of the transducer (104) is substantially offset from the longitudinal axis of the ultrasonic probe (102).

4. The ultrasound system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the non-use trigger is a user input via a user interface (116) that deselects the ultrasound probe (102) for performing ultrasound imaging via the ultrasound system (100).

5. The ultrasound system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the non-use trigger is a user input via a user interface (116) to another ultrasound probe (102) for performing ultrasound imaging via the ultrasound system (100).

6. The ultrasound system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the non-use trigger is the positioning of the ultrasound probe (102) in the probe holder of the ultrasound system (100).

7. The ultrasound system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the non-use trigger is that there is no contact between the subject and the ultrasound probe (102).

8. The ultrasound system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the non-use trigger is the absence of an ultrasound image displayed via the display (120) of the ultrasound system (100).

9. The ultrasound system (100) of claim 1, wherein the non-use trigger is the generation of an ultrasound image, the ultrasound image including a quality metric that satisfies a threshold.

10. The ultrasound system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the non-use trigger is the position of the ultrasound probe (102) relative to the ultrasound system (100).

11. The ultrasound system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the non-use trigger is a user input via a user interface (116) that causes the ultrasound system (100) to be powered off.

12. The ultrasound system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the ultrasound probe (102) is configured to maintain the transducer (104) in the offset position after the ultrasound probe (102) is disconnected from the control console of the ultrasound system (100).

13. The ultrasound system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the ultrasound probe (102) is configured to maintain the transducer (104) in the offset position after the ultrasound system (100) is powered off.

14. The ultrasound system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the one or more processors (118) are further configured to: The detection indication triggers the use of the ultrasound probe (102) to acquire ultrasound data of the region of interest of the subject; and Based on the detection of the use trigger, the transducer (104) of the ultrasound probe (102) is controlled to move from the offset position to the neutral position.

15. An ultrasonic probe (102), the ultrasonic probe comprising: Transducer (104), the transducer being configured to: Acquire ultrasound data of the region of interest of the subject; Based on the detection of a non-use trigger indicating that ultrasound data of the region of interest of the subject was not acquired using the ultrasound probe (102), the device moves from a neutral position to an offset position; and The device moves from the offset position to the neutral position based on a trigger indicating the use of ultrasound data from the ultrasound probe (102) to acquire the region of interest of the subject.

Images