Background noise subtraction imaging in ultrasound

Abstract

A noise calibration method can be used for improving image quality of an ultrasound imaging device based on a plurality of image frames. The method can be performed during a single scanning session and using a computing device. The device can include a processor and memory associated with the ultrasound imaging device. At least a first frame and a second frame can be captured via transducers of the imaging device while a transmitting function of the transducers is enabled. Further, a first noise frame and a second noise frame, which correspond to noise in the first frame and the second frame, respectively, can be received via the transducers while the transmitting function is disabled. Thereafter, noise from the first frame and the second frame can subtracted based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame, respectively, to generate a first de-noised frame and a second de-noised frame, respectively.

Description

BACKGROUND NOISE SUBTRACTION IMAGING IN ULTRASOUNDCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application is an International Application that claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 536,036, filed on August 31, 2023, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to systems, devices, and methods for ultrasound imaging, more specifically, to systems and methods for performing background noise subtraction in ultrasound imaging.BACKGROUND

[0003] Ultrasound imaging is an imaging method that uses sound waves to produce images of structures within a patient’s body. Because ultrasound images are captured in realtime, they can also show movement of the body's internal organs as well as blood flowing through the blood vessels. The images can provide valuable information for diagnosing and directing treatment for a variety of diseases and conditions.

[0004] In the field of medical imaging, some ultrasound systems rely on several techniques to ensure accurate and consistent results across different imaging modalities. One such technique involves the utilization of noise calibration in both color Doppler and spectral Doppler imaging. By employing noise calibration, these ultrasound systems establish a standardized noise floor, which helps enhance the quality of the resulting images. This calibration process ensures that any noise interference is minimized, leading to clearer and more reliable Doppler imaging.

[0005] Additionally, in B-mode imaging, some ultrasound systems employ a focus gain compensation method. This technique aims to achieve a uniform tissue gain throughout the image. By compensating for the focusing gain, the system ensures that the tissue's characteristics are consistently represented across the entire image plane. This compensation method plays a crucial role in providing uniformity in the gain settings, resulting in a more accurate and comprehensive assessment of the imaged tissues.

[0006] One of the main limitations of the above methods is that time-related changes to the noise or the probe quality of an ultrasound system are not factored in.

[0007] Improvement in ultrasound imaging may be needed to form high quality ultrasound images.SUMMARY

[0008] Imaging systems with real-time noise calibration are implemented and disclosed herein. An ultrasound imaging method is used to acquire background noise and utilize the acquired background noise on live imaging to provide noise calibration as well as compensate for probe variations over time. This method automatically factors in frequency and imaging parameter changes.

[0009] In accordance with some embodiments, the imaging system and methods disclosed herein can dynamically compensate for probe signal to noise ratio (SNR) for all imaging modes. This advantage is an improvement over various conventional approaches in which the background noise subtraction is applied only in flow and static image pattern.

[0010] In accordance with some embodiments, the imaging system and methods disclosed herein can allow real-time calibration compensating for the probe quality changes on a per frame basis. In addition, some embodiments of the presently disclosed real-time calibration may include, for example, noise variation in angle and / or lines, noise variation over all presets and modes, i.e., different frequencies, different modes including Doppler modes, probe-to-probe variation, and / or probe variation over time. Such advantages represent meaningful and powerful improvements over conventional approaches in which the static background noise methods do not factor in the probe changes over time or in which the factory calibration does not account for probe performance degradation over time.

[0011] In some embodiments, the real-time noise calibration method disclosed herein may include for every imaging frame, using an additional firing or noise line at the end of the frame with the transmitting function turned off; computing the detected and log- compressed noise line; subtracting out the noise line for all B-mode lines in the frame; and adjusting the Focus Gain Compensation (FGC) to correct for the noise subtraction. In some embodiments in which multiple-beam receiving is used, the center line from the receive beam group may be picked. In some embodiments, the persist observance of the same noise over multiple frames may be used to reduce noise variance. In some embodiments, range filters may be applied on the noise line to reduce the noise variance. In some embodiments, the subtracting out the noise line may be done before the FGC stage.

[0012] In some embodiments, the real-time noise calibration method disclosed herein may be used to compensate for transducer spectral changes over time.

[0013] In some embodiments, the real-time noise calibration method disclosed herein may be used to compensate for transmit repeatability variation.

[0014] In some embodiments, the real-time noise calibration method and system disclosed herein may be used in linear and vector preset adjustment in different modes such as B mode, flow mode, M mode, and / or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, linear and vector presets are settings or presets used in ultrasound imaging to optimize the display and interpretation of linear structures, such as blood vessels or tendons. These presets typically adjust parameters such as gain, frequency, focal depth, and image processing settings to enhance the visualization of linear anatomical structures.

[0015] In some embodiments, the real-time noise calibration method and system disclosed herein may be used to reduce near field clutter, reduce center line noise in near field and far field.

[0016] In some embodiments, the real-time noise calibration method and system disclosed herein may be used to ensure uniformity in products and improve image quality. The real-time noise calibration method and system may always run in the background. The realtime noise calibration method and system may be ready for integration on operating systems such as iOS. The real-time noise calibration method and system may improve ultrasound image quality by moving away from a static image calibration to a dynamically computed parameter calibration.

[0017] Additional features and advantages of the subject technology will be set forth in the description below, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the subject technology. The advantages of the subject technology will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and embodiments hereof as well as the appended drawings.

[0018] The systems, methods, and devices of this disclosure each have several innovative aspects, no single one of which is solely responsible for the desirable attributes disclosed herein.

[0019] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the subject technology.

[0020] Note that the various embodiments described above can be combined with any other embodiments described herein. The features and advantages described in the specification are not all inclusive and, in particular, many additional features and advantageswill be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the drawings, specification, and claims. Moreover, it should be noted that the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes and may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Various features of illustrative embodiments of the inventions are described below with reference to the drawings. The illustrated embodiments are intended to illustrate, but not to limit, the inventions. The drawings contain the following figures:

[0022] Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary workflow for improving image quality of an ultrasound imaging device based on a plurality of image frames, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0023] Figure 2 illustrates an ultrasound system for imaging a patient, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0024] Figure 3 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary ultrasound device, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0025] Figure 4 illustrates a block diagram of a computing device, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0026] Figure 5 illustrates an exemplary sequence of image frames with a respective portion for noise calibration identified for at least two image frames, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0027] Figures 6A-6F illustrate exemplary different portion formats used for noise calibration identified on an image frame, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0028] Figures 7A and 7B illustrate exemplary comparison of ultrasound images between static noise calibration and the real-time noise calibration, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0029] Reference will now be made to implementations, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skills in the art that the present invention may be practiced without requiring some of these specific details.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] It is understood that various configurations of the subject technology will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure, wherein various configurations of the subject technology are shown and described by way of illustration. As will be realized, the subject technology is capable of other and different configurations and its several details are capable of modification in various other respects, all without departing from the scope of the subject technology. Accordingly, the summary, drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

[0031] The detailed description set forth below is intended as a description of various configurations of the subject technology and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the subject technology may be practiced. The appended drawings are incorporated herein and constitute a part of the detailed description. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the subject technology. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the subject technology may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subject technology. Like components are labeled with identical element numbers for ease of understanding.

[0032] Noise calibration in ultrasound refers to a process that helps minimize or eliminate unwanted static or noise artifacts in ultrasound images. Ultrasound imaging works by emitting sound waves into the body and detecting the echoes produced as the waves bounce back from different tissues and structures. However, various factors can introduce unwanted noise into the imaging process, such as electrical interference, acoustic reflections, or system- related issues.

[0033] Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary workflow for improving image quality of an ultrasound imaging device based on a plurality of image frames, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0034] In some embodiments, the workflow of improving image quality of an ultrasound imaging device 1000 may be performed at a computing device that includes one or more processors and memory associated with an ultrasound imaging device. For example, the workflow 1000 may be performed by one or more processors of a computing device that is communicatively connected to an ultrasound probe. For example, the computing device is aserver or control console (e.g., a server, a standalone computer, a workstation, a smart phone, a tablet device, or a medical system) that is in communication with the ultrasound probe. In some embodiments, the computing device is a control unit integrated with the ultrasound probe in the same housing. In some embodiments, the ultrasound probe is a handheld ultrasound device, or a probe portion of an ultrasound scanning system.

[0035] In some embodiments, the plurality of image frames may be captured during a single canning session. In some embodiments, the method 1000 may be performed during a single scanning session. In some embodiments, the single scanning session is in for M-mode, or flow and spectral doppler mode. In some embodiments, the single scanning session is at a fixed pulse repetition interval (PRI).

[0036] Step 1002 may include capturing a first frame via one or more transducers of the imaging device while a transmitting function of the transducers is enabled.

[0037] Step 1004 may include receiving a first noise frame, corresponding to noise in the first frame, via the transducers while the transmitting function is disabled.

[0038] In some embodiments, step 1004 may include receiving the first noise frame at an end of scanning the first frame.

[0039] In some embodiments, step 1004 may include receiving the first noise frame immediately before or after the first frame.

[0040] In some embodiments, step 1004 may further include processing the first noise frame through Base Band Filter (BBF), remodulation, detection, and / or log-compression.

[0041] In some embodiments, step 1004 may further include processing the first noise frame using a range filter to reduce noise variance.

[0042] In some embodiments, step 1004 may include receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a column of noise in the first frame.

[0043] In some embodiments, step 1004 may include receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a center line of noise in the first frame.

[0044] In some embodiments, step 1004 may include receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a line of noise in the first frame.

[0045] In some embodiments, step 1004 may include receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns to form a sparse array.

[0046] In some embodiments, step 1004 may include receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns of noise in the first frame, wherein the multiple columns are at any angle relative to each other.

[0047] In some embodiments, step 1004 may include receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a sparse grid of noise in the first frame.

[0048] In some embodiments, step 1004 may include receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a full frame of noise in the first frame.

[0049] In some embodiments, step 1004 may include receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a partial frame of noise in the first frame.

[0050] Step 1006 may include subtracting noise from the first frame based on the first noise frame to generate a first de-noised frame.

[0051] In some embodiments, step 1006 may include subtracting the first noise frame from the first frame.

[0052] In some embodiments, step 1006 may include monitoring consistent patterns of noise based on the first noise frame across a plurality of noise frames after the first noise frame, and subtracting noise based on the consistent patterns of the first noise frame from the first frame.

[0053] In some embodiments, step 1006 may include subtracting out the line of noise for all B-mode lines in the first frame.

[0054] In some embodiments, step 1006 may include subtracting the noise from the first frame before a Focus Gain Compensation (FGC) stage.

[0055] In some embodiments, step 1006 may further include adjusting parameters of an FGC stage to correct the noise in the first frame.

[0056] In some embodiments, step 1006 may further include removing interference from external devices. In some embodiments, the external devices include radio frequency (RF) ablation catheter, battery, power supplies in probe head, or common-mode noise sources.

[0057] Step 1008 may include capturing a second frame via the transducers while the transmitting function is enabled. In some embodiments, the first frame and the second frame are within a sequence of image frames captured during the single scanning session.

[0058] Step 1010 may include receiving a second noise frame, corresponding to noise in the second frame, via the transducers while the transmitting function is disabled. In some embodiments, the first noise frame and the second noise frame are within a sequence of frames received during the single scanning session. In some embodiments, the first frame, the second frame, the first noise frame, and the second noise frame are within a sequence of frames received during the single scanning session.

[0059] In some embodiments, step 1010 may include receiving the second noise frame at an end of scanning the second frame.

[0060] In some embodiments, step 1010 may include receiving the second noise frame immediately before or after the second frame.

[0061] In some embodiments, step 1010 may further include processing the second noise frame through BBF, remodulation, detection, and / or log-compression. In some embodiments, step 1010 may further include processing the second noise frame using a range filter to reduce noise variance.

[0062] In some embodiments, step 1010 may include receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a column of noise in the second frame.

[0063] In some embodiments, step 1010 may include receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a center line of noise in the second frame.

[0064] In some embodiments, step 1010 may include receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a line of noise in the second frame.

[0065] In some embodiments, step 1010 may include receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns of noise in the second frame, wherein the multiple columns are at any angle relative to each other.

[0066] In some embodiments, step 1010 may include receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns to form a sparse array.

[0067] In some embodiments, step 1010 may include receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a sparse grid of noise in the second frame.

[0068] In some embodiments, step 1010 may include receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a full frame of noise in the second frame.

[0069] In some embodiments, step 1010 may include receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a partial frame of noise in the second frame. In some embodiments, a location of the first partial frame relative to the first frame is the same as a location of the second partial frame relative to the second frame.

[0070] In some embodiments, step 1010 may include receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to noise in the second frame that is N frames apart from the first frame excluding noise frames, wherein N is a positive integer.

[0071] In some embodiments, the first noise frame is a partial noise frame, and the second noise frame is a full noise frame.

[0072] Step 1012 may include subtracting noise from the second frame based on the second noise frame to generate a second de-noised frame.

[0073] In some embodiments, step 1012 may include subtracting the second noise frame from the second frame.

[0074] In some embodiments, step 1012 may include monitoring consistent patterns of noise based on the second noise frame across a plurality of noise frames after the second noise frame, and subtracting noise based on the consistent patterns of the second noise frame from the second frame.

[0075] In some embodiments, step 1012 may include subtracting out the line of noise for all B-mode lines in the second frame.

[0076] In some embodiments, step 1012 may include subtracting the noise from the second frame before an FGC stage.

[0077] In some embodiments, step 1012 may further include adjusting parameters of an FGC stage to correct the noise in the second frame.

[0078] In some embodiments, step 1012 may further include removing interference from external devices. In some embodiments, the external devices include RF ablation catheter, battery, power supplies in probe head, or common-mode noise sources.

[0079] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include displaying the first de-noised frame and the second de-noised frame consecutively.

[0080] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include detecting irregularities of the transducers based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame. In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include in response to the detected irregularities, compensating for the detected irregularities of the transducers.

[0081] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include checking quality degradation of the ultrasound imaging device based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0082] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include comprising checking quality degradation of a probe of the ultrasound imaging device based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0083] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include providing feedback to calibrate the transducers based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0084] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include providing feedback for damage of a probe including the transducers based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0085] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include adapting a focus gain curve of the transducers at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame. In some embodiments, the adapting a focus gain curve is to reduce a signal to noise ratio of the transducers.

[0086] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include adapting a lateral gain curve of the transducers at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame. In some embodiments, the adapting a lateral gain curve is to compensate for array noise variability.

[0087] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include dynamically calibrating external interferences at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0088] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include dynamically compensating a signal to noise ratio of the transducers at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0089] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include dynamically compensating noise variation in different angles at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0090] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include dynamically compensating noise variation in different lines at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0091] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include dynamically compensating noise variation in different presets or different modes at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame. In some embodiments, the different presets or different modes include different frequencies or different doppler modes.

[0092] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include dynamically compensating a probe-to-probe variation at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame, wherein a probe includes the transducers.

[0093] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include dynamically compensating a probe variation over time at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame, wherein a probe includes the transducers.

[0094] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include removing noise trend by comparing noise from a static noise model and noise based on at least the first noise frame and the second noise frame. The static noise model could be obtained during factory calibration of the transducer by removing noise from a target phantom, by turning off transmits, or by scanning in air. In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include obtaining the static noise model prior to a beginning of the single scanning session.

[0095] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include comparing the first noise frame and the first frame to detect scan-in-air or probe-not-used conditions The scan-in-air condition can be obtained by comparing the noise frame with stored templates of noise frames acquired by at least one of: (i) scanning in air; (ii) scanning in calibrated phantoms; or (iii) removing the mean tissue signal to obtain noise. In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include in response to the detected scan-in-air or probe-not-used conditions, turning off the one or more transducers for saving battery life. In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include in response to the detected scan -in-air or probe-not-used conditions, acquiring a full noise frame as the first noise frame.

[0096] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include comparing the second noise frame and the second frame to detect scan-in-air or probe-not-used conditions. In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include in response to the detected scan- in-air or probe-not-used conditions, turning off the one or more transducers for saving battery life. In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include in response to the detected scan-in-air or probe-not-used conditions, acquiring a full noise frame as the second noise frame.

[0097] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include transmitting the first de-noised frame for display.

[0098] In some embodiments, the workflow 1000 may further include transmitting the second de-noised frame for display.

[0099] In some embodiments, the ultrasound imaging device includes the transducers that may be piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducers (PMUT). In some embodiments, the transducers may be ultrasound transducers that may handle both transmission and reception. In some embodiments, the transducers may be a matrix of transducer array that may be driven by amplifiers used to drive columns of imaging pixels or columns of the transducers independently. The amplifiers and transducers may be integrated on an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The amplifiers and transducers may be integrated on field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). In some embodiments, beamformingmay be done on integrated circuits such as ASIC and FPGA coupled to or integrated with the transducers. In some embodiments, a computing device coupled to the integrated circuit of the transducers may be utilized to further process the ultrasound image. The computing device may be a mobile phone, a personal computer, a server, or a cloud computing network, etc.

[0100] Figure 2 illustrates an ultrasound system for imaging a patient, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0101] In some embodiments, an ultrasound device 200 is a portable, handheld device. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 200 includes a probe portion that includes transducers (e.g., transducers 220, Figure 3). In some embodiments, the transducers are arranged in an array. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 200 includes an integrated control unit and user interface. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 200 includes a probe that communicates with a control unit and user interface that is external to the housing of the probe itself. During operation, the ultrasound device 200 (e.g., via the transducers) produces sound waves 120 that are transmitted toward an organ, such as a heart or a lung, of a patient 110. The internal organ, or other object(s) to be imaged, may reflect a portion of the sound waves toward the probe portion of the ultrasound device 200, which are received by the transducers 220. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 200 transmits the received signals to a computing device 130, which uses the received signals to create an image 150 that is also known as a sonogram. In some embodiments, the computing device 130 includes a display device 140 for displaying ultrasound images, and other input and output devices (e.g., keyboard, touch screenjoystick, touchpad, and / or speakers).

[0102] Figure 3 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary ultrasound device 200, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0103] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 200 includes one or more processors 202, one or more communication interfaces 204 (e.g., network interface(s)), memory 206, and one or more communication buses 208 for interconnecting these components (sometimes called a chipset).

[0104] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 200 includes one or more input interfaces 210 that facilitate user input. For example, in some embodiments, the input interfaces 210 include port(s) 212 and button(s) 214. In some embodiments, the port(s) can be used for receiving a cable for powering or charging the ultrasound device 200, or for facilitating communication between the ultrasound device and other devices (e.g., computing device 130,computing device 300, display device 140, printing device, and / or other input output devices and accessories).

[0105] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 200 includes a power supply 216. For example, in some embodiments, the ultrasound device 200 is battery-powered. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device is powered by a continuous AC power supply.

[0106] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 200 includes a probe portion that includes transducers 220, which may also be referred to as transceivers or imagers. Examples of transducers 220 include, without limitation, piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducers (PMUT) and capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducers (CMUT). In some embodiments, the transducers 220 are based on photo-acoustic or ultrasonic effects. For ultrasound imaging, the transducers 220 transmit ultrasonic waves towards a target (e.g., a target organ, blood vessels, etc.) to be imaged. The transducers 220 receive reflected sound waves (e.g., echoes) that bounce off body tissues. The reflected waves are then converted to electrical signals and / or ultrasound images. In some embodiments, the probe portion of the ultrasound device 200 is separately housed from the computing and control portion of the ultrasound device. In some embodiments, the probe portion of the ultrasound device 200 is integrated in the same housing as the computing and control portion of the ultrasound device 200. In some embodiments, part of the computing and control portion of the ultrasound device is integrated in the same housing as the probe portion, and part of the computing and control portion of the ultrasound device is implemented in a separate housing that is coupled communicatively with the part integrated with the probe portion of the ultrasound device. In some embodiments, the probe portion of the ultrasound device has a respective transducer array that is tailored to a respective scanner type (e.g., linear, convex, endocavitary, phased array, transesophageal, 3D, and / or 4D). In the present disclosure, “ultrasound probe” may refer to the probe portion of an ultrasound device, or an ultrasound device that includes a probe portion.

[0107] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 200 includes radios 230. The radios 230 enable one or more communication networks and allow the ultrasound device 200 to communicate with other devices, such as the computing device 130 in Figure 2, the display device 140 in Figure 2, and / or the computing device 300 in Figure 4. In some embodiments, the radios 230 are capable of data communications using any of a variety of custom or standard wireless protocols (e.g., IEEE 802.15.4, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, 6L0WPAN, Thread, Z-Wave, Bluetooth Smart, ISA100.5A, WirelessHART, MiWi, Ultrawide Band (UWB), software defined radio (SDR) etc.) custom or standard wired protocols (e.g., Ethernet, HomePlug, etc.),and / or any other suitable communication protocol, including communication protocols not yet developed as of the filing date of this document.

[0108] The memory 206 includes high-speed random-access memory, such as DRAM, SRAM, DDR RAM, or other random-access solid-state memory devices; and, optionally, includes non-volatile memory, such as one or more magnetic disk storage devices, one or more optical disk storage devices, one or more flash memory devices, or one or more other non-volatile solid state storage devices. The memory 206, optionally, includes one or more storage devices remotely located from one or more processor(s) 202. The memory 206, or alternatively the non-volatile memory within the memory 206, includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

[0109] In some embodiments, the memory 206 or the non-transitory computer- readable storage medium of the memory 206 (either or both of which may be referred to herein as “memory”) can store various programs, modules, and data structures.

[0110] For example, the memory can store programs, modules, and data structures, or a subset or superset thereof, such as operating logic 240, a communication module 242, an application 250, and / or a data device 280.[OHl] The operating logic 240 can include procedures for handling various basic system services and for performing hardware dependent tasks.

[0112] The communication module 242 (e.g., a radio communication module) can be configured to connect to and communicate with other network devices (e.g., a local network, such as a router that provides Internet connectivity, networked storage devices, network routing devices, server systems, computer device 130, computer device 300, and / or other connected devices etc.) coupled to one or more communication networks via the communication interface(s) 204 (e.g., wired or wireless).

[0113] The application 250 can be configured to acquire ultrasound data (e.g., imaging data) of a patient, and / or to control one or more components of the ultrasound device 200 and / or other connected devices (e.g., in accordance with a determination that the ultrasound data meets, or does not meet, certain conditions).

[0114] In some embodiments, the application 250 can be configured to include an acquisition module 252, a receiving module 254, a transmitting module 256, an analysis module 258, and / or a transducer control module 260.

[0115] The acquisition module 252 can be configured to acquire ultrasound data. In some embodiments, the ultrasound data includes imaging data. In some embodiments, theacquisition module 252 activates the transducers 220 (e.g., less than all of the transducers 220, different subset(s) of the transducers 220, all the transducers 220, etc.) according to whether the ultrasound data meets one or more conditions associated with one or more quality requirements.

[0116] The receiving module 254 can be configured to receive ultrasound data.

[0117] The transmitting module 256 can be configured to transmit ultrasound data to other device(s) (e.g., a server system, computer device 130, computer device 300, display device 140, and / or other connected devices etc.).

[0118] The analysis module 258 can be configured to analyze whether the data (e.g., imaging data) acquired by the ultrasound device 200 meets one or more conditions associated with quality requirements for an ultrasound scan.

[0119] For example, in some embodiments, the one or more conditions include one or more of: a condition that the imaging data includes one or more newly acquired images that meet one or more threshold quality scores, a condition that the imaging data includes one or more newly acquired images that correspond to one or more anatomical planes that match a desired anatomical plane of a target anatomical structure, a condition that the imaging data includes one or more newly acquired images that include one or more landmark / features (or a combination of landmarks / features), a condition that the imaging data includes one or more newly acquired images that include a feature having a particular dimension, a condition that the imaging data supports a prediction that an image meeting one or more requirements would be acquired in the next one or more image frames, a condition that the imaging data supports a prediction that a first change (e.g., an increase by a percentage, or number) in the number of transducer used would support an improvement in the quality score of an image acquired in the next one or more image frames, and / or other analogous conditions.

[0120] The transducer control module 260 can be configured to activate (e.g., adjusting) a number of transducers 220 during portions of an ultrasound scan based on a determination that the ultrasound data meets (or does not meet) one or more quality requirements. For example, in some embodiments, the transducer control module 260 activates a first subset of the transducers 220 during the first portion of an ultrasound scan. In some embodiments, the transducer control module 260 activates a second subset of the transducers 220, different from the first subset of the transducers, during a second portion of the scan following the first portion of the scan, when the imaging data corresponding to the first portion of the scan meets (or does not meet) one or more quality requirements. In some embodiments,the transducer control module 260 controls one or more operating modes of the ultrasound device 200. For example, in some embodiments, the ultrasound device 200 is configured to operate in one or more low-power modes. In a respective low-power mode, the transducer control module 260 activates only a subset (e.g., 10%, 15%, 20%, or other preset subsets) of all the available transducers 220 in the ultrasound device 200. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 200 is configured to operate in a full-power mode. In the full-power mode, the transducer control module 260 activates all the available transducers 220 to acquire a high- quality image.

[0121] The device data 280 for the ultrasound device 200 can include, but not be limited to, device settings 282, user settings 284, ultrasound scan data 286, image quality requirements data 288, and / or an atlas 290.

[0122] The device settings 282 for the ultrasound device 200 can include, but not be limited to, default options and preferred user settings. In some embodiments, the device settings 282 include imaging control parameters.

[0123] For example, in some embodiments, the imaging control parameters include one or more of: a number of transducers that are activated, a power consumption threshold of the probe, an imaging frame rate, a scan speed, a depth of penetration, and other scan parameters that control the power consumption, heat generation rate, and / or processing load of the probe.

[0124] The user settings 284 can include, but not be limited to, a preferred gain, depth, zoom, and / or focus settings.

[0125] The ultrasound scan data 286 (e.g., imaging data) can be acquired (e.g., detected, measured) by the ultrasound device 200 (e.g., via transducers 220).

[0126] In some embodiments, the image quality requirements data 288 include clinical requirements for determining the quality of an ultrasound image.

[0127] In some embodiments, the atlas 290 can include anatomical structures of interest. In some embodiments, the atlas 290 includes three-dimensional representations of the anatomical structure of interest (e.g., hip, heart, lung, and / or other anatomical structures).

[0128] Each of the above identified executable modules, applications, or sets of procedures may be stored in one or more of the previously mentioned memory devices, and corresponds to a set of instructions for performing a function described above. The above identified modules or programs (i.e., sets of instructions) need not be implemented as separate software programs, procedures, or modules, and thus various subsets of these modules may becombined or otherwise re-arranged in various implementations. In some embodiments, the memory 206 stores a subset of the modules and data structures identified above. Furthermore, the memory 206 may store additional modules or data structures not described above. In some embodiments, a subset of the programs, modules, and / or data stored in the memory 206 are stored on and / or executed by a server system, and / or by an external device (e.g., computing device 130 or computing device 300).

[0129] Figure 4 illustrates a block diagram of a computing device 300, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0130] In some embodiments, the computing device 300 is a server or control console that is in communication with the ultrasound device 200 (e.g., ultrasound probe). In some embodiments, the computing device 300 is integrated into the same housing as the ultrasound device 200. In some embodiments, the computing device is a smartphone, tablet device, a gaming console, or other portable computing devices. In some embodiments, the computing device 300 may be provided by a combination of components integrated into the same housing as the ultrasound device 200, and a smartphone, tablet device, a gaming console, or other portable computing devices.

[0131] The computing device 300 includes one or more processors 302 (e.g., processing units of CPU(s)), one or more network interfaces 304, memory 306, and one or more communication buses 308 for interconnecting these components (sometimes called a chipset), in accordance with some embodiments.

[0132] In some embodiments, the computing device 300 includes one or more input devices 310 that facilitate user input, such as a keyboard, a mouse, a voice-command input unit or microphone, a touch screen display, a touch-sensitive input pad, a gesture capturing camera, or other input buttons or controls. In some embodiments, the computing device 300 uses a microphone and voice recognition or a camera and gesture recognition to supplement or replace the keyboard. In some embodiments, the computing device 300 includes one or more output devices 312 that enable presentation of user interfaces and display content, such as one or more speakers and / or one or more visual displays (e.g., display device 140).

[0133] The memory 306 includes high-speed random-access memory, such as DRAM, SRAM, DDR RAM, or other random access solid state memory devices; and, optionally, includes non-volatile memory, such as one or more magnetic disk storage devices, one or more optical disk storage devices, one or more flash memory devices, or one or more other non-volatile solid state storage devices. The memory 306, optionally, includes one ormore storage devices remotely located from the one or more processors 302. The memory 306, or alternatively the non-volatile memory within the memory 306, includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

[0134] In some embodiments, the memory 306 or the non-transitory computer- readable storage medium of the memory 306 (either or both of which may be referred to herein as “memory”) can store various programs, modules, and data structures.

[0135] For example, the memory can store programs, modules, and data structures, or a subset or superset thereof, such as an operating system 322, a communication module 323, a user interface module 324, an application 350, and / or a database 380.

[0136] The operating system 322 can include procedures for handling various basic system services and for performing hardware dependent tasks. The communication module 323 (e.g., a radio communication module) can be configured to connect to and communicate with other network devices (e.g., a local network, such as a router that provides Internet connectivity, networked storage devices, network routing devices, server systems, computer device 130, ultrasound device 200, and / or other connected devices etc.) coupled to one or more communication networks via the network interface 304 (e.g., wired or wireless).

[0137] In some embodiments, the user interface module 324 can be configured to enable presentation of information (e.g., a graphical user interface for presenting application(s), widgets, websites, and web pages thereof, games, audio and / or video content, text, etc.) either at the computing device 300 or another device.

[0138] The application 350 can be configured to acquire ultrasound data (e.g., imaging data) from a patient. In some embodiments, the application 350 is used for receiving data (e.g., ultrasound data, imaging data, etc.) acquired via an ultrasound device 200. In some embodiments, the application 350 is used for controlling one or more components of an ultrasound device 200 (e.g., the probe portion, and / or the transducers) and / or other connected devices (e.g., in accordance with a determination that the data meets, or does not meet, certain conditions).

[0139] Further, in some embodiments, the application 350 can include an acquisition module 352, a receiving module 354, a transmitting module 354, an analysis module 358, and / or a transducer control module 360.

[0140] The acquisition module 352 can be configured to acquire ultrasound data. In some embodiments, the ultrasound data includes imaging data acquired by an ultrasound probe. In some embodiments, the acquisition module 352 activates the transducers 220 (e.g.,less than all of the transducers 220, different subset(s) of the transducers 220, all the transducers 220, etc.) according to whether the ultrasound data meets one or more conditions associated with one or more quality requirements. In some embodiments, the acquisition module 352 causes the ultrasound device 200 to activate the transducers 220 (e.g., less than all of the transducers 220, different subset(s) of the transducers 220, all the transducers 220, etc.) according to whether the ultrasound data meets one or more conditions associated with one or more quality requirements.

[0141] The receiving module 354 can be configured to receive ultrasound data. In some embodiments, the ultrasound data includes imaging data acquired by an ultrasound probe.

[0142] The transmitting module 356 can be configured to transmit ultrasound data (e.g., imaging data) to other device(s) (e.g., a server system, computer device 130, display device 140, ultrasound device 200, and / or other connected devices etc.).

[0143] The analysis module 358 can be configured to analyze whether the data (e.g., imaging data, power consumption data, and other data related to the acquisition process) (e.g., received by the ultrasound probe) meets one or more conditions associated with quality requirements for an ultrasound scan.

[0144] For example, in some embodiments, the one or more conditions include one or more of: a condition that the imaging data includes one or more newly acquired images that meet one or more threshold quality scores, a condition that the imaging data includes one or more newly acquired images that correspond to one or more anatomical planes that match a desired anatomical plane of a target anatomical structure, a condition that the imaging data includes one or more newly acquired images that include one or more landmark / features (or a combination of landmarks / features), a condition that the imaging data includes one or more newly acquired images that include a feature having a particular dimension, a condition that the imaging data supports a prediction that an image meeting one or more requirements would be acquired in the next one or more image frames, a condition that the imaging data supports a prediction that a first change (e.g., an increase by a percentage, or number) in the number of transducer used would support an improvement in the quality score of an image acquired in the next one or more image frames, and / or other analogous conditions.

[0145] The transducer control module 360 can be configured to activate (e.g., adjusting, controlling, and / or otherwise modifying one or more operations of the transducers), or causing the ultrasound device 200 to activate (e.g., via the transducer control module 260),a number of transducers 220 during portions of an ultrasound scan based on a determination that the ultrasound data meets (or does not meet) one or more quality requirements.

[0146] For example, in some embodiments, the transducer control module 360 activates a first subset of the transducers 220 during the first portion of an ultrasound scan. In some embodiments, the transducer control module 360 activates a second subset of the transducers 220, different from the first subset of the transducers, during a second portion of the scan following the first portion of the scan, when the imaging data corresponding to the first portion of the scan meets (or does not meet) one or more quality requirements. In some embodiments, the transducer control module 360 controls one or more operating modes of the ultrasound device 200. For example, in some embodiments, the ultrasound device 200 is configured to operate in a low-power mode. In the low-power mode, the transducer control module 360 activates only a subset (e.g., 10%, 15%, 20%, etc.) of all the available transducers 220 in the ultrasound device 200. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 200 is configured to operate in a full-power mode. In the full-power mode, the transducer control module 360 activates all the available transducers 220 to acquire a high-quality image.

[0147] The database 380 can include ultrasound scan data 382, image quality requirements data 384, an atlas 386, imaging control parameters 388, ultrasound scan data processing models 390, and / or labeled images 392.

[0148] The ultrasound scan data 382 (e.g., imaging data) can be acquired (e.g., detected, measured) by one or more ultrasound probes 200.

[0149] The image quality requirements data 384 can include clinical requirements for determining the quality of an ultrasound image.

[0150] In some embodiments, the atlas 386 includes anatomical structures of interest. In some embodiments, the atlas 386 includes three-dimensional representations of the anatomical structure of interest (e.g., hip, heart, or lung).

[0151] In some embodiments, the imaging control parameters 388 can include one or more of: a number of transducers that are activated, a power consumption threshold of the probe, an imaging frame rate, a scan speed, a depth of penetration, and / or other scan parameters that control the power consumption, heat generation rate, and / or processing load of the probe.

[0152] The ultrasound scan data processing models 390 can be configured to process ultrasound data. For example, in some embodiments, the ultrasound scan data processing models 390 are trained neural network models that are trained to determine whether an ultrasound image meets quality requirements corresponding to a scan type, or trained tooutput an anatomic plane corresponding to an anatomical structure of an ultrasound image, or trained to predict, based on a sequence of ultrasound images and their quality scores, whether a subsequent frame to be acquired by an ultrasound probe will contain certain anatomical structures and / or landmarks of interest.

[0153] The labeled images 392 (e.g., a databank of images), can include images for training the models that are used for processing new ultrasound data, and / or new images that have been or need to be processed. In some embodiments, the labeled images 392 are images of anatomical structures that have been labeled with their respective identifiers and relative positions.

[0154] Each of the above identified elements may be stored in one or more of the memory devices described herein, and corresponds to a set of instructions for performing the functions described above. The above identified modules or programs need not be implemented as separate software programs, procedures, modules or data structures, and thus various subsets of these modules may be combined or otherwise re-arranged in various embodiments. In some embodiments, the memory 306, optionally, stores a subset of the modules and data structures identified above. Furthermore, the memory 306 optionally stores additional modules and data structures not described above. In some embodiments, a subset of the programs, modules, and / or data stored in the memory 306 are stored on and / or executed by the ultrasound probe 200.

[0155] Figure 5 illustrates an exemplary sequence of image frames with a respective portion for noise calibration identified for at least two image frames, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0156] In some embodiments, the sequence of image frames 502 may include image frames from 502-1, 502-2, ...to 502-N, where N is a positive integer. The image frames may be captured in the same ultrasound scanning session. For at least two image frames, for example, image frames 502-3, and 502-8, a portion of the image frame may be captured for noise calibration. In some embodiments, the portion 502-3P may be within the image frame 502-3. The portion 502-8P may be within the image frame 502-8. The noise information from the portion 502-3P may be subtracted from the image frame 502-3 for displaying. The noise information from the portion 502-8P may be subtracted from the image frame 502-8 for displaying.

[0157] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 5, the portions 502-3P and 502- 8P may be located in the same relative location within their respective image frames 502-3 and502-8. In some embodiments, the portions 502-3P and 502-8P may be located in different relative location within their respective image frames 502-3 and 502-8. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 5, the portions 502-3P and 502-8P may have the same shape, such as a center line. In some embodiments, the portions 502-3P and 502-8P may have different shapes, for example, one is a center line, the other one is a half frame.

[0158] In some embodiments, only one image frame such as 502-3 and a portion 502-3P may be used for noise calibration.

[0159] In some embodiments, a respective portion for every image frame of the sequence 502 may be processed and used for the respective calibration of each of the image frames. The noise calibration may be performed real-time and adjusted for each image frame in a scanning session.

[0160] Figures 6A-6F illustrate exemplary different portion formats used for noise calibration identified on an image frame, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0161] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6A, noise from a single center line 602P within an image frame 602 may be used for noise calibration. Noise calibration with a single line may minimize the time required to gather noise information within a scanning session.

[0162] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6B, noise from an angled line 604P within an image frame 604 may be used for noise calibration.

[0163] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6C, noise from a sparse grid 606P within an image frame 606 may be used for noise calibration.

[0164] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6D, noise from multiple parallel lines 608P within an image frame 608 may be used for noise calibration.

[0165] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6E, noise from multiple angled lines 61 OP within an image frame 610 may be used for noise calibration.

[0166] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6F, noise from a full frame or a partial frame 612P within an image frame 612 may be used for noise calibration.

[0167] Figures 7A and 7B illustrate exemplary comparison of ultrasound images between static noise calibration and the real-time noise calibration, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0168] As shown in Figure 7A, only static noise calibration is used for image display. Static noise calibration is typically performed as part of the ultrasound system's quality assurance procedures or during equipment maintenance. Usually, static noise calibration maybe conducted before an ultrasound scanning session is started and no changes are made with the noise calibration during the ultrasound scanning session.

[0169] In contrast to the static noise calibration, the real-time noise calibration method (for example, method 1000) disclosed herein generates better quality images with clear details, as shown in Figure 7B.

[0170] The real-time noise calibration method may be used to optimize the ultrasound image system's performance and ensure that the resulting images are as clear and accurate as possible.

[0171] The real-time noise calibration method may be further used for adjustments to identify and reduce sources of noise.

[0172] In some embodiments, the difference of the noise information from different image frames may be used for gain adjustment. The gain controls the amplification of the received signals. By adjusting the gain settings, the operator can optimize the image brightness and reduce noise levels.

[0173] In some embodiments, the difference of the noise information from different image frames may be used for baseline adjustment. Baseline refers to the signal level when there is no ultrasound transmission. By adjusting the baseline, the system can minimize the impact of noise present when no ultrasound energy is being emitted.

[0174] In some embodiments, the difference of the noise information from different image frames may be used for signal processing optimization. The system's signal processing algorithms can be fine-tuned to enhance the image quality while reducing noise artifacts. This may involve adjustments to filters, beamforming techniques, or speckle reduction algorithms.

[0175] In some embodiments, the difference of the noise information from different image frames may be used for probe and cable inspection. The ultrasound probe and associated cables can introduce noise if they are damaged or not properly connected.

[0176] In some embodiments, the difference of the noise information from different image frames may be used for electrical interference mitigation. The ultrasound system is susceptible to electrical interference from other nearby devices or power sources. Calibration may involve measures to shield the system or adjust its settings to minimize such interference.

[0177] By performing real-time noise calibration, ultrasound systems can maintain a high level of image quality, reducing artifacts that could potentially interfere with diagnostic interpretation. It helps ensure that the ultrasound images provide accurate information for medical professionals to make informed and dynamic decisions regarding patient care.Illustration of Subject Technology as Clauses

[0178] Various examples of aspects of the disclosure are described as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.) for convenience. These are provided as examples, and do not limit the subject technology. Identifications of the figures and reference numbers are provided below merely as examples and for illustrative purposes, and the clauses are not limited by those identifications.

[0179] Clause 1. A method for improving image quality of an ultrasound imaging device based on a plurality of image frames, comprising: during a single scanning session and using a computing device that includes one or more processors and memory associated with the ultrasound imaging device: capturing a first frame via one or more transducers of the imaging device while a transmitting function of the transducers is enabled; receiving a first noise frame, corresponding to noise in the first frame, via the transducers while the transmitting function is disabled; subtracting noise from the first frame based on the first noise frame to generate a first de-noised frame; capturing a second frame via the transducers while the transmitting function is enabled; receiving a second noise frame, corresponding to noise in the second frame, via the transducers while the transmitting function is disabled; and subtracting noise from the second frame based on the second noise frame to generate a second de-noised frame.

[0180] Clause 2. The method of Clause 1, wherein the subtracting noise from the first frame comprises subtracting the first noise frame from the first frame.

[0181] Clause 3. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the subtracting noise from the second frame comprises subtracting the second noise frame from the second frame.

[0182] Clause 4. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, after receiving the first noise frame and before subtracting noise from the first frame, further comprising processing the first noise frame through BBF, remod, detection, and / or log-compression.

[0183] Clause 5. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, after receiving the second noise frame and before subtracting noise from the second frame, further comprising processing the second noise frame through base band filtering (BBF), remodulation, detection, and / or log-compression.

[0184] Clause 6. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, after receiving the first noise frame and before subtracting noise from the first frame, further comprising processing the first noise frame using a range filter to reduce noise variance.

[0185] Clause 7. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, after receiving the second noise frame and before subtracting noise from the second frame, further comprising processing the second noise frame using a range filter to reduce noise variance.

[0186] Clause 8. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the subtracting noise from the first frame comprises monitoring consistent patterns of noise based on the first noise frame across a plurality of noise frames after the first noise frame, and subtracting noise based on the consistent patterns of the first noise frame from the first frame.

[0187] Clause 9. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the subtracting noise from the second frame comprises monitoring consistent patterns of noise based on the second noise frame across a plurality of noise frames after the second noise frame, and subtracting noise based on the consistent patterns of the second noise frame from the second frame.

[0188] Clause 10. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a column of noise in the first frame.

[0189] Clause 11. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a column of noise in the second frame.

[0190] Clause 12. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a center line of noise in the first frame.

[0191] Clause 13. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a center line of noise in the second frame.

[0192] Clause 14. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a line of noise in the first frame.

[0193] Clause 15. The method of Clause 14, wherein the subtracting the noise from the first frame comprises subtracting out the line of noise for all B-mode lines in the first frame.

[0194] Clause 16. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the subtracting the noise from the first frame comprises subtracting the noise from the first frame before a focus gain compensation (FGC) stage.

[0195] Clause 17. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising adjusting parameters of a focus gain compensation (FGC) stage to correct the noise in the first frame.

[0196] Clause 18. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a line of noise in the second frame.

[0197] Clause 19. The method of Clause 18, wherein the subtracting the noise from the second frame comprises subtracting out the line of noise for all B-mode lines in the second frame.

[0198] Clause 20. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the subtracting the noise from the second frame comprises subtracting the noise from the second frame before a focus gain compensation (FGC) stage.

[0199] Clause 21. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising adjusting parameters of a focus gain compensation (FGC) stage to correct the noise in the second frame.

[0200] Clause 22. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns of noise in the first frame, wherein the multiple columns are at any angle relative to each other.

[0201] Clause 23. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns of noise in the second frame, wherein the multiple columns are at any angle relative to each other.

[0202] Clause 24. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns to form a sparse array.

[0203] Clause 25. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns to form a sparse array.

[0204] Clause 26. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a sparse grid of noise in the first frame.

[0205] Clause 27. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a sparse grid of noise in the second frame.

[0206] Clause 28. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a full frame of noise in the first frame.

[0207] Clause 29. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a full frame of noise in the second frame.

[0208] Clause 30. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a partial frame of noise in the first frame.

[0209] Clause 31. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a partial frame of noise in the second frame.

[0210] Clause 32. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a first partial frame of noise in the first frame, and the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a second partial frame of noise in the second frame, wherein a location of the first partial frame relative to the first frame is the same as a location of the second partial frame relative to the second frame.

[0211] Clause 33. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising displaying the first de-noised frame and the second de-noised frame consecutively.

[0212] Clause 34. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to noise in the second frame that is N frames apart from the first frame excluding noise frames, wherein N is a positive integer.

[0213] Clause 35. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising detecting irregularities of the transducers based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0214] Clause 36. The method of Clause 35, further comprising in response to the detected irregularities, compensating for the detected irregularities of the transducers.

[0215] Clause 37. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising checking quality degradation of the ultrasound imaging device based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0216] Clause 38. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising checking quality degradation of a probe of the ultrasound imaging device based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0217] Clause 39. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising providing feedback to calibrate the transducers based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0218] Clause 40. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising providing feedback for damage of a probe including the transducers based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0219] Clause 41. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising adapting a focus gain curve of the transducers at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0220] Clause 42. The method of Clause 41, wherein the adapting a focus gain curve is to reduce a signal to noise ratio of the transducers.

[0221] Clause 43. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising adapting a lateral gain curve of the transducers at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0222] Clause 44. The method of Clause 43, wherein the adapting a lateral gain curve is to compensate for array noise variability.

[0223] Clause 45. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising dynamically calibrating external interferences at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0224] Clause 46. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising dynamically compensating a signal to noise ratio of the transducers at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0225] Clause 47. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising dynamically compensating noise variation in different angles at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0226] Clause 48. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising dynamically compensating noise variation in different lines at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0227] Clause 49. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising dynamically compensating noise variation in different presets or different modes at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0228] Clause 50. The method of Clause 49, wherein the different presets or different modes include different frequencies or different doppler modes.

[0229] Clause 51. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising dynamically compensating a probe-to-probe variation at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame, wherein a probe includes the transducers.

[0230] Clause 52. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising dynamically compensating a probe variation over time at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame, wherein a probe includes the transducers.

[0231] Clause 53. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising removing noise trend by comparing noise from a static noise model and noise based on at least the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0232] Clause 54. The method of Clause 53, wherein the static noise model is obtained during factory calibration of the transducer by removing noise from a target phantom, by turning off transmits, or by scanning in air.

[0233] Clause 55. The method of any of Clauses 53 or 54, further comprising obtaining the static noise model prior to a beginning of the single scanning session.

[0234] Clause 56. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising comparing the first noise frame and the first frame to detect scan-in-air or probe-not-used conditions.

[0235] Clause 57. The method of Clause 56, further, wherein the scan-in-air condition is obtained by comparing the noise frame with stored templates of noise frames acquired by at least one of: (i) scanning in air; (ii) scanning in calibrated phantoms; or (iii) removing the mean tissue signal to obtain noise.

[0236] Clause 58. The method of any of Clause 56 or 57, further comprising in response to the detected scan-in-air or probe-not-used conditions, turning off the one or more transducers for saving battery life.

[0237] Clause 59. The method of any of Clause 56 to 58, further comprising in response to the detected scan-in-air or probe-not-used conditions, acquiring a full noise frame as the first noise frame.

[0238] Clause 60. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising comparing the second noise frame and the second frame to detect scan-in-air or probe-not-used conditions.

[0239] Clause 61. The method of Clause 60, further comprising in response to the detected scan-in-air or probe-not-used conditions, turning off the one or more transducers for saving battery life.

[0240] Clause 62. The method of any of Clause 60 or 61, further comprising in response to the detected scan-in-air or probe-not-used conditions, acquiring a full noise frame as the second noise frame.

[0241] Clause 63. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the subtracting noise from the first frame based on the first noise frame comprises removing interference from external devices.

[0242] Clause 64. The method of Clause 63, wherein the external devices include RF ablation catheter, battery, power supplies in probe head, or common-mode noise sources.

[0243] Clause 65. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the subtracting noise from the second frame based on the second noise frame comprises removing interference from external devices.

[0244] Clause 66. The method of Clause 65, wherein the external devices include RF ablation catheter, battery, power supplies in probe head, or common-mode noise sources.

[0245] Clause 67. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the single scanning session is in for M-mode, or flow and spectral doppler mode.

[0246] Clause 68. The method of Clause 67, wherein the single scanning session is at a fixed pulse repetition interval (PRI).

[0247] Clause 69. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising transmitting the first de-noised frame for display.

[0248] Clause 70. The method of Clause 69, further comprising transmitting the second de-noised frame for display.

[0249] Clause 71. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the first frame and the second frame are within a sequence of image frames captured during the single scanning session.

[0250] Clause 72. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame at an end of scanning the first frame.

[0251] Clause 73. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame at an end of scanning the second frame.

[0252] Clause 74. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the first noise frame and the second noise frame are within a sequence of frames received during the single scanning session.

[0253] Clause 75. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the first frame, the second frame, the first noise frame, and the second noise frame are within a sequence of frames received during the single scanning session.

[0254] Clause 76. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame immediately before or after the first frame.

[0255] Clause 77. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame immediately before or after the second frame.

[0256] Clause 78. The method of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the first noise frame is a partial noise frame and the second noise frame is a full noise frame.

[0257] Clause 79. An ultrasound image enhancement process for improving image quality during a single scanning session using a computing device that includes one or more processors and memory associated with an ultrasound imaging device, the process comprising: capturing at least one image frame via one or more transducers of the imaging device while a transmitting function of the transducers is enabled; while the transmitting function is disabled, receiving at least one noise frame; and comparing noise based on the at least one noise frame with the at least one image frame to generate at least one de-noised frame.

[0258] Clause 80. The process of Clause 79, wherein the capturing the at least one image frame comprises capturing a plurality of image frames.

[0259] Clause 81. The process of any of Clauses 79 or 80, wherein the capturing the at least one noise frame comprises capturing a plurality of noise frames.

[0260] Clause 82. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 81, wherein the comparing comprises subtracting noise based on the at least one noise frame from the at least one image frame.

[0261] Clause 83. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 82, wherein the comparing comprises subtracting the at least one noise frame from the at least one image frame.

[0262] Clause 84. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 83, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving the at least one noise frame, corresponding to a column of noise in the at least one image frame.

[0263] Clause 85. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 84, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving the at least one noise frame, corresponding to a center line of noise in the at least one image frame.

[0264] Clause 86. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 85, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving the at least one noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns of noise in the at least one image frame, wherein the multiple columns are at any angle relative to each other.

[0265] Clause 87. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 86, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving the at least one noise frame, corresponding to a sparse grid of noise in the at least one image frame.

[0266] Clause 88. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 87, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving the at least one noise frame, corresponding to a full frame of noise in the at least one image frame.

[0267] Clause 89. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 88, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving the at least one noise frame, corresponding to a partial frame of noise in the at least one image frame.

[0268] Clause 90. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 89, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving each of the at least one noise frame, corresponding to a partial frame of noise at a same relative location in each of the at least one image frame, respectively.

[0269] Clause 91. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 90, further comprising displaying the at least one de-noised frame consecutively.

[0270] Clause 92. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 91, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving the at least one noise frame, corresponding tonoise in a selected number of the at least one image frame that is N frames apart from one another, wherein N is a positive integer.

[0271] Clause 93. The process of Clause 92, wherein the at least one noise frame comprises a full noise frame.

[0272] Clause 94. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 93, further comprising detecting irregularities of the transducers based on a change in a selected number of the at least one noise frame.

[0273] Clause 95. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 94, further comprising checking quality degradation of the ultrasound imaging device based on a change in a selected number of the at least one noise frame.

[0274] Clause 96. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 95, further comprising adapting a focus gain curve of the transducers based on the at least one noise frame.

[0275] Clause 97. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 96, further comprising dynamically calibrating external inferences based on the at least one noise frame.

[0276] Clause 98. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 97, further comprising transmitting at least one de-noised frame for display.

[0277] Clause 99. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 98, wherein the capturing the at least one image frame comprises capturing the at least one image frame within a sequence of image frames during the single scanning session.

[0278] Clause 100. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 99, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving the at least one noise frame within a sequence of frames received during the single scanning session.

[0279] Clause 101. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 100, wherein the at least one noise frame and the at least one image frame are within a sequence of frames received during the single scanning session.

[0280] Clause 102. The process of any of Clauses 79 to 101, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving each of the at least one noise frame immediately before or after each of the at least one image frame.

[0281] Clause 103. An ultrasound image enhancement process during a single scanning session using a computing device that includes one or more processors and memory associated with an ultrasound imaging device, the process comprising: capturing an image frame via one or more transducers of the imaging device while a transmitting function of the transducers is enabled; while the transmitting function of the transducers is disabled, receivinga noise frame; comparing noise based on the noise frame with the image frame to generate a de-noised frame; and repeating the capturing, receiving, and comparing to generate a plurality of de-noised frames.

[0282] Clause 104. The process of Clause 103, wherein the repeating is performed at regular intervals.

[0283] Clause 105. The process of any of Clauses 103 to 104, wherein the repeating is performed for each image frame captured in the single scanning session.

[0284] Clause 106. The process of any of Clauses 103 to 105, wherein the receiving is performed for every Nth image frame.

[0285] Clause 107. The process of Clause 106, wherein the comparing is performed for every N image frames based on the received noise frame for every Nth image frame.

[0286] Clause 108. A method of ultrasound image improvement during a single scanning session, comprising: capturing a sequence of frames via one or more transducers while a transmitting function of the transducers is enabled; receiving a sequence of noise frames, corresponding to noise in the sequence of frames respectively, via the transducers while the transmitting function is disabled; and subtracting noise from the sequence of frames respectively based on the sequence of noise frames to generate a sequence of de-noised frames.

[0287] Clause 109. A method of ultrasound image improvement during a single scanning session, comprising: capturing a sequence of image frames via one or more transducers while a transmitting function of the transducers is enabled; receiving a noise frame for every N image frames of the sequence of image frames, corresponding to noise in the every N image frames of the sequence of frames respectively, via the transducers while the transmitting function is disabled; and subtracting noise from the every N image frames based on the noise frame for the every N image frames to generate a sequence of de-noised frames; wherein N is a positive integer.

[0288] Clause 110. The method of Clause 109, wherein the receiving the noise frame for every N image frames comprises capturing the noise frame at a beginning of the every N image frames.

[0289] Clause 111. The method of any of Clauses 109 to 110, wherein the receiving the noise frame for every N image frames comprises capturing the noise frame at an end of the every N image frames.

[0290] Clause 112. The method of any of Clauses 109 to 111, wherein the receiving the noise frame for every N image frames comprises capturing the noise frame at a selected image frame of the every N image frames.

[0291] Clause 113. An ultrasound image quality improvement process for an imaging device during a scanning session comprising: while a transmitting function of one or more transducers is disabled, receiving a plurality of noise frames corresponding to a plurality of image frames respectively; comparing noise based on the plurality of noise frames over a period of time during the scanning session; and determining an abnormality of the imaging device when a change of noise over the period of time exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0292] Clause 114. The process of any of Clauses 112 to 113, further comprising sending an alert when the abnormality is determined.

[0293] Clause 115. The process of any of Clauses 112 to 114, wherein the determining the abnormality comprises determining a change of noise based on a first noise frame and a second noise frame of a plurality of noise frames.

[0294] Clause 116. The process of any of Clauses 112 to 115, wherein the determining the abnormality comprises determining a change of noise based on a first set of noise frames and a second set of noise frames of a plurality of noise frames.

[0295] Clause 117. The process of any of Clauses 112 to 116, wherein the determining the abnormality comprises determining a change of noise based on a first set of noise frames and a second set of noise frames of a plurality of noise frames, wherein the first set of noise frames is selected during a first time period in the period of time, and the second set of noise frames is selected during a second time period in the period of time.

[0296] Clause 118. An ultrasound imaging device, comprising: one or more transducers; one or more processors; memory; and one or more programs stored in the memory and configured for execution by the one or more processors, the one or more programs comprising instructions during a single scanning session for: capturing a first frame via the one or more transducers of the imaging device while a transmitting function of the transducers is enabled; receiving a first noise frame, corresponding to noise in the first frame, via the transducers while the transmitting function is disabled; subtracting noise from the first frame based on the first noise frame to generate a first de-noised frame; capturing a second frame via the transducers while the transmitting function is enabled; receiving a second noise frame, corresponding to noise in the second frame, via the transducers while the transmitting functionis disabled; and subtracting noise from the second frame based on the second noise frame to generate a second de-noised frame.

[0297] Clause 119. The device of Clause 118, wherein the transducers are included in an ultrasound probe.

[0298] Clause 120. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 119, wherein one or more processors are included in a mobile device.

[0299] Clause 121. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 120, wherein the subtracting noise from the first frame comprises subtracting the first noise frame from the first frame.

[0300] Clause 122. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 121, wherein the subtracting noise from the second frame comprises subtracting the second noise frame from the second frame.

[0301] Clause 123. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 122, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a column of noise in the first frame.

[0302] Clause 124. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 123, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a column of noise in the second frame.

[0303] Clause 125. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 124, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a center line of noise in the first frame.

[0304] Clause 126. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 125, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a center line of noise in the second frame.

[0305] Clause 127. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 126, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns of noise in the first frame, wherein the multiple columns are at any angle relative to each other.

[0306] Clause 128. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 127, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns of noise in the second frame, wherein the multiple columns are at any angle relative to each other.

[0307] Clause 129. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 128, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a sparse grid of noise in the first frame.

[0308] Clause 130. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 129, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a sparse grid of noise in the second frame.

[0309] Clause 131. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 130, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a full frame of noise in the first frame.

[0310] Clause 132. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 131, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a full frame of noise in the second frame.

[0311] Clause 133. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 132, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a partial frame of noise in the first frame.

[0312] Clause 134. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 133, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a partial frame of noise in the second frame.

[0313] Clause 135. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 134, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a first partial frame of noise in the first frame, and the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a second partial frame of noise in the second frame, wherein a location of the first partial frame relative to the first frame is the same as a location of the second partial frame relative to the second frame.

[0314] Clause 136. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 135, wherein the one or more programs comprise further instructions for displaying the first de-noised frame and the second de-noised frame consecutively.

[0315] Clause 137. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 136, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to noise in the second frame that is N frames apart from the first frame excluding noise frames, wherein N is a positive integer.

[0316] Clause 138. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 137, wherein the one or more programs comprise further instructions for detecting irregularities of the transducers based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0317] Clause 139. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 138, wherein the one or more programs comprise further instructions for checking quality degradation of the ultrasound imaging device based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0318] Clause 140. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 139, wherein the one or more programs comprise further instructions for adapting a focus gain curve of the transducers at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0319] Clause 141. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 140, wherein the one or more programs comprise further instructions for dynamically calibrating external interferences at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0320] Clause 142. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 141, wherein the one or more programs comprise further instructions for transmitting the first de-noised frame for display.

[0321] Clause 143. The device of Clause 142, wherein the one or more programs comprise further instructions for transmitting the second de-noised frame for display.

[0322] Clause 144. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 143, wherein the first frame and the second frame are within a sequence of image frames captured during the single scanning session.

[0323] Clause 145. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 144, wherein the first noise frame and the second noise frame are within a sequence of frames received during the single scanning session.

[0324] Clause 146. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 145, wherein the first frame, the second frame, the first noise frame, and the second noise frame are within a sequence of frames received during the single scanning session.

[0325] Clause 147. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 146, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame immediately before or after the first frame.

[0326] Clause 148. The device of any of Clauses 118 to 147, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame immediately before or after the second frame.

[0327] Clause 149. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing one or more programs that, when executed by a computing device having one or more processors and memory, cause the computing device to perform operations comprising: capturing a first frame via one or more transducers of an imaging device while a transmitting function of the transducers is enabled; receiving a first noise frame, corresponding to noise in the first frame, via the transducers while the transmitting function is disabled; subtracting noise from the first frame based on the first noise frame to generate a first de-noised frame; capturing a second frame via the transducers while the transmitting function is enabled, the second frame being a frame captured in a single scanning session as the first frame; receiving a second noise frame, corresponding to noise in the second frame, via the transducers while the transmitting function is disabled; and subtracting noise from the second frame based on the second noise frame to generate a second de-noised frame.

[0328] Clause 150. The storage medium of Clause 149, wherein the transducers are included in an ultrasound probe.

[0329] Clause 151. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 150, wherein one or more processors are included in a mobile device.

[0330] Clause 152. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 151, wherein the subtracting noise from the first frame comprises subtracting the first noise frame from the first frame.

[0331] Clause 153. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 152, wherein the subtracting noise from the second frame comprises subtracting the second noise frame from the second frame.

[0332] Clause 154. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 153, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a column of noise in the first frame.

[0333] Clause 155. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 154, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a column of noise in the second frame.

[0334] Clause 156. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 155, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a center line of noise in the first frame.

[0335] Clause 157. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 156, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a center line of noise in the second frame.

[0336] Clause 158. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 157, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns of noise in the first frame, wherein the multiple columns are at any angle relative to each other.

[0337] Clause 159. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 158, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns of noise in the second frame, wherein the multiple columns are at any angle relative to each other.

[0338] Clause 160. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 159, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a sparse grid of noise in the first frame.

[0339] Clause 161. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 160, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a sparse grid of noise in the second frame.

[0340] Clause 162. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 161, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a full frame of noise in the first frame.

[0341] Clause 163. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 162, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a full frame of noise in the second frame.

[0342] Clause 164. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 163, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a partial frame of noise in the first frame.

[0343] Clause 165. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 164, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a partial frame of noise in the second frame.

[0344] Clause 166. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 165, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a first partial frame of noise in the first frame, and the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a second partial frame of noise in the secondframe, wherein a location of the first partial frame relative to the first frame is the same as a location of the second partial frame relative to the second frame.

[0345] Clause 167. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 166, wherein the operations further comprise displaying the first de-noised frame and the second de-noised frame consecutively.

[0346] Clause 168. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 167, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to noise in the second frame that is N frames apart from the first frame excluding noise frames, wherein N is a positive integer.

[0347] Clause 169. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 168, wherein the operations further comprise detecting irregularities of the transducers based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0348] Clause 170. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 169, wherein the operations further comprise checking quality degradation of a ultrasound imaging device based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0349] Clause 171. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 170, wherein the operations further comprise adapting a focus gain curve of the transducers at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0350] Clause 172. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 171, wherein the operations further comprise dynamically calibrating external interferences at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

[0351] Clause 173. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 172, wherein the operations further comprise transmitting the first de-noised frame for display.

[0352] Clause 174. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 173, wherein the operations further comprise transmitting the second de-noised frame for display.

[0353] Clause 175. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 174, wherein the first frame and the second frame are within a sequence of image frames captured during the single scanning session.

[0354] Clause 176. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 175, wherein the first noise frame and the second noise frame are within a sequence of frames received during the single scanning session.

[0355] Clause 177. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 176, wherein the first frame, the second frame, the first noise frame, and the second noise frame are within a sequence of frames received during the single scanning session.

[0356] Clause 178. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 177, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame immediately before or after the first frame.

[0357] Clause 179. The storage medium of any of Clauses 149 to 178, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame immediately before or after the second frame.

[0358] Clause 180. A method comprising any of the steps disclosed in any of the preceding Clauses.

[0359] Clause 181. A system comprising one or more devices configured to perform any of the methods disclosed in any of the preceding Clauses.

[0360] In some embodiments, any of the clauses herein may depend from any one of the independent clauses or any one of the dependent clauses. In one aspect, any of the clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clauses) may be combined with any other one or more clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clauses). In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words (e.g., steps, operations, means or components) recited in a clause, a sentence, a phrase or a paragraph. In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words recited in one or more clauses, sentences, phrases or paragraphs. In one aspect, some of the words in each of the clauses, sentences, phrases or paragraphs may be removed. In one aspect, additional words or elements may be added to a clause, a sentence, a phrase or a paragraph. In one aspect, the subject technology may be implemented without utilizing some of the components, elements, functions or operations described herein. In one aspect, the subject technology may be implemented utilizing additional components, elements, functions or operations.

[0361] As used herein, the word “component” refers to logic embodied in hardware or firmware, or to a collection of software instructions, possibly having entry and exit points, written in a programming language, such as, for example C++. A software component may be compiled and linked into an executable program, installed in a dynamic link library, or may be written in an interpretive language such as BASIC. It will be appreciated that software components may be callable from other components or from themselves, and / or may be invoked in response to detected events or interrupts. Software instructions may be embedded in firmware, such as an EPROM or EEPROM. It will be further appreciated that hardwarecomponents may be comprised of connected logic units, such as gates and flip-flops, and / or may be comprised of programmable units, such as programmable gate arrays or processors. The components described herein are preferably implemented as software components, but may be represented in hardware or firmware.

[0362] It is contemplated that the components may be integrated into a fewer number of components. One component may also be separated into multiple or components. The described components may be implemented as hardware, software, firmware or any combination thereof. Additionally, the described components may reside at different locations connected through a wired or wireless network, or the Internet.

[0363] In general, it will be appreciated that the processors can include, by way of example, computers, program logic, or other substrate configurations representing data and instructions, which operate as described herein. In other embodiments, the processors can include controller circuitry, processor circuitry, processors, general purpose single-chip or multi-chip microprocessors, digital signal processors, embedded microprocessors, microcontrollers and the like.

[0364] Furthermore, it will be appreciated that in one embodiment, the program logic may advantageously be implemented as one or more components. The components may advantageously be configured to execute on one or more processors. The components include, but are not limited to, software or hardware components, modules such as software modules, object-oriented software components, class components and task components, processes methods, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuitry, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables.

[0365] The foregoing description is provided to enable a person skilled in the art to practice the various configurations described herein. While the subject technology has been particularly described with reference to the various figures and configurations, it should be understood that these are for illustration purposes only and should not be taken as limiting the scope of the subject technology.

[0366] There may be many other ways to implement the subject technology. Various functions and elements described herein may be partitioned differently from those shown without departing from the scope of the subject technology. Various modifications to these configurations will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and generic principles defined herein may be applied to other configurations. Thus, many changes and modificationsmay be made to the subject technology, by one having ordinary skill in the art, without departing from the scope of the subject technology.

[0367] It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes disclosed is an illustration of exemplary approaches. Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged. Some of the steps may be performed simultaneously. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order, and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0368] Although some of various drawings illustrate a number of logical stages in a particular order, stages that are not order dependent may be reordered and other stages may be combined or broken out. While some reordering or other groupings are specifically mentioned, others will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art, so the ordering and groupings presented herein are not an exhaustive list of alternatives. Moreover, it should be recognized that the stages could be implemented in hardware, firmware, software or any combination thereof.

[0369] It will also be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. are, in some instances, used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first transducer could be termed a second transducer, and, similarly, a second transducer could be termed a first transducer, without departing from the scope of the various described implementations. The first sensor and the second sensor are both sensors, but they are not the same type of sensor.

[0370] To the extent that the term “include,” “have,” or the like is used in the description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprise” as “comprise” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

[0371] As used herein, the term “comprising” indicates the presence of the specified integer(s), but allows for the possibility of other integers, unspecified. This term does not imply any particular proportion of the specified integers. Variations of the word “comprising,” such as “comprise” and “comprises,” have correspondingly similar meanings.

[0372] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0373] A reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically stated, but rather “one or more.” Pronouns in the masculine (e.g., his) include the feminine and neuter gender (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. The term “some” refers to one or more. Underlined and / or italicized headings and subheadings are used for convenience only, do not limit the subject technology, and are not referred to in connection with the interpretation of the description of the subject technology. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various configurations described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and intended to be encompassed by the subject technology. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the above description.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method for improving image quality of an ultrasound imaging device based on a plurality of image frames, comprising: during a single scanning session and using a computing device that includes one or more processors and memory associated with the ultrasound imaging device: capturing a first frame via one or more transducers of the imaging device while a transmitting function of the transducers is enabled; receiving a first noise frame, corresponding to noise in the first frame, via the transducers while the transmitting function is disabled; subtracting noise from the first frame based on the first noise frame to generate a first de-noised frame; capturing a second frame via the transducers while the transmitting function is enabled; receiving a second noise frame, corresponding to noise in the second frame, via the transducers while the transmitting function is disabled; and subtracting noise from the second frame based on the second noise frame to generate a second de-noised frame.

2. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the subtracting noise from the first frame comprises subtracting the first noise frame from the first frame.

3. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the subtracting noise from the second frame comprises subtracting the second noise frame from the second frame.

4. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein after receiving the first noise frame and before subtracting noise from the first frame, further comprising processing the first noise frame through BBF, remod, detection, and / or log-compression.

5. The method of any of the preceding Claims, after receiving the second noise frame and before subtracting noise from the second frame, further comprising processing the second noise frame through base band filtering (BBF), remodulation, detection, and / or logcompression.

6. The method of any of the preceding Claims, after receiving the first noise frame and before subtracting noise from the first frame, further comprising processing the first noise frame using a range filter to reduce noise variance.

7. The method of any of the preceding Claims, after receiving the second noise frame and before subtracting noise from the second frame, further comprising processing the second noise frame using a range filter to reduce noise variance.

8. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the subtracting noise from the first frame comprises monitoring consistent patterns of noise based on the first noise frame across a plurality of noise frames after the first noise frame, and subtracting noise based on the consistent patterns of the first noise frame from the first frame.

9. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the subtracting noise from the second frame comprises monitoring consistent patterns of noise based on the second noise frame across a plurality of noise frames after the second noise frame, and subtracting noise based on the consistent patterns of the second noise frame from the second frame.

10. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a column of noise in the first frame.

11. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a column of noise in the second frame.

12. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a center line of noise in the first frame.

13. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a center line of noise in the second frame.

14. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a line of noise in the first frame.

15. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the subtracting the noise from the first frame comprises subtracting the noise from the first frame before a focus gain compensation (FGC) stage.

16. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising adjusting parameters of a focus gain compensation (FGC) stage to correct the noise in the first frame.

17. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a line of noise in the second frame.

18. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the subtracting the noise from the second frame comprises subtracting the noise from the second frame before a focus gain compensation (FGC) stage.

19. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising adjusting parameters of a focus gain compensation (FGC) stage to correct the noise in the second frame.

20. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns of noise in the first frame, wherein the multiple columns are at any angle relative to each other.

21. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns of noise in the second frame, wherein the multiple columns are at any angle relative to each other.

22. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns to form a sparse array.

23. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns to form a sparse array.

24. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a sparse grid of noise in the first frame.

25. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a sparse grid of noise in the second frame.

26. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a full frame of noise in the first frame.

27. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a full frame of noise in the second frame.

28. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a partial frame of noise in the first frame.

29. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a partial frame of noise in the second frame.

30. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame, corresponding to a first partial frame of noise in the first frame, and the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to a second partial frame of noise in the second frame, wherein a location of the first partial frame relative to the first frame is the same as a location of the second partial frame relative to the second frame.

31. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising displaying the first de-noised frame and the second de-noised frame consecutively.

32. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame, corresponding to noise in the second frame that is N frames apart from the first frame excluding noise frames, wherein N is a positive integer.

33. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising detecting irregularities of the transducers based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

34. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising checking quality degradation of the ultrasound imaging device based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

35. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising checking quality degradation of a probe of the ultrasound imaging device based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

36. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising providing feedback to calibrate the transducers based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

37. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising providing feedback for damage of a probe including the transducers based on a comparison between the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

38. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising adapting a focus gain curve of the transducers at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

39. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising adapting a lateral gain curve of the transducers at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

40. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising dynamically calibrating external interferences at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

41. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising dynamically compensating a signal to noise ratio of the transducers at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

42. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising dynamically compensating noise variation in different angles at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

43. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising dynamically compensating noise variation in different lines at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

44. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising dynamically compensating noise variation in different presets or different modes at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

45. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising dynamically compensating a probe-to-probe variation at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame, wherein a probe includes the transducers.

46. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising dynamically compensating a probe variation over time at least based on the first noise frame and the second noise frame, wherein a probe includes the transducers.

47. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising removing noise trend by comparing noise from a static noise model and noise based on at least the first noise frame and the second noise frame.

48. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising comparing the first noise frame and the first frame to detect scan-in-air or probe-not-used conditions.

49. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising comparing the second noise frame and the second frame to detect scan-in-air or probe-not-used conditions.

50. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the subtracting noise from the first frame based on the first noise frame comprises removing interference from external devices.

51. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the subtracting noise from the second frame based on the second noise frame comprises removing interference from external devices.

52. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the single scanning session is in for M-mode, or flow and spectral doppler mode.

53. The method of any of the preceding Claims, further comprising transmitting the first de-noised frame for display.

54. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the first frame and the second frame are within a sequence of image frames captured during the single scanning session.

55. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame at an end of scanning the first frame.

56. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame at an end of scanning the second frame.

57. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the first noise frame and the second noise frame are within a sequence of frames received during the single scanning session.

58. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the first frame, the second frame, the first noise frame, and the second noise frame are within a sequence of frames received during the single scanning session.

59. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the first noise frame comprises receiving the first noise frame immediately before or after the first frame.

60. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the receiving the second noise frame comprises receiving the second noise frame immediately before or after the second frame.

61. The method of any of the preceding Claims, wherein the first noise frame is a partial noise frame and the second noise frame is a full noise frame.

62. An ultrasound image enhancement process for improving image quality during a single scanning session using a computing device that includes one or more processors and memory associated with an ultrasound imaging device, the process comprising:capturing at least one image frame via one or more transducers of the imaging device while a transmitting function of the transducers is enabled; while the transmitting function is disabled, receiving at least one noise frame; and comparing noise based on the at least one noise frame with the at least one image frame to generate at least one de-noised frame.

63. The process of Claim 62, wherein the capturing the at least one image frame comprises capturing a plurality of image frames.

64. The process of any of Claims 62-63, wherein the capturing the at least one noise frame comprises capturing a plurality of noise frames.

65. The process of any of Claims 62-64, wherein the comparing comprises subtracting noise based on the at least one noise frame from the at least one image frame.

66. The process of any of Claims 62-65, wherein the comparing comprises subtracting the at least one noise frame from the at least one image frame.

67. The process of any of Claims 62-66, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving the at least one noise frame, corresponding to a column of noise in the at least one image frame.

68. The process of any of Claims 62-67, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving the at least one noise frame, corresponding to a center line of noise in the at least one image frame.

69. The process of any of Claims 62-68, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving the at least one noise frame, corresponding to multiple columns of noise in the at least one image frame, wherein the multiple columns are at any angle relative to each other.

70. The process of any of Claims 62-69, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving the at least one noise frame, corresponding to a sparse grid of noise in the at least one image frame.

71. The process of any of Claims 62-70, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving the at least one noise frame, corresponding to a full frame of noise in the at least one image frame.

72. The process of any of Claims 62-71, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving the at least one noise frame, corresponding to a partial frame of noise in the at least one image frame.

73. The process of any of Claims 62-72, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving each of the at least one noise frame, corresponding to a partial frame of noise at a same relative location in each of the at least one image frame, respectively.

74. The process of any of Claims 62-73, further comprising displaying the at least one de-noised frame consecutively.

75. The process of any of Claims 62-74, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving the at least one noise frame, corresponding to noise in a selected number of the at least one image frame that is N frames apart from one another, wherein N is a positive integer.

76. The process of any of Claims 62-75, further comprising detecting irregularities of the transducers based on a change in a selected number of the at least one noise frame.

77. The process of any of Claims 62-76, further comprising checking quality degradation of the ultrasound imaging device based on a change in a selected number of the at least one noise frame.

78. The process of any of Claims 62-77, further comprising adapting a focus gain curve of the transducers based on the at least one noise frame.

79. The process of any of Claims 62-78, further comprising dynamically calibrating external inferences based on the at least one noise frame.

80. The process of any of Claims 62-79, further comprising transmitting at least one de-noised frame for display.

81. The process of any of Claims 62-80, wherein the capturing the at least one image frame comprises capturing the at least one image frame within a sequence of image frames during the single scanning session.

82. The process of any of Claims 62-81, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving the at least one noise frame within a sequence of frames received during the single scanning session.

83. The process of any of Claims 62-82, wherein the at least one noise frame and the at least one image frame are within a sequence of frames received during the single scanning session.

84. The process of any of Claims 62-83, wherein the receiving the at least one noise frame comprises receiving each of the at least one noise frame immediately before or after each of the at least one image frame.

85. An ultrasound image enhancement process during a single scanning session using a computing device that includes one or more processors and memory associated with an ultrasound imaging device, the process comprising: capturing an image frame via one or more transducers of the imaging device while a transmitting function of the transducers is enabled; while the transmitting function of the transducers is disabled, receiving a noise frame; comparing noise based on the noise frame with the image frame to generate a de-noised frame; and repeating the capturing, receiving, and comparing to generate a plurality of denoised frames.

86. A method of ultrasound image improvement during a single scanning session, comprising: capturing a sequence of frames via one or more transducers while a transmitting function of the transducers is enabled; receiving a sequence of noise frames, corresponding to noise in the sequence of frames respectively, via the transducers while the transmitting function is disabled; and subtracting noise from the sequence of frames respectively based on the sequence of noise frames to generate a sequence of de-noised frames.

87. A method of ultrasound image improvement during a single scanning session, comprising: capturing a sequence of image frames via one or more transducers while a transmitting function of the transducers is enabled; receiving a noise frame for every N image frames of the sequence of image frames, corresponding to noise in the every N image frames of the sequence of frames respectively, via the transducers while the transmitting function is disabled; and subtracting noise from the every N image frames based on the noise frame for the every N image frames to generate a sequence of de-noised frames; wherein N is a positive integer.

88. An ultrasound image quality improvement process for an imaging device during a scanning session comprising: while a transmitting function of one or more transducers is disabled, receiving a plurality of noise frames corresponding to a plurality of image frames respectively;comparing noise based on the plurality of noise frames over a period of time during the scanning session; and determining an abnormality of the imaging device when a change of noise over the period of time exceeds a predetermined threshold.

89. The process of Claim 88, further comprising sending an alert when the abnormality is determined.

90. The process of any of Claims 88-89, wherein the determining the abnormality comprises determining a change of noise based on a first noise frame and a second noise frame of a plurality of noise frames.

91. The process of any of Claims 88-90, wherein the determining the abnormality comprises determining a change of noise based on a first set of noise frames and a second set of noise frames of a plurality of noise frames.

92. The process of any of Claims 88-91, wherein the determining the abnormality comprises determining a change of noise based on a first set of noise frames and a second set of noise frames of a plurality of noise frames, wherein the first set of noise frames is selected during a first time period in the period of time, and the second set of noise frames is selected during a second time period in the period of time.

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