Accessory holder and accessory system for ultrasonic probe

Abstract

Accessory Holder and Accessory System for Ultrasonic Probe This disclosure relates to an accessory holder (10) for an ultrasonic probe comprising: a first mounting interface (12) configured to mechanically pair with an ultrasonic probe (2); and a second mounting interface (14), complementary in shape to a third mounting interface (24) provided by a probe accessory (20), configured to mechanically pair (AP2) removably with said third mounting interface (24) by rotation of the probe accessory (20) relative to the accessory holder (10). The disclosure also relates to an accessory system (SY1) comprising such an accessory holder (10) and such a probe accessory (20). Figure for the abstract: Figure 3

Description

Title of the invention: Accessory holder and accessory system for an ultrasonic probe Prior art

[0001] The present disclosure relates to accessory holders for ultrasound probes and is particularly directed to holders and systems intended to fix an accessory to an ultrasound probe.

[0002] Ultrasonic devices today find numerous applications, particularly in the fields of acoustics, the study of materials, medical imaging and biomedicine.

[0003] For this purpose, an ultrasound device generally comprises an ultrasound probe controlled by means of electrical signals, these signals being for example transmitted between the probe and a control unit. The ultrasound probe (also called an ultrasound transducer device) comprises at least one or a set of ultrasound transducer elements intended to emit and / or receive ultrasound waves to and / or from a medium of interest. Thus, electrical signals representing ultrasound waves can be transmitted to and / or received from these transducer elements, causing the emission and / or reception of ultrasound waves in and / or from the medium in question.

[0004] More particularly, in a conventional ultrasound imaging method, it is possible to use, for example, an ultrasound probe equipped with one or more transducers to convert the electrical signals into ultrasonic waves. The transducers can emit one or successively several ultrasonic beams towards a medium, which corresponds to a transmission operation. Then, in a reception operation, a set of backscattered echo signals are received from the medium by the same set or by another set of transducer elements. In particular, each of the transducer elements can, for example, convert a received echo signal into an electrical signal. The signal can then be processed by the ultrasound system or by any associated system, whether directly connected or not.

[0005] In certain use cases, it may be useful to install an accessory on the ultrasound probe. For example, it is known to attach a position sensor to an ultrasound probe to enable an imaging system to detect the position of the probe in order to help the user position the probe relative to the medium of interest. It is thus possible to superimpose an image (for example an ultrasound image or an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) image) with a representation of the probe or its position in order to locate the position of the probe in the medium in question. With this type of sensor, a given position can be easily identified in the image, for example for observation, surgical intervention, biopsy or other purposes.

[0006] The correct positioning of such a sensor relative to the ultrasound probe is critical to enable precise localization of the probe in space. Any unexpected movement of the sensor on the probe can in particular result in the system detecting a parasitic movement of the probe which does not reflect the actual behavior of the probe.

[0007] To avoid the detection of such parasitic movements, it is therefore appropriate to fix the sensor to the ultrasonic probe in a reliable and robust manner. However, the installation of such a sensor must not be at the expense of other constraints, in particular in terms of ergonomics, ease of installation and cleaning and cost.

[0008] In order to overcome any problem of parasitic movement, it is possible to directly integrate a position sensor into an ultrasonic probe. However, the user of the probe may not always need this sensor, which also results in an increase in the weight of the probe and potentially reduces its ergonomics, or even its autonomy. The presence of the sensor in the probe may in particular require modifying the external shape of the probe, and / or increasing the diameter of the cable connecting the probe to the control unit, which may lead to increased rigidity of the assembly. In addition, it may be desirable to change the sensor depending on the use made of the ultrasonic probe or to use the same sensor on different probes.

[0009] It is known to use a sensor support that allows a position sensor to be removably attached to an ultrasonic probe. However, such a support does not provide a removable, reliable and robust attachment of the sensor to the probe, while ensuring good ergonomics in use and this at a limited cost. If the sensor is clipped onto the support, for example, there is a risk that the sensor will move or become unexpectedly detached from the probe. If, on the other hand, the clip-on attachment requires excessive force to attach or detach the sensor from the probe, this may cause handling problems for the user, particularly if the gripping surface of the sensor is limited or if the user is wearing gloves. In general, the user needs to be able to position or remove the sensor quickly and efficiently in order to limit the risks of damaging the equipment, optimize the machine's operating time and avoid unnecessary handling..

[0010] Furthermore, it is generally difficult to clean such a sensor holder quickly and reliably due to its unsuitable design, which can be problematic in particular in environments with high hygiene requirements, such as in the medical field. Disclosure Statement

[0011] One of the objects of the present disclosure is to solve at least one of the problems or deficiencies described above.

[0012] In particular, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an accessory support making it possible to ensure removable attachment of an accessory to an ultrasound probe, so that this attachment is reliable and robust while guaranteeing good ergonomics and ease of use.

[0013] To this end, according to a first aspect, the present disclosure relates to an accessory support for an ultrasonic probe comprising: - a first attachment interface configured to mechanically pair with an ultrasonic probe; and - a second attachment interface, of a shape complementary to a third attachment interface with which a probe accessory is provided, configured to mechanically pair in a removable manner with said third attachment interface by rotation of the probe accessory relative to the accessory support.

[0014] The accessory support according to the disclosure may include other characteristics which may be taken separately or in combination, in particular among the following embodiments which are presented for illustration purposes only and may be combined or associated unless otherwise stipulated.

[0015] According to one example, one of the second and third attachment interfaces constitutes a male element and the other constitutes a female element, said male and female elements being configured to mechanically pair in rotation by insertion of the male element into the female element.

[0016] According to one example, the female element comprises: - at least one insertion notch configured for insertion therein of a respective locking member with which the male element is provided; and - a positioning slide opening respectively onto each insertion notch to allow movement, by rotation of the probe accessory relative to the accessory support, of the respective locking member in the positioning slide to a locking position thus causing mechanical pairing of the accessory support with the probe accessory.

[0017] According to one example, the second attachment interface of the accessory support constitutes the female element.

[0018] According to one example, one of the second and third attachment interfaces comprises at least one deformable fin configured to deform in response to movement of the respective locking member in the locking slide to the locking position so as to cause a frictional force opposing said movement.

[0019] According to one example, said at least one deformable fin is included in the second accessory bracket attachment interface.

[0020] According to one example, the second fixing interface comprises two deformable fins.

[0021] According to one example, one of the second and third attachment interfaces comprises at least one first cavity, said at least one deformable fin and said at least one first cavity being configured such that each deformable fin engages in a first cavity when said at least one locking member reaches the locking position.

[0022] According to one example, the second attachment interface comprises at least two differently sized insertion notches configured to engage respective locking members of the third attachment interface.

[0023] According to one example, one of the second and third attachment interfaces comprises a second cavity and the other comprises a protrusion configured to engage the second cavity when the at least one locking member reaches the locking position.

[0024] According to one example, the second and third attachment interfaces are configured to be mechanically removably mated by a 1 / 4 turn rotation of the accessory holder relative to the probe accessory, where n = 4.

[0025] According to a second aspect, the present disclosure relates to an accessory support for an ultrasound probe, this accessory support comprising: - an accessory holder as defined according to the first aspect of the present disclosure; and - a probe accessory comprising a third attachment interface of complementary shape to the second attachment interface of the accessory support, wherein the second and third attachment interfaces are configured to mechanically pair in a releasable manner by rotation of the probe accessory relative to the accessory support.

[0026] The accessory system according to the disclosure may include other features which may be taken separately or in combination, in particular among the following embodiments which are presented for illustration purposes only and may be combined or associated unless otherwise stipulated.

[0027] According to one example, the probe accessory comprises at least one of: - a sensor; - a gel dispenser; and - a light source.

[0028] According to one example, the probe accessory comprises a position sensor.

[0029] According to one example, the probe accessory forms a rotary knob.

[0030] According to a third aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method of fixing the accessory system as defined in the second aspect of the present disclosure. This attachment method comprises:

[0031] - insertion of a locking member of the male element into respectively a female element insertion notch; and - moving, by rotation of the probe accessory relative to the accessory holder, the locking member in, respectively, the positioning slide to a locking position thereby causing mechanical pairing of the accessory holder with the probe accessory.

[0032] The present disclosure thus advantageously makes it possible to offer an accessory support for an ultrasonic probe ensuring removable attachment of an accessory to an ultrasonic probe, this attachment being reliable and robust while guaranteeing good ergonomics of use and easy, efficient and rapid cleaning.

[0033] The characteristics and advantages of the disclosure will appear more precisely on reading the description which follows, given solely as a non-limiting example, and made with reference to the appended figures. In particular, the examples illustrated in the figures can be combined with each other, except for any inconsistency mentioned or notorious. Brief description of the figures

[0034] Other characteristics and advantages of the present disclosure will emerge from the description of the non-limiting exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure below, with reference to the appended figures 1 to 15, in which:

[0035] [Fig-1] schematically illustrates an ultrasound system comprising a ul probe trasonorous, according to a particular example;

[0036] [Fig.2] schematically illustrates an accessory holder and an accessory system for an ultrasound probe, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] [Fig.3] schematically illustrates the accessory holder and accessory system of [Fig.2], according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] [Fig.4] schematically illustrates an accessory holder and an accessory system, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] [Fig.5] is an exploded perspective view schematically showing an accessory system comprising an accessory holder and an ultrasound probe accessory, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] [Fig.6] schematically illustrates a mechanical pairing of a probe accessory to an accessory support (position PI), according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] [Fig.7] schematically illustrates a mechanical pairing of a probe accessory to an accessory support (position P2), according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure ;

[0042] [Fig.8] schematically represents a method of fixing an accessory system for an ultrasound probe, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0043] [Fig.9] schematically illustrates an interface for fixing an accessory support for an ultrasound probe, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] [Fig. 10] is a sectional view schematically showing the attachment interface of the accessory holder of [Fig.9], according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0045] [Fig. 11] is a perspective view schematically showing the attachment interface of the accessory support according to Figures 9 and 10, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0046] [Fig. 12] schematically illustrates an interface for attaching a probe accessory, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0047] [Fig. 13] schematically illustrates perspective and bottom views of the probe accessory attachment interface of [Fig. 12], according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0048] [Fig. 14] schematically illustrates an accessory holder and an accessory system for an ultrasound probe, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0049] [Fig. 15] is a view showing an ultrasonic probe equipped with an accessory holder and a probe accessory, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Description of the embodiments

[0050] An ultrasonic probe, also called an ultrasonic probe or ultrasonic device or transducer device, is a device for transmitting and / or receiving ultrasonic waves, controllable by means of electrical signals, these signals being for example transmitted between the ultrasonic probe and a control unit of a control system.

[0051] [Fig. 1] schematically represents, purely for illustrative purposes, an exemplary embodiment of an ultrasonic system 1 comprising an ultrasonic probe 2. This probe 2 may comprise one or a plurality of transducer elements (for example one or more piezoelectric elements) configured to emit and / or receive ultrasonic waves W. Each transducer element is thus configured to convert an electrical signal received from the system 1 into ultrasonic waves and / or vice versa. The nature of these waves depends on the system 1 and / or the probe 2, in particular in view of the use made of it and the objectives to be achieved.

[0052] The transducer elements can thus be configured to transmit (a) ultrasonic waves (or pulses) W into the medium M and / or to receive (b) a plurality of ultrasonic signals W from the medium M, possibly in response to the transmission (a) of the waves W.

[0053] According to one example, the ultrasonic probe 2 is configured to emit ultrasonic waves W. According to another example, the ultrasonic probe 2 is configured to receive ultrasonic waves W. According to another example, the ultrasonic probe 2 is configured to both emit and receive ultrasonic waves W.

[0054] The transducer elements of the probe 2 may comprise piezoelectric crystals and / or other components which may be configured to generate and / or record and / or receive signals.

[0055] As illustrated, the ultrasound system 1 may comprise a processing unit (or device) 3 configured to drive the ultrasound probe 2 by means of electrical signals which are exchanged (or transmitted) between the system 1 and the ultrasound probe 2.

[0056] The processing unit 3 is configured to generate electrical signals which are transmitted to the ultrasonic probe 2 to cause the emission, by said probe, of ultrasonic waves W in the direction of and / or in a medium M. The electrical signals thus generated are representative of (or define the) ultrasonic waves emitted in the medium M.

[0057] The processing unit 3 can also be configured to process (or interpret) electrical signals received from the ultrasound probe 2. These signals are representative of ultrasound waves received by the probe 2 from the medium M. These waves form for example one or more ultrasound echoes, that is to say a response from the medium M to the previously emitted ultrasound waves.

[0058] The system 1 may comprise the ultrasound probe 2. Alternatively, the ultrasound probe 2 may be external to the system 1. For example, the ultrasound probe 2 may be connected to the system 1 by a cable 4 ([Fig.l]) or may communicate wirelessly with it.

[0059] The system 1 may be an imaging system, for example in the medical field. The images generated by the system 1 may either be analyzed in real time, for example by a user, or analyzed later and / or in a location other than that in which the system 1 is located.

[0060] The system 1 may be a medical system, for example an ultrasound system. Consequently, the ultrasound probe 2 is for example an ultrasound probe.

[0061] For example, the system 1 can be associated with an ultrasound probe 2, in order to study a medium M, in particular to collect ultrasound data from such a medium M. The medium M thus observed can be of various natures depending on the case. It can be, for example, living tissues and / or in particular human tissues. The observation of a medium M comprising one or more mineral structures for example is also possible (gravel, volcano, etc.).

[0062] According to other examples, the system 1 and / or the ultrasound probe 2 are configured for communication, imaging or scanning purposes, for example in the field of medical imaging, radar, sonar, seismology, wireless communications, radio astronomy, acoustics and biomedicine.

[0063] Examples of implementation of an accessory support 10 for an ultrasonic probe, and of an accessory system SY1 comprising such a support 10, as well as a corresponding fixing method, will now be described in what follows with reference jointly to figures 2-15 provided by way of illustration.

[0064] Unless otherwise indicated, elements common or similar to several figures bear the same reference signs and have identical or similar characteristics, so that these common elements are generally not described again for the sake of simplicity.

[0065] The terms "first(s)", "second(s)", etc.) are used in this document by arbitrary convention to enable different elements (such as operations, devices, etc.) implemented in the embodiments described below to be identified and distinguished.

[0066] In the following examples, an accessory support 10, and more generally an accessory system SY1, configured to be fixed to an ultrasonic probe 2 as previously described with reference to [Fig. 1], are considered for purely illustrative purposes. As is apparent from Figures 2-15, the configuration of the accessory support 10 and of the accessory system SY1, in particular in terms of shape, size, etc., can be adapted as appropriate, and in particular as a function of the ultrasonic probe 2 considered and / or of the accessory 20.

[0067] The accessory support 10 is a support for an ultrasonic probe, namely for the ultrasonic probe 2 in the examples considered, this support being configured to support or fix, in a removable manner, an accessory 20 (also called a probe accessory) to the ultrasonic probe 2. The nature and configuration of this accessory 20 may vary depending on the case. For purely illustrative purposes, it is considered in the examples which follow that the probe accessory 20 is a second support, called a device support, configured to contain or support an accessory device, namely a sensor for example. Variants of this accessory 20 are described subsequently.

[0068] The accessory system SY1 (Figures 2-3) comprises the accessory support 10 and the accessory 20, these two elements 10 and 20 being able to be fixed (or attached) together in a removably manner as described below. The accessory 20 is a separate element from the accessory support 10.

[0069] The accessory system SY 1 and the ultrasonic probe 2 together form a probe system SY2 (figures 2-3) in this example.

[0070] More specifically, as illustrated in particular in figures 2-4, the accessory support 10 comprises two fixing interfaces (also called locking interfaces, or fastening devices), namely a first fixing interface 12 and a second fixing interface 14.

[0071] The first attachment interface 12 is configured to mechanically pair (or be paired) with the ultrasound probe 2. In other words, this attachment interface 12 is designed to mechanically couple (or fix) together the ultrasound probe 2 and the accessory support 10. The accessory support 20 is therefore an element external to (or distinct from) the ultrasound probe 2. The attachment interface 12 may comprise any attachment mechanism making it possible to anchor the accessory support 10 securely to the probe 2.

[0072] In the examples described, the attachment interface 12 is configured to mechanically pair (or associate or fix) in a removable manner the accessory support 10, and more generally the accessory system SY1, to the ultrasound probe 2. The mechanical pairing (or coupling) of the accessory support 10 to the probe 2 is denoted API ([Fig.3]). Once the API pairing has been carried out, a user can therefore, if necessary, detach the accessory support 10 from the ultrasound probe 2 by a decoupling (or detachment) operation reverse to the APL pairing operation. Variants in which the API mechanical pairing of the accessory support 10 on the probe 2 is permanent are however possible.

[0073] As illustrated in figures 2-4, the accessory support 10 can be configured so that the ultrasound probe 2 can be inserted therein. To do this, the accessory support 10 can comprise an internal surface of a shape complementary to the shape of at least a portion of the ultrasound probe 2. The accessory support 10 forms for example a cavity configured so that all or part of the ultrasound probe 2 can be inserted therein.

[0074] According to one example, the first attachment interface 12 comprises an articulated arm which is rotatably mounted on the body 10a of the accessory support 10. Once the ultrasonic probe 2 is inserted into the accessory support 10, the articulated arm can be moved in rotation from an open position to a closed position (and vice versa), thus causing the mechanical API coupling of the accessory support 10 on the ultrasonic probe 2 (and vice versa the mechanical decoupling of these elements). The configuration of this arm can vary depending on the case and depending on the type of probe used. An example of implementation of this articulated arm is shown in [Fig.4].

[0075] The second fixing interface 14 of the accessory support 10 is of a shape complementary to a third fixing interface 24 (figures 2-3) with which the probe accessory 20 is equipped (or provided). In other words, the accessory 20 comprises the third fixing interface 24 of a shape complementary to that of the second fixing interface 14. The fixing interface 14 of the accessory support 10 is thus configured to mechanically pair in a removable (or reversible) manner with the third fixing interface 24 by rotation of the probe accessory 20 relative to the accessory support 10. The mechanical pairing (or coupling) of the accessory support 10 with the accessory 20 is noted AP2 ([Fig.3]).

[0076] The second and third fixing interfaces 14 and 24 together form a fixing system SY3 ([Fig.5]).

[0077] Their mutual complementarity of shape allows the attachment interfaces 14 and 24 to cooperate together mechanically to allow attachment, in a removable (or reversible) manner, of the accessory 20 to the accessory support 10. Once the AP2 pairing has been carried out, a user can therefore, if necessary, detach (or uncouple, or separate) the accessory 20 from the accessory support 10 by a decoupling (or detachment) operation reverse to the AP2 pairing operation. The reversible (or removable) nature of the AP2 pairing means that a user can selectively attach and detach the attachment interfaces 14 and 24 relative to each other.

[0078] The shape complementarity between the attachment interfaces 14 and 24 can be ensured in various ways. According to one example, one of the second and third attachment interfaces 14 and 24 constitutes a male element and the other constitutes a female element, these male and female elements being configured to mechanically pair (couple) in rotation by insertion of the male element into the female element.

[0079] As illustrated in particular in figures 2-5, it is assumed hereinafter for purely illustrative purposes that the third fixing interface 24 constitutes the male element and that the second fixing interface 14 constitutes the female element. Thus, the fixing interfaces 14 and 24 are configured to mechanically pair in rotation by inserting (all or part) of the fixing interface 24 into (all or part) of the fixing interface 14.

[0080] Variants according to the reverse configuration are however possible. Thus, the exemplary embodiments described in the present disclosure can be applied analogously to the alternative case where the second fixing interface 14 constitutes the male element and the third fixing interface 24 constitutes the female element.

[0081] The configuration of the second fixing interface 14 as a female element advantageously makes it possible to obtain a more robust mechanical pairing AP2 than in the reverse configuration, in particular if the ultrasound probe 2 is considered as a fixed part and the accessory 20 as a mobile part. The accessory 20 can for example be qualified as a mobile part if this part is manually grasped and moved by the user during operations OP1 and OP2 while the accessory support 20 remains substantially immobile in space.

[0082] Note that the relative rotation OP1 of the accessory 20 with respect to the accessory support 10 can be achieved in various ways, for example by operating a rotation of the accessory 20 while maintaining the accessory support 10 in a fixed position, or by operating a rotation of the accessory support 10 while maintaining the accessory 20 in a fixed position, or even by operating rotations (in opposite directions) of both the accessory support 10 and the accessory 20.

[0083] Figures 6-7 represent the mechanical pairing process AP2 of the accessory 20 with the accessory holder 10 according to a particular example. [Fig.8] represents in the form of a diagram the steps of a fixing method aimed at fixing together the accessory holder 10 and the accessory 20 according to the mechanical pairing AP2.

[0084] As illustrated by way of example in Figures 3-8, the mechanical pairing AP2 is accomplished by successively performing an insertion operation OP1 and a rotation operation OP2. It is assumed at an initial stage that the fixing interfaces 12 and 24 are in a first unpaired state STI. During the insertion operation OP1 (step S2, [Fig.8]), the fixing interface 24 of the accessory 20 is inserted (or engaged) OP1 into the fixing interface 14 of the accessory support 10 (for example by a translational movement). Once the fixing interface 24 is inserted into position in the fixing interface 14, a rotation OP2 of the accessory 20 relative to the accessory support 10 is carried out along an axis of rotation AX1 (step S4, [Fig. 8]) from a first angular position PI into a second angular position P2 called the locking position, thus causing the mechanical pairing AP2 of the accessory 20 with the accessory support 10.The mechanical pairing AP2 thus allows the fixing interfaces 14 and 24 to be switched from the unpaired STI state to a second paired ST2 state (position P2).

[0085] It is considered for purely illustrative purposes that the fixing interfaces 14 and 24 are configured so that the rotation OP1 (S4) is carried out in the clockwise direction (as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 6-7). According to a variant, the rotation OP1 is carried out in the counterclockwise direction.

[0086] According to one example, the second and third attachment interfaces 14 and 24 are configured to be mechanically paired together in a releasable (or reversible) manner by a rotation OP2 of 1 / n revolution of the accessory support 10 relative to the probe accessory 20, where n is an integer between 2 and 4.

[0087] According to one example, n = 4. In other words, the second and third attachment interfaces 14 and 24 can be configured to be mechanically paired together in a removable manner by a rotation OP2 of the accessory support 10 relative to the probe accessory 20 (Figures 6-7). This particular configuration is advantageous in that it makes it possible to obtain a good compromise between speed of execution of the mechanical pairing AP2 by a user and robustness of the pairing AP2.

[0088] As illustrated in the examples of Figures 2-5, the ultrasonic probe 2 comprises an emission outlet (or emitting part) 5, located at a distal end of the probe, configured to emit ultrasonic waves W. The accessory support 10 is configured so that, once the mechanical API pairing has been carried out, this emission outlet 5 is uncovered or free (i.e. not covered by the accessory support 10), which allows ultrasonic waves W to be emitted from this outlet 5. According to one example, the accessory support 20 comprises an opening positioned in correspondence with the emission outlet 5 to uncover the latter when the mechanical API pairing of the accessory support 10 with the probe 2 is carried out.

[0089] The design of the fixing interfaces 14 and 24 can be adapted as appropriate. Examples of implementations of these fixing interfaces are now described with reference to FIGS. 9-13.

[0090] In the following examples, it is assumed that the accessory 20 comprises at least one locking member 26 (FIGS. 12-13) configured to allow the locking of the fixing interface 24 with the fixing interface 14 during the mechanical pairing AP2. Other variants are conceivable as indicated below.

[0091] According to an example illustrated in figures 9-11, the female element, namely the fixing interface 14 in this example, comprises at least one insertion notch 15 and a positioning slide 16 associated respectively with each insertion notch 15. Each insertion notch 15 is configured so that a respective locking member 26 with which the accessory 20 is provided is inserted therein. In addition, a positioning slide 16 opens respectively onto each insertion notch 15 to allow a movement, by rotation OP2 of the probe accessory 20 relative to the accessory support 10, of the respective locking member 26 in the positioning slide 15 to a locking position P2, this movement thus causing the mechanical pairing AP2 of the accessory support 10 with the probe accessory 20.

[0092] Variants according to an inverse configuration are also possible, variants in which the fixing interface 24 of the accessory 20 comprises the insertion notch(s) 16 and a positioning slide 16 associated respectively with each insertion notch 15 and in which the fixing interface 14 of the accessory support 10 comprises the corresponding locking member(s) 26. Also, the various examples described in this disclosure apply analogously to this inverse configuration.

[0093] As illustrated in Figures 9-13, it is assumed in the examples which follow for purely illustrative purposes that the accessory 20 comprises two locking members 26. For this purpose, the fixing interface 14 of the accessory support 10 therefore comprises two insertion notches 15 and two positioning slides 16 opening respectively tively on these insertion notches 15 to allow a displacement, by rotation OP2 of the probe accessory 20 relative to the accessory support 10, of the locking members 26 in their respective positioning slide 15 to a locking position P2, this displacement thus causing the mechanical pairing AP2 of the accessory support 10 with the probe accessory 20.

[0094] Note, however, that variants with a different number of locking members 26, and therefore of insertion notches 15 and associated positioning slides 16, are possible. For example, the fixing interface 24 of the accessory 20 may comprise a single locking member 26. In this case, the fixing interface 14 of the accessory support 10 may comprise a single insertion notch 15 as well as a single associated positioning slide 16 to allow the movement of the single locking member 26 to the locking position P2. Alternatively, implementations with more than two locking members 26, and as many insertion notches 15 and positioning slides 16, are possible. The use of two or more locking members 26 advantageously makes it possible to make the mechanical pairing AP2 robust while limiting its manufacturing complexity.

[0095] Thus, in the example considered (figures 8-13), during the insertion step S2, the insertion operation OP1 causes the insertion of each of the two locking members 26 into a corresponding insertion notch 15 provided for this purpose in the fixing interface 14 of the accessory support 10. Once the locking members 26 are inserted into position in the fixing interface 14, the rotation OP2 of the accessory 20 relative to the accessory support 10 is carried out along the rotation axis AX1 from the first angular position PI to the second angular position P2 (locking position), thus causing the mechanical pairing AP2 of the accessory 20 with the accessory support 10. The movement of the locking members 26 from the position PI to the position P2 along their respective positioning slide 16 thus makes it possible to mechanically pair together (AP2) the fixing interfaces 14 and 24.Thus, when the locking members 26 are positioned according to the position PI, the fixing interfaces 12 and 24 are in the first unpaired state STI. When the locking members 26 are positioned according to the position P2, the fixing interfaces 12 and 24 are in the second paired state ST2.

[0096] As illustrated in particular in figures 9-11, the fixing interface 14 of the accessory support 10 may comprise a cavity 14a configured to receive at least a portion of the fixing interface 24 of the accessory 20. This cavity 14a facilitates the insertion OP1 of the locking members 26 into their respective insertion notches 15. The positioning slide(s) 16 may then be formed in edge of this cavity 14a to allow easy movement of the locking members 26 in the slides 16 by rotation OP2 of the accessory 20 relative to the accessory support 30, along the axis of rotation AX1 (figures 3 and 10).

[0097] In the examples considered, the positioning slides 16 are each defined by at least one upper slide edge 15a (Figures 9-11). The insertion notches 15 are then each positioned so as to define the entrance of a respective positioning slide 15. Each locking member 26 can thus reach a respective slide 16 through the associated insertion notch 15.

[0098] The configuration of the locking members 26 (in particular in terms of position, shape, number, etc.) can be adapted according to that of the insertion notches 15 and the positioning slides 16, and vice versa. As shown by way of example in Figures 12-13, the locking members 26 can be (or comprise) various rigid elements, for example in the form of fins, protuberances or pins, capable of being inserted into the insertion notches 15 and of moving by rotation OP2 in the positioning slides 16 to their respective locking position P2.

[0099] As illustrated in Figures 9-11, each positioning slide 16 may be provided with an end-of-travel stop 16a, marking the locking position P2 of the locking member 26 that it receives. These stops 16a are configured so as to block the locking members 26 when they reach their locking position P2 in their respective positioning slide 16 at the end of rotation OP2. Thanks to these stops 16a, the locking of the accessory 20 at the desired position relative to the accessory support 10 can be ensured.

[0100] According to one example, the second attachment interface 14 comprises two insertion notches 15 (or even 3 or more), potentially of different sizes, these insertion notches being configured so that respective locking members 26 of the third attachment interface 24 engage (or are inserted) therein during the insertion operation OP1 (step S2, [Fig. 8]). As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 11 for example, one of the insertion notches 15 is larger than the other. Similarly, one of the locking members 26 is larger than the other, each of these locking members 26 being configured to be inserted into an associated insertion notch 15. This configuration advantageously makes it possible to form a keying device at the attachment interface 14 to avoid any error in positioning the accessory 20 relative to the accessory support 10.To do this, one of the two locking members 26 can be configured to be larger (or wider) than another insertion notch 15, namely in this example the one designed to receive the other locking member 26. In this way, only one orientation of the accessory 20 is possible relative to the accessory support 10, which makes it possible to avoid any error. positioning at the time of AP2 mechanical pairing. This configuration can be particularly advantageous in certain usage contexts, for example in a surgical intervention context where it is necessary to manipulate the various elements involved efficiently, quickly and reliably, despite a restrictive environment (due for example to wearing gloves, noise or other disturbances, stress, high stakes in the event of an error, etc.).

[0101] According to one example, the two insertion notches 15 of the fixing interface 14 are positioned diametrically opposite the axis of rotation AX1 of the accessory 20 relative to the accessory support 10. This configuration allows robust and easy mechanical pairing AP2 for the user.

[0102] According to an example, one of the second and third attachment interfaces 14 and 24 comprises at least one deformable fin 17 configured to deform in response to the movement of a respective locking member 26 in its locking slide 16 to its locking position P2 so as to cause a friction force opposing said movement. As illustrated in FIGS. 9-11, it is assumed by way of example that the deformable fins 17 are two in number and are included in the attachment interface 14 of the accessory support 10. Note that various configurations in terms of, in particular, the number, positioning and shape of these deformable fins 17 are possible. Generally, at least one deformable fin 14 may be disposed in the second attachment interface 14, or in the third attachment interface 24, or in both.

[0103] More specifically, in the examples illustrated in Figures 9-11, the two deformable fins 17 are arranged at the bottom 14b of the cavity 14a formed in the fixing interface 14 of the accessory support 10. These fins 17 are configured to deform under the effect of the movement of the locking members 26 from the position PI to the locking position P2 during the rotation OP2, thus causing a friction force opposing (contrary) to the movement of the locking members 26. This friction force results from the friction of the deformable fins 17 against a contact surface of the third fixing interface 24 (for example a contact surface of the locking members 26). To do this, the deformable fins 17 can be formed of an elastic material (for example a polyamide (PA) or steel) chosen according to its elastic properties and the needs on a case-by-case basis.The material is preferably chosen with a high elastic limit to guarantee a spring effect of the deformable fins 17. .

[0104] It is advantageous to place the deformable fin(s) 17 at the level of the fixing interface 14 of the probe support 10 (rather than at the level of the fixing interface 24) insofar as this makes it possible to obtain a more robust locking system SY3, in particular if one considers that the probe support 10 (and more generally the ultrasonic probe 2) constitutes a fixed part. Alternatively, the deformable fin(s) 17 may however be placed at the level of the fixing interface 24 of the accessory 20.

[0105] It is advantageous for the deformable fins 17 to be two or more in number, since this makes the locking system SY3 more robust and easier to handle. As illustrated, the deformable fins 17 may be two in number, which makes it possible to limit the size and to allow a good compromise between the dimensions of the fins and the holding force obtained. Such a compromise can in particular be advantageously achieved by positioning two deformable fins 17 diametrically opposite one another with respect to the axis of rotation AX1 of the accessory 20 relative to the accessory support 10.

[0106] According to an example illustrated in figures 9-13, the fixing interface 24 comprises two cavities 27 configured so that a respective deformable fin 17 engages therein when the locking members 26 reach their locking position P2 (at the end of rotation OP2). The arrangement of these cavities 27 makes it easier to maintain the probe accessory 20 in the locking position P2 relative to the accessory support 10. To do this, each cavity 27 may have a shape complementary to that of the deformable fin 17 that it receives.

[0107] It should be noted that the configuration of these cavities 27, in particular in terms of number and positioning, can be adapted as appropriate depending on the configuration of the deformable fin(s) 27. Generally, at least one of the second and third fixing interfaces 14 and 24 can comprise such a cavity 27 ([Fig. 13]) configured to receive a corresponding deformable fin 27 when the locking member(s) 26 reach their locking position P2 (at the end of rotation OP2). Alternatively, a single cavity 27 can be provided in the fixing interface 14 (and / or in the fixing interface 24) so ​​that a single deformable fin 27 provided in the fixing interface 24 (and / or in the fixing interface 14 respectively) can be inserted therein. Alternatively, a plurality of such cavities 27 may be provided in the attachment interface 14 and / or in the attachment interface 24.

[0108] According to an example illustrated in figures 9-13, the second fixing interface 14 comprises two protrusions 18 and the third fixing interface 24 comprises two corresponding cavities (or recesses) 28. Each protrusion 18 is configured to engage in a respective cavity 28 when the locking members 26 reach their locking position P2 at the end of rotation OP2. To do this, the protrusions 18 and the cavities 28 may have complementary shapes to cooperate mechanically together according to male-female type systems. The provision of such protrusions 18 and such cavities 28 advantageously makes it possible to obtain more robust locking during mechanical pairing AP2.

[0109] Variants are however possible, in particular in terms of the number and positioning of the protuberances 18 and the cavities 18. As a variant, the protuberance(s) 18 may be provided in the fixing interface 24 and the cavities 28 may be provided in the fixing interface 14. More generally, one of the second and third fixing interfaces 14 and 24 may thus comprise a cavity 28 and the other comprise a protuberance 18 configured to engage in the cavity 18 when said at least one locking member 26 reaches the locking position P2.

[0110] According to an example illustrated in figures 9-13, each locking member 26 of the accessory 20 comprises a respective cavity 28, and reciprocally each positioning slide 16 of the fixing interface 14 comprises a protuberance 18 configured to engage in a respective cavity 28 when the locking members 26 reach their locking position P2 at the end of rotation OP2. This advantageously makes it possible to obtain particularly robust locking during mechanical pairing AP2.

[0111] Note that various configurations of the accessory support 10 and the probe accessory 20 are possible, in particular in terms of shape, size, dimensions, etc. The configuration of the accessory support 10 and the probe accessory 20 can in particular be adapted according to the configuration of the ultrasound probe 2.

[0112] Figures 14 and 15 show two variant embodiments of the accessory support 10 and the probe accessory 20, the respective configurations of which are adapted according to the configuration of the ultrasonic probe 2.

[0113] The present disclosure thus advantageously makes it possible to offer an accessory support 10 for an ultrasonic probe ensuring removable attachment of an accessory 20 to an ultrasonic probe 2, this attachment being reliable and robust while guaranteeing good ergonomics of use and easy, efficient and rapid cleaning.

[0114] In particular, the configuration of the accessory support 10 and the accessory 20 advantageously allows mechanical pairing by rotation of one relative to the other, which facilitates handling by the user (improved ergonomics) and makes it possible to limit the time required for pairing and the risks of incorrect positioning.

[0115] A user can easily attach and detach the accessory 20 with a good compromise between the effort required and the robustness of the hold. It is advantageously possible to switch between various accessories 20 which are attached to the ultrasound probe 2 by means of the accessory support 10.

[0116] The particular configuration of the accessory support 10, and more generally of the accessory system SY1, advantageously allows easy, efficient and rapid cleaning of the assembly.

[0117] Furthermore, the nature of the probe accessory 20 may vary depending on the case. The accessory support 10, and more generally the accessory system SY1, may in fact be adapted to advantageously allow various probe accessories 20 to be fixed to an ultrasonic probe 2.

[0118] By way of example, the probe accessory 20 comprises at least one of: - a sensor; - a gel dispenser; and - a light source.

[0119] The probe accessory 20 may thus be (or comprise) a sensor, and / or a gel dispenser and / or a light source. Other types of accessory are however possible.

[0120] According to one example, the probe accessory 20 is a subject (a human or an animal for example). In this case, the accessory support 10 advantageously makes it possible to removably attach the ultrasound probe 2 to a subject, such as an individual for example. It is for example possible to attach such an ultrasound probe to an anatomical part of a subject in order to carry out tests, for example to carry out ultrasound scans.

[0121] According to one example, the accessory 20 comprises a sensor, for example a position, movement, pressure, optical, and / or temperature sensor. The accessory 20 comprises for example a position sensor (of magnetic or other type) configured to detect the position of the ultrasound probe 2 in space when the accessory 20 is attached to the ultrasound probe 2 by means of the accessory support 10.

[0122] According to one example, the accessory 20 comprises a light source (e.g., a lighting device) configured to illuminate an area of ​​interest near the ultrasound probe 2 when the accessory 20 is attached to the ultrasound probe 2 by means of the accessory holder 10.

[0123] According to one example, the accessory 20 comprises a gel dispenser configured to dispense a gel, for example for application to the ultrasound probe 2 and / or to an area of ​​interest near the ultrasound probe 2.

[0124] According to one example, the probe accessory 20 constitutes a second support, called a device support, configured to contain or support an accessory device, namely for example a sensor and / or a gel dispenser and / or a light source as previously described.

[0125] According to one example, the accessory 20 is a second support comprising a housing configured to contain (or receive) a sensor as previously described, for example a position sensor (of magnetic or other type) and / or a temperature sensor.

[0126] Furthermore, the probe accessory 20 may have various shape configurations. depending on the case. According to one example, the accessory 20 forms a rotary button. This button thus advantageously serves as a gripping element which can be easily manipulated (in particular in rotation) during the mechanical pairing AP2 of the accessory 20 with the accessory support 10.

[0127] As understood by a person skilled in the art, all the embodiments and variants described above, some of which have been deliberately simplified to facilitate explanations, constitute only non-limiting examples of implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, a person skilled in the art may envisage any adaptation or combination of the embodiments and variants described above, in order to meet a particular need.

[0128] The present invention is therefore not limited to the embodiments described above but extends in particular to a control method which would include secondary steps without thereby departing from the scope of the present invention. The same would apply to a control device, or more generally to a control system, for implementing such a method.

Claims

Claims

1. Accessory support (10) for an ultrasonic probe comprising: - a first fixing interface (12) configured to mechanically pair with an ultrasonic probe (2); and - a second fixing interface (14), of complementary shape to a third fixing interface (24) with which a probe accessory is provided, configured to mechanically pair (AP2) in a removable manner with said third fixing interface (24) by rotation (OP2) of the probe accessory relative to the accessory support.

2. An accessory holder according to claim 1, wherein one of the second and third attachment interfaces (14, 24) constitutes a male element and the other constitutes a female element, said male and female elements being configured to mechanically mate (AP2) in rotation by insertion of the male element into the female element.

3. Accessory holder according to claim 2, wherein the female element comprises: - at least one insertion notch (15) configured for the insertion therein of a respective locking member (26) with which the male element is provided; and - a positioning slide (16) opening respectively on each insertion notch (15) to allow a movement, by rotation (OP2) of the probe accessory (20) relative to the accessory holder (10), of the respective locking member in the positioning slide to a locking position (P2) thus causing the mechanical pairing (AP2) of the accessory holder with the probe accessory.

4. An accessory holder according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the second attachment interface (14) of the accessory holder (10) constitutes the female element.

5. An accessory mount according to any one of claims 3 or 4, wherein one of the second and third attachment interfaces (14, 24) comprises at least one deformable fin (17) configured to deform in response to movement of the respective locking member (26) in the locking slide to the locking position (P2) so as to cause a friction force opposing said movement.

6. An accessory holder according to claim 5, wherein said at at least one deformable fin (17) is included in the second fixing interface (14) of the accessory support (10).

7. An accessory mount according to claim 6, wherein the second attachment interface (14) comprises two deformable fins (17).

8. An accessory holder according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein one of the second and third attachment interfaces (14, 24) comprises at least one first cavity (27), said at least one deformable fin (17) and said at least one first cavity (27) being configured so that each deformable fin engages in a first cavity when said at least one locking member (26) reaches the locking position (P2).

9. An accessory mount according to any one of claims 3 to 8, wherein the second attachment interface (14) comprises at least two insertion notches (15) of different size configured to engage respective locking members (26) of the third attachment interface (24).

10. An accessory mount according to any one of claims 3 to 9, wherein one of the second and third attachment interfaces (14, 24) comprises a second cavity (28) and the other comprises a protrusion (18) configured to engage the second cavity when said at least one locking member (26) reaches the locking position (P2).

11. An accessory holder according to any preceding claim, wherein the second and third attachment interfaces (14, 24) are configured to be mechanically removably mated by a 1 / 4 turn rotation of the accessory holder relative to the probe accessory.

12. Accessory system (SY1) for an ultrasound probe comprising: - an accessory support (10) as defined in any one of the preceding claims; and - a probe accessory (20) comprising a third fixing interface (24) of complementary shape to the second fixing interface (14) of the accessory support, in which the second and third fixing interfaces are configured to mechanically pair (AP2) in a removable manner by rotation (OP2) of the probe accessory relative to the accessory support.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the probe accessory (20) includes at least one of: - a sensor; - a gel dispenser; and - a light source.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the probe accessory (20) comprises a position sensor.

15. A system according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the probe accessory (20) forms a rotary knob.

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