Ultrasonic diagnostic system and image processing device

Abstract

To provide a system which is capable of generating an ultrasonic image by an ultrasonic diagnostic device and displaying the ultrasonic image by the ultrasonic diagnostic device and capable of implementing diagnosis using the ultrasonic image by an external device.SOLUTION: An ultrasonic diagnostic device 10 acquires Raw data by transmission and reception of an ultrasonic, and applies first image processing to the Raw data to generate a first ultrasonic image. The Raw data is information-transmitted from the ultrasonic diagnostic device 10 to an image processing device 12. The image processing device 12 applies second image processing different from the first image processing to the Raw data to generate a second ultrasonic image. The image processing device 12 displays the second ultrasonic image on a display of the image processing device 12.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an ultrasound diagnostic system and an image processing device. [Background technology]

[0002] Typically, an ultrasound diagnostic device obtains raw data (e.g., data that has not been processed to generate an ultrasound image for display) by transmitting and receiving ultrasound, applies image processing to the raw data to generate an ultrasound image, and displays the ultrasound image on a display.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes an apparatus that generates an ultrasound image based on raw data received from an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2009-112357 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In general, an ultrasound diagnostic device acquires raw data by transmitting and receiving ultrasound, generates an ultrasound image by applying image processing to the raw data, and displays the ultrasound image on a display.

[0006] However, if an ultrasound diagnostic device does not have a function for performing a diagnosis (for example, a measurement function or an advanced function such as three-dimensional image processing), the ultrasound diagnostic device cannot perform a diagnosis using the function.

[0007] It is conceivable to transmit an ultrasound image generated by an ultrasound diagnostic device to an external device and display it on the external device. However, a person (e.g., a doctor or a family member of a subject) who observes or analyzes the ultrasound image displayed on the display of the external device does not necessarily want to observe or analyze only the ultrasound image generated by the ultrasound diagnostic device. Therefore, the needs of such a person cannot be met by simply transmitting the ultrasound image displayed on the ultrasound diagnostic device to an external device and displaying it on the display of the external device.

[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that generates an ultrasound image in an ultrasound diagnostic device, displays the ultrasound image in the ultrasound diagnostic device, and is capable of performing diagnosis using the ultrasound image in an external device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure is an invention according to claim 1, which is an ultrasound diagnostic system including an ultrasound diagnostic device and an image processing device, wherein the ultrasound diagnostic device includes an acquisition unit that acquires Raw data by transmitting and receiving ultrasound, a first image processing unit that generates a first ultrasound image by applying a first image processing to the Raw data, a first display control unit that causes the first ultrasound image generated by the first image processing unit to be displayed on a first display of the ultrasound diagnostic device, and a first information transmission unit that transmits the Raw data to which the first image processing has not been applied by the first image processing unit to the image processing device, and the image processing device includes a second information receiving unit that receives the Raw data, a second image processing unit that generates a second ultrasound image different from the first ultrasound image by applying a second image processing different from the first image processing to the Raw data, and a second display control unit that causes the second ultrasound image generated by the second image processing unit to be displayed on a second display of the image processing device.

[0010] The second image processing may be image processing that is not implemented by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus.

[0011] The second image processing may be image processing for generating an image that requires a higher level of computing power than the first image processing.

[0012] The second image processing may be image processing for generating an image for measurement, and the second ultrasonic image may be an image for measurement.

[0013] The second display control unit may cause the second display to display an image that shows a schematic representation of an operation panel provided in the ultrasound diagnostic device, the image representing a user interface for accepting input of parameters for displaying an image used for diagnosis or measurement.

[0014] The ultrasonic diagnostic device may be a portable ultrasonic diagnostic device.

[0015] Another aspect of the present disclosure is an image processing device including: a second information receiving unit that receives Raw data from an ultrasound diagnostic device that acquires Raw data by transmitting and receiving ultrasound and generates a first ultrasound image by applying first image processing to the Raw data; a second image processing unit that generates a second ultrasound image different from the first ultrasound image by applying second image processing different from the first image processing to the Raw data; and a second display control unit that displays the second ultrasound image generated by the second image processing unit on a display.

[0016] Another aspect of the present disclosure is an ultrasound diagnostic system including an ultrasound diagnostic device and an image processing device, wherein the ultrasound diagnostic device includes an acquisition unit that acquires Raw data by transmitting and receiving ultrasound, a first image processing unit that generates a first ultrasound image by applying a first image processing to the Raw data, a first display control unit that displays the first ultrasound image generated by the first image processing unit on a first display of the ultrasound diagnostic device, and a first information transmission unit that links the Raw data to which the first image processing has not been applied by the first image processing unit with first information indicating the first image processing and transmits the information to the image processing device. the image processing device includes a second information receiving unit that receives the Raw data and the first information that are linked to each other, a second image processing unit that generates the first ultrasonic image by applying the first image processing indicated by the first information to the Raw data, and generates a second ultrasonic image different from the first ultrasonic image by applying a second image processing different from the first image processing to the Raw data, and a second display control unit that displays the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image generated by the second image processing unit on a second display of the image processing device.

[0017] The second image processing may be image processing that is not implemented by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus.

[0018] The second image processing may be image processing for generating an image that requires a higher level of computing power than the first image processing.

[0019] The second image processing may be image processing for generating an image for measurement, and the second ultrasonic image may be an image for measurement.

[0020] The second display control unit may cause the second display to display the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image generated by the second image processing unit side by side.

[0021] The second display control unit may cause the second display to display an image that shows a schematic representation of an operation panel provided in the ultrasound diagnostic device, the image representing a user interface for accepting input of parameters for displaying an image used for diagnosis or measurement.

[0022] The ultrasonic diagnostic device may be a portable ultrasonic diagnostic device.

[0023] Another aspect of the present disclosure is an image processing device including: a second information receiving unit that receives, from an ultrasound diagnostic device that acquires Raw data by transmitting and receiving ultrasound and generates a first ultrasound image by applying a first image processing to the Raw data, the Raw data and first information indicating the first image processing, which are linked to each other; a second image processing unit that generates the first ultrasound image by applying the first image processing indicated by the first information to the Raw data, and generates a second ultrasound image different from the first ultrasound image by applying a second image processing different from the first image processing to the Raw data; and a second display control unit that displays the first ultrasound image and the second ultrasound image generated by the second image processing unit side by side on a display. Effect of the Invention

[0024] According to the present disclosure, an ultrasound image can be generated in an ultrasound diagnostic device and displayed in the ultrasound diagnostic device, and diagnosis can be performed using the ultrasound image in an external device. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0025] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an ultrasound diagnostic system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an image processing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a structure of information transmission data. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 illustrates data and main memory. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of processing by an ultrasound diagnostic system. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of processing by a processor of the image processing device. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of processing by a processor of the image processing device. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of processing by a processor of the image processing device. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display example of an ultrasound image. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display example of an ultrasound image. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display example of an ultrasound image. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display example of an ultrasound image. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display example of an ultrasound image. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0026] An ultrasound diagnostic system according to an embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the ultrasound diagnostic system according to the embodiment.

[0027] The ultrasound diagnostic system includes an ultrasound diagnostic device 10 and an image processing device 12. The ultrasound diagnostic device 10 and the image processing device 12 have a function of communicating with each other via a communication path N.

[0028] For example, the communication path N is a network such as the Internet or a LAN (Local Area Network). The communication path N may be formed by wireless communication or by wired communication. The communication path N may include a high-speed communication path. For example, the high-speed communication path is a wireless communication path using a sixth generation mobile communication system (6G) or a wireless communication path using a next-generation communication system after 6G.

[0029] The ultrasound diagnostic device 10 generates data representing the inside of the subject by transmitting ultrasound waves into the subject using an ultrasound probe and receiving ultrasound waves reflected from the subject. An ultrasound image representing tissues and the like inside the subject is generated by applying image processing to the data. The ultrasound diagnostic device 10 may be a portable ultrasound diagnostic device. For example, a tablet-type ultrasound diagnostic device, a portable ultrasound diagnostic device, or a notebook-type ultrasound diagnostic device may be used as the ultrasound diagnostic device 10. Of course, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 may be a non-portable type ultrasound diagnostic device.

[0030] The data generated by the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10 is transmitted to the image processing apparatus 12 via the communication path N. For example, when an information transmission request is transmitted from the image processing apparatus 12 to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10, data is transmitted from the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10 to the image processing apparatus 12 via the communication path N in response to the request.

[0031] The image processing device 12 receives information from the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 via a communication path N. The image processing device 12 generates an ultrasound image by applying image processing to the data. For example, the image processing device 12 is a computer such as a medical image diagnosis support system, a DICOM server, or a medical image analysis system.

[0032] For example, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 generates raw data by transmitting and receiving ultrasound. The raw data is data to which image processing for generating an ultrasound image for display has not been applied. The raw data is transmitted from the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to the image processing device 12. The image processing device 12 generates an ultrasound image by applying image processing to the raw data. For example, the ultrasound image is displayed on a display of the image processing device 12.

[0033] For example, when a user of the image processing device 12 instructs the execution of image processing, the image processing device 12 applies the image processing instructed by the user to the raw data to generate an ultrasound image. For example, the image processing device 12 executes image processing different from the image processing executed by the ultrasound diagnostic device 10. Of course, the image processing device 12 may execute the same image processing as the image processing executed by the ultrasound diagnostic device 10.

[0034] The configuration of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 will be described below with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10.

[0035] The ultrasound diagnostic device 10 includes an ultrasound probe 14, an ultrasound transmission / reception unit 16, a signal processing unit 18, an image processing unit 20, a display processing unit 22, a display unit 24, an input unit 26, a control unit 28, a display control unit 30, a conversion unit 32, a first communication unit 34, and a memory unit 36.

[0036] The ultrasonic probe 14 is a device that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves. For example, the ultrasonic probe 14 includes an array transducer. The array transducer is formed by arranging a plurality of ultrasonic transducers. An ultrasonic beam is formed by the array transducer. When the sound beam is repeatedly electronically scanned, a scan plane is formed as an echo data acquisition space for each electronic scan. When the ultrasonic beam is scanned, an echo data acquisition space is formed. As a scanning method, a sector scan, a linear scan, a convex scan, or the like is used.

[0037] The ultrasonic transmission / reception unit 16 supplies a plurality of ultrasonic transmission signals having a certain delay relationship to a plurality of ultrasonic transducers included in the ultrasonic probe 14 during ultrasonic transmission. This forms an ultrasonic transmission beam. During ultrasonic reception, a reflected wave (RF signal) from inside the living body is ultrasonically received by the ultrasonic probe 14. This causes a plurality of ultrasonic reception signals to be output from the ultrasonic probe 14 to the ultrasonic transmission / reception unit 16. The ultrasonic transmission / reception unit 16 forms an ultrasonic reception beam by applying a phasing addition process to the plurality of ultrasonic reception signals. The data of the ultrasonic reception beam is output to the signal processing unit 18. That is, the ultrasonic transmission / reception unit 16 performs delay processing on the ultrasonic reception signal obtained from each ultrasonic transducer according to the delay processing condition for each ultrasonic transducer, and forms an ultrasonic reception beam by adding the plurality of ultrasonic reception signals obtained from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers. The delay processing condition is specified by ultrasonic reception delay data indicating a delay time. An ultrasonic reception delay data set (i.e., a set of delay times) corresponding to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers is supplied from the control unit 28. The ultrasonic transmission / reception unit 16 functions as an ultrasonic transmission beamformer and an ultrasonic reception beamformer. For example, the ultrasonic transmission / reception unit 16 includes an A / D converter, a detector, an amplifier circuit, etc. The unit for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves and the unit for realizing the beamformer may be configured as separate units. The ultrasonic transmission / reception unit 16 corresponds to an example of an acquisition unit.

[0038] The signal processing unit 18 applies signal processing to the beam data output from the ultrasonic transmission / reception unit 16. For example, the signal processing includes filtering and amplitude compression such as logarithmic compression. The data to which the signal processing has been applied is output to the image processing unit 20.

[0039] The image processing unit 20 generates an ultrasound image by applying image processing to the data to which the signal processing has been applied. For example, the image processing includes a coordinate conversion function and an interpolation processing function by a DSC (digital scan converter). For example, the ultrasound image is a B-mode image, a color Doppler image, a pulse Doppler image, a strain imaging image, a shear wave elastography image, or the like.

[0040] The display processing unit 22 generates a display image by overlaying the necessary graphic data on the ultrasound image. The display image is output to the display unit 24. One or more images are displayed side by side in a display format according to the display mode.

[0041] The display unit 24 is a display such as a liquid crystal display or an EL display. An ultrasound image such as a B-mode image is displayed on the display unit 24. The display unit 24 may be a device that combines a display and an input unit 26. For example, a GUI (Graphic User Interface) may be realized by the display unit 24. Also, a user interface such as a touch panel may be realized by the display unit 24.

[0042] The input unit 26 is a device that allows a user to input various information (e.g., conditions required for imaging, commands, patient information, etc.) to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10. For example, the input unit 26 is an operation panel, a switch, a button, a keyboard, a mouse, a trackball, a joystick, etc.

[0043] The control unit 28 controls the operation of each unit of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10. The control unit 28 includes a display control unit 30.

[0044] The display controller 30 causes the display unit 24 to display the ultrasound image. The display controller 30 may cause the display unit 24 to display information or images other than the ultrasound image.

[0045] The converter 32 converts the raw data into information transmission data. The raw data is data to be transmitted from the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to the image processing device 12. For example, the converter 32 generates information transmission data by attaching header data to the raw data. For example, US header data and IP header data are attached to the raw data as header data.

[0046] Raw data is data to which no processing for generating an ultrasonic image for display has been applied. For example, data output from the ultrasonic transmission / reception unit 16 to which no signal processing has been applied by the signal processing unit 18 is raw data. In this case, the ultrasonic transmission / reception unit 16 corresponds to an example of an acquisition unit. Data to which signal processing has been applied by the signal processing unit 18 may also be raw data. In other words, data output from the signal processing unit 18 to which no image processing has been applied by the image processing unit 20 may also be raw data. In this case, the signal processing unit 18 corresponds to an example of an acquisition unit.

[0047] The US header data is metadata (i.e., incidental information) that is added to the raw data. For example, the US header data includes an imaging mode, information about the raw data, scan information, signal processing information, image processing information, measurement information, frame information, and patient information. The imaging mode is an imaging mode executed by the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to acquire the raw data. For example, the imaging mode is a B mode (THI), M mode, PW mode, CW mode, CFI mode, CFA mode, TE mode, SWE mode, and the like. The information about the raw data includes a data length, a number of samples, an interval, a size, an address, and a data type (rectangular coordinates or polar coordinates rθ), and the like. The scan information includes a number of lines, an interval, a size, an address, and a scan type (sector scan, linear scan, or convex scan), and the like. The signal processing information is information indicating signal processing by the signal processing unit 18. The signal processing information includes information about gain, filters, and the like. The image processing information is information indicating image processing by the image processing unit 20. The image processing information includes information about a region of interest (ROI), filters, and the like. The measurement information includes parameters related to the measurement performed by the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10. The frame information is information indicating the size, position, etc. of the ultrasound image. The patient information is information indicating the ID, sex, age, etc. of the patient from whom the raw data was acquired. For example, when imaging is performed by the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10, each piece of information included in the US header data is input to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10 by a user such as a medical technician or a doctor, or is input to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10 from an external device such as a server. Information other than the above-mentioned information may be included in the US header data. The user may specify the information included in the US header data.

[0048] The IP header data is additional information for communication, and includes, for example, information related to the Internet Protocol.

[0049] The first communication unit 34 is a communication interface including a first information transmitting unit and a first information receiving unit. The first communication unit 34 has a function of transmitting data to an external device and a function of receiving data. For example, the first communication unit 34 transmits raw data to the image processing device 12 via the communication path N. As described later, the image processing device 12 generates an ultrasound image by applying image processing to the raw data transmitted from the ultrasound diagnostic device 10. As another example, the first communication unit 34 transmits information transmission data to the image processing device 12 via the communication path N. As a result, the raw data and US header data are transmitted from the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to the image processing device 12.

[0050] The storage unit 36 ​​configures one or more storage areas for storing data. For example, the storage unit 36 ​​is a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), various types of memory (e.g., RAM, DRAM, ROM, etc.), other storage devices (e.g., optical disks, etc.), or a combination thereof. For example, raw data, ultrasound image data, information indicating imaging conditions, patient information, etc. are stored in the storage unit 36. US header data and information transmission data may also be stored in the storage unit 36.

[0051] The image processing unit 20 corresponds to an example of a first image processing unit. The image processing by the image processing unit 20 corresponds to an example of the first image processing. An ultrasound image generated by applying the first image processing to raw data corresponds to an example of a first ultrasound image. The display of the display unit 24 corresponds to an example of a first display. The display control unit 30 corresponds to an example of a first display control unit. The first communication unit 34 corresponds to an example of a first information transmission unit.

[0052] The configuration of the image processing device 12 will be described below with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the image processing device 12.

[0053] The image processing device 12 includes a second communication unit 38, a reception unit 40, a main memory 42, a memory control unit 44, an IO device 46, an output unit 48, an input unit 50, and a processor 52.

[0054] The second communication unit 38 is a communication interface including a second information transmitting unit and a second information receiving unit. The second communication unit 38 has a function of transmitting data to an external device and a function of receiving data. For example, the second communication unit 38 receives raw data transmitted from the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 via the communication path N. As described later, the image processing unit 54 generates an ultrasound image by applying image processing to the raw data. The image processing performed by the image processing unit 54 is different from the first image processing performed by the ultrasound diagnostic device 10. Of course, the image processing unit 54 may perform the same image processing as the first image processing performed by the ultrasound diagnostic device 10. As another example, the second communication unit 38 receives the information transmission data transmitted from the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 via the communication path N. As a result, the second communication unit 38 receives the raw data.

[0055] The accepting unit 40 accepts the information transmission data received by the second communication unit 38, and executes a process of storing the information transmission data in the main memory 42.

[0056] The main memory 42 constitutes one or more storage areas for storing data. For example, the main memory 42 is a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), various types of memory (e.g., RAM, DRAM, ROM, etc.), other storage devices (e.g., optical disk, etc.), or a combination thereof. For example, information transmission data is stored in the main memory 42. Raw data and header data may be stored separately in the main memory 42. Other information may be stored in the main memory 42.

[0057] The memory control unit 44 controls the main memory 42. For example, the memory control unit 44 stores the information transmission data accepted by the acceptance unit 40 in the main memory 42. The memory control unit 44 also controls the reading of data from the main memory 42.

[0058] The IO device 46 is connected to an output unit 48 and an input unit 50. For example, various information is output to the output unit 48 via the IO device 46, and is input from the input unit 50 to the image processing device 12 via the IO device 46.

[0059] The output unit 48 includes a display unit. The display unit is a display such as a liquid crystal display or an EL display. The display unit may be a device that combines a display and the input unit 50. For example, a GUI (Graphic User Interface) may be realized by the display unit. Also, a user interface such as a touch panel may be realized by the display unit. The output unit 48 may include a speaker.

[0060] The input unit 50 is a device that allows a user to input various pieces of information to the image processing device 12. For example, the input unit 50 is an operation panel, a switch, a button, a keyboard, a mouse, a trackball, a joystick, or the like.

[0061] The processor 52 includes a control unit, a calculation unit, a cache, a bus I / F, etc. The control unit controls the image processing device 12. The calculation unit performs various calculations. The processor 52 also includes an image processing unit 54 and a display control unit 56.

[0062] The image processor 54 generates an ultrasound image by applying image processing to the raw data. The image processing may include the signal processing described above.

[0063] The display control unit 56 causes the ultrasound image to be displayed on the display of the output unit 48. The display control unit 56 may cause the display of the output unit 48 to display information or images other than the ultrasound image.

[0064] The image processing unit 54 corresponds to an example of a second image processing unit. The image processing by the image processing unit 54 corresponds to an example of the second image processing. The ultrasound image generated by applying the second image processing to the raw data corresponds to an example of a second ultrasound image. The display of the output unit 48 corresponds to an example of a second display. The display control unit 56 corresponds to an example of a second display control unit. The second communication unit 38 corresponds to an example of a second information receiving unit.

[0065] The structure of the information transmission data will be described below with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 shows an example of the structure of the information transmission data.

[0066] The ultrasound diagnostic device 10 transmits and receives ultrasound waves to generate raw data 57. The conversion unit 32 generates information transmission data 62 by attaching US header data 58 and IP header data 60 to the raw data 57. The information transmission data 62 is transmitted from the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to the image processing device 12.

[0067] 5, information transmission data 62 is stored in the main memory 42 of the image processing device 12. A storage area 42a for raw data is shown in FIG.

[0068] For example, the image processing unit 54 of the image processing device 12 reads out the specified raw data from the main memory 42, and applies calculation, image processing, or audio processing to the raw data in accordance with the signal processing or image processing indicated by the US header data, thereby generating an ultrasound image or audio data. The image processing unit 54 may convert the measurement information and patient information included in the US header data into image data. The ultrasound image, measurement information, and patient information are displayed on the display of the output unit 48, and the audio data is output from a speaker.

[0069] 4 and 5, the raw data may be transmitted from the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to the image processing device 12 and stored in the main memory 42 of the image processing device 12. The image processing unit 54 reads out the specified raw data from the main memory 42, and applies arithmetic, image processing, sound processing, or the like to the raw data in accordance with the specified signal processing or image processing, thereby generating an ultrasound image or sound data. The signal processing or image processing applied in this case may be processing different from the signal processing or image processing applied in the ultrasound diagnostic device 10. In other words, the image processing unit 54 may apply signal processing or image processing different from the signal processing or image processing applied in the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to the raw data, thereby generating an ultrasound image or sound data.

[0070] The flow of processing by the ultrasound diagnostic system will be described below with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 shows a flowchart illustrating the flow of processing by the ultrasound diagnostic system. Note that the following instructions and responses are performed between the first communication unit 34 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 and the second communication unit 38 of the image processing device 12 via the communication path N.

[0071] First, authentication is performed by the image processing device 12 (S01). For example, authentication is performed using user personal information such as the model, password, face, or fingerprint that has been registered in advance in the image processing device 12. If authentication is successful, the processes from step S02 onwards are executed. If authentication is unsuccessful, the processes from step S02 onwards are not executed. Note that authentication does not have to be performed. In this case, the process from step S02 onwards is executed without executing the process from step S01. The processes from step S02 onwards will be described below.

[0072] For example, an instruction screen is displayed on the display of the image processing device 12. When a user requests access to the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 on the instruction screen (S02), the image processing device 12 instructs the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to access the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 (S03).

[0073] When the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 receives the access instruction, it permits access to the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 (S04) and transmits a response corresponding to the instruction to the image processing device 12 (S05). The ultrasound diagnostic device 10 may determine whether to permit access using personal information of the user (for example, personal information input to the image processing device 12).

[0074] When the image processing device 12 receives the response from the ultrasound diagnostic device 10, the image processing device 12 requests the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to transmit the raw data (S06). The image processing device 12 instructs the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to transmit the raw data (S07).

[0075] When the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 receives the instruction to transmit the raw data, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 transmits the data for information transmission, including the raw data, the US header data, and the IP header data, to the image processing apparatus 12 (S08).

[0076] The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 may include the Raw data currently acquired by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 in the information transmission data and transmit the information transmission data to the image processing apparatus 12. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 may include Raw data designated by a user of the image processing apparatus 12 in the information transmission data and transmit the information transmission data to the image processing apparatus 12. For example, a list of Raw data acquired by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 (for example, a list of file names, thumbnail images, etc.) is transmitted from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 to the image processing apparatus 12 and displayed on the display of the image processing apparatus 12. When the user of the image processing apparatus 12 designates Raw data from the list, identification information for identifying the designated Raw data is transmitted from the image processing apparatus 12 to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 transmits information transmission data including the Raw data indicated by the identification information to the image processing apparatus 12.

[0077] The information transmission data is transmitted to the image processing device 12 in response to the instruction to transmit the Raw data (S09). The Raw data is stored in the main memory 42 of the image processing device 12. The image processing device 12 also generates an ultrasound image by applying image processing to the Raw data. The ultrasound image is displayed on the display of the image processing device 12.

[0078] Thereafter, when the user requests the image processing device 12 to stop transmitting the raw data (S10), the image processing device 12 instructs the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to stop transmitting the information (S11).

[0079] When the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 receives the instruction to stop information transmission, it stops transmitting the information transmission data (S12). As a result, the information transmission data is not transmitted from the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to the image processing device 12. A response to stop information transmission is transmitted from the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to the image processing device 12 (S13).

[0080] As an example different from the above example, when the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 receives an instruction to transmit the raw data, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 may transmit the raw data to the image processing device 12 (S08). The raw data is transmitted to the image processing device 12 in response to the instruction to transmit the raw data (S09). The image processing device 12 generates an ultrasound image by applying image processing to the raw data. The ultrasound image is displayed on the display of the image processing device 12.

[0081] Hereinafter, the processing by the processor 52 of the image processing device 12 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0082] When raw data is transmitted from the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10 to the image processing device 12, the raw data is stored in the storage area 42b of the main memory 42. As another example, when information transmission data is transmitted from the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10 to the image processing device 12, the raw data and US header data are stored in the storage area 42b of the main memory 42. An image processing command is stored in the storage area 42c of the main memory 42. For example, the image processing command is input to the image processing device 12 via the input unit 50 and stored in the main memory 42, or is input to the image processing device 12 via the second communication unit 38 and stored in the main memory 42.

[0083] For example, the processor 52 includes a bus interface, a cache memory, a control unit, and an arithmetic unit. The control unit includes a fetcher and a decoder. The arithmetic unit includes an ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) and a register.

[0084] The instructions stored in the memory area 42c are output to the fetch via the system bus, the bus interface, and the cache memory, and are converted into control information by the decoder. The control information is output to the ALU. The raw data stored in the memory area 42b is output to the register via the system bus, the bus interface, and the cache memory, and is output from the register to the ALU. The ALU performs an operation on the raw data based on the control information. The ALU outputs the result data generated by the operation to the main memory 42 via the register, the cache memory, the bus interface, and the system bus. The result data is stored in the memory area 42d of the main memory 42. For example, the result data is ultrasound image data.

[0085] In this embodiment, the image processor 20 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 generates a first ultrasound image by applying a first image processing to the raw data. The display controller 30 causes the display unit 24 to display the first ultrasound image.

[0086] For example, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 transmits raw data to the image processing device 12. The image processing device 12 receives the raw data. The processor 52 of the image processing device 12 applies a second image processing different from the first image processing to the raw data to generate a second ultrasound image different from the first ultrasound image. The processor 52 causes the second ultrasound image to be displayed on the display of the output unit 48.

[0087] As another example, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 transmits the Raw data and the first information indicating the first image processing to the image processing device 12 in association with each other. For example, the first information is included in the US header data and is transmitted to the image processing device 12 in a state of being attached to the Raw data. The image processing device 12 receives the Raw data and the first information (for example, the first information included in the US header data) that are associated with each other. The processor 52 of the image processing device 12 generates a first ultrasonic image by applying the first image processing indicated by the first information to the Raw data. The processor 52 also generates a second ultrasonic image different from the first ultrasonic image by applying a second image processing different from the first image processing to the Raw data. The processor 52 displays the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image side by side on the display of the output unit 48. Of course, the processor 52 may display the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image separately on the display without displaying the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image side by side on the display. The processor 52 may switch the displayed ultrasound image between the first ultrasound image and the second ultrasound image in accordance with a user instruction.

[0088] For example, the second image processing is image processing that is not realized by the ultrasound diagnostic device 10. In other words, the second image processing is image processing that is realized by a function that the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 does not have. For example, the second image processing includes a measurement function, an inspection function, and a diagnosis function that the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 does not have. This allows the image processing device 12 to perform measurements, inspections, diagnoses, and the like that could not be performed by the ultrasound diagnostic device 10. For example, the second image processing is image processing that generates an image that requires a higher level of calculation power than the first image processing. The second ultrasound image is an image that requires a higher level of calculation power than the first ultrasound image.

[0089] For example, the second image processing is image processing for generating an image for diagnosis, and the second ultrasound image is an image used for diagnosis. By executing the second image processing by the image processing device 12, a user (e.g., a doctor) of the image processing device 12 can make a diagnosis by referring to the second ultrasound image used for diagnosis. For example, a user such as a doctor can use the second ultrasound image to make a diagnosis that could not be made using only the first ultrasound image displayed on the ultrasound diagnostic device 10.

[0090] As another example, the second image processing is image processing for generating an image for measurement, and the second ultrasonic image is an image for measurement. By executing the second image processing by the image processing device 12, a user (e.g., a doctor) of the image processing device 12 can obtain a measurement result from the second ultrasonic image. For example, a user such as a doctor can use the second ultrasonic image to perform a measurement that could not be performed using only the first ultrasonic image displayed on the ultrasound diagnostic device 10.

[0091] A specific example of the first image processing executed by the processor 52 of the image processing device 12 will be described below with reference to Fig. 8. In Fig. 8, solid lines indicate the flow of signal data (e.g., raw data, etc.), and dashed lines indicate the flow of control data.

[0092] When the information transmission data is transmitted from the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to the image processing device 12, the second communication unit 38 receives the information transmission data. The reception unit 40 receives the information transmission data from the second communication unit 38 and stores the raw data and header data (US header data and IP header data) in the main memory 42. If the raw data is compressed, the reception unit 40 unpacks (decompresses) the compressed data. The reception unit 40 may convert the format of the raw data.

[0093] The signal processing information, image information, image processing information, image reconstruction information, analysis and measurement information, patient information and display layout information are information (an example of first information) contained in the US header data accompanying the raw data, and are stored in the main memory 42.

[0094] For example, the processor 52 performs signal processing, 2D image processing, 3D image processing, image reconstruction processing, image analysis / measurement processing, and image composition processing on the raw data. Note that these processes are merely examples, and only some of these processes may be performed.

[0095] The processor 52 reads the raw data from the main memory 42, and applies the signal processing indicated by the signal processing information to the raw data (signal processing). As a result, post signal processing data is generated and stored in the main memory 42.

[0096] The processor 52 reads the post signal processing data, image information, and image processing information from the main memory 42, and applies two-dimensional image processing to the post signal processing data (2D image processing), generating post 2D image processing data, which is stored in the main memory 42. The image information includes geometric information and three-dimensional structure information.

[0097] When the processor 52 reads the post signal processing data, image information and image processing information from the main memory 42 and applies 3D image processing to the post signal processing data (3D Image Processing), post 3D image processing data is generated and stored in the main memory 42.

[0098] When the processor 52 reads the post 2D image processing data, the post 3D image processing data, and the image reconstruction information from the main memory 42 and performs reconstruction processing (Image Reconstruction Processing), post image reconstruction data is generated and stored in the main memory 42.

[0099] When the processor 52 reads post 2D image processing data, post 3D image processing data, post image reconstruction data, and analysis / measurement information from the main memory 42 and executes analysis processing (Image Analysis / Measurement Processing), post analysis / measurement data is generated and stored in the main memory 42.

[0100] When the processor 52 reads the post 2D image processing data, the post 3D image processing data, the post image reconstruction data, the post analysis / measurement data, the patient information, and the display layout information from the main memory 42 and executes composition processing (image composition processing), display image data is generated and stored in the main memory 42. The display image data is output to the output unit 48 via the IO device 46 and displayed on the display of the output unit 48. The data to be composed may be selected by the user, and the data selected by the user may be composed.

[0101] When the information (an example of the first information) included in the US header data is used as the signal processing information, the image information, the image processing information, the image destination configuration information, the analysis and measurement information, the patient information, and the display layout information, a first ultrasound image is generated. For example, the first ultrasound image is displayed on the display of the output unit 48.

[0102] The process shown in FIG. 8 is merely an example, and the process to be executed may be changed depending on, for example, the diagnostic region, analysis, measurement, patient or department, etc.

[0103] A specific example of the second image processing executed by the processor 52 of the image processing device 12 will be described below with reference to Fig. 9. In Fig. 8, solid lines indicate the flow of signal data (e.g., raw data, etc.), and dashed lines indicate the flow of control data.

[0104] The input information is stored in the main memory 42. The input information includes information indicating the second image processing, etc. The input information is input from the input unit 50 of the image processing device 12 via the IO device 46 to the image processing device 12 and stored in the main memory 42. The input information may be received by the second communication unit 38 and input to the image processing device 12.

[0105] The Raw data stored in the main memory 42 is data transmitted from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 to the image processing device 12. When information transmission data including Raw data is transmitted from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 to the image processing device 12, the Raw data stored in the main memory 42 is data included in the information transmission data.

[0106] The signal processing information, image information, image processing information, image reconstruction information, analysis and measurement information, patient information, and display layout information are information included in the input information, and are stored in the main memory 42. For example, a user of the image processing device 12 operates the input unit 50 to input each piece of information included in the input information.

[0107] For example, the processor 52 performs signal processing, 2D image processing, 3D image processing, image reconstruction processing, image analysis / measurement processing, and image composition processing on the raw data. Note that these processes are merely examples, and only some of these processes may be performed.

[0108] The processor 52 reads the raw data from the main memory 42, and applies the signal processing indicated by the signal processing information to the raw data (signal processing). As a result, post signal processing data is generated and stored in the main memory 42.

[0109] The processor 52 reads the post signal processing data, image information, and image processing information from the main memory 42, and applies two-dimensional image processing to the post signal processing data (2D image processing), generating post 2D image processing data, which is stored in the main memory 42. The image information includes geometric information and three-dimensional structure information.

[0110] When the processor 52 reads the post signal processing data, image information and image processing information from the main memory 42 and applies 3D image processing to the post signal processing data (3D Image Processing), post 3D image processing data is generated and stored in the main memory 42.

[0111] When the processor 52 reads the post 2D image processing data, the post 3D image processing data, and the image reconstruction information from the main memory 42 and performs reconstruction processing (Image Reconstruction Processing), post image reconstruction data is generated and stored in the main memory 42.

[0112] When the processor 52 reads post 2D image processing data, post 3D image processing data, post image reconstruction data, and analysis / measurement information from the main memory 42 and executes analysis processing (Image Analysis / Measurement Processing), post analysis / measurement data is generated and stored in the main memory 42.

[0113] When the processor 52 reads the post 2D image processing data, the post 3D image processing data, the post image reconstruction data, the post analysis / measurement data, the patient information, and the display layout information from the main memory 42 and executes composition processing (image composition processing), display image data is generated and stored in the main memory 42. The display image data is output to the output unit 48 via the IO device 46 and displayed on the display of the output unit 48. The data to be composed may be selected by the user, and the data selected by the user may be composed.

[0114] A second ultrasound image is generated by using the information included in the input information input via the input unit 50 as the signal processing information, image information, image processing information, image destination configuration information, analysis and measurement information, patient information, and display layout information. For example, the second ultrasound image is displayed on the display of the output unit 48.

[0115] The process shown in FIG. 9 is merely an example, and the process to be executed may be changed depending on, for example, the diagnostic region, analysis, measurement, patient or department, etc.

[0116] Specific examples of the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image will be described below.

[0117] The ultrasound images displayed on the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 shows a first ultrasound image.

[0118] The screen 64 is displayed on the display of the display unit 24 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10. The ultrasound image 66 is a first ultrasound image and is displayed on the screen 64. The image processing unit 20 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 generates the ultrasound image 66 by applying a first image processing to the raw data (hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, referred to as "Raw data A"). For example, the first image processing may be image processing designated by a user (e.g., a medical technician) of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10, or may be image processing registered in advance in an examination protocol.

[0119] For example, the ultrasound image 66 is an image obtained by an apical approach and is a four-chamber cross-sectional image showing the apex of the heart. Note that the four-chamber cross-sectional image is merely one example of the first ultrasound image, and other cross-sectional images, Doppler images, color Doppler images, etc. may be obtained and displayed as the first ultrasound image.

[0120] First information indicating the first image processing for generating the ultrasound image 66 is included in US header data accompanying the Raw data A for generating the ultrasound image 66. Information transmission data including the US header data and the Raw data A is transmitted from the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to the image processing device 12. The image processing unit 54 of the image processing device 12 applies the first image processing indicated by the first information to the Raw data A to generate the ultrasound image 66. As a result, the ultrasound image 66 is reproduced in the image processing device 12.

[0121] An ultrasonic image displayed on the image processing device 12 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 shows a screen displayed on the image processing device 12.

[0122] The screen 68 is displayed on the display of the output unit 48 of the image processing device 12. The screen 68 includes a first display area 70 and a second display area 72. The first display area 70 is an area in which a first ultrasound image is displayed. The second display area 72 is an area in which a second ultrasound image is displayed. The first display area 70 and the second display area 72 are arranged side by side on the screen 68. As a result, the first ultrasound image and the second ultrasound image are displayed side by side on the screen 68.

[0123] For example, the image processing unit 54 of the image processing device 12 generates a first ultrasonic image by applying a first image processing indicated by the first information to the raw data (raw data included in the information transmission data) transmitted from the ultrasonic diagnostic device 10. The first information is included in the US header data attached to the raw data. As a result, the first ultrasonic image generated by the ultrasonic diagnostic device 10 is reproduced by the image processing device 12.

[0124] For example, the image processing unit 54 applies the first image processing indicated by the first information to the Raw data A to generate an ultrasound image 66 as a first ultrasound image. The first information is included in US header data accompanying the Raw data A. As a result, the ultrasound image 66 is reproduced by the image processing device 12.

[0125] 11, the display control unit 56 of the image processing device 12 displays an ultrasound image 66 in a first display area 70. This allows a user (e.g., a doctor) of the image processing device 12 to observe the ultrasound image 66 displayed on the ultrasound diagnostic device 10.

[0126] Furthermore, an upper menu 74 and a side menu 76 are displayed on the screen 68. For example, items such as analysis and measurement of ultrasound images are included in the upper menu 74 and the side menu 76. When the user selects a desired analysis, measurement, etc. from the upper menu 74 or the side menu 76, the image processing unit 54 generates a second ultrasound image by applying a second image processing to the raw data to realize the selected analysis, measurement, etc. The second ultrasound image is an ultrasound image for realizing the analysis, measurement, etc. The display control unit 56 displays the second ultrasound image in the second display area 72.

[0127] Furthermore, as indicated by the reference numeral 78, patient information and setting information are displayed on the screen 68. For example, the patient information is information included in the US header data. The setting information is information indicating settings for image processing, etc.

[0128] In the example shown in FIG. 11, myocardial strain imaging, which is one of the ultrasonic imaging methods, is included in the side menu 76. Myocardial strain imaging is a method of imaging changes in myocardial movement and evaluating wall motion due to myocardial ischemia. For example, when myocardial strain imaging is selected from the side menu 76, an individual menu 80 for myocardial strain imaging is further displayed on the screen 68. The individual menu 80 includes items such as cross sections to be analyzed or measured. The user can specify the cross sections to be analyzed or measured by selecting an item included in the individual menu 80. The image processing unit 54 applies the second image processing to the raw data according to the item selected by the user. Of course, myocardial strain imaging is only one example, and other imaging methods, other analyses, measurements, etc. may be included in the side menu 76.

[0129] An ultrasound image 82 as the second ultrasound image is shown in Fig. 12. The image processing unit 54 applies second image processing corresponding to the analysis or measurement selected by the user to the raw data A to generate the ultrasound image 82. The display control unit 56 displays the ultrasound image 82 in the second display area 72.

[0130] The ultrasound image 82 is an image for myocardial strain imaging measurement. For example, the ultrasound image 82 is an image showing an ultrasound image showing a myocardial strain image of a four-chamber cross-sectional view acquired by an apical approach and a result of local strain measurement.

[0131] An ultrasound image 66, which is a first ultrasound image, and an ultrasound image 82, which is a second ultrasound image, are images generated from the same Raw data A. The ultrasound image 66 is the same as the ultrasound image displayed on the ultrasound diagnostic device 10.

[0132] A user can compare the first ultrasound image with the second ultrasound image to perform diagnosis, examination, etc. For example, a user can compare an ultrasound image 66, which is a four-chamber cross-sectional image acquired by an apical approach, with an ultrasound image 82, which shows the result of myocardial strain imaging measurement, to perform diagnosis, examination, etc.

[0133] For example, the myocardial strain imaging measurement function is a function that the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 does not have (that is, a function that is realized by image processing that is not realized by the ultrasound diagnostic device 10). By the image processing device 12 executing the myocardial strain imaging measurement, the myocardial strain imaging measurement that could not be realized by only the first ultrasound image displayed on the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 can be realized by the image processing device 12.

[0134] Another example of the display of ultrasound images is shown in Figure 13. For example, ultrasound image 84 is displayed in first display area 70, and ultrasound image 86 is displayed in second display area 72.

[0135] The ultrasound image 84 is an example of a first ultrasound image generated based on certain Raw data (for convenience of explanation, referred to as “Raw data B”). That is, the ultrasound image 84 is an image generated by applying a first image processing to the Raw data B. The ultrasound image 84 is an image displayed on the ultrasound diagnostic device 10.

[0136] The ultrasound image 86 is an example of a second ultrasound image generated based on the Raw data B. In other words, the ultrasound image 86 is an image generated by applying the second image processing to the Raw data B.

[0137] For example, the ultrasound image 84 is an image representing one short-axis cross section of the heart. The one short-axis cross section may be specified by a user (e.g., a medical technician) of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10, or may be registered in advance in an examination protocol. The ultrasound image 86 is an image representing multiple short-axis cross sections of the same heart. The ultrasound image 86 includes multiple images. Each image among the multiple images represents a different short-axis cross section. For example, when image processing for generating an image representing multiple short-axis cross sections is selected as the second image processing by a user (e.g., a doctor) of the image processing device 12, the image processing unit 54 applies the image processing to the Raw data B to generate the ultrasound image 86.

[0138] For example, a user can make a diagnosis, examination, or the like by comparing an ultrasound image 84 showing a certain short-axis cross-section of the heart with an ultrasound image 86 showing multiple short-axis cross-sections of the same heart.

[0139] For example, the function of generating ultrasound images representing multiple short-axis cross sections is a function that the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 does not have (i.e., a function that is realized by image processing that is not realized by the ultrasound diagnostic device 10). By the image processing device 12 executing this function, the image processing device 12 can realize diagnoses, examinations, and the like that could not be realized by only the first ultrasound image displayed on the ultrasound diagnostic device 10.

[0140] In the example shown in FIG. 11 to FIG. 13, the display control unit 56 displays the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image side by side on the screen 68. This is merely one display example, and the display control unit 56 may display the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image on separate screens without displaying the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image side by side on the screen 68. For example, when the user of the image processing device 12 instructs the display of the first ultrasonic image, the display control unit 56 displays the first ultrasonic image on the display of the output unit 48. When the user of the image processing device 12 instructs the display of the second ultrasonic image, the display control unit 56 displays the second ultrasonic image on the display of the output unit 48. The display control unit 56 may switch the displayed ultrasonic image between the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image in accordance with a switching instruction from the user.

[0141] As an example different from the examples shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the screen 68 may include the second display area 72 and not include the first display area 70. In this case, the display controller 56 displays an ultrasound image 82 as the second ultrasound image in the second display area 72, and does not display the first ultrasound image. The same applies to the example shown in FIG. 13. The display controller 56 displays an ultrasound image 86 as the second ultrasound image in the second display area 72, and does not display the first ultrasound image. In this way, the user can perform diagnosis, examination, etc. by referring to the second ultrasound image different from the first ultrasound image.

[0142] Another display example of an ultrasound image is shown in Fig. 14. An ultrasound image 66 as a first ultrasound image is displayed in a first display area 70. The display control unit 56 displays a virtual console 88 in a second display area 72.

[0143] The virtual console 88 is an image that typically represents an operation panel (for example, an operation panel included in the input unit 26) provided in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10, and is an image that represents a user interface for receiving input of parameters for displaying images used for diagnosis and measurement. For example, the parameters are gain, TGC (time gain control), focus, depth of field, function buttons, etc.

[0144] For example, the virtual console 88 is an image representing a plurality of input devices such as a mouse, a trackball, a switch, a keyboard, a contact sensor, or a haptic device. Each input device represented by the virtual console 88 corresponds to each input device included in the input unit 26 of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10.

[0145] Parameters for displaying an ultrasound image are input by the user operating an input device represented by the virtual console 88. The virtual console 88 accepts the input.

[0146] For example, the image processor 54 applies the second image processing to the raw data in accordance with the parameters input via the virtual console 88, thereby generating a second ultrasound image reflecting the parameters. The second ultrasound image is displayed on the screen 68.

[0147] The parameters input via the virtual console 88 may be transmitted from the image processing device 12 to the ultrasound diagnostic device 10. In this case, the ultrasound transmitting and receiving unit 16 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 may transmit and receive ultrasound in accordance with the parameters, and the image processing unit 20 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 may apply the first image processing to the raw data in accordance with the parameters. For example, a user (e.g., a doctor) of the image processing device 12 can input parameters using the virtual console 88 while referring to the first ultrasound image displayed on the screen 68, thereby instructing a user (e.g., an examiner) of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to use the parameters or to perform imaging.

[0148] Furthermore, the display control unit 56 may display parameters (e.g., gain, etc.) for generating the first ultrasonic image together with the first ultrasonic image on the screen 68. This allows the user of the image processing device 12 to understand the parameters and conditions under which the first ultrasonic image was captured.

[0149] 14, the screen 68 may include the second display area 72 and not include the first display area 70. In this case, the display control unit 56 displays the virtual console 88 in the second display area 72 and does not display the first ultrasound image. In this way, the user of the image processing device 12 can use the virtual console 88 to instruct the user of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 to use parameters or take an image.

[0150] The ultrasound diagnostic system according to the embodiment can be applied to, for example, POCT (point of care testing). For example, when a small and portable ultrasound diagnostic device is used as the ultrasound diagnostic device 10, ultrasound examination can be performed in a hospital room, at home, or the like. However, in general, an ultrasound diagnostic device for POST does not have the performance required for performing advanced diagnosis. For example, an ultrasound diagnostic device for POST may not have advanced image processing or measurement functions. According to the ultrasound diagnostic system according to the embodiment, even if the advanced image processing or measurement functions are not realized by the ultrasound diagnostic device 10, the advanced image processing or measurement functions can be realized if the image processing device 12 has the performance to perform advanced image processing or the performance to realize the measurement functions.

[0151] Furthermore, the POST ultrasound diagnostic device can be moved to various locations to acquire ultrasound images. Therefore, an examiner can acquire ultrasound images using the POST ultrasound diagnostic device, and a doctor can use the image processing device 12 at a remote location to perform signal processing, image processing, measurement, analysis, and the like suitable for diagnosis. This allows for division of labor among medical professionals. For example, the ultrasound diagnostic system according to the embodiment may be used in home nursing, emergency situations, and the like.

[0152] The signal processing unit 18, the image processing unit 20, the display processing unit 22, the control unit 28, the display control unit 30, and the conversion unit 32 can be realized by using hardware resources such as a processor or an electronic circuit. In the realization, a device such as a memory may be used as necessary. The signal processing unit 18, the image processing unit 20, the display processing unit 22, the control unit 28, the display control unit 30, and the conversion unit 32 may be realized by a computer, for example. That is, the signal processing unit 18, the image processing unit 20, the display processing unit 22, the control unit 28, the display control unit 30, and the conversion unit 32 may be realized in whole or in part by cooperation between hardware resources such as a central processing unit (CPU) and memory provided in a computer and software (program) that specifies the operation of the CPU, etc. The program is stored in the storage unit 36 ​​of the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 or another storage device via a recording medium such as a CD or a DVD, or via a communication path such as a network. As another example, the signal processing unit 18, the image processing unit 20, the display processing unit 22, the control unit 28, the display control unit 30, and the conversion unit 32 may be realized by a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or the like. A GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) or the like may be used. The signal processing unit 18, the image processing unit 20, the display processing unit 22, the control unit 28, the display control unit 30, and the conversion unit 32 may be realized by a single device. Each function of the signal processing unit 18, the image processing unit 20, the display processing unit 22, the control unit 28, the display control unit 30, and the conversion unit 32 may be realized by one or more devices.

[0153] The reception unit 40, the memory control unit 44, the image processing unit 54, and the display control unit 56 can be realized by using hardware resources such as a processor and an electronic circuit. In the realization, a device such as a memory may be used as necessary. The reception unit 40, the memory control unit 44, the image processing unit 54, and the display control unit 56 may be realized by, for example, a computer. That is, the reception unit 40, the memory control unit 44, the image processing unit 54, and the display control unit 56 may be realized in whole or in part by cooperation between a hardware resource such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a memory provided in a computer and software (program) that defines the operation of the CPU, etc. The program is stored in the main memory 42 of the image processing device 12 or another storage device via a recording medium such as a CD or a DVD, or via a communication path such as a network. As another example, the reception unit 40, the memory control unit 44, the image processing unit 54, and the display control unit 56 may be realized by a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or the like. A GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) or the like may be used. The reception unit 40, the memory control unit 44, the image processing unit 54, and the display control unit 56 may be realized by a single device. Each function of the reception unit 40, the memory control unit 44, the image processing unit 54, and the display control unit 56 may be realized by one or more devices. [Explanation of symbols]

[0154] 10 Ultrasound diagnostic device, 12 Image processing device, 20, 54 Image processing unit, 30, 56 Display control unit.

Claims

1. In an ultrasound diagnostic system including an ultrasound diagnostic device and an image processing device, The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes: An acquisition unit that acquires raw data by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves; a first image processing unit that generates a first ultrasound image by applying a first image processing to the raw data; a first display control unit that causes the first ultrasonic image generated by the first image processing unit to be displayed on a first display of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus; a first information transmission unit that transmits the Raw data to which the first image processing has not been applied by the first image processing unit to the image processing device; Including, The image processing device includes: A second information receiving unit that receives the Raw data; a second image processing unit that applies a second image processing different from the first image processing to the raw data to generate a second ultrasonic image different from the first ultrasonic image; a second display control unit that causes the second ultrasonic image generated by the second image processing unit to be displayed on a second display of the image processing device; Including, 1. An ultrasound diagnostic system comprising:

2. 2. The ultrasound diagnostic system according to claim 1, The second image processing is image processing that is not realized by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus.

1. An ultrasound diagnostic system comprising:

3. 2. The ultrasound diagnostic system according to claim 1, The second image processing is image processing for generating an image that requires a higher computing power than the first image processing.

1. An ultrasound diagnostic system comprising:

4. 4. The ultrasound diagnostic system according to claim 3, the second image processing is image processing for generating an image for measurement, The second ultrasound image is an image for measurement.

1. An ultrasound diagnostic system comprising:

5. 2. The ultrasound diagnostic system according to claim 1, the second display control unit causes the second display to display an image that shows a user interface for receiving input of parameters for displaying an image used for diagnosis or measurement, the image being a schematic representation of an operation panel provided in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus; 1. An ultrasound diagnostic system comprising:

6. 2. The ultrasound diagnostic system according to claim 1, The ultrasonic diagnostic device is a portable ultrasonic diagnostic device.

1. An ultrasound diagnostic system comprising:

7. a second information receiving unit that receives raw data from an ultrasonic diagnostic device that acquires raw data by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves and applies a first image processing to the raw data to generate a first ultrasonic image; a second image processing unit that applies a second image processing different from the first image processing to the raw data to generate a second ultrasonic image different from the first ultrasonic image; a second display control unit that causes a display to display the second ultrasound image generated by the second image processing unit; 13. An image processing device comprising:

8. In an ultrasound diagnostic system including an ultrasound diagnostic device and an image processing device, The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes: An acquisition unit that acquires raw data by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves; a first image processing unit that generates a first ultrasound image by applying a first image processing to the raw data; a first display control unit that causes the first ultrasonic image generated by the first image processing unit to be displayed on a first display of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus; a first information transmission unit that links the Raw data to which the first image processing has not been applied by the first image processing unit with first information indicating the first image processing and transmits the information to the image processing device; Including, The image processing device includes: a second information receiving unit that receives the raw data and the first information that are linked to each other; a second image processing unit that applies the first image processing indicated by the first information to the Raw data to generate the first ultrasonic image, and applies a second image processing different from the first image processing to the Raw data to generate a second ultrasonic image different from the first ultrasonic image; a second display control unit that causes the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image generated by the second image processing unit to be displayed on a second display of the image processing device; Including, 1. An ultrasound diagnostic system comprising:

9. 9. The ultrasound diagnostic system according to claim 8, The second image processing is image processing that is not realized by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus.

1. An ultrasound diagnostic system comprising:

10. 9. The ultrasound diagnostic system according to claim 8, The second image processing is image processing for generating an image that requires a higher computing power than the first image processing.

1. An ultrasound diagnostic system comprising:

11. 11. The ultrasound diagnostic system according to claim 10, the second image processing is image processing for generating an image for measurement, The second ultrasound image is an image for measurement.

1. An ultrasound diagnostic system comprising:

12. 9. The ultrasound diagnostic system according to claim 8, The second display control unit causes the second display to display the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image generated by the second image processing unit side by side.

1. An ultrasound diagnostic system comprising:

13. 9. The ultrasound diagnostic system according to claim 8, the second display control unit causes the second display to display an image that shows a user interface for receiving input of parameters for displaying an image used for diagnosis or measurement, the image being a schematic representation of an operation panel provided in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus; 1. An ultrasound diagnostic system comprising:

14. 9. The ultrasound diagnostic system according to claim 8, The ultrasonic diagnostic device is a portable ultrasonic diagnostic device.

1. An ultrasound diagnostic system comprising:

15. a second information receiving unit that receives, from an ultrasonic diagnostic device that acquires raw data by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves and applies a first image processing to the raw data to generate a first ultrasonic image, the raw data and first information indicating the first image processing, the raw data and the first information being linked to each other; a second image processing unit that applies the first image processing indicated by the first information to the Raw data to generate the first ultrasonic image, and applies a second image processing different from the first image processing to the Raw data to generate a second ultrasonic image different from the first ultrasonic image; a second display control unit that displays the first ultrasonic image and the second ultrasonic image generated by the second image processing unit side by side on a display; 13. An image processing device comprising:

Images