Ultrasonic diagnostic device

Abstract

To warm ultrasonic jelly existing near a discharge port of a jelly bottle.SOLUTION: An ultrasonic diagnostic device according to an embodiment comprises a jelly warmer, a plurality of object sensors, and a heater control part. A jelly bottle housing ultrasonic jelly is inserted into the jelly warmer, and the jelly warmer holds the jelly bottle. The heater control part controls a plurality of warming parts provided in the jelly warmer, in accordance with the direction in which the jelly bottle is inserted into the jelly warmer, and the weight of the jelly bottle, on the basis of weight sensing information of a weight sensor for sensing the weight of the at least one jelly bottle.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in the present specification and drawings relate to an ultrasound diagnostic device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, when imaging is performed using an ultrasound diagnostic device, ultrasound jelly is placed at the contact point between the object to be imaged and the ultrasound probe to improve acoustic coupling. The ultrasound jelly is contained in a dedicated container, a jelly bottle, and is pre-heated before use to reduce the temperature difference when it comes into contact with the object to be imaged. The jelly bottle is a heater for heating the ultrasound jelly, that is, the ultrasound jelly is heated by placing it in a jelly warmer, which is connected to the ultrasound diagnostic device main body or configured separately.

[0003] In addition, when the jelly bottle is heated or stored, it needs to be stored with the outlet facing downwards. A jelly warmer is disclosed that detects the insertion direction of the jelly bottle during heating and controls the heating. In addition, the display of the ultrasound diagnostic device can be tilted forward 90 degrees for easy carrying and storage.

[0004] However, when the ultrasonic jelly is to be pre-warmed in the jelly warmer of the ultrasonic diagnostic device, it takes several tens of minutes for the ultrasonic jelly to warm up, and when there is a large amount of ultrasonic jelly remaining in the jelly bottle, the user may not be able to start the examination immediately. Also, when there is a large amount of ultrasonic jelly remaining in the jelly bottle, the ultrasonic jelly is overheated, which results in unnecessary power consumption.

[0005] Furthermore, when warming or storing the jelly bottle, it is necessary to store it with the nozzle facing downwards. However, if the mouth of the jelly bottle is not tightly closed, the ultrasonic jelly will leak out and make a mess when placed in the jelly warmer with the nozzle facing upwards in order to avoid this, so some users may store the jelly bottle in the jelly warmer in a manner that is different from the intended use.

[0006] If the ultrasound diagnostic device body does not have a touch panel, it may be used in a way that is different from the intended use, such as storing the jelly bottle in a jelly warmer with the outlet facing up, and when the monitor of the device body is folded up, the display and the outlet of the jelly bottle may interfere with each other. In addition, the structure may be such that it is difficult to remove dirt when the ultrasound jelly leaks, and the device may be used without wiping off dirt such as ultrasound jelly that has adhered to it, and the user may not imagine that the jelly bottle will be stored in a direction different from the intended use. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] JP 2001-245887 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to heat ultrasonic jelly present near the discharge port of a jelly bottle. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described later can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The ultrasonic diagnostic device according to the embodiment includes a jelly warmer, a plurality of object detection sensors, and a heater control unit. A jelly bottle that stores ultrasonic jelly is inserted into the jelly warmer and the jelly bottle is held by the jelly warmer. The heater control unit controls a plurality of heating units provided in the jelly warmer according to the orientation in which the jelly bottle is inserted into the jelly warmer and the weight of the jelly bottle, based on weight detection information from a weight sensor that detects the weight of at least one jelly bottle. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a jelly bottle according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a jelly warmer according to a first comparative example. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a jelly warmer according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a table showing the relationship between the operation of the jelly warmer corresponding to the object detection information from a plurality of object detection sensors and the output content of the display according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the operation of the jelly warmer according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the operation of the jelly warmer according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the operation of the jelly warmer according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the operation of the jelly warmer according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the operation of the jelly warmer according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the positional relationship between a display, a jelly bottle, and a jelly warmer according to a second comparative example. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the positional relationship between a display, a jelly bottle, and a jelly warmer according to a second comparative example. [Figure 14]FIG. 14 is a table showing the relationship between the operation of the jelly warmer corresponding to the object detection information from a plurality of object detection sensors, the operation of the locking mechanism, and the output content of the display according to the first modified example. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the operation of the jelly warmer and the operation of the display according to the first modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Hereinafter, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having the same or substantially the same functions as those described above with reference to the previously mentioned drawings will be given the same reference numerals, and will be described only if necessary. Even when the same parts are shown, the dimensions and ratios of the components may be different depending on the drawing. For example, in order to ensure the visibility of the drawings, reference numerals may be given only to the main components in the description of each drawing, and reference numerals may not be given to components having the same or substantially the same functions.

[0012] (Embodiment) Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 has a device body 10, a display 30, a jelly warmer 40, and an input interface 50. An ultrasonic probe 20 is detachably connected to the device body 10. The ultrasonic probe 20 is connected to the device body 10 via a cable 21. Note that the configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 is not limited to this.

[0013] In the drawings described below, for convenience, an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis that are perpendicular to each other are shown, and the front-back direction (X-direction), the left-right direction (Y-direction), and the up-down direction (Z-direction) in the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 of the embodiment are described using the X-axis, the Y-axis, and the Z-axis. In the following description, when the X-direction, the Y-direction, or the Z-direction is simply mentioned, it means the respective axial direction, and includes the two opposite directions.

[0014] In addition, when the positive direction of the X axis is specified, it is a direction from the front to the back, when the positive direction of the Y axis is specified, it is a direction from the left to the right, when the positive direction of the Z axis is specified, it is a direction from the bottom to the top, when the negative direction of the X axis is specified, it is a direction from the back to the front, when the negative direction of the Y axis is specified, it is a direction from the right to the left, and when the negative direction of the Z axis is specified, it is a direction from the top to the bottom.

[0015] The device body 10 performs overall control of the ultrasound diagnostic device 1. For example, the device body 10 executes various controls related to the generation of ultrasound image data based on the reflected waves of ultrasound received by the ultrasound probe 20. The display 30 displays ultrasound image data and the like generated in the device body 10, and displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for the operator of the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 to input operations such as various settings using the input interface 50. In addition, the input interface 50 accepts operation inputs from the operator of the ultrasound diagnostic device 1, and transmits operation signals to the device body 10 according to the accepted operation inputs.

[0016] The ultrasonic probe 20 has a plurality of transducers, which generate ultrasonic waves based on a drive signal supplied from a transmission / reception circuit 11 included in the device main body 10, which will be described later. The ultrasonic probe 20 also receives reflected waves from the subject P and converts them into electrical signals. The ultrasonic probe 20 may be of any shape, and any shape of ultrasonic probe may be used. For example, the ultrasonic probe 20 may be a 1D array probe that scans the subject P in two dimensions. The ultrasonic probe 20 may also be a mechanical 4D probe or a 2D array probe that scans the subject P in three dimensions.

[0017] The display 30 displays various information and images. The display 30 is an example of a display unit. Specifically, the display 30 converts information and image data sent from the processing circuit 15 described later into an electric signal for display and outputs it. For example, the display 30 is realized by a liquid crystal monitor, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) monitor, a touch panel, or the like. Note that the output device provided in the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 is not limited to the display 30, and may include, for example, a speaker. For example, the speaker outputs a predetermined sound such as a beep to notify the operator of the processing status of the device main body 10.

[0018] A jelly bottle that stores ultrasonic jelly is inserted into the jelly warmer 40, and the jelly warmer 40 holds the jelly bottle. The jelly warmer 40 is an example of a holding unit. The jelly warmer 40 is also a heater that warms the ultrasonic jelly stored in the jelly bottle. The jelly warmer 40 has a cylindrical shape that is also used to hold the jelly bottle. The jelly warmer 40 is connected to the device main body 10 or is configured separately. When the jelly warmer 40 is inserted to warm the jelly bottle, the outlet of the jelly bottle needs to be stored facing downward. Here, the configuration of the jelly bottle will be described.

[0019] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a jelly bottle 60 according to this embodiment. The jelly bottle 60 is a container for storing ultrasonic jelly 61. When imaging is performed using the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1, the ultrasonic jelly 61 is placed at the contact portion between the subject to be imaged and the ultrasonic probe 20 in order to improve acoustic coupling between the subject and the ultrasonic probe 20. The ultrasonic jelly 61 is heated in advance by the jelly warmer 40 before use in order to reduce the temperature difference with the subject at the time of contact. The ultrasonic jelly 61 in the jelly bottle 60 can be pushed out from the discharge port 62 by the operator.

[0020] Returning to Fig. 1, the input interface 50 accepts various instructions and information input operations from the operator. Specifically, the input interface 50 converts the input operations accepted from the operator into electrical signals and outputs them to the processing circuit 15 of the device main body 10. As shown in Fig. 1, the input interface 50 has a trackball 51, switches 53, buttons 55, a touch command screen 57, and the like, which are arranged on an operation panel.

[0021] 1 shows, as examples of the input interface 50, a first operation panel provided with a trackball 51, a switch 53, and a button 55, and a second operation panel provided with a touch command screen 57. The second operation panel may be configured integrally with the display 30. The input interface 50 is not limited to only those provided with physical operation parts as described above. For example, an example of the input interface 50 also includes an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the device and outputs the electrical signal to a control circuit.

[0022] Trackball 51 is configured to rotate in response to an operation by an operator. Trackball 51 has, for example, a spherical rotating member and a detection device that detects the amount of rotation and the direction of rotation of the rotating member. In this embodiment, an area of ​​the surface of the rotating member of trackball 51 that is exposed to the operator is referred to as an exposed surface (exposed portion). Also, in this embodiment, another area of ​​the surface of the rotating member of trackball 51 that is exposed is referred to as a back surface. The exposed surface and the back surface of the rotating member change positions on the surface of the rotating member as the rotating member is rotated.

[0023] Next, the functional configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 according to this embodiment. The device body 10 has a transmission / reception circuit 11, a B-mode processing circuit 12, a Doppler processing circuit 13, a memory 14, and a processing circuit 15. In the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 shown in FIG. 3, each processing function is stored in the memory 14 in the form of a program executable by a computer. The transmission / reception circuit 11, the B-mode processing circuit 12, the Doppler processing circuit 13, and the processing circuit 15 are processors that realize the function corresponding to each program by reading and executing the program from the memory 14. In other words, each circuit in a state in which each program is read has the function corresponding to the read program.

[0024] The transmission / reception circuit 11 has a pulse generator, a transmission delay circuit, a pulser, etc., and supplies a drive signal to the ultrasonic probe 20. The pulse generator repeatedly generates rate pulses for forming a transmission ultrasonic wave at a predetermined rate frequency. The transmission delay circuit focuses the ultrasonic waves generated from the ultrasonic probe 20 into a beam shape, and provides a delay time for each piezoelectric transducer required to determine the transmission directivity to each rate pulse generated by the pulse generator.

[0025] Moreover, the pulser applies a drive signal (drive pulse) to the ultrasonic probe 20 at a timing based on the rate pulse. That is, the transmission delay circuit changes the delay time given to each rate pulse to arbitrarily adjust the transmission direction of the ultrasonic waves transmitted from the piezoelectric transducer surface.

[0026] The transmission / reception circuit 11 has a function of instantaneously changing the transmission frequency, transmission drive voltage, etc., in order to execute a predetermined scan sequence based on instructions from the processing circuit 15 described later. In particular, the change in the transmission drive voltage is realized by a linear amplifier type oscillation circuit that can instantly switch its value, or a mechanism that electrically switches between multiple power supply units.

[0027] The transmission / reception circuit 11 also has a preamplifier, an A / D (Analog / Digital) converter, a reception delay circuit, an adder, etc., and performs various processes on the reflected wave signal received by the ultrasonic probe 20 to generate reflected wave data. The preamplifier amplifies the reflected wave signal for each channel. The A / D converter A / D converts the amplified reflected wave signal. The reception delay circuit provides a delay time required to determine the reception directivity. The adder performs addition processing on the reflected wave signal processed by the reception delay circuit to generate reflected wave data. The addition processing by the adder emphasizes the reflected component from a direction according to the reception directivity of the reflected wave signal, and an overall beam for ultrasonic transmission and reception is formed by the reception directivity and transmission directivity.

[0028] The B-mode processing circuit 12 receives the reflected wave data from the transmission / reception circuit 11, and performs logarithmic amplification, envelope detection processing, etc. to generate data (B-mode data) in which the signal intensity is expressed as luminance brightness.

[0029] The Doppler processing circuit 13 performs frequency analysis on the velocity information from the reflected wave data received from the transmission / reception circuit 11, extracts blood flow, tissue, and contrast agent echo components due to the Doppler effect, and generates data (Doppler data) in which moving object information such as velocity, dispersion, and power is extracted for multiple points.

[0030] The B-mode processing circuitry 12 and the Doppler processing circuitry 13 can process both two-dimensional reflected wave data and three-dimensional reflected wave data. That is, the B-mode processing circuitry 12 generates two-dimensional B-mode data from the two-dimensional reflected wave data, and generates three-dimensional B-mode data from the three-dimensional reflected wave data.

[0031] Moreover, the Doppler processing circuit 13 generates two-dimensional Doppler data from the two-dimensional reflected wave data, and generates three-dimensional Doppler data from the three-dimensional reflected wave data. The three-dimensional B-mode data is data in which a luminance value according to the reflection intensity of a reflection source located at each of a plurality of points (sample points) set on each scanning line of the three-dimensional scanning range is assigned. The three-dimensional Doppler data is data in which a luminance value according to the value of blood flow information (velocity, dispersion, power) is assigned to each of a plurality of points (sample points) set on each scanning line of the three-dimensional scanning range.

[0032] The memory 14 stores ultrasonic images for display generated by the processing circuitry 15. The memory 14 also stores data generated by the B-mode processing circuitry 12 and the Doppler processing circuitry 13. The memory 14 also stores control programs for performing ultrasonic transmission / reception, image processing, and display processing, diagnostic information (e.g., patient ID, doctor's findings, etc.), diagnostic protocols, various body marks, and other various data. The memory 14 also stores the weight of the body of the jelly bottle 60, weight detection information (described later), and object detection information. For example, the memory 14 is realized by a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, or the like.

[0033] The processing circuitry 15 controls the overall processing of the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1. Specifically, the processing circuitry 15 performs various processes by reading out from the memory 14 programs corresponding to the control function 151, image generation function 152, display control function 153, judgment function 154, and heater control function 155 shown in Fig. 3 and executing them. The control function 151 is an example of a control unit. The image generation function 152 is an example of an image generation unit. The display control function 153 is an example of a display control unit. The judgment function 154 is an example of a judgment unit. The heater control function 155 is an example of a heater control unit.

[0034] In FIG. 3, the control function 151, the image generation function 152, the display control function 153, the judgment function 154, and the heater control function 155 are described as being realized by a single processor. However, the processing circuit 15 may be configured by combining a plurality of independent processors, and each processor may realize a function by executing a program.

[0035] In addition, in FIG. 3, a single storage circuit such as memory 14 is described as storing a program corresponding to each processing function, but a plurality of storage circuits may be distributed and arranged, and processing circuit 15 may be configured to read out the corresponding program from each individual storage circuit.

[0036] The term "processor" used in the above description refers to circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphical Processing Unit), or an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), and a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)).

[0037] The processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the programs stored in the memory 14. Note that instead of storing the programs in the memory 14, the programs may be directly embedded in the circuits of the processor. In this case, the processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the programs embedded in the circuits.

[0038] The control function 151 controls the processing of the transmission / reception circuit 11, the B-mode processing circuit 12, and the Doppler processing circuit 13 based on various setting requests input by the operator via the input interface 50 and various control programs and various data read from the memory 14.

[0039] The image generating function 152 generates an ultrasound image from the data generated by the B-mode processing circuit 12 and the Doppler processing circuit 13. Specifically, the image generating function 152 generates B-mode image data in which the intensity of the reflected wave is represented by brightness from the two-dimensional B-mode data generated by the B-mode processing circuit 12. The B-mode image data is data that depicts the shape of tissue within the ultrasonically scanned area.

[0040] Moreover, the image generating function 152 generates Doppler image data representing moving object information from the two-dimensional Doppler data generated by the Doppler processing circuit 13. The Doppler image data is velocity image data, variance image data, power image data, or image data that is a combination of these. The Doppler image data is data that indicates fluid information related to the fluid flowing within the ultrasonically scanned area.

[0041] Here, the image generating function 152 generally converts (scan converts) a scan line signal sequence of an ultrasonic scan into a scan line signal sequence of a video format represented by a television or the like, and generates an ultrasonic image for display. Specifically, the image generating function 152 generates an ultrasonic image for display by performing coordinate conversion according to the ultrasonic scanning form of the ultrasonic probe 20.

[0042] In addition to scan conversion, the image generation function 152 performs various image processing, such as image processing (smoothing processing) for regenerating an average brightness image using multiple image frames after scan conversion, image processing (edge ​​emphasis processing) using a differential filter within the image, etc. The image generation function 152 also combines text information of various parameters, scales, body marks, etc., with the ultrasound image.

[0043] That is, the B-mode data and the Doppler data are ultrasonic image data before the scan conversion process, and the data generated by the image generation function 152 is an ultrasonic image for display after the scan conversion process. The B-mode data and the Doppler data are also called raw data.

[0044] Furthermore, the image generation function 152 generates three-dimensional B-mode image data by performing coordinate conversion on the three-dimensional B-mode data generated by the B-mode processing circuit 12. Also, the image generation function 152 generates three-dimensional Doppler image data by performing coordinate conversion on the three-dimensional Doppler data generated by the Doppler processing circuit 13. The three-dimensional B-mode data and the three-dimensional Doppler data become volume data before the scan conversion process. That is, the image generation function 152 generates "three-dimensional B-mode image data or three-dimensional Doppler image data" as "volume data that is three-dimensional ultrasound image data."

[0045] Furthermore, the image generating function 152 can perform rendering processing on the volume data in order to generate various types of two-dimensional image data (ultrasound images) for displaying the volume data on the display 30.

[0046] The display control function 153 controls so that the ultrasonic image for display stored in the memory 14 is displayed on the display 30. The display control function 153 also controls so that the processing results by each function are displayed on the display 30. For example, the display control function 153 controls so that display information is displayed on the display 30. The determination function 154 and the heater control function 155 will be described in detail later.

[0047] Here, the jelly warmer according to the comparative example will be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a jelly warmer 70 according to the first comparative example. In FIG. 4, the jelly warmer 70 according to the first comparative example needs to insert the outlet 62 downward when warming or holding the jelly bottle 60. Also, the length L1 of the part that houses the jelly bottle 60 inside the jelly warmer 70 is shorter than the total length L2 of the jelly bottle 60. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4, when the jelly bottle 60 is housed in the jelly warmer 70, a part of the jelly bottle 60 protrudes.

[0048] Therefore, the jelly warmer 40 according to this embodiment includes a plurality of object detection sensors and at least one weight sensor. The determination function 154 of the processing circuit 15 of the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 according to this embodiment determines the direction in which the jelly bottle 60 is inserted into the jelly warmer 40 based on the object detection information output by the plurality of object detection sensors. The heater control function 155 of the processing circuit 15 of the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 according to this embodiment controls a plurality of heating units provided in the jelly warmer 40 according to the direction in which the jelly bottle 60 is inserted into the jelly warmer 40 and the weight of the jelly bottle 60 based on the weight detection information of the weight sensor that detects the weight of at least one jelly bottle 60.

[0049] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a jelly warmer 40 according to this embodiment. The jelly warmer 40 is composed of multiple housings. The jelly warmer 40 shown in FIG. 5 is composed of a first housing 41 and a second housing 42, and a jelly bottle 60 is stored in the first housing 41 and the second housing 42. The first housing 41 is formed in a cylindrical shape and has openings in the vertical direction. The second housing 42 is formed in a substantially U-shape and has a recess. The upper part of the second housing 42 has an opening. The lower part of the second housing 42 has a recess for storing the discharge port 62 of the jelly bottle 60.

[0050] The first housing 41 is provided so as to cover the opening at the top of the second housing 42, and an expandable section 43 is provided between the first housing 41 and the second housing 42. The jelly warmer 40, which is composed of the first housing 41 and the second housing 42, changes the vertical length of the jelly warmer 40 by the expandable section 43 according to the weight of the jelly bottle 60. In other words, the length of the jelly warmer 40 expands and contracts in the Z-axis direction according to the volume of the ultrasonic jelly 61 contained in the jelly bottle 60. For example, the expandable section 43 is realized using a physical configuration such as a motor or a configuration for pulling with a wire, or an electrical configuration such as a battery. The expandable section 43 is driven by the control of the control function 151 according to weight detection information output by a weight sensor 90 described later.

[0051] The jelly warmer 40 also includes a first object detection sensor 81, a second object detection sensor 82, a third object detection sensor 83, and a weight sensor 90. The first object detection sensor 81, the second object detection sensor 82, and the third object detection sensor 83 are examples of object detection sensors. The first object detection sensor 81 is a sensor that detects whether the jelly bottle 60 is inserted. The second object detection sensor 82 and the third object detection sensor 83 are sensors that detect the direction in which the jelly bottle 60 is inserted. In other words, the object detection sensor including the first object detection sensor 81, the second object detection sensor 82, and the third object detection sensor 83 detects the state in which the jelly bottle 60 is inserted into the jelly warmer 40. The weight sensor 90 is a sensor that detects the weight of the jelly bottle 60.

[0052] The object detection sensors are provided in multiple housings. For example, the first object detection sensor 81 is provided on the top of the first housing 41. That is, the first object detection sensor 81 is provided near the insertion opening for the jelly bottle 60. The second object detection sensor 82 and the third object detection sensor 83 are provided in the second housing 42. For example, the second object detection sensor 82 is provided in the center of the second housing 42. That is, the second object detection sensor 82 is provided in a position that contacts the jelly bottle 60.

[0053] For example, the third object detection sensor 83 is provided at a position directly or indirectly in contact with the discharge port 62 of the jelly bottle 60. For example, the weight sensor 90 is provided at the center of the second housing 42. That is, the weight sensor 90 is provided at a position directly or indirectly in contact with one end of the jelly bottle 60 or the other end. The weight sensor 90 outputs weight detection information indicating the weight of the jelly bottle 60 when the jelly bottle 60 is inserted into the jelly warmer 40 to the processing circuit 15. The weight detection information is weight information obtained by adding together the weight of the main body of the jelly bottle 60 and the remaining capacity of the ultrasonic jelly 61.

[0054] A plurality of object detection sensors including a first object detection sensor 81, a second object detection sensor 82, and a third object detection sensor 83 output object detection information indicating a state in which the jelly bottle 60 is inserted. For example, the object detection information is information that outputs an ON signal when each object detection sensor detects that the jelly bottle 60 is inserted. Also, the object detection information is information that outputs an OFF signal when it detects that the jelly bottle 60 is not inserted or when the jelly bottle 60 cannot be detected. In other words, the object detection information is information regarding the ON / OFF signals output by the plurality of object detection sensors.

[0055] In addition, since the second object detection sensor 82 and the third object detection sensor 83 are located in positions where dirt from the jelly bottle 60 is likely to adhere, there is a risk that the object detection information detected by the second object detection sensor 82 and the third object detection sensor 83 may erroneously detect whether the object detection information is dirt inside the second housing 42 or whether the jelly bottle 60 is inserted. Therefore, the first object detection sensor 81 is used to determine whether the jelly bottle 60 is inserted in the jelly warmer 40.

[0056] Furthermore, the jelly warmer 40 has a first heater 44 provided in the first housing 41 and a second heater 45 provided in the second housing 42. The first heater 44 and the second heater 45 are an example of a heating unit. The heaters including the first heater 44 and the second heater 45 are provided inside the first housing 41 and the second housing 42, which are in direct or indirect contact with the jelly bottle 60.

[0057] That is, the heaters including the first heater 44 and the second heater 45 are installed in two separate locations, the upper and lower locations of the jelly warmer 40. One of the heaters is selected, and the surface that comes into contact with the jelly bottle 60 is not heated at two locations simultaneously. Power is supplied to the heaters from the device main body 10, as is well known. The power button for turning the heaters on and off may be a physical switch provided on the jelly warmer 40, as is well known, or may be provided on the input interface 50 for control.

[0058] Next, the processing contents of the processing circuit 15 corresponding to the object detection information of the multiple object detection sensors will be described with reference to Fig. 6 to Fig. 11. Fig. 6 is a table showing the relationship between the operation of the jelly warmer 40 corresponding to the object detection information of the multiple object detection sensors and the output contents of the display 30 according to the embodiment. Table T1 shown in Fig. 6 shows patterns corresponding to the object detection information of the multiple object detection sensors, and the operation and state of the heater. Table T1 is stored in the memory 14, for example.

[0059] Figures 7 to 11 are schematic diagrams showing an example of the operation of the jelly warmer 40 according to the embodiment. Specifically, Figures 7 to 11 show the operation of the jelly bottle 60 and the operation of the heater corresponding to a pattern corresponding to the object detection information of a plurality of object detection sensors. The left diagrams of Figures 7 to 11 show an example of the operation when the jelly bottle 60 is inserted into the jelly warmer 40, and the right diagrams of Figures 7 to 11 show an example of the operation after the jelly bottle 60 is inserted into the jelly warmer 40.

[0060] First, pattern A1 shown in table T1 of Figure 6 indicates a state in which the first object detection sensor 81, the second object detection sensor 82, and the third object detection sensor 83 are ON, and the first object detection sensor 81, the second object detection sensor 82, and the third object detection sensor 83 are detecting the jelly bottle 60, so that the outlet 62 of the jelly bottle 60 is inserted facing downward.

[0061] 7, in the case of pattern A1, since the outlet 62 of the jelly bottle 60 faces downward, the heater in the second housing 42 heats a region 91 of the ultrasonic jelly 61 inside the jelly bottle 60 to heat the outlet 62 of the jelly bottle 60. In other words, when the outlet 62 provided at one end of the jelly bottle 60 is held in the jelly warmer 40 facing downward, the heater control function 155 controls the second heater 45 in the second housing 42 provided at a position directly or indirectly in contact with the outlet 62 so as to heat the outlet 62.

[0062] Next, pattern A2 shown in table T1 indicates a state in which the first object detection sensor 81 and the second object detection sensor 82 are ON, the third object detection sensor 83 is OFF, and the first object detection sensor 81 and the second object detection sensor 82 are detecting the jelly bottle 60, with the outlet 62 of the jelly bottle 60 inserted facing upward.

[0063] In the case of pattern A2 shown in table T1, the expandable part 43 is driven in response to the weight detected by the weight sensor 90. For example, as shown in Fig. 8, the length of the jelly warmer 40 is extended in the Z-axis direction by a length L3 as the expandable part 43 is driven in response to the weight detected by the weight sensor 90, compared to when the jelly bottle 60 is inserted.

[0064] In pattern A2, the jelly warmer 40 changes the location to be heated depending on the remaining amount of ultrasonic jelly 61 inside the jelly bottle 60 so that the uppermost part (the part closest to the outlet 62) of the ultrasonic jelly 61 inside the jelly bottle 60 is focused and heated.

[0065] For example, in the case of pattern A2, when the volume of the ultrasonic jelly 61 is large, the heater heats the upper part of the jelly bottle 60 because the discharge port 62 of the jelly bottle 60 faces upward, as shown in Fig. 9. Therefore, the ultrasonic jelly 61 inside the jelly bottle 60 has a region 91 of the ultrasonic jelly 61 heated by the first heater 44 provided in the first housing 41.

[0066] 10, for example, the heater heats the center of the jelly bottle 60 because the discharge port 62 of the jelly bottle 60 faces upward. Therefore, the ultrasonic jelly 61 inside the jelly bottle 60 has a region 91 of the ultrasonic jelly 61 heated by the first heater 44 provided in the first housing 41.

[0067] In other words, when the outlet 62 at one end of the jelly bottle 60 is held facing upward in the jelly warmer 40 and the extension / contraction section 43 is extended, the heater control function 155 controls the first heater 44 of the first housing 41 to heat the upper part of the jelly bottle 60 or the center of the jelly bottle 60.

[0068] In addition, in the pattern A2, when the volume of the ultrasonic jelly 61 is small, for example, as shown in Fig. 11, the heater heats the lower part of the jelly bottle 60 because the discharge port 62 of the jelly bottle 60 faces upward. For this reason, the ultrasonic jelly 61 inside the jelly bottle 60 has a region 91 of the ultrasonic jelly 61 heated by the second heater 45 provided in the second housing 42. In other words, when the discharge port 62 provided at one end of the jelly bottle 60 is held in the jelly warmer 40 facing upward and the expandable part 43 is not expanded, the heater control function 155 controls the second heater 45 of the second housing 42 provided at a position directly or indirectly in contact with the end other than the discharge port 62 so as to heat the lower part of the jelly bottle 60.

[0069] 6, in the case of pattern A3 shown in table T1, the first object detection sensor 81 and the third object detection sensor 83 are ON, and the second object detection sensor 82 is OFF. In the case of pattern A4, the first object detection sensor 81 is ON, and the second object detection sensor 82 and the third object detection sensor 83 are OFF. In the case of pattern A5, the second object detection sensor 82 and the third object detection sensor 83 are ON, and the first object detection sensor 81 is OFF.

[0070] In the case of pattern A6, the second object detection sensor 82 is ON, and the first object detection sensor 81 and the third object detection sensor 83 are OFF. In the case of pattern A7, the third object detection sensor 83 is ON, and the first object detection sensor 81 and the second object detection sensor 82 are OFF. Patterns A3, A4, A5, A6, and A7 are all abnormal states, and a malfunction or dirt on the object detection sensor is suspected, so the heater control function 155 controls the heater not to heat up.

[0071] In the case of pattern A8, since the first object detection sensor 81, the second object detection sensor 82, and the third object detection sensor 83 are OFF, the jelly bottle 60 is not present, and the heater control function 155 controls the heater not to heat.

[0072] As described above, the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 according to the embodiment controls multiple heating sections provided in the jelly warmer 40 based on weight detection information from the weight sensor 90 that detects the weight of the jelly bottle 60 containing at least one ultrasonic jelly 61, in accordance with the orientation in which the jelly bottle 60 is inserted into the jelly warmer 40 and the weight of the jelly bottle 60.

[0073] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 can heat the jelly bottle 60 regardless of the orientation in which the jelly bottle 60 is stored by controlling multiple heating sections provided in the jelly warmer 40 according to the orientation in which the jelly bottle 60 is inserted into the jelly warmer 40 and the weight of the jelly bottle 60.

[0074] Furthermore, when the jelly warmer 40 holds the discharge port 62 at one end of the jelly bottle 60 facing downward, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 controls the heating unit of the second housing 42 provided at a position in direct or indirect contact with the discharge port 62 so as to heat the discharge port 62. Furthermore, when the jelly warmer 40 holds the discharge port 62 facing upward and the expandable unit 43 is expanded, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 controls the heating unit of the first housing 41 so as to heat the upper part of the jelly bottle 60 or the center part of the jelly bottle 60.

[0075] When the jelly warmer 40 is held with the outlet 62 facing upward and the expansion / contraction part 43 is not extended, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 controls the heating part of the second housing 42, which is provided in a position that directly or indirectly contacts the end other than the outlet 62, so as to heat the lower part of the jelly bottle 60.

[0076] As a result, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 mainly heats the area of ​​the ultrasonic jelly 61 present near the discharge port 62 of the jelly bottle 60, allowing the operator to immediately use the jelly bottle 60 without waiting for the entire jelly bottle 60 to be heated. Also, since the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 mainly heats the area where the ultrasonic jelly 61 is present and does not heat the area where the ultrasonic jelly 61 is not present, when the remaining capacity of the ultrasonic jelly 61 stored in the jelly bottle 60 is large, there is no need to heat it excessively, thereby eliminating unnecessary power consumption.

[0077] Furthermore, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 mainly heats the area where the ultrasonic jelly 61 is present, and does not heat the area where the ultrasonic jelly 61 is not present, so that the ultrasonic jelly 61 is not pushed out due to thermal expansion of the air, and the contamination of the jelly warmer 40 caused by the pushing out of the ultrasonic jelly 61 can be reduced.

[0078] The above-described embodiment can be modified as appropriate by changing a part of the configuration or function of each device. Therefore, some modifications of the above-described embodiment will be described below as other embodiments. The following mainly describes the differences from the above-described embodiment, and the same reference numerals will be used to denote the common points with the contents already described, and detailed description will be omitted. The other embodiments described below may be implemented individually or in appropriate combination.

[0079] (First Modification) Next, an example of interference with the display 22 when an operator places a jelly bottle 60 facing upward in the jelly warmer 40 will be described with reference to Figs. 12 and 13. Figs. 12 and 13 are schematic diagrams showing an example of the positional relationship between the display, jelly bottle, and jelly warmer according to a second comparative example. Figs. 12 and 13 show the display 30, the jelly bottle 60, and a jelly warmer 71 according to the second comparative example.

[0080] The jelly warmer 71 of the second comparative example needs to be inserted with the outlet 62 facing downward when warming or holding the jelly bottle 60 (see FIG. 12). When the operator inserts the outlet 62 of the jelly bottle 60 facing downward, the display 30 does not interfere with the jelly bottle 60, and the display 30 can be folded by rotating it in the Z-axis direction.

[0081] 13, when an operator inserts a jelly bottle 60 with the outlet 62 facing upward and folds (tip) the display 30, the display 30 may interfere with the outlet 62. Therefore, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 according to the first modification is provided with a locking mechanism that locks the display 30 so that the jelly bottle 60 inserted with the outlet 62 facing upward does not interfere with the display 30. The control function 151 of the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 controls the locking mechanism to operate based on the orientation in which the jelly bottle 60 is inserted into the jelly warmer 40.

[0082] Here, the processing contents of the processing circuit 15 corresponding to the object detection information of the plurality of object detection sensors in the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 equipped with the lock mechanism will be described with reference to Figs. 14 and 15. Fig. 14 is a table showing the relationship between the operation of the jelly warmer 40 corresponding to the object detection information of the plurality of object detection sensors in the first modified example, the operation of the lock mechanism, and the output contents of the display 30. Table T2 shown in Fig. 14 shows patterns corresponding to the object detection information of the plurality of object detection sensors, the operation and state of the heater, and the operation of the display 30. In addition, the object detection information of the object detection sensors and the heating of the heater in the patterns B1 to B8 shown in the table T2 of Fig. 14 show the same contents as the patterns A1 to A8 shown in the table T1 of Fig. 6. Table T2 is stored in the memory 14, for example.

[0083] Fig. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the operation of the jelly warmer 40 and the operation of the display 30 according to the first modified example. Specifically, Fig. 15 shows the operation of the jelly bottle 60 and the operation of the display 30 corresponding to a pattern corresponding to the object detection information of a plurality of object detection sensors. The left diagram of Fig. 15 shows an example of the operation when the jelly bottle 60 is inserted into the jelly warmer 40, and the right diagram of Fig. 15 shows an example of the operation after the jelly bottle 60 is inserted into the jelly warmer 40. Fig. 15 shows the display 30, the locking mechanism 31, the jelly warmer 40, the expandable section 43, and the jelly bottle 60.

[0084] The locking mechanism 31 is provided at a position where the display 30 rotates in the Z-axis direction, and locks the display 30. The locking mechanism 31 is an example of a locking unit. The locking mechanism 31 operates in accordance with the orientation in which the jelly bottle 60 is inserted into the jelly warmer 40. For example, the control function 151 performs control to operate the locking mechanism 31. The locking mechanism 31 is realized by, for example, a motor or the like, and is controlled by the control function 151 so as to lock the position of the display 30. Note that the locking mechanism 31 may be configured to physically lock the display 30 at a predetermined position.

[0085] First, in the case of pattern B1 shown in table T2 of FIG. 14, the discharge outlet 62 of the jelly bottle 60 faces downward, and therefore the jelly bottle 60 and the display 30 do not interfere with each other, so the locking mechanism of the display 30 does not operate, and the display 30 is rotated in the Z-axis direction manually by the operator or controlled by the control function 151, and the display 30 is folded (tipped down).

[0086] Next, in pattern B2 shown in table T2, the discharge port 62 of the jelly bottle 60 faces upward, and there is a possibility that the jelly bottle 60 may interfere with the display 30. Therefore, as shown in the left diagram of Fig. 15, the locking mechanism 31 of the display 30 is activated so that the display 30 does not interfere with the jelly bottle 60. Then, the display control function 153 controls the display 30 to display a message indicating that the locking mechanism has been activated. The message that the display control function 153 controls to display is, for example, "Are you sure you want to tilt the monitor over like this?"

[0087] Then, when it is desired to tilt the display 30 after the lock mechanism 31 is actuated, the control function 151 controls the expandable portion 43 of the jelly warmer 40 to expand and contract in conjunction with the angle at which the display 30 is tilted, regardless of the weight of the jelly bottle 60. This makes it possible to reduce interference between the jelly bottle 60 and the display 30, even when the discharge port 62 of the jelly bottle 60 faces upward.

[0088] Returning to Fig. 14, patterns B3, B4, B5, B6 and B7 shown in table T2 are all abnormal states, and since the insertion direction of the jelly bottle 60 cannot be determined, there is a possibility that the jelly bottle 60 may interfere with the display 30, as in pattern B2, and therefore the locking mechanism 31 of the display 30 is activated so that the display 30 does not interfere with the jelly bottle 60, as shown in the left diagram of Fig. 15. In other words, the control function 151 controls the locking mechanism 31 to be activated when the discharge port 62 provided at one end of the jelly bottle 60 is held in the jelly warmer 40 so as to face upward, or when the insertion direction of the jelly bottle 60 in the jelly warmer 40 is unknown.

[0089] Then, the display control function 153 controls the display 30 to display a message indicating that the lock mechanism has been activated. Then, when it is desired to tilt the display 30 after the lock mechanism 31 has been activated, the control function 151 drives and controls the extension / contraction part 43 of the jelly warmer 40 to extend or contract in accordance with the angle at which the display 30 is tilted, regardless of the weight of the jelly bottle 60.

[0090] In the case of pattern B8, since the jelly bottle 60 is not present and does not interfere with the display 30, the locking mechanism of the display 30 does not operate, and the display 30 is rotated in the Z-axis direction and folded up, either manually by the operator or under the control of the control function 151. In other words, when the discharge port 62 provided at one end of the jelly bottle 60 is held in the jelly warmer 40 so as to face downward, or when the jelly bottle 60 is not present in the jelly warmer 40, the control function 151 controls the locking mechanism 31 not to operate.

[0091] After the display 30 is tilted down, the various sensors including the lock mechanism 31, object detection sensor, weight sensor, heater, etc. no longer need to detect the jelly bottle 60, so the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 stops the power supply to the various sensors, or transitions to a standby state or a sleep state. When the display 30 is raised up, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 performs power supply, such as starting the power supply to the various sensors.

[0092] This enables the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 to save the power used by the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1. When the display 30 is tilted while the jelly bottle 60 is being heated, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 outputs a message or the like to ask whether to continue heating the jelly bottle 60 and continues supplying power to the heater.

[0093] As described above, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 according to the first modification controls the locking mechanism 31 for locking the display 30 to operate in accordance with the orientation of the discharge outlet 62 of the jelly bottle 60. For example, when the jelly bottle 60 is inserted into the jelly warmer 40 with the discharge outlet 62 facing downward, or when the jelly bottle 60 is not present in the jelly warmer 40, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 controls the locking mechanism 31 not to operate.

[0094] Also, for example, when the jelly bottle 60 is inserted into the jelly warmer 40 with the outlet 62 facing upward, or when the orientation of the jelly bottle 60 inserted into the jelly warmer 40 cannot be determined, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 controls to activate the lock mechanism 31. This enables the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 to prevent interference between the display 30 and the jelly bottle 60 inserted into the jelly warmer 40.

[0095] (Third Modification) In the above-described embodiment, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 outputs a message to the display 30 when the orientation of the outlet 62 of the jelly bottle 60 is unknown and there is a possibility of a sensor malfunction or dirt adhering to the jelly warmer 40, when the orientation of the outlet 62 of the jelly bottle 60 faces upward and may interfere with the display 30, or when the orientation of the outlet 62 of the jelly bottle 60 is unknown and may interfere with the display 30. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 may output the message as a sound, or an LED (Light Emitting Diode) may be provided in the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 and light corresponding to the message may be output from the LED.

[0096] In addition, each component of each device illustrated in the present embodiment is a functional concept, and does not necessarily have to be physically configured as illustrated. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that illustrated, and all or a part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads and usage conditions. Furthermore, each processing function performed by each device can be realized in whole or in any part by a CPU and a program analyzed and executed by the CPU, or can be realized as hardware using wired logic.

[0097] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, it is possible to heat the ultrasonic jelly present in the vicinity of the discharge port of the jelly bottle.

[0098] Although some embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, and combinations of embodiments can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as described in the claims, as well as in the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0099] 1. Ultrasound diagnostic equipment 10. Device body 15 Processing circuit 20 Ultrasound Probe 30 Display 31 Locking mechanism 40 Jelly Warmer 41 1st cabinet 42 2nd cabinet 43 Telescopic part 44 First heater 45 Second heater 60 Jelly Bottle 61 Ultrasonic Jelly 62 Discharge port 81 First object detection sensor 82 Second object detection sensor 83 Third object detection sensor 90 Weight Sensor 151 Control Functions 152 Image generation function 153 Display control function 154 Judgment function 155 Heater control function

Claims

1. a jelly warmer into which a jelly bottle containing ultrasonic jelly is inserted and which holds the jelly bottle; A plurality of object detection sensors; a heater control unit that controls a plurality of heating units provided in the jelly warmer in accordance with the orientation of the jelly bottle inserted into the jelly warmer and the weight of the jelly bottle based on weight detection information from a weight sensor that detects the weight of at least one of the jelly bottles; An ultrasound diagnostic device comprising:

2. The jelly warmer is composed of a plurality of housings, and the object detection sensor is provided in the plurality of housings. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 .

3. The plurality of housings include a first housing and a second housing, the object detection sensor is provided in the first housing and the second housing, An expansion / contraction part that expands and contracts according to the weight of the jelly bottle is provided between the first housing and the second housing. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2 .

4. the object detection sensor detects a state in which the jelly bottle is inserted into the jelly warmer; The heating unit is provided inside the first housing and the second housing and in contact with the jelly bottle. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3.

5. When the jelly warmer is held with the discharge port at one end of the jelly bottle facing downward, the heater control unit controls the heating unit of the second housing provided at a position in contact with the discharge port so as to heat the discharge port. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 4.

6. the heater control unit controls the heating unit of the first housing to heat an upper portion of the jelly bottle or a central portion of the jelly bottle when the discharge port at one end of the jelly bottle is held facing upward in the jelly warmer and the expandable unit is expanded. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 4.

7. The heater control unit controls the heating unit of the second housing provided at a position in contact with the end other than the outlet so as to heat a lower portion of the jelly bottle when the outlet of the jelly bottle is held facing upward and the expandable unit is not expanded. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 4.

8. and a control unit that controls a lock mechanism for locking a display to operate based on the orientation of the jelly bottle inserted into the jelly warmer. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3.

9. The control unit controls the locking mechanism not to operate when the direction of the discharge port provided at one end of the jelly bottle is held downward in the jelly warmer or when the jelly bottle is not present in the jelly warmer. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 8.

10. The control unit controls the lock mechanism to operate when the direction of the discharge port provided at one end of the jelly bottle is held in the jelly warmer facing upward, or when the direction in which the jelly bottle is inserted into the jelly warmer is unknown. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 8.

11. When the display is tilted, the control unit drives and controls the extension unit to extend or retract in accordance with an angle at which the display is tilted. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 10.

Images