Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and program

Abstract

To reduce the time spent on trial and error for adjusting an image quality of an ultrasonic image.SOLUTION: An image quality evaluation part 102 calculates a first evaluation value indicating an evaluation of an image quality of a first ultrasonic image. When the first evaluation value is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value, a change part 104 changes an image quality parameter. An image generation part 16 generates a second ultrasonic image according to the image quality parameter changed by the change part 104. The image quality evaluation part 102 calculates a second evaluation value indicating an evaluation value of an image quality of the second ultrasonic image. When the second evaluation value is equal to less than the predetermined threshold value, a notification part 106 notifies a user that the evaluation value of the image quality of the ultrasonic image does not exceed the threshold value even if the image quality parameter is changed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In order to generate an ultrasound image suitable for ultrasound examination, image quality parameters for adjusting the image quality of the ultrasound image may be changed.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes an ultrasonic diagnostic device that optimizes the value of a parameter of interest.

[0004] Patent Document 2 describes an ultrasound imaging system that automatically adjusts imaging parameters based on received echoes. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-264175 [Patent Document 2] US Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0240992 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Generally, it is difficult for a user to manually change image quality parameters for adjusting the image quality of an ultrasound image so that an ultrasound image having a desired image quality is generated. Furthermore, such adjustments require time. Furthermore, if a user manually changes image quality parameters multiple times without improving the image quality of the ultrasound image, the overall examination time may be prolonged.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to reduce the trial and error time spent adjusting the image quality of ultrasound images. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure is an ultrasound diagnostic device including: an image generation unit that generates a first ultrasound image from a received signal acquired by transmitting and receiving ultrasound waves, in accordance with image quality parameters for generating an ultrasound image; a calculation unit that calculates a first evaluation value indicating an evaluation of the image quality of the first ultrasound image; a modification unit that modifies the image quality parameters if the first evaluation value is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold; and a notification unit, wherein the image generation unit generates a second ultrasound image from the received signal acquired by transmitting and receiving ultrasound waves, in accordance with the image quality parameters modified by the modification unit; the calculation unit calculates a second evaluation value indicating an evaluation of the image quality of the second ultrasound image; and, if the second evaluation value is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold, the notification unit notifies a user that the evaluation value of the image quality of the ultrasound image will not exceed the threshold even if the image quality parameters are modified.

[0009] The threshold value may be determined for each subject, and the notification unit may change the threshold value for each subject to which ultrasound is transmitted and received, and provide notification.

[0010] The calculation unit may calculate the first evaluation value and the second evaluation value based on an image included in a region of interest in an ultrasound image.

[0011] A plurality of evaluation items for evaluating the image quality of an ultrasound image may be predetermined, and the calculation unit may calculate a first individual evaluation value for an evaluation item selected by a user from among the plurality of evaluation items based on the first ultrasound image, and calculate a second individual evaluation value for an evaluation item selected by a user from among the plurality of evaluation items based on the second ultrasound image, and if the first individual evaluation value is less than or equal to the threshold, the change unit may change an image quality parameter, and if the second individual evaluation value is less than or equal to the threshold, the notification unit may notify the user that the evaluation value of the image quality of the ultrasound image will not exceed the threshold even if the image quality parameter is changed.

[0012] The evaluation value may be linked in advance to an image quality parameter that should be changed to increase the evaluation value, and the change unit may identify an image quality parameter that is linked to the first evaluation value, and the image generation unit may generate the second ultrasound image from a received signal acquired by transmitting and receiving ultrasound in accordance with the image quality parameter identified by the change unit.

[0013] One aspect of the present disclosure is a program that causes a computer to function as an image generation means that generates a first ultrasonic image from a received signal acquired by transmitting and receiving ultrasound in accordance with image quality parameters for generating an ultrasound image, a calculation means that calculates a first evaluation value that indicates an evaluation of the image quality of the first ultrasonic image, a modification means that changes the image quality parameters if the first evaluation value is below a predetermined threshold, and a notification means, wherein the image generation means generates a second ultrasonic image from the received signal acquired by transmitting and receiving ultrasound in accordance with the image quality parameters changed by the modification unit, the calculation means calculates a second evaluation value that indicates an evaluation of the image quality of the second ultrasonic image, and if the second evaluation value is below a predetermined threshold, the notification means notifies a user that the evaluation value of the image quality of the ultrasound image will not exceed the threshold even if the image quality parameters are changed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the present disclosure, the trial and error time required to adjust the image quality of an ultrasound image can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen displaying evaluation values and image quality parameters. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen displaying evaluation values and image quality parameters. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an ultrasound image and a region of interest. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen displaying evaluation values and image quality parameters. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen for selecting an evaluation item. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a screen displaying evaluation values and image quality parameters. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining an object information and image quality evaluation unit. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an ultrasound image and a region of interest. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] First Embodiment An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment.

[0017] The ultrasound diagnostic device 10 generates ultrasound image data by transmitting and receiving ultrasound waves using the ultrasound probe 12. For example, the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 transmits ultrasound waves into a subject and receives ultrasound waves reflected from inside the subject, thereby generating ultrasound image data representing the tissue inside the subject.

[0018] The ultrasonic probe 12 is a device that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic probe 12 includes, for example, a 1D array transducer. The 1D array transducer is configured by arranging multiple ultrasonic transducers one-dimensionally. An ultrasonic beam is formed by the 1D array transducer, and the ultrasonic beam is repeatedly electronically scanned. As a result, a scanning cross section is formed in the living body for each electronic scan. The scanning cross section corresponds to a two-dimensional echo data acquisition space. The ultrasonic probe 12 may also include a 2D array transducer formed by arranging multiple ultrasonic transducers two-dimensionally. When an ultrasonic beam is formed by the 2D array transducer and the ultrasonic beam is repeatedly electronically scanned, a scanning cross section is formed as a two-dimensional echo data acquisition space for each electronic scan. When the ultrasonic beam is scanned two-dimensionally, a three-dimensional space is formed as a three-dimensional echo data acquisition space. As a scanning method, sector scanning, linear scanning, convex scanning, or the like is used.

[0019] The transceiver 14 functions as a transmit beam former and a receive beam former. During transmission, the transceiver 14 supplies multiple transmit signals with a certain delay relationship to multiple ultrasonic transducers included in the ultrasonic probe 12. This forms an ultrasonic transmit beam. During reception, reflected waves from inside the living body are received by the ultrasonic probe 12, which then outputs multiple receive signals (i.e., RF signals) to the transceiver 14. The transceiver 14 forms a receive beam by applying a delay-and-sum process to the multiple receive signals. Data on the receive beam is output to the image generator 16. That is, the transceiver 14 performs delay processing on the receive signals obtained from each ultrasonic transducer in accordance with the delay processing conditions for each ultrasonic transducer, and then adds up the multiple receive signals obtained from the multiple ultrasonic transducers to form a receive beam. The delay processing conditions are specified by receive delay data indicating the delay time. A receive delay data set (i.e., a set of delay times) corresponding to the multiple ultrasonic transducers is supplied from the controller 32.

[0020] The operation of the transmitter / receiver 14 causes the ultrasonic beam (i.e., the transmission beam and the reception beam) to be electronically scanned, thereby forming a scanning cross section. The scanning cross section corresponds to a plurality of beams, and the plurality of beams constitute a reception frame (specifically, an RF signal frame). Each beam is made up of a plurality of echoes aligned in the depth direction. By repeating the electronic scanning of the ultrasonic beam, a plurality of reception frames aligned on the time axis are output from the transmitter / receiver 14 to the image generator 16. A plurality of reception frames constitute a reception frame sequence.

[0021] When the ultrasonic beam is electronically scanned two-dimensionally by the operation of the transmitter / receiver 14, a three-dimensional echo data acquisition space is formed, and volume data as an echo data set is acquired from the three-dimensional echo data acquisition space. By repeating the electronic scanning of the ultrasonic beam, multiple volume data arranged on the time axis are output from the transmitter / receiver 14 to the image generator 16. The multiple volume data constitute a volume data string.

[0022] The image generation unit 16 generates ultrasound image data (e.g., B-mode image data) by applying signal processing such as detection, amplitude compression (e.g., logarithmic compression), and conversion functions (coordinate conversion function and interpolation processing function using a DSC (digital scan converter)) to the received frame output from the transmission / reception unit 14.

[0023] Hereinafter, image data will be referred to as an "image" as appropriate. For example, ultrasound image data will be referred to as an "ultrasound image" as appropriate, and B-mode image data will be referred to as a "B-mode image" as appropriate. Note that an ultrasound image is not limited to a B-mode image, and may be any image generated by transmitting and receiving ultrasound. For example, an ultrasound image may be a color Doppler image, a pulse Doppler image, a strain imaging image, a shear wave elastography image, or the like.

[0024] The display processing unit 18 generates a display image by overlaying the necessary graphic data on the ultrasound image. The display image is output to the display unit 20. One or more images are displayed side by side in a display format according to the display mode.

[0025] The display unit 20 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 20. The display unit 20 may be a device that combines a display and an operation unit 22. For example, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) may be realized by the display unit 20 and the operation unit 22. Furthermore, a user interface such as a touch panel may be realized by the display unit 20 and the operation unit 22.

[0026] The operation unit 22 is a device that allows the user to input imaging conditions, commands, etc. to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10. For example, the operation unit 22 is an operation panel, a switch, a button, a keyboard, a mouse, a trackball, a joystick, or the like.

[0027] The storage unit 24 constitutes one or more storage areas for storing data. For example, the storage unit 24 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.

[0028] For example, the storage unit 24 stores received signals, received beams generated based on the received signals, received frames, volume data, ultrasound images, information indicating imaging conditions, and information related to the subject (for example, a patient).

[0029] The image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates an evaluation value indicating an evaluation of the image quality of an ultrasound image generated based on a received signal, based on the received signal. The image quality evaluation unit 26 may calculate an evaluation value indicating an evaluation of the image quality of the ultrasound image, based on a received frame or an ultrasound image. That is, the image quality evaluation unit 26 may calculate an evaluation value based on a received signal, may calculate an evaluation value based on a received frame output from the transmission / reception unit 14, or may calculate an evaluation value based on an ultrasound image output from the image generation unit 16. For convenience of explanation, the process of calculating an evaluation value based on a received signal will be described below, but the image quality evaluation unit 26 may also calculate an evaluation value based on a received frame or an ultrasound image.

[0030] One or more evaluation items for evaluating the image quality of an ultrasound image are determined in advance. For example, the evaluation items include image contrast, spatial resolution, and SNR (signal-to-noise ratio). Of course, evaluation items other than these may also be used. The evaluation items can also be considered as viewpoints for evaluating the image quality of an ultrasound image (i.e., evaluation viewpoints).

[0031] The image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates an evaluation value of the ultrasound image for each evaluation item based on the received signal. Hereinafter, the evaluation value for each evaluation item will be referred to as an "individual evaluation value." In other words, the image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates an individual evaluation value for each evaluation item.

[0032] Furthermore, the image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates a comprehensive evaluation value (hereinafter referred to as the "comprehensive evaluation value") based on one or more individual evaluation values. A weighted average or the like may be used to calculate the comprehensive evaluation value. When only one evaluation item is used, the individual evaluation value for that evaluation item is the comprehensive evaluation value. When multiple evaluation items are used, the image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates the comprehensive evaluation value based on the multiple individual evaluation values.

[0033] The method for calculating the individual evaluation value and the overall evaluation value will be explained in detail later.

[0034] Furthermore, if the calculated evaluation value is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the image quality evaluation unit 26 identifies one or more image quality parameters for increasing the evaluation value. For example, one or more evaluation items and one or more image quality parameters are associated in advance, and information indicating this association is stored in advance in the storage unit 24. How changing which image quality parameters will change the individual evaluation values of one or more evaluation items associated with those image quality parameters is calculated in advance or learned by machine learning or the like. Therefore, when it is desired to increase the evaluation value, it is possible to identify the image quality parameters to be changed. It is also possible to know what values the image quality parameters to be changed should be changed to in order to obtain a target evaluation value. In other words, it is possible to identify the direction in which the image quality parameters should be changed (i.e., the direction in which the image quality parameters should be corrected) in order to obtain the target evaluation value. The image quality evaluation unit 26 identifies the direction in which the image quality parameters should be changed.

[0035] For example, the image quality parameters include a transmission frequency, a frame smoothing number, a gain, a transmission focus, a scan line density, a dynamic range, a luminance gamma curve, and a compound number.

[0036] For example, if an individual evaluation value of a certain evaluation item is equal to or less than a threshold, the image quality evaluation unit 26 identifies one or more image quality parameters (i.e., one or more image quality parameters linked to the evaluation item) for increasing the individual evaluation value based on the information indicating the link. Furthermore, the image quality evaluation unit 26 identifies the direction of change of the identified one or more image quality parameters based on the information indicating the link.

[0037] If the overall evaluation value is equal to or less than the threshold value, the image quality evaluation unit 26 may identify one or more image quality parameters to increase the overall evaluation value, and further identify the direction in which the identified one or more image quality parameters should be changed.

[0038] The image quality evaluation unit 26 outputs to the notification unit 30 the individual evaluation value, the overall evaluation value, information indicating one or more image quality parameters for increasing the evaluation value, and information indicating the direction in which the image quality parameters should be changed.

[0039] The region information acquisition unit 28 acquires information indicating the diagnostic region from which ultrasonic waves are transmitted and received (hereinafter referred to as "diagnostic region information").

[0040] For example, when the user specifies a diagnostic region by operating the operation unit 22 at the start of an ultrasound examination, the region information acquisition unit 28 acquires diagnostic region information indicating the diagnostic region specified by the user. When the diagnostic region is preset, the region information acquisition unit 28 may acquire the diagnostic region information from the preset information set at the start of the examination.

[0041] As another example, the part information acquisition unit 28 may apply part recognition processing to the ultrasound image generated by transmitting and receiving ultrasound waves, thereby recognizing the diagnostic part from the ultrasound image and acquiring diagnostic part information.

[0042] Known part recognition processing is used for the part recognition processing. For example, machine learning or artificial intelligence (AI) may be used for the part recognition processing. There is no limitation on the type of machine learning or artificial intelligence used, and any algorithm or model may be used. For example, a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a generative adversarial network (GAN), a linear model, random forest / decision tree learning, a support vector machine (SVM), an ensemble classifier, or other algorithms may be used. Furthermore, pattern matching such as template matching, or algorithms that do not require learning, such as correlation coefficient or similarity calculations, may be used for the part recognition processing.

[0043] The region recognition process may involve pattern matching using standard cross-sectional images (e.g., B-mode images). For example, one or more standard cross-sectional images are generated in advance for each diagnostic region and stored in the storage unit 24 or an external device. The region information acquisition unit 28 compares the ultrasound image generated by transmitting and receiving ultrasound with each standard cross-sectional image to identify the diagnostic region from which ultrasound is being transmitted and received, thereby acquiring diagnostic region information.

[0044] The region information acquisition unit 28 outputs the diagnostic region information to the image quality evaluation unit 26 and the notification unit 30. As will be described later, the image quality evaluation unit 26 may calculate individual evaluation values for evaluation items corresponding to the diagnostic region indicated by the diagnostic region information.

[0045] The notification unit 30 notifies the user of various types of information. For example, the notification unit 30 may display the various types of information on the display unit 20, or may output the various types of information as audio information from a speaker.

[0046] For example, the notification unit 30 notifies the user of information output from the image quality evaluation unit 26 and diagnostic region information output from the region information acquisition unit 28. Specifically, the notification unit 30 notifies the user of at least one of the individual evaluation value, the overall evaluation value, information indicating one or more image quality parameters for increasing the evaluation value, and information indicating the direction in which the image quality parameters should be changed.

[0047] The control unit 32 controls each unit of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 .

[0048] An example of the processing performed by the image quality evaluation unit 26 will now be described.

[0049] Define individual evaluation values x1, x2,..., xN. For example, contrast, spatial resolution, and SNR of an ultrasound image are set as evaluation items (i.e., evaluation perspectives). Define the individual evaluation value for contrast as individual evaluation value x1. Define the individual evaluation value for spatial resolution as individual evaluation value x2. Define the individual evaluation value for SNR as individual evaluation value x3.

[0050] For example, to calculate an individual evaluation value x1 for the contrast of an ultrasound image, a brightness distribution spread value calculated from the standard deviation value of the brightness distribution in the ultrasound image is used. Generally, the greater the spread of the brightness distribution, the higher the contrast of the image. The image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates the ratio (%) of the brightness distribution spread value calculated from the received signal or ultrasound image input to the image quality evaluation unit 26 as the individual evaluation value x1 for the contrast, based on a predetermined standard brightness distribution spread value. The standard brightness distribution spread value is stored in advance in the storage unit 24 or an external device.

[0051] For example, the spatial resolution is determined by the spread value of the frequency spectrum distribution of the received signal in a region where the luminance distribution of the ultrasound image is flat. Generally, the wider the frequency spectrum, the higher the signal characteristics and the higher the spatial resolution of the generated image. The image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates, as an individual evaluation value x2 for the spatial resolution, the proportion (%) of the spread value of the distribution calculated from the received signal or ultrasound image input to the image quality evaluation unit 26, based on a predetermined standard spread value of the frequency spectrum distribution. The standard spread value of the frequency spectrum distribution is stored in advance in the storage unit 24 or an external device.

[0052] For example, the average brightness value of the ultrasound image is used as the SNR. Generally, noise is generated from a system including the ultrasound diagnostic device 10, so the noise level is constant or nearly constant. In contrast, the brightness of the ultrasound image varies depending on the subject. Furthermore, the higher the brightness level of the ultrasound image, the higher the SNR. The image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates the ratio (%) of the average brightness value calculated from the received signal or ultrasound image input to the image quality evaluation unit 26, based on a predetermined standard average brightness value, as an individual evaluation value x3 for the SNR. The standard average brightness value is pre-stored in the storage unit 24 or an external device.

[0053] The image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates the overall evaluation value S according to the following formula (1): That is, the image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates the average value of the individual evaluation values x1, x2, . . . , xN as the overall evaluation value S.

number

number

[0054] The image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates each individual evaluation value x k and the overall evaluation value S, the direction of image quality parameter change and the priority of the image quality parameters to be changed are determined.

[0055] As described above, one or more evaluation items and one or more image quality parameters are associated in advance, and information indicating the association is stored in advance in the storage unit 24. For example, the image quality evaluation unit 26 may select an individual evaluation value x that is lower than the overall evaluation value S. k and the identified individual evaluation value x k (i.e., one or more image quality parameters linked to the individual evaluation value xk). The image quality evaluation unit 26 also identifies the change direction of the identified one or more image quality parameters (i.e., the direction in which the image quality parameters are to be increased or decreased). The notification unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display the identified one or more image quality parameters and information indicating the change direction of each image quality parameter.

[0056] Multiple individual evaluation values x k is lower than the overall evaluation value S, the image quality evaluation unit 26 k One or more image quality parameters (i.e., the individual evaluation values x k image quality evaluation unit 26 then identifies the one or more image quality parameters associated with each of the image quality parameters. Image quality evaluation unit 26 also identifies the direction of change of the identified one or more image quality parameters. Notification unit 30 causes display unit 20 to display the identified one or more image quality parameters and information indicating the direction of change of each image quality parameter.

[0057] Furthermore, the image quality evaluation unit 26 may determine the priority of the image quality parameters to be changed in ascending order of individual evaluation values relative to the overall evaluation value S. For example, the image quality evaluation unit 26 may assign a higher priority to an image quality parameter associated with a lower individual evaluation value. The notification unit 30 may cause the display unit 20 to display information indicating the priority together with the image quality parameter to be changed.

[0058] For example, image quality parameters related to the evaluation item "contrast" include gain and the number of frames smoothed (noise reduction). That is, the evaluation item "contrast" is previously associated with gain, the number of frames smoothed, and information indicating this association is previously stored in the storage unit 24. Furthermore, how the evaluation item "contrast" will change when the gain is changed has been calculated in advance or learned by machine learning or the like, and information indicating this content is previously stored in the storage unit 24. Similarly, how the evaluation item "contrast" will change when the number of frames smoothed is changed has been calculated in advance or learned by machine learning or the like, and information indicating this content is previously stored in the storage unit 24.

[0059] Image quality parameters related to the evaluation item "spatial resolution" are transmission frequency, scan line density, etc. In other words, the evaluation item "spatial resolution" is previously associated with the transmission frequency, scan line density, etc., and information indicating this association is previously stored in the storage unit 24. Furthermore, how the evaluation item "spatial resolution" changes when the transmission frequency is changed is calculated in advance or learned by machine learning or the like, and information indicating this content is previously stored in the storage unit 24. The same applies to the scan line density.

[0060] Image quality parameters related to the evaluation item "SNR" are the transmission frequency, the number of frames smoothed, etc. In other words, the evaluation item "SNR" is previously associated with the transmission frequency, the number of frames smoothed, etc., and information indicating this association is previously stored in the storage unit 24. Furthermore, how the evaluation item "SNR" changes when the transmission frequency is changed is calculated in advance or learned by machine learning or the like, and information indicating this content is previously stored in the storage unit 24. The same applies to the number of frames smoothed.

[0061] For example, if the individual evaluation value x1 for the evaluation item "contrast" is lower than the overall evaluation value S, the image quality evaluation unit 26 identifies the image quality parameters "gain" and "number of frames smoothed" linked to the evaluation item "contrast" as the image quality parameters to be changed. The image quality evaluation unit 26 also identifies the direction in which the identified image quality parameters should be changed. The notification unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display information indicating the image quality parameter "gain" and information indicating the direction in which the image quality parameter "gain" should be changed. The same applies to the number of frames smoothed, etc.

[0062] Below, examples of the first embodiment will be described.

[0063] (Example 1-1) Example 1-1 will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 2 shows a screen displaying the evaluation value and image quality parameters.

[0064] The screen 34 is displayed on the display unit 20. When the ultrasound image 36 is generated by the image generation unit 16, the ultrasound image 36 is displayed on the screen 34. Here, as an example, the ultrasound image 36 is a B-mode image. Of course, a Doppler image or the like may also be displayed as the ultrasound image 36.

[0065] When the region information acquisition unit 28 acquires the diagnostic region information, the notification unit 30 displays the diagnostic region information on the screen 34, as indicated by the reference numeral 38. Here, as an example, the diagnostic region is "Kidney."

[0066] As indicated by the reference numeral 40, the notification unit 30 displays the evaluation value ("Score" in FIG. 2) on the screen 34. For example, the notification unit 30 displays the overall evaluation value S on the screen 34. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the overall evaluation value S is "89."

[0067] If the overall evaluation value S is equal to or less than the threshold value, the notification unit 30 displays on the screen 34 the image quality parameters (i.e., the image quality parameters to be changed) for increasing the overall evaluation value S. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the overall evaluation value S is equal to or less than the threshold value, so the notification unit 30 displays on the screen 34 the image quality parameters to be changed.

[0068] For example, the notification unit 30 displays a list 42 of image quality parameters to be changed on the screen 34. As described above, the image quality parameters to be changed are identified by the image quality evaluation unit 26. Here, as an example, the "transmission frequency" indicated by the reference numeral 44 ("Frequency" in FIG. 2), the "number of frames to be smoothed" indicated by the reference numeral 46 ("NoiseRed" in FIG. 2), and the "gain" indicated by the reference numeral 48 are identified as the image quality parameters to be changed. The notification unit 30 displays these image quality parameters on the screen 34.

[0069] In the example shown in Fig. 2, the notification unit 30 displays each image quality parameter on the screen 34 in order of priority. For example, the image quality parameter "transmission frequency" is first (i.e., has the highest priority). The image quality parameter "number of frames to be smoothed" is second. The image quality parameter "gain" is third.

[0070] Furthermore, the change direction of each image quality parameter to be changed is specified by the image quality evaluation unit 26. The notification unit 30 displays information indicating the change direction of each image quality parameter to be changed on the screen 34. For example, the notification unit 30 expresses the change direction by the character string "up", the character string "down", the symbol "up arrow", and the symbol "down arrow".

[0071] For example, the direction of change of the image quality parameter "transmission frequency" is specified as the direction of increasing that image quality parameter (i.e., the direction of increasing the frequency). In other words, by increasing the image quality parameter "transmission frequency", the overall evaluation value S can be increased. In this case, the notification unit 30 displays the character string "up" and the symbol "up arrow" on the screen 34 as information indicating the direction of change of the image quality parameter "transmission frequency".

[0072] Furthermore, the direction of change of the image quality parameter "gain" is specified as the direction of decreasing that image quality parameter (i.e., the direction of decreasing the gain). In other words, by decreasing the image quality parameter "gain", the overall evaluation value S can be increased. In this case, the notification unit 30 displays the character string "down" and the symbol "downward arrow" on the screen 34 as information indicating the direction of change of the image quality parameter "gain".

[0073] The notification unit 30 similarly displays information on the screen 34 indicating the direction of change for other image quality parameters.

[0074] Furthermore, notification unit 30 displays change buttons 44a, 46a, and 48a on screen 34. Change button 44a is a button for changing the image quality parameter "transmission frequency." Change button 46a is a button for changing the image quality parameter "number of frames to be smoothed." Change button 48a is a button for changing the image quality parameter "gain." By operating a change button, the user can change the image quality parameter corresponding to that change button.

[0075] As described above, information indicating each image quality parameter to be changed and the change direction of each image quality parameter is displayed on screen 34 and presented to the user. In this way, the user can easily grasp each image quality parameter to be changed and the change direction of each image quality parameter. As a result, according to Example 1-1, it is possible to assist the user in changing image quality parameters for adjusting the image quality of an ultrasound image.

[0076] (Example 1-2) In Example 1-2, one or more evaluation items suitable for evaluating the image quality of an ultrasound image representing each diagnostic region are predetermined for each diagnostic region. For example, diagnostic region information indicating the diagnostic region and information indicating one or more evaluation items suitable for evaluating the image quality of an ultrasound image representing the diagnostic region are linked in advance and stored in the storage unit 24.

[0077] For example, when the diagnostic region is a mammary gland, the depth-wise spatial resolution and contrast are evaluation items suitable for evaluating image quality. Therefore, diagnostic region information indicating the diagnostic region "mammary gland" and information indicating the evaluation items "depth-wise spatial resolution" and "contrast" are linked in advance and stored in the storage unit 24.

[0078] When the diagnostic region is the liver, penetration and speckle reduction are evaluation items suitable for evaluating image quality. Therefore, diagnostic region information indicating the diagnostic region "liver" and information indicating the evaluation items "penetration" and "speckle reduction" are linked in advance and stored in the storage unit 24.

[0079] The region information acquisition unit 28 acquires diagnostic region information indicating the diagnostic region to which ultrasound is transmitted and received. The image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates individual evaluation values for evaluation items for evaluating the image quality of the ultrasound image of the diagnostic region indicated by the diagnostic region information. That is, the image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates individual evaluation values for one or more evaluation items linked to the diagnostic region. For example, if the diagnostic region is a "mammary gland," the image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates an individual evaluation value for the evaluation item "depth-direction spatial resolution" and an individual evaluation value for the evaluation item "contrast." The image quality evaluation unit 26 also calculates an overall evaluation value S based on these individual evaluation values.

[0080] For example, when the overall evaluation value S is equal to or less than the threshold value, as shown in Fig. 2, the notification unit 30 displays on the screen 34 the image quality parameters (i.e., the image quality parameters to be changed) for increasing the overall evaluation value S. The image quality parameters to be changed are identified in the same manner as in Example 1-1.

[0081] In Example 1-2, the thresholds are determined in advance for each diagnostic region. For example, a threshold for the diagnostic region "mammary gland" and a threshold for the diagnostic region "liver" are determined in advance and stored in the storage unit 24. In the case of the diagnostic region "mammary gland," if the overall evaluation value S is equal to or less than the threshold for the mammary gland, the notification unit 30 displays image quality parameters for increasing the overall evaluation value S on the screen 34. The same applies to other diagnostic regions.

[0082] In Example 1-2, in order to calculate the above-mentioned individual evaluation value x1, a standard luminance distribution spread value determined according to the diagnostic region is used as a predetermined standard luminance distribution spread value. Similarly, in order to calculate the above-mentioned individual evaluation value x2, a standard frequency spectrum distribution spread value determined according to the diagnostic region is used as a predetermined standard frequency spectrum distribution spread value. In order to calculate the above-mentioned individual evaluation value x3, a standard average luminance value determined according to the diagnostic region is used based on a predetermined standard average luminance value.

[0083] According to Example 1-2, by evaluating the image quality according to evaluation items suitable for evaluating the image quality of an ultrasound image representing a diagnostic area, it is possible to assist a user in changing image quality parameters for adjusting the image quality of the ultrasound image representing the diagnostic area.

[0084] In Example 1-2, if a diagnostic region designated by the user differs from a diagnostic region recognized by the region recognition processing, the notification unit 30 may display information on the display unit 20 prompting the user to correct the diagnostic region designated by the user. For example, the user uses the operation unit 22 to input diagnostic region information indicating the diagnostic region to the ultrasound diagnostic device 10. The region information acquisition unit 28 then recognizes the diagnostic region by applying the region recognition processing to the ultrasound image. If a diagnostic region designated by the user differs from a diagnostic region recognized by the region recognition processing, the notification unit 30 displays information on the display unit 20 prompting the user to correct the diagnostic region. For example, the notification unit 30 displays a message on the display unit 20 indicating that the diagnostic region designated by the user differs from the automatically recognized diagnostic region. When the user corrects the diagnostic region using the operation unit 22, the processing according to Example 1-2 is executed for the corrected diagnostic region.

[0085] Furthermore, if the diagnostic region recognized by the region recognition process differs from the actual diagnostic region, the notification unit 30 may display information for correcting the diagnostic region on the display unit 20. For example, when the user corrects the diagnostic region using the operation unit 22, the process according to Example 1-2 is executed for the corrected diagnostic region.

[0086] (Examples 1-3) In Examples 1-3, the image quality evaluation unit 26 may calculate the individual evaluation values and the overall evaluation values in real time while transmitting and receiving ultrasound, or may calculate the individual evaluation values and the overall evaluation values after a predetermined number of frames of ultrasound images have been acquired, or may calculate the individual evaluation values and the overall evaluation values after a predetermined time has elapsed from a certain point in time (for example, the start of imaging).

[0087] For example, by calculating the individual evaluation values and the overall evaluation value in real time, even if the location (e.g., cross section) where the ultrasonic waves are transmitted and received changes, the image quality can be evaluated following the change. As a result, the user can easily associate the operation of the ultrasonic probe 12 with the evaluation value, and can quickly determine how to operate the ultrasonic probe 12 (e.g., how to press the ultrasonic probe 12 against the body).

[0088] (Examples 1-4) In Examples 1-4, when a user gives an instruction, the image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates an individual evaluation value and a comprehensive evaluation value. The user can give an instruction to the image quality evaluation unit 26 by operating the operation unit 22. An image for giving the instruction (for example, an icon or button image) may be displayed on the display unit 20, and the user may give the instruction to the image quality evaluation unit 26 by, for example, pressing the image.

[0089] For example, the image quality evaluation unit 26 may calculate the individual evaluation values and the overall evaluation values in real time until the user instructs the evaluation to stop, or may calculate the individual evaluation values and the overall evaluation values when the user gives an instruction to start the evaluation.

[0090] According to the first to fourth embodiments, the image quality is evaluated at a timing desired by the user, so that unnecessary notifications to the user are not made.

[0091] (Examples 1-5) Examples 1-5 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 shows a screen displaying evaluation values and image quality parameters.

[0092] In Examples 1-5, the notification unit 30 displays the individual evaluation value of each evaluation item on the display unit 20. The notification unit 30 may display the overall evaluation value on the display unit 20 and also the individual evaluation value of each evaluation item on the display unit 20, or may display the individual evaluation value of each evaluation item on the display unit 20 without displaying the overall evaluation value on the display unit 20.

[0093] A screen 34 shown in Fig. 3 is displayed on the display unit 20. As in the example shown in Fig. 2, an ultrasound image 36, information indicating the diagnostic region (reference numeral 38), and a list 42 of image quality parameters to be changed are displayed on the screen 34. The list 42 shows information indicating the direction in which each image quality parameter is to be changed.

[0094] In addition, in Examples 1-5, the notification unit 30 displays a graph 50 representing each individual evaluation value and a list 52 of the individual evaluation values on the screen 34. The notification unit 30 also displays a score as a comprehensive evaluation value on the screen 34. "Score: 89" in Fig. 3 is the comprehensive evaluation value before the image quality parameters were changed.

[0095] For example, individual evaluation values are calculated for each of the evaluation items such as "Resolution," "Contrast," and "Penetration," and these individual evaluation values are included in list 52. As in Example 1-2, individual evaluation values may be calculated for each individual evaluation linked to the diagnostic site.

[0096] For example, the individual evaluation value for the evaluation item "Resolution" is 81%. The individual evaluation value for the evaluation item "Contrast" is 124%. Graph 50a represents the individual evaluation value for the evaluation item "Resolution". Graph 50b represents the individual evaluation value for the evaluation item "Contrast". In this way, the individual evaluation values for the evaluation items are visualized by graphs.

[0097] In Examples 1-5, the image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates, as estimated evaluation values, evaluation values that would be calculated when the image quality parameters are changed according to the change direction. The notification unit 30 causes the estimated evaluation values to be displayed on the display unit 20. For example, the image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates each of the individual evaluation values and the overall evaluation value as estimated evaluation values.

[0098] "Score: 100" in FIG. 3 is the overall evaluation value as an estimated evaluation value calculated by changing the image quality parameters. Graph 54 is a graph showing each individual evaluation value as an estimated evaluation value. Graph 54a is an individual evaluation value as an estimated evaluation value for the evaluation item "Resolution." Graph 54b is an individual evaluation value as an estimated evaluation value for the evaluation item "Contrast."

[0099] The calculation of the estimated evaluation value will be described below.

[0100] The image quality evaluation unit 26 changes one or more image quality parameters associated with each evaluation item by a certain value in the change direction. The image generation unit 16 generates an ultrasound image based on the received frame output from the transmission / reception unit 14 according to each changed image quality parameter. The image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates individual evaluation values and overall evaluation values for the ultrasound image after each image quality parameter has been changed. In this way, the image quality evaluation unit 26 re-evaluates the image quality of the ultrasound image after each image quality parameter to be changed has been changed. The image quality evaluation unit 26 may change each image quality parameter to be changed by a certain value multiple times and re-evaluate the image quality of the ultrasound image multiple times. For example, the image quality evaluation unit 26 creates multiple conditions by generating multiple image quality parameters that are changed by a certain value for each image quality parameter to be changed, the image generation unit 16 generates an ultrasound image under each condition, and the image quality evaluation unit 26 evaluates the image quality of the ultrasound image generated under each condition.

[0101] For example, if the individual evaluation value for the evaluation item "Contrast" is lower than the overall evaluation value S, the image quality evaluation unit 26 creates multiple conditions by generating five different values for each of the image quality parameters "Gain" and "NoiseRed" linked to the evaluation item "Contrast." The image generation unit 16 generates an ultrasound image under each condition. The image quality evaluation unit 26 evaluates the image quality of the ultrasound image generated under each condition. The image quality evaluation unit 26 identifies one or more image quality parameters that increase the individual evaluation value for the evaluation item "Contrast" without decreasing the individual evaluation values for evaluation items other than the evaluation item "Contrast" (e.g., spatial resolution and SNR), and specifies the values of the identified one or more image quality parameters.

[0102] Notification unit 30 may display the identified one or more image quality parameters as recommended parameters on screen 34. Notification unit 30 may also display the values of the identified one or more image quality parameters as recommended values on screen 34.

[0103] The notification unit 30 displays the evaluation values (for example, individual evaluation values and overall evaluation values) of the image quality of the ultrasound image generated in accordance with the recommended values on the screen 34 as estimated evaluation values.

[0104] According to Examples 1-5, the user can easily understand the relationship between the direction of change of the image quality parameter and the estimated evaluation value (i.e., the evaluation value after correction). As a result, it becomes easier for the user to adjust the image quality. Furthermore, when recommended values are presented to the user, for example by displaying them on screen 34, the user can adjust the image quality by referring to the recommended values.

[0105] (Examples 1 to 6) Examples 1-6 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an ultrasound image and a region of interest (ROI).

[0106] In Examples 1-6, the image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates an evaluation value based on a received signal included in a region of interest (ROI). For example, as shown in FIG. 4, a screen 56 is displayed on the display unit 20. An ultrasound image 58 (e.g., a B-mode image) generated by transmitting and receiving ultrasound is displayed on the screen 56. When a user specifies a region of interest 60 on the ultrasound image 58 using the operation unit 22, the image quality evaluation unit 26 evaluates the image quality of the image within the specified region of interest 60. In other words, the image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates individual evaluation values and overall evaluation values for the images within the region of interest 60.

[0107] In Example 1-6, the processes according to Examples 1-1 to 1-5 described above are also executed. For example, image quality parameters for increasing evaluation values (e.g., individual evaluation values and overall evaluation values) calculated from images within a region of interest are identified, and the identified image quality parameters and information indicating the direction in which the image quality parameters are to be changed are notified to the user.

[0108] According to the first to sixth embodiments, it becomes possible for the user to change image quality parameters in a manner that is specialized for the area of interest.

[0109] (Examples 1-7) In Examples 1-7, as described above, a plurality of evaluation items for evaluating the image quality of an ultrasound image are predetermined. The image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates an individual evaluation value for an evaluation item selected by a user from the plurality of evaluation items. The notification unit 30 notifies the user of the calculated individual evaluation value by, for example, displaying it on the display unit 20.

[0110] Furthermore, the image quality evaluation unit 26 identifies one or more image quality parameters for increasing the individual evaluation value for each evaluation item and the direction in which each image quality parameter should be changed. This identification method is the same as the identification method according to Example 1-1 described above.

[0111] The image generator 16 generates an ultrasound image according to the changed image quality parameters to increase the individual evaluation value for each evaluation item. That is, the image quality evaluation unit 26 specifies the direction of change of the image quality parameters to increase the individual evaluation value, and the image generator 16 changes the image quality parameters by a certain value in that direction of change and generates an ultrasound image according to the changed value. The notification unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display the generated ultrasound image.

[0112] Examples 1 to 7 will be described below with reference to Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 shows a screen 34 that displays evaluation values and image quality parameters. Figure 6 shows a selection screen 62 for selecting evaluation items.

[0113] Once an ultrasound image is generated and its image quality is evaluated, an ultrasound image 36, diagnostic region information (see reference numeral 38), a list of individual evaluation values 52, and a graph 50 are displayed on a screen 34, as shown in Fig. 5. The content shown in Fig. 5 is the same as part of the content shown in Fig. 3.

[0114] For example, an image (for example, an icon or button image) for instructing the display of the selection screen 62 is displayed on the display unit 20. When the user instructs the display of the selection screen 62 by, for example, pressing the image using the operation unit 22, the notification unit 30 causes the display unit 20 to display the selection screen 62.

[0115] The notification unit 30 displays selection areas 64, 66, 68, etc. on the selection screen 62. Each selection area is an area where the user can select an evaluation item. For example, selection area 64 is an area where the user can select the evaluation item "Resolution." Selection area 66 is an area where the user can select the evaluation item "Contrast." Selection area 68 is an area where the user can select the evaluation item "Penetration."

[0116] A check box 70 is displayed in the selection area 64. The user can select the evaluation item "Resolution" by checking (i.e., turning on) the check box 70 on the selection screen 62. The user can deselect the evaluation item "Resolution" by unchecking (i.e., turning off) the check box 70 on the selection screen 62.

[0117] Similarly, a check box 72 is displayed in selection area 66, and a check box 74 is displayed in selection area 68. The user can select or deselect the evaluation item "Contrast" by operating check box 72. The user can select or deselect the evaluation item "Penetration" by operating check box 74.

[0118] In the example shown in FIG. 6, the evaluation items "Resolution" and "Contrast" have been selected by the user, and the evaluation item "Penetration" has not been selected. In this case, the image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates individual evaluation values for each of the evaluation items "Resolution" and "Contrast." The image quality evaluation unit 26 also calculates an overall evaluation value based on the individual evaluation values for each of the evaluation items "Resolution" and "Contrast." The notification unit 30 displays the individual evaluation values for each of the evaluation items "Resolution" and "Contrast," as well as the overall evaluation value, on the screen 34.

[0119] Furthermore, the image quality evaluation unit 26 identifies one or more image quality parameters for increasing the individual evaluation value for each of the evaluation items "Resolution," "Contrast," "Penetration," etc., and the direction in which each image quality parameter should be changed. The image generation unit 16 generates an ultrasound image according to the changed image quality parameters for increasing the individual evaluation value for each of the evaluation items "Resolution," "Contrast," "Penetration," etc. The notification unit 30 displays the generated ultrasound image on the selection screen 62.

[0120] For example, ultrasound image 76 is an ultrasound image generated in accordance with one or more image quality parameters after modification to increase the individual evaluation value for the evaluation item "Resolution," and is displayed in selection area 64. Ultrasound image 78 is an ultrasound image generated in accordance with one or more image quality parameters after modification to increase the individual evaluation value for the evaluation item "Contrast," and is displayed in selection area 66. Ultrasound image 80 is an ultrasound image generated in accordance with one or more image quality parameters after modification to increase the individual evaluation value for the evaluation item "Penetration," and is displayed in selection area 68. Ultrasound images 76, 78, and 80 are sample images that have been adjusted in terms of the respective evaluation items. The user can select an evaluation item by referring to ultrasound images 76, 78, and 80.

[0121] Furthermore, an image 82 such as an icon or button image may be displayed on the selection screen 62. The image 82 is an image that allows the user to instruct an image quality evaluation. For example, when the user selects an evaluation item on the selection screen 62 and presses the image 82, the image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates an individual evaluation value and an overall evaluation value for the evaluation item selected by the user, and the notification unit 30 displays the calculated individual evaluation value and overall evaluation value on the screen 34.

[0122] The user may select evaluation items before the individual evaluation values and overall evaluation values for the preset default evaluation items are calculated, or may select evaluation items after the individual evaluation values and overall evaluation values for the preset default evaluation items are calculated.

[0123] According to Examples 1-7, it becomes easy to change the image quality parameters relating to the evaluation items desired by the user.

[0124] (Examples 1-8) In Example 1-8, the image quality evaluation unit 26 calculates recommended values for image quality parameters to increase the evaluation value. For example, as described in Example 1-5 above, the image quality evaluation unit 26 identifies one or more recommended parameters and recommended values. The notification unit 30 notifies the user of the recommended values by, for example, displaying them on the display unit 20.

[0125] 7 shows an example of a display of recommended values. For example, when an ultrasound image is generated and its image quality is evaluated, an ultrasound image 36, diagnostic region information (see reference numeral 38), a list 52 of individual evaluation values, graphs 50 and 54, and a list 84 of image quality parameters to be changed are displayed on the screen 34. In the list 84 of image quality parameters to be changed, similar to the list 42 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the "transmission frequency" ("Frequency" in FIG. 7), the "number of frames to be smoothed" ("NoiseRed" in FIG. 7), and "gain" are identified as image quality parameters to be changed.

[0126] In addition, a recommended value of "+1" is calculated as the recommended value for the image quality parameter "transmission frequency" and is displayed in the display area for the image quality parameter "transmission frequency" in list 84. A recommended value of "+2" is calculated as the recommended value for the image quality parameter "number of frames smoothed" and is displayed in the display area for the image quality parameter "number of frames smoothed" in list 84. A recommended value of "-5" is calculated as the recommended value for the image quality parameter "gain" and is displayed in the display area for the image quality parameter "gain" in list 84. The user can use these recommended values as a reference to change the value of each image quality parameter.

[0127] According to Examples 1-8, the recommended values are notified to the user, so the user can refer to the recommended values when changing the values of the image quality parameters, thereby reducing the amount of work required for the user to perform the operation.

[0128] Additionally, an image 86 such as an icon or button image may be displayed on the screen 34. The image 86 is an image that allows the user to issue an instruction to automatically switch the value of each image quality parameter to the recommended value. When the user presses the image 86, the image generator 16 automatically switches the value of each image quality parameter to the recommended value and generates an ultrasound image according to the recommended value of each image quality parameter. In this way, a recommended ultrasound image is generated without the user having to manually change the value of each image quality parameter. For example, the ultrasound image is displayed on the screen 34.

[0129] Second Embodiment An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment.

[0130] Like the ultrasound diagnostic device 10 according to the first embodiment, the ultrasound diagnostic device 100 includes an ultrasound probe 12, a transmitting / receiving unit 14, an image generating unit 16, a display processing unit 18, a display unit 20, an operation unit 22, a storage unit 24, and a control unit 32. The configurations and functions of these components are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0131] The ultrasound diagnostic device 100 also includes an image quality evaluation unit 102, a change unit 104, and a notification unit 106. The image quality evaluation unit 102 evaluates the image quality of the ultrasound image generated by the image generation unit 16. The change unit 104 changes image quality parameters. The notification unit 106 notifies the user of various types of information.

[0132] Below, examples according to the second embodiment will be described.

[0133] Example 2-1 Example 2-1 will be described below.

[0134] The image quality evaluation unit 102 evaluates the image quality of the ultrasound image generated by the image generation unit 16. The image quality evaluation unit 102 may evaluate the image quality of the ultrasound image based on the ultrasound image output from the image generation unit 16, or may evaluate the image quality of the ultrasound image based on a received signal or a received frame. In the following, as an example, the image quality evaluation unit 102 evaluates the image quality of the ultrasound image based on the ultrasound image output from the image generation unit 16.

[0135] The image quality evaluation unit 102 may evaluate the image quality of the ultrasound image by the same processing as the processing by the image quality evaluation unit 26 according to the first embodiment. For example, the image quality evaluation unit 102 may calculate an individual evaluation value for each evaluation item (for example, spatial resolution, contrast, SNR, etc.) and calculate a comprehensive evaluation value based on a plurality of individual evaluation values.

[0136] As another example, the image quality evaluation unit 102 may evaluate the image quality of the ultrasound image based on a combination of multiple quantitative values such as the frequency components, average brightness value, and brightness distribution of the ultrasound image, or may evaluate the image quality of the ultrasound image based on an analysis algorithm that uses the quantitative values as features.

[0137] As yet another example, the image quality evaluation unit 102 may evaluate the image quality of an ultrasound image using a machine learning algorithm. The machine learning algorithm is an algorithm that has previously learned using ultrasound images with high evaluation values as teacher images, and is an algorithm that determines ultrasound images with high evaluation values.

[0138] In the second embodiment, the image generator 16 generates a first ultrasound image according to a first image quality parameter. For example, the first image quality parameter is a predetermined image quality parameter or an image quality parameter specified by a user. As in the first embodiment, the image quality parameter includes a transmission frequency, a frame smoothing number, a gain, a transmission focus, a scan line density, a dynamic range, a luminance gamma curve, and a compound number.

[0139] When the first ultrasonic image is generated, the image quality evaluation unit 102 calculates a first evaluation value that indicates the evaluation of the image quality of the first ultrasonic image. For example, a comprehensive evaluation value is calculated as the first evaluation value.

[0140] Modifying unit 104 generates a second image quality parameter that is different from the first image quality parameter by modifying the image quality parameter. For example, if the first evaluation value is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, modifying unit 104 generates the second image quality parameter by modifying the image quality parameter. For example, modifying unit 104 generates the second image quality parameter by modifying the image quality parameter in accordance with a multivariate function. As described in the first embodiment, modifying unit 104 may calculate a recommended value for the image quality parameter and set the calculated recommended value as the second image quality parameter.

[0141] The change unit 104 gives an instruction to change the image quality parameter to the image generation unit 16. The image generation unit 16 generates a second ultrasound image in accordance with the image quality parameter changed by the change unit 104 (i.e., the second image quality parameter). Depending on the type of image quality parameter, the change unit 104 gives an instruction to change the image quality parameter to the transmission / reception unit 14. The transmission / reception unit 14 transmits and receives ultrasound in accordance with the image quality parameter changed by the change unit 104 (i.e., the second image quality parameter). As a result, the transmission / reception unit 14 receives a reception signal according to the second image quality parameter.

[0142] For example, the gain, dynamic range, luminance gamma curve, and number of compounds are image quality parameters related to the image generator 16. The modifying unit 104 modifies these image quality parameters to generate a plurality of second image quality parameters for the image generator 16. The image generator 16 generates a second ultrasound image in accordance with the plurality of second image parameters.

[0143] Furthermore, for example, the transmit focus, scan line density, and frequency are image quality parameters related to the transceiver unit 14. The change unit 104 changes these image quality parameters to generate a plurality of second image quality parameters for the transceiver unit 14. The transceiver unit 14 transmits and receives ultrasound in accordance with the plurality of second image parameters, thereby receiving a received signal according to the plurality of second image parameters. The transceiver unit 14 processes the received signal to generate a received frame according to the plurality of second image parameters and output it to the image generator 16. The image generator 16 generates a second ultrasound image based on the received frame.

[0144] The modification unit 104 may give instructions to change the image quality parameters only to the image generation unit 16, or may give instructions to change the image quality parameters to both the transmission / reception unit 14 and the image generation unit 16, or may give instructions to change the image quality parameters only to the transmission / reception unit 14.

[0145] When the second ultrasonic image is generated, the image quality evaluation unit 102 calculates a second evaluation value that indicates the evaluation of the image quality of the second ultrasonic image. For example, a comprehensive evaluation value is calculated as the second evaluation value.

[0146] The notification unit 106 notifies the user of various types of information. For example, the notification unit 106 may display the various types of information on the display unit 20, or may output the various types of information as audio information from a speaker.

[0147] In the second embodiment, if the second evaluation value is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the notification unit 106 notifies the user that the evaluation value of the image quality of the ultrasound image will not exceed the threshold even if the image quality parameters are changed. For example, the notification unit 106 may display a message indicating this on the display unit 20, or an image indicating this on the display unit 20. Specifically, the notification unit 106 displays a message such as "The score is low. Changing the image quality parameters will not increase the score" on the display unit 20. In addition, the notification unit 106 displays a red image on the display unit 20 indicating that the evaluation value will not exceed the threshold.

[0148] For example, the modification unit 104 sequentially modifies each image quality parameter according to the multivariate function described above, thereby sequentially generating multiple second image quality parameters that are different from one another. For each modification, the transmitter / receiver unit 14 transmits and receives ultrasound waves according to the second image quality parameters, and the image generator 16 generates a second ultrasound image according to the second image quality parameters. By modifying the image quality parameters multiple times, multiple second ultrasound images are generated according to the number of modifications. The image quality evaluation unit 102 calculates a second evaluation value that indicates an evaluation of the image quality of each of the multiple second ultrasound images. In this way, the transition of the second evaluation value is obtained.

[0149] For example, if the second evaluation value does not exceed the threshold value even after changing each image quality parameter a predetermined number of times, the notification unit 106 may notify the user that the evaluation value of the image quality of the ultrasound image does not exceed the threshold value even after changing the image quality parameters.

[0150] When the second evaluation value is equal to or greater than the threshold, the notification unit 106 may display a message indicating that the evaluation of image quality has improved on the display unit 20, or may display an image (for example, a blue image) indicating that the evaluation of image quality has improved on the display unit 20. When the second evaluation value is equal to or greater than the threshold, the notification unit 106 may not display the message or the image on the display unit 20. The fact that the second evaluation value is equal to or greater than the threshold means that there is room for improvement in the image quality of the ultrasound image by changing the image quality parameters.

[0151] As described above, according to the second embodiment, the user can reduce the amount of time spent on trial and error adjusting the image quality of an ultrasound image. That is, if the user manually adjusts the image quality parameters repeatedly even when changing the image quality parameters does not improve the image quality of the ultrasound image (i.e., even when the second evaluation value does not exceed the threshold), this may lengthen the overall examination time. According to the second embodiment, the user is notified that changing the image quality parameters will not exceed the threshold, thereby saving the user the trouble of adjusting the image quality of the ultrasound image. For example, the user may consider replacing the ultrasound probe 12 with another ultrasound probe 12 or performing the next examination without changing the image quality parameters, thereby reducing the time required to adjust the image quality of the ultrasound image. In this way, the overall time required for the ultrasound examination can be shortened.

[0152] (Example 2-2) In Example 2-2, the threshold value described in Example 2-1 is determined for each subject. The notification unit 106 changes the threshold value for each subject to which ultrasound is transmitted and received, and notifies the user that the evaluation value of the image quality of the ultrasound image does not exceed the threshold value even if the image quality parameters are changed.

[0153] Example 2-2 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a block diagram for explaining the object information and image quality evaluation unit 102.

[0154] Subject information is information indicating the attributes of a subject. For example, subject attributes include the subject's age, sex, BMI value, diagnostic region, disease, etc. Specific examples of subject attributes include being in one's 30s, male, BMI value 20, and liver. Subject information is input to the image quality evaluation unit 102. For example, a user may input subject information about the subject to be examined to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 100 using the operation unit 22, or the subject information may be input to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 100 via a communication path such as a network.

[0155] A different threshold is set for each attribute of the subject indicated by the subject information, and the threshold corresponding to the attribute is stored in advance in the storage unit 24. The image quality evaluation unit 102 obtains a threshold corresponding to the attribute of the subject indicated by the input subject information from the storage unit 24. The image quality evaluation unit 102 compares the calculated first evaluation value with the threshold. If the first evaluation value is equal to or less than the threshold and a second ultrasound image is generated and a second evaluation value is calculated, the image quality evaluation unit 102 compares the second evaluation value with the threshold. If the second evaluation value is equal to or less than the threshold, the notification unit 106 notifies the user that the evaluation value of the image quality of the ultrasound image will not exceed the threshold even if the image quality parameters are changed.

[0156] According to Example 2-2, the image quality of an ultrasound image can be evaluated according to a threshold value according to the attributes of the subject, thereby improving the accuracy of the evaluation.

[0157] (Example 2-3) In Example 2-3, the image quality evaluation unit 102 may calculate the first evaluation value and the second evaluation value in real time during transmission and reception of ultrasound. The change unit 104 may change the image quality parameters in real time during transmission and reception of ultrasound. That is, in Example 2-3, generation of the first ultrasound image, calculation of the first evaluation value, change of the image quality parameters, generation of the second ultrasound image, and calculation of the second evaluation value may be performed in real time during transmission and reception of ultrasound.

[0158] As another example, after a predetermined number of frames of ultrasound images have been acquired, the generation of a first ultrasound image, the calculation of a first evaluation value, the change of image quality parameters, the generation of a second ultrasound image, and the calculation of a second evaluation value may be performed.

[0159] As yet another example, after a predetermined time has elapsed from a certain point in time (e.g., the start of imaging), the generation of a first ultrasound image, the calculation of a first evaluation value, the change of image quality parameters, the generation of a second ultrasound image, and the calculation of a second evaluation value may be performed.

[0160] For example, by evaluating image quality and changing image quality parameters in real time, even if the location (e.g., cross section) where ultrasound is transmitted and received changes, the image quality can be evaluated following the change. As a result, the user can easily associate the operation of the ultrasonic probe 12 with the evaluation value, and can quickly determine how to operate the ultrasonic probe 12 (e.g., how to press the ultrasonic probe 12).

[0161] (Examples 2-4) In Examples 2-4, when a user gives an instruction, the image quality assessment unit 102 evaluates an ultrasound image, and the modification unit 104 modifies the image quality parameters. The user can give instructions to the image quality assessment unit 102 and the modification unit 104 by operating the operation unit 22. An image (e.g., an icon or button image) for giving the instruction may be displayed on the display unit 20, and the user may give the instruction to the image quality assessment unit 102 and the modification unit 104 by, for example, pressing the image.

[0162] For example, the image quality evaluation unit 102 may evaluate the ultrasound image in real time until the user instructs it to stop the evaluation, or may evaluate the ultrasound image when the user instructs it to stop the evaluation. Similarly, the modification unit 104 may change the image quality parameters in real time until the user instructs it to stop the modification, or may change the image quality parameters when the user instructs it to change.

[0163] According to the second to fourth embodiments, the image quality is evaluated and the image quality parameters are changed at a timing desired by the user, so that unnecessary notifications to the user are not made.

[0164] (Examples 2-5) Example 2-5 will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an ultrasound image and a region of interest (ROI).

[0165] In Examples 2-5, the image quality evaluation unit 102 calculates a first evaluation value and a second evaluation value based on an image included in a region of interest (ROI) set in an ultrasound image. For example, as shown in FIG. 10 , a screen 108 is displayed on the display unit 20. An ultrasound image 110 (e.g., a B-mode image) generated by transmitting and receiving ultrasound is displayed on the screen 108. When a user specifies a region of interest 112 on the ultrasound image 110 using the operation unit 22, the image quality evaluation unit 102 evaluates the image quality of the image within the specified region of interest 112. That is, the image quality evaluation unit 102 calculates a first evaluation value and a second evaluation value of the image within the region of interest 112.

[0166] In Example 2-5, the processes according to Examples 2-1 to 2-4 described above are also executed. For example, if the first evaluation value is equal to or less than a threshold, the image quality parameters are changed to generate a second ultrasound image, and a second evaluation value is calculated based on the second ultrasound image. If the second evaluation value is equal to or less than the threshold, the user is notified that the evaluation value will not exceed the threshold even if the image quality parameters are changed.

[0167] According to the second to fifth embodiments, the image quality of the image included in the region in which the user is interested is evaluated, so that unnecessary notifications for the user are not given.

[0168] Furthermore, in Examples 2-5, a plurality of evaluation items for evaluating the image quality of an ultrasound image are predetermined. The image quality evaluation unit 102 calculates a first individual evaluation value for an evaluation item selected by a user from the plurality of evaluation items based on a first ultrasound image, and calculates a second individual evaluation value for the evaluation item selected by a user from the plurality of evaluation items based on a second ultrasound image. If the first individual evaluation value is equal to or less than a threshold, the change unit 104 changes the image quality parameters. This generates a second ultrasound image. If the second individual evaluation value is equal to or less than the threshold, the notification unit 106 notifies the user that the evaluation value of the image quality of the ultrasound image will not exceed the threshold even if the image quality parameters are changed.

[0169] 10, a list 114 of evaluation items is displayed on the screen 108. When the user selects an evaluation item on the screen 108, the image quality evaluation unit 102 calculates a first individual evaluation value for the selected evaluation item based on the first ultrasound image, and calculates a second individual evaluation value for the selected evaluation item based on the second ultrasound image.

[0170] If the second individual evaluation value is equal to or less than the threshold value, similar to the above-described embodiments 2-1 to 2-4, the notification unit 106 notifies the user that the evaluation value will not exceed the threshold value even if the image quality parameters are changed.

[0171] Furthermore, when multiple evaluation items are selected by the user, the image quality evaluation unit 102 calculates a first individual evaluation value for each of the selected evaluation items based on the first ultrasound image, and calculates an overall evaluation value based on the multiple first individual evaluation values. If the overall evaluation value calculated based on the multiple first individual evaluation values is equal to or less than a threshold, the change unit 104 changes the image quality parameters. The image quality evaluation unit 102 calculates a second individual evaluation value for each of the evaluation items selected by the user based on a second ultrasound image generated in accordance with the changed image quality parameters, and calculates an overall evaluation value based on the multiple second individual evaluation values. If the overall evaluation value calculated based on the multiple second individual evaluation values is equal to or less than the threshold, the notification unit 106 notifies the user that the evaluation value will not exceed the threshold even if the image quality parameters are changed.

[0172] As described above, by evaluating an ultrasound image for one or more evaluation items selected by the user, the ultrasound image can be evaluated from the viewpoint of evaluation desired by the user. As a result, unnecessary notifications for the user are not provided.

[0173] (Examples 2-6) In Examples 2-6, the evaluation value and the image quality parameters to be changed to increase the evaluation value are linked in advance. The evaluation value here may be a comprehensive evaluation value or an individual evaluation value. The following description will be given taking the comprehensive evaluation value as an example.

[0174] When a first evaluation value (for example, an overall evaluation value) is calculated, modification unit 104 identifies a combination of image quality parameters linked to that first evaluation value. For example, modification unit 104 identifies a combination of image quality parameters linked to the first evaluation value by using a machine learning algorithm. The machine learning algorithm is an algorithm that has previously learned the overall evaluation value and the combination of image quality parameters that should be changed to increase the overall evaluation value, and is an algorithm that identifies a combination of image quality parameters that will increase the overall evaluation value.

[0175] The image generating unit 16 generates a second ultrasound image in accordance with the combination of image quality parameters specified by the changing unit 104.

[0176] According to Example 2-6, image quality parameters for increasing the evaluation value are automatically determined, making it possible to change image quality parameters efficiently.

[0177] The image generation unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the image quality evaluation units 26, 102, the body part information acquisition unit 28, the notification units 30, 106, the change unit 104, and the control unit 32 can be realized using hardware resources such as a processor or an electronic circuit, and devices such as memory may be used as necessary for realizing them. Also, the image generation unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the image quality evaluation units 26, 102, the body part information acquisition unit 28, the notification units 30, 106, the change unit 104, and the control unit 32 may be realized by, for example, a computer. That is, all or part of the image generation unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the image quality evaluation units 26, 102, the body part information acquisition unit 28, the notification units 30, 106, the change unit 104, and the control unit 32 may be realized by cooperation between hardware resources such as a central processing unit (CPU) and memory provided in a computer and software (programs) that define the operation of the CPU, etc. The program is stored in the storage unit 24 of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10, 100 or another storage device via a recording medium such as a CD or DVD, or via a communication path such as a network. As another example, the image generation unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the image quality evaluation unit 26, 102, the body part information acquisition unit 28, the notification unit 30, 106, the change unit 104, and the control 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. Of course, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) or the like may also be used. The image generation unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the image quality evaluation unit 26, 102, the body part information acquisition unit 28, the notification unit 30, 106, the change unit 104, and the control unit 32 may be realized by a single device or by multiple devices.

[0178] The functions of the image generation unit 16, the display processing unit 18, the image quality evaluation units 26, 102, the body part information acquisition unit 28, the notification units 30, 106, and the change unit 104 may be executed by a device other than the ultrasound diagnostic device 10, 100 (for example, a personal computer, a server, etc.). [Explanation of symbols]

[0179] 10,100 Ultrasound diagnostic device, 16 Image generation unit, 26,102 Image quality evaluation unit, 28 Part information acquisition unit, 30,106 Notification unit, 104 Change unit.

Claims

1. an image generator that generates a first ultrasonic image from a received signal acquired by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves in accordance with image quality parameters for generating an ultrasonic image; a calculation unit that calculates a first evaluation value that indicates an evaluation of image quality of the first ultrasound image; a change unit that changes an image quality parameter when the first evaluation value is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value; The notification department, Including, the image generator generates a second ultrasound image from a reception signal acquired by transmitting and receiving ultrasound waves in accordance with the image quality parameters changed by the changer; the calculator calculates a second evaluation value indicating an evaluation of image quality of the second ultrasound image; When the second evaluation value is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the notifying unit notifies the user that the evaluation value of the image quality of the ultrasound image will not exceed the threshold even if the image quality parameters are changed. An ultrasonic diagnostic device characterized by:

2. 2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, The threshold value is determined for each subject, the notification unit changes the threshold value for each subject to which ultrasound is transmitted and received, and performs notification. An ultrasonic diagnostic device characterized by:

3. 2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, the calculation unit calculates the first evaluation value and the second evaluation value based on an image included in a region of interest in an ultrasound image. An ultrasonic diagnostic device characterized by:

4. 2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, A plurality of evaluation items for evaluating the image quality of the ultrasound image are determined in advance; the calculation unit calculates, based on the first ultrasound image, a first individual evaluation value for an evaluation item selected by a user from among the plurality of evaluation items, and calculates, based on the second ultrasound image, a second individual evaluation value for an evaluation item selected by a user from among the plurality of evaluation items; When the first individual evaluation value is equal to or less than the threshold value, the change unit changes an image quality parameter; When the second individual evaluation value is equal to or less than the threshold, the notifying unit notifies the user that the evaluation value of the image quality of the ultrasound image will not exceed the threshold even if the image quality parameters are changed. An ultrasonic diagnostic device characterized by:

5. 2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, The evaluation value is linked in advance to the image quality parameters that should be changed to increase the evaluation value, the change unit identifies an image quality parameter associated with the first evaluation value; the image generator generates the second ultrasound image from a reception signal acquired by transmitting and receiving ultrasound waves in accordance with the image quality parameters specified by the changer. An ultrasonic diagnostic device characterized by:

6. Computer, an image generating means for generating a first ultrasonic image from a reception signal acquired by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves in accordance with image quality parameters for generating an ultrasonic image; a calculation means for calculating a first evaluation value indicating an evaluation of image quality of the first ultrasonic image; a change means for changing an image quality parameter when the first evaluation value is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value; Notification means, It functions as the image generating means generates a second ultrasound image from a reception signal acquired by transmitting and receiving ultrasound waves in accordance with the image quality parameters changed by the change unit; the calculation means calculates a second evaluation value indicating an evaluation of image quality of the second ultrasound image; When the second evaluation value is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the notifying means notifies the user that the evaluation value of the image quality of the ultrasound image will not exceed the threshold even if the image quality parameters are changed. program.

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