Ultrasonic probe and ultrasonic diagnostic device

Abstract

To reduce physical load on an operator in ultrasonography.SOLUTION: An ultrasonic probe includes a plurality of vibrator units. Each of the vibrator units includes a plurality of vibrators for transmitting and receiving an ultrasonic wave. Each of the vibrator units is configured to be capable of changing the angle relatively to one another.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] In the medical field, ultrasonic diagnostic devices have been widely used to perform ultrasonic examinations on subjects using ultrasonic waves generated by an ultrasonic probe. The ultrasonic probe used in such ultrasonic examinations requires an operator to hold and operate the ultrasonic probe.

[0003] A typical ultrasound probe is configured so that its longitudinal direction is perpendicular to the subject's body surface, making it easier for the operator to grasp. There are also ultrasound probes, such as those used during surgery, whose cables are arranged parallel to the subject's body surface, reducing their height perpendicular to the subject's body surface.

[0004] However, in any ultrasonic probe, the operator must always hold the ultrasonic probe. Also, since the operator needs to press the ultrasonic probe against the body surface of the subject, a force is required to press the ultrasonic probe against the body surface of the subject. These problems cause problems such as increased physical strain on the operator during ultrasonic examinations, such as pain in the wrists of the operator. Therefore, it is desirable to reduce the physical strain on the operator during ultrasonic examinations. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-208149 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to reduce the physical burden on the operator during ultrasound examination. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described below can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The ultrasonic probe according to the embodiment includes a plurality of transducer units, each of which includes a plurality of transducers for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves, and each of the plurality of transducer units is configured to be capable of changing its angle relative to one another. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasound probe according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a transducer part of the ultrasound probe according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a detection unit in the angle detection unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a magnet included in the angle detection unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a state in which the ultrasonic probe according to the first embodiment is used. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating the contents of an image display process executed by the device main body according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an ultrasound image displayed on the display of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment when there is no change in angle. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an ultrasound image generated by the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment when there is an angle change. [Figure 10]FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an ultrasound image in which an angle is changed, displayed on the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasound probe according to Modification 1. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasound probe according to Modification 2. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the configuration of an ultrasonic probe according to Modification 2. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasonic probe according to Modification 3. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a state in which an ultrasonic probe according to Modification 3 is used. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasound probe according to a second embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a specific configuration of a third rotating disk and a fastener according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasound probe according to Modification 5. [Figure 19] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a moving mechanism to which an ultrasound probe is attached in an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to a third embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasonic probe according to a third embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasonic probe according to Modification 6. [Figure 22] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a remote control device in an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to Modification 7. [Figure 23] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a remote control device in an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to Modification 8. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of an ultrasound probe and an ultrasound diagnostic device will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, components having substantially the same functions and configurations are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be given only when necessary.

[0010] [First embodiment] Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to this embodiment is configured to include an ultrasound probe 10, an apparatus main body 30, a display 50, and an input interface 70. In the example shown in Fig. 1, the display 50 and the input interface 70 are configured as separate entities from the apparatus main body 30, but the apparatus main body 30, the display 50, and the input interface 70 may be configured as an integrated entity. An example of an apparatus in which the apparatus main body 30, the display 50, and the input interface 70 are configured as an integrated entity is an information processing apparatus such as a tablet terminal or a workstation.

[0011] The ultrasonic probe 10 is a device connected to the apparatus main body 30, which transmits ultrasonic waves to the subject P and receives reflected wave signals reflected within the subject P based on the transmitted ultrasonic waves. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the ultrasonic probe 10 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the ultrasonic probe 10 according to this embodiment is configured to include a transducer unit 11, an angle detection unit 13, a circuit unit 15, a cable 17, and an attachment member 19. Note that the ultrasonic probe 10 does not include the operator's finger 100.

[0012] The transducer unit 11 transmits ultrasonic waves to the subject P and receives reflected waves that are reflected within the subject P based on the transmitted ultrasonic waves. The transducer unit 11 according to this embodiment is held inside the wearing member 19. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the transducer unit 11 according to this embodiment is held inside the wearing member 19 so as to face the index finger at a portion of the glove that is the wearing member 19 into which the index finger is inserted.

[0013] 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the transducer section 11 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the transducer section 11 according to this embodiment includes a plurality of transducer units 111 and a plurality of rotation shafts 113.

[0014] Each of the multiple transducer units 111 transmits ultrasonic waves and receives reflected waves. The multiple transducer units 111 according to this embodiment are arranged in a line in a predetermined direction. As shown in FIG. 3, each of the multiple transducer units 111 includes multiple transducers 111_1. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the transducer section 11 according to this embodiment has three transducer units. In the following description, when describing each of the three transducer units, the three transducer units will be referred to as a first transducer unit 1111, a second transducer unit 1112, and a third transducer unit 1113, respectively. In the following description, when describing the three transducer units collectively, the three transducer units will be referred to as multiple transducer units 111.

[0015] The plurality of transducers 111_1 transmit and receive ultrasonic waves. The plurality of transducers 111_1 are piezoelectric transducers made of piezoelectric ceramic. The plurality of transducers 111_1 transmit ultrasonic waves based on a drive signal supplied from a drive circuit 151 (described later), receive reflected waves from inside the subject P, and convert them into electrical signals (reflected wave signals). The plurality of transducers 111_1 then output the converted reflected wave signals to a communication circuit 153. As shown in FIG. 3, the plurality of transducers 111_1 according to this embodiment are configured so that each of the plurality of transducer units 111 includes six transducers 111_1.

[0016] Although each of the multiple transducer units 111 includes only the multiple transducers 111_1, the configuration of the multiple transducer units 111 is not limited to this. That is, the multiple transducer units 111 may have any configuration, and each of the multiple transducer units 111 may include, for example, a matching layer that is an intermediate layer provided on the ultrasonic wave transmitting / receiving side of the multiple transducers 111_1 for efficiently propagating the ultrasonic waves to the subject P, or a backing material that prevents the ultrasonic waves from propagating backward from the multiple transducers 111_1.

[0017] Although the plurality of transducer units 111 according to this embodiment include three transducer units, the number of the plurality of transducer units 111 is not limited to three. That is, the number of the plurality of transducer units 111 is arbitrary, and the number of the plurality of transducer units 111 may be, for example, two, four or more. Furthermore, although the plurality of transducers 111_1 according to this embodiment include six transducers, the number of the plurality of transducers 111_1 is not limited to six. That is, the number of the plurality of transducers 111_1 is arbitrary, and the number of the plurality of transducers 111_1 may be, for example, two or more and five or less, or seven or more.

[0018] Each of the multiple rotating shafts 113 is a shaft member that rotatably connects each of the multiple transducer units 111. This rotating shaft is arranged on the living body side, which is the subject side. In this embodiment, each of the multiple rotating shafts 113 is arranged on the living body side. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the multiple rotating shafts 113 are attached to the subject-side ends of each of the multiple transducer units 111 and rotatably connect each of the multiple transducer units 111. By arranging the rotating shafts on the living body side in this manner, each of the multiple transducer units 111 can be arranged to follow the curved shape of the examination region of the subject P. In the example shown in FIG. 3 , the multiple rotating shafts 113 include a first rotating shaft 1131 that rotatably connects the first transducer unit 1111 and the second transducer unit 1112, and a second rotating shaft 1132 that rotatably connects the second transducer unit 1112 and the third transducer unit 1113.

[0019] In this embodiment, the transducer section 11 has two rotation shafts 113, but the number of rotation shafts is not limited to 2. That is, the number of rotation shafts is arbitrary, and for example, when the transducer section 11 has two transducer units 111, the number of rotation shafts is one, and when the transducer section 11 has four or more transducer units 111, the number of rotation shafts is three or more.

[0020] According to the transducer section 11 having such a configuration, the plurality of transducer units 111 are configured to be able to change their angles relative to one another. In the example shown in FIG. 2, each of the plurality of transducer units 111 according to this embodiment is configured to be able to change its angle relative to one another by rotating about a rotation axis perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the plurality of transducer units 111. Here, being able to change its angle relative to one another means that each of the plurality of transducer units 111 is able to change its angle relative to the other transducer units. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the first transducer unit 1111 and the second transducer unit 1112 are configured to be able to change their angles relative to one another by rotating about a first rotation axis 1131 about a rotation axis perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the plurality of transducer units 111, and the second transducer unit 1112 and the third transducer unit 1113 are configured to be able to change their angles relative to one another by rotating about a second rotation axis 1132 about a rotation axis perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the plurality of transducer units 111. In this way, each of the multiple transducer units 111 in this embodiment is rotatable around a rotation axis perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the multiple transducer units 111, i.e., around one axis, and is not rotatable around other rotation axes, such as a rotation axis parallel to the arrangement direction of the multiple transducer units 111.

[0021] 1 and 2, the angle detection unit 13 detects the angle change of each of the multiple transducer units 111. An angle sensor for detecting the angle change is used in this angle detection unit 13. The angle detection unit 13 according to this embodiment detects the angle change caused by each of the multiple transducer units 111 rotating around the multiple rotation axes 113. The detection result of this angle detection unit 13 is output to the device main body 30.

[0022] Moreover, the angle detection unit 13 according to this embodiment includes a plurality of detection units 131. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the angle detection unit 13 according to this embodiment includes two detection units. Each of the plurality of detection units 131 according to this embodiment includes a sensor unit 1311 and a rotating rail 1312. As shown in FIG. 3, the sensor unit 1311 and the rotating rail 1312 according to this embodiment are attached to the respective side surfaces of the second transducer unit 1112 and the third transducer unit 1113 among the plurality of transducer units 111. Note that although the angle detection unit 13 according to this embodiment includes two detection units, the number of detection units 131 included in the angle detection unit 13 is not limited to this. In other words, the number of detection units 131 is arbitrary, and it is sufficient to include one detection unit minus the number of the plurality of transducer units 111. The number may be one, or three or more, depending on the number of the plurality of transducer units 111.

[0023] Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the detection unit in the angle detection unit 13 according to the first embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 4, the configuration of the detection unit in the angle detection unit 13 is described using the first vibrator unit 1111 and the second vibrator unit 1112 as examples. As shown in Fig. 4, the sensor unit 1311 includes a magnet 1311_1, a magnetic sensor 1311_2, and a magnet rotation shaft 1311_3.

[0024] The magnet 1311_1 generates a magnetic field. The magnet 1311_1 rotates together with the rotation of the transducer unit. Specifically, the magnet 1311_1 rotates together with the movement of the rotating rail 1312 due to the rotation of each of the plurality of transducer units 111. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the magnet 1311_1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5, the polarities of the magnet 1311_1 according to this embodiment are alternately arranged along the circumferential direction of the magnet rotation shaft 1311_3. That is, the north poles and south poles are alternately arranged along the circumferential direction of the magnet rotation shaft 1311_3. Therefore, when the magnet 1311_1 according to this embodiment rotates, the magnetic field of the magnet 1311_1 detected by the magnetic sensor 1311_2 changes.

[0025] 5, the magnet 1311_1 has four pairs of N and S poles, but the number of N and S poles is not limited to this. That is, the number of N and S poles is arbitrary, and for example, one to three pairs of N and S poles may be provided, or five or more pairs of N and S poles may be provided.

[0026] The magnetic sensor 1311_2 detects the magnetic field of the magnet 1311_1. Specifically, the magnetic sensor 1311_2 according to this embodiment detects a magnetic field that changes as the magnet 1311_1 rotates. The detection result of the magnetic sensor 1311_2 is transmitted as angle information to the processing circuit of the device main body 30 via the communication circuit 153 of the circuit unit 15. Here, the angle information is information related to the angle change of each of the multiple transducer units 111 detected by the angle detection unit 13. This angle information is, for example, the number of times the magnetic field changes due to the rotation of the magnet 1311_1 detected by the magnetic sensor 1311_2. In this way, the magnetic sensor 1311_2 detects the magnetic field that changes as the magnet 1311_1 rotates, thereby making it possible to grasp the amount of movement of the rotatable rail 1312 and detect the angle change of each of the multiple transducer units 111.

[0027] The magnet rotation shaft 1311_3 is a shaft member for rotating the magnet 1311_1. As shown in Fig. 4, the magnet 1311_1 is attached to the magnet rotation shaft 1311_3 according to this embodiment. The magnet rotation shaft 1311_3 according to this embodiment abuts against the rotatable rail 1312. Therefore, as the rotatable rail 1312 moves, the magnet rotation shaft 1311_3 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise depending on the movement direction of the rotatable rail 1312.

[0028] In this embodiment, the rotating rail 1312 abuts against the magnet rotation shaft 1311_3, and as the rotating rail 1312 moves, the rotating rail 1312 rotates the magnet rotation shaft 1311_3 and rotates the magnet 1311_1. However, the rotating rail 1312 may be configured to abut against the side of the magnet 1311_1, and as the rotating rail 1312 moves, the rotating rail 1312 rotates the magnet rotation shaft 1311_3.

[0029] The rotatable rail 1312 is a member that abuts against the magnet rotation shaft 1311_3. As shown in FIG. 4 , one end of the rotatable rail 1312 according to this embodiment is attached to the first oscillator unit 1111. A side surface of the rotatable rail 1312 abuts against the magnet rotation shaft 1311_3. Furthermore, the rotatable rail 1312 according to this embodiment has an arc shape. When the first oscillator unit 1111 rotates counterclockwise around the first rotation shaft 1131, the rotatable rail 1312 moves counterclockwise around the first rotation shaft 1131, causing the magnet rotation shaft 1311_3 to rotate clockwise. On the other hand, when the first oscillator unit 1111 rotates clockwise around the first rotation shaft 1131, the rotatable rail 1312 moves clockwise around the first rotation shaft 1131, causing the magnet rotation shaft 1311_3 to rotate counterclockwise.

[0030] Although the angle detection unit 13 described above detects the angle change of the multiple transducer units 111 by using the magnet 1311_1 and the magnetic sensor 1311_2, the method of detecting the angle change is not limited to using the magnet 1311_1 and the magnetic sensor 1311_2. That is, any method of detecting the angle change may be used, and the angle detection unit 13 may detect the angle change of each of the multiple transducer units 111 by attaching a rotary encoder to each of the multiple rotation shafts 113, for example.

[0031] 1, the circuit unit 15 of the ultrasonic probe 10 drives the multiple transducer units 111 and communicates with the device main body 30. As shown in FIG. 1, the circuit unit 15 according to this embodiment is configured to include a drive circuit 151, a battery 152, and a communication circuit 153.

[0032] The drive circuit 151 drives the multiple transducers 111_1 included in the multiple transducer units 111. Specifically, the drive circuit 151 includes a pulse generator, a transmission delay circuit, a pulser circuit, and the like, and supplies drive signals to the transducers 111_1. The pulse generator repeatedly generates rate pulses at a predetermined rate frequency to form transmission ultrasonic waves. The transmission delay circuit provides each rate pulse generated by the pulse generator with a delay time for each of the multiple transducers 111_1, which is required to focus the ultrasonic waves generated from the multiple transducers 111_1 into a beam and determine the transmission directivity. The pulser circuit also applies drive pulses to the multiple transducers 111_1 at timing based on the rate pulses. The transmission delay circuit adjusts the transmission direction of the ultrasonic waves transmitted from the multiple transducers 111_1 by changing the delay time provided to each rate pulse. This drive circuit 151 is also referred to as a transmission circuit. This drive circuit 151 corresponds to the transducer unit drive unit in this embodiment.

[0033] The battery 152 is, for example, a rechargeable battery and its peripheral circuits that supply power to each section and circuit of the ultrasonic probe 10. Specifically, the battery 152 supplies power to at least one of the drive circuit 151 and the communication circuit 153. The rechargeable battery is, for example, a lithium ion battery or a nickel-metal hydride battery. The rechargeable battery may be charged by power obtained by the ultrasonic probe 10 via an AC adapter, or may be detached from the ultrasonic probe 10 and charged. Alternatively, a non-rechargeable battery may be used as the battery 152 instead of a rechargeable battery.

[0034] The communication circuit 153 communicates with the device main body 30, which generates an ultrasound image based on a reflected wave signal output from each of the multiple transducers 111_1 included in each of the multiple transducer units 111. In this embodiment, the communication circuit 153 implements various protocols for wireless communication and realizes communication with the device main body 30 via wireless communication. The communication circuit 153 according to this embodiment transmits, for example, a reflected wave signal output from each of the multiple transducers 111_1 included in each of the multiple transducer units 111 to the device main body 30 via wireless communication. In addition, the communication circuit 153 according to this embodiment transmits the detection result of the angle detection unit 13 as angle information to the device main body via wireless communication. Note that in the example of FIG. 1 according to this embodiment, the ultrasound probe 10 and the device main body 30 communicate via wireless communication, but the communication between the ultrasound probe 10 and the device main body 30 is not limited to wireless communication. For example, when the communication between the ultrasonic probe 10 and the device main body 30 is performed by wired communication, the communication circuit 153 may implement various protocols for wired communication and realize the communication between the ultrasonic probe 10 and the device main body 30 by wired communication via a cable or the like. This communication circuit 153 corresponds to the communication unit in this embodiment.

[0035] The cable 17 connects the plurality of vibrators 111_1 to the circuit unit 15. Specifically, the cable 17 transmits a drive pulse from the drive circuit 151 of the circuit unit 15 to each of the plurality of vibrators 111_1, and transmits a reflected wave signal output from each of the plurality of vibrators 111_1 to the communication circuit 153. The cable 17 is configured, for example, by an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuits) cable or the like.

[0036] The wearing member 19 is a member to be worn by the operator. Specifically, the wearing member 19 is a glove worn on the operator's hand or a finger cot worn on the operator's finger. The wearing member 19 according to this embodiment is a glove, as shown in FIG. 2. Also, as shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of vibrator units 111 and a circuit unit 15 are held inside the glove, which is the wearing member 19 according to this embodiment. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the glove, which is the wearing member 19, holds a plurality of vibrator units 111 in a portion of the glove, which is the wearing member 19, where the index finger is located, so as to face the palm side of the index finger. Also, as shown in FIG. 2, the glove, which is the wearing member 19, holds the circuit unit 15 inside the glove, which is the wearing member 19, so as to face the palm.

[0037] Although the multiple vibrator units 111 according to this embodiment are held in the portion of the glove where the index finger is positioned so as to face the palm side of the index finger, the multiple vibrator units 111 are not limited to being held in the portion of the glove where the index finger is positioned so as to face the palm side of the index finger. In other words, the multiple vibrator units 111 may be held in any portion of the glove, and for example, the multiple vibrator units 111 may be held in the portion of the glove where other fingers such as the thumb, middle finger, ring finger, and little finger are inserted so as to face the palm sides of the other fingers.

[0038] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a state in which the ultrasonic probe 10 according to the first embodiment is used. As shown in FIG. 6, when using the ultrasonic probe 10 according to this embodiment, the operator puts the operator's finger 100 in a glove, which is the wearing member 19 according to this embodiment. Then, the operator abuts the examination area (examination site) of the subject P with the plurality of transducer units 111 held in the portion of the wearing member 19 inside the glove where the index finger will be positioned. That is, as shown in FIG. 6, the operator positions the portion of the glove where the index finger will be positioned so as to fit along the curved shape of the examination area of ​​the subject P. At this time, each of the plurality of rotation axes 113 is positioned on the living body side, and each of the plurality of transducer units 111 held in the glove of the wearing member 19 rotates around the plurality of rotation axes 113, so that each of the plurality of transducer units 111 can be positioned so as to fit along the curved shape of the examination area of ​​the subject P. In this way, the ultrasonic probe 10 can be bent and positioned on the subject P, and an ultrasonic examination can be performed using the ultrasonic probe 10 according to this embodiment.

[0039] Returning to Fig. 1, the device main body 30 is a device that generates an ultrasound image based on a reflected wave signal transmitted from the ultrasound probe 10. In the example shown in Fig. 1, the device main body 30 according to this embodiment is connected to the ultrasound probe 10, a display 50, and an input interface 70. As shown in Fig. 1, the device main body 30 according to this embodiment is configured to include a communication circuit 31, a receiving circuit 33, a memory circuit 35, and a processing circuit 37.

[0040] The communication circuit 31 implements various information communication protocols according to the type of network. The communication circuit 31 realizes communication with other devices via the network in accordance with these various protocols. For example, the communication circuit 31 according to this embodiment receives reflected wave signals transmitted from the ultrasound probe 10, transmits control signals to the ultrasound probe 10, and transmits ultrasound images generated by the device main body 30 to other devices.

[0041] The receiving circuit 33 includes an amplifier circuit, an A / D converter, an adder, etc., and receives reflected wave signals output from the multiple transducers 111_1 and performs various processes on the reflected wave signals to generate received signals (echo signals). The amplifier circuit amplifies the reflected wave signals for each channel and performs gain correction processing. The A / D converter A / D converts the gain-corrected reflected wave signals and provides the digital data with a delay time required to determine the reception directivity. The adder performs addition processing on the reflected wave signals processed by the A / D converter to generate received signals. The addition processing by the adder emphasizes the reflected components from a direction corresponding to the reception directivity of the reflected wave signals.

[0042] The storage circuitry 35 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, etc. In this embodiment, for example, the storage circuitry 35 stores reflected wave signals output from the ultrasonic probe 10, programs executed by circuits included in the device main body 30, angle information transmitted from the ultrasonic probe 10, priority information, etc. Here, the priority information is information relating to the priority of each of the multiple transducer units 111 of the ultrasonic probe 10. The priority information is, for example, information in which identification information of each of the multiple transducer units 111 is associated with the priority of each of the multiple transducer units 111.

[0043] The processing circuitry 37 is a control circuit that performs overall control of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1. The processing circuitry 37 is also an arithmetic circuit that performs various calculations, and is configured with a processor such as a CPU or a GPU. The processing circuitry 37 according to this embodiment generates an ultrasound image based on the reflected wave signal received via the communication circuitry 31, acquires angle information and priority information, and displays the ultrasound image on the display 50 based on the priority information, for example.

[0044] For this reason, the processing circuitry 37 according to this embodiment has a B-mode processing function 371, a Doppler processing function 372, an image generation function 373, an acquisition function 374, a display control function 375, and a system control function 376. The B-mode processing function 371 corresponds to the B-mode control unit in this embodiment, the Doppler processing function 372 corresponds to the Doppler processing unit in this embodiment, the image generation function 373 corresponds to the image generation unit in this embodiment, the acquisition function 374 corresponds to the acquisition unit in this embodiment, the display control function 375 corresponds to the display control unit in this embodiment, and the system control function 376 corresponds to the system control unit in this embodiment.

[0045] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the processing functions performed by the B-mode processing function 371, Doppler processing function 372, image generation function 373, acquisition function 374, display control function 375, and system control function 376 are stored in the storage circuitry 35 in the form of computer-executable programs. The processing circuitry 37 is a processor that reads and executes the programs from the storage circuitry 35 to realize the functions corresponding to the programs. In other words, the processing circuitry 37 in a state in which the programs have been read out has the functions shown in the processing circuitry 37 of FIG. 1 . Note that, although the description in FIG. 1 assumes that the B-mode processing function 371, Doppler processing function 372, image generation function 373, acquisition function 374, display control function 375, and system control function 376 are realized by a single processing circuitry 37, the processing circuitry 37 may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and each processor may execute a program to realize these functions.

[0046] The B-mode processing function 371 is a function that generates B-mode data based on the reflected wave signal received from the ultrasound probe 10. The B-mode processing function 371 performs, for example, envelope detection processing, logarithmic compression processing, etc. on the received signal generated by the receiving circuit 33 based on the reflected wave signal received from the ultrasound probe 10, and generates B-mode data in which the signal strength is expressed as brightness.

[0047] The Doppler processing function 372 is a function that generates Doppler data such as blood flow velocity, blood flow dispersion, and blood flow power based on the reflected wave signal received from the ultrasound probe 10. The Doppler processing function 372 performs frequency analysis on the received signal generated by the receiving circuit 33 based on the reflected wave signal received from the ultrasound probe 10, and generates Doppler data that extracts blood flow information based on the Doppler effect of a moving object within a ROI (Region Of Interest) set in the scan region.

[0048] The image generation function 373 is a function that generates an ultrasound image based on a reflected wave signal received from the ultrasound probe 10. Specifically, the image generation function 373 generates a plurality of ultrasound images corresponding to each of the plurality of transducer units 111 of the ultrasound probe 10 based on a reflected wave signal output from each of the plurality of transducers 111_1 included in each of the transducer units 111 of the ultrasound probe 10. The image generation function 373 generates various ultrasound images based on the B-mode data generated by the B-mode processing function 371 and / or the Doppler data generated by the Doppler processing function 372. For example, the image generation function 373 generates B-mode image data that represents the intensity of the reflected wave as brightness from the B-mode data generated by the B-mode processing function 371. Furthermore, for example, the image generation function 373 generates an average velocity image, a variance image, a power image, or Doppler image data as a combination of these images of a moving object from the Doppler data generated by the Doppler processing function 372.

[0049] The acquisition function 374 acquires angle information and priority information. Specifically, the acquisition function 374 acquires angle information and priority information from the memory circuitry 35, and acquires angle information from the ultrasound probe 10 via the communication circuitry 31.

[0050] The display control function 375 is a function that displays various ultrasound images generated by the image generation function 373 on the display 50. Specifically, for example, the display control function 375 controls the display of ultrasound images including B-mode image data, Doppler image data, or both generated by the image generation function 373 on the display 50. The display control function 375 according to this embodiment controls the display 50 based on the priority information acquired by the acquisition function 374 so as to display an ultrasound image based on a reflected wave signal detected by a transducer unit with a high priority in an overlapping portion of multiple ultrasound images.

[0051] The system control function 376 is a function that controls the overall operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1. For example, the system control function 376 controls the ultrasonic probe 10 and the apparatus main body 30 based on a program stored in the memory circuitry 35.

[0052] Returning to FIG. 1, the display 50 is a display device that displays various ultrasound images, various settings, etc. For example, the display 50 displays ultrasound images generated by the device main body 30, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for receiving various operations from the operator, etc. In this embodiment, the display 50 is configured by, for example, a liquid crystal display, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display, etc. This display 50 corresponds to the display unit in this embodiment.

[0053] The input interface 70 is an input device for performing various settings, and may be realized by, for example, a trackball, switch buttons, a mouse, a keyboard, a touchpad for performing input operations by touching the operation surface, a touch monitor in which the display screen and touchpad are integrated, a non-contact input circuit using an optical sensor, and a voice input circuit. The input interface 70 is connected to the processing circuit 37 of the device main body 30 and converts input operations received from an operator into electrical signals and outputs the signals to the processing circuit 37 of the device main body 30. Note that, in this specification, the input interface 70 is not limited to those having physical operation components such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, an electrical signal processing circuit that receives electrical signals corresponding to input operations from an external input device provided separately from the device and outputs the electrical signals to the processing circuit 37 of the device main body 30 is also included as an example of the input interface 70.

[0054] 7 is a flowchart illustrating the image display process executed by the device main body 30 according to the first embodiment. In this image display process, the device main body 30 acquires angle information, and if there is an angle change based on the angle information, displays an ultrasound image based on priority information. For example, this image display process is executed when the display of an ultrasound image is started.

[0055] 7, the image generation function 373 in the processing circuitry 37 of the device main body 30 generates an ultrasound image (step S11). Specifically, the image generation function 373 generates a plurality of ultrasound images corresponding to the plurality of transducer units 111 of the ultrasound probe 10 based on the reflected wave signals output from each of the plurality of transducers 111_1 included in each of the transducer units 111. More specifically, in this embodiment, the image generation function 373 generates a first ultrasound image corresponding to the first transducer unit 1111 based on the reflected wave signals output from each of the plurality of transducers 111_1 included in the first transducer unit 1111, generates a second ultrasound image corresponding to the second transducer unit 1112 based on the reflected wave signals output from each of the plurality of transducers 111_1 included in the second transducer unit 1112, and generates a third ultrasound image corresponding to the third transducer unit 1113 based on the reflected wave signals output from each of the plurality of transducers 111_1 included in the third transducer unit 1113.

[0056] 7, the acquisition function 374 in the processing circuitry 37 of the device main body 30 acquires angle information (step S13). Specifically, the acquisition function 374 acquires the detection result of the angle detection unit 13 as angle information from the memory circuitry 35 or via the communication circuitry 31. More specifically, the acquisition function 374 according to this embodiment acquires the detection results of the two detection units 131 as angle information.

[0057] 7, the display control function 375 in the processing circuit 37 of the device main body 30 determines whether or not there is an angle change (step S15). Specifically, the display control function 375 determines whether or not there is an angle change for each of the multiple transducer units 111, based on the angle information acquired in step S13.

[0058] Then, in step S15, if there is no change in angle (step S15: No), the display control function 375 in the processing circuitry 37 of the device main body 30 displays ultrasound images (step S17). Specifically, the display control function 375 displays the multiple ultrasound images generated in step S11 on the display 50. More specifically, in the present embodiment, the display control function 375 displays the first ultrasound image, the second ultrasound image, and the third ultrasound image generated in step S11 on the display 50.

[0059] 8 is a diagram showing an example of an ultrasound image when there is no change in angle, displayed on the display 50 of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 8, in this embodiment, there is no change in angle for each of the first transducer unit 1111, the second transducer unit 1112, and the third transducer unit 1113. Therefore, the display control function 375 arranges a first ultrasound image IM1 corresponding to the first transducer unit 1111, a second ultrasound image IM2 corresponding to the second transducer unit 1112, and a third ultrasound image IM3 corresponding to the third transducer unit 1113, and displays them on the display 50 as a single ultrasound image IM.

[0060] On the other hand, if there is an angle change in step S15 (step S15: Yes), the acquisition function 374 in the processing circuitry 37 of the device main body 30 acquires priority information (step S19). Specifically, the acquisition function 374 acquires the priority information from the memory circuitry 35.

[0061] 7, the display control function 375 in the processing circuitry 37 of the device main body 30 displays the ultrasound image IM based on the priority information (step S21). Specifically, the display control function 375 displays the ultrasound image IM on the display 50 based on the priority information acquired by the acquisition function 374 in step S19.

[0062] The display of the ultrasound image IM in step S21 will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an ultrasound image generated by the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 according to the first embodiment when there is an angle change. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an ultrasound image displayed by the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 according to the first embodiment when there is an angle change. As shown in FIG. 9, in this embodiment, the first transducer unit 1111, the second transducer unit 1112, and the third transducer unit 1113 each have an angle change. Therefore, in the first ultrasound image IM1 corresponding to the first transducer unit 1111, the second ultrasound image IM2 corresponding to the second transducer unit 1112, and the third ultrasound image IM3 corresponding to the third transducer unit 1113, which are generated by the image generation function 373 in step S11, an overlapping portion SP1 occurs between the first ultrasound image IM1 and the second ultrasound image IM2, and an overlapping portion SP2 occurs between the second ultrasound image IM2 and the third ultrasound image IM3, as shown in FIG.

[0063] In this way, when there is a change in the angle of each of the multiple transducer units 111 and there is an overlapping portion of multiple ultrasound images, the display control function 375 controls the display 50 to display, based on the priority information acquired in step S19, an ultrasound image based on the reflected wave signal output by the transducer unit with the highest priority in the overlapping portion of the multiple ultrasound images.

[0064] 9, if the priority order information indicates that the second transducer unit 1112 has the highest priority, followed by the first transducer unit 1111 and the third transducer unit 1113, the display control function 375 displays the image of the second ultrasound image IM2 on the display 50 in an overlapping portion SP1 between the first ultrasound image IM1 and the second ultrasound image IM2, and displays the image of the second ultrasound image IM2 on the display 50 in an overlapping portion SP2 between the second ultrasound image IM2 and the third ultrasound image IM3. That is, as shown in FIG. 10, the display control function 375 arranges the first ultrasound image IM1, the second ultrasound image IM2, and the third ultrasound image IM3, and displays the second ultrasound image IM2 on the display 50 in an overlapping portion SP1 between the first ultrasound image IM1 and the second ultrasound image IM2 and in an overlapping portion SP2 between the second ultrasound image IM2 and the third ultrasound image IM3, thereby displaying them as a single ultrasound image IM on the display 50.

[0065] By displaying the ultrasound image in step S17 or step S21, the image display process according to this embodiment ends.

[0066] As described above, the ultrasound probe 10 in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment includes a plurality of transducer units 111, each of which includes a plurality of transducers 111_1 that transmit and receive ultrasound waves. The plurality of transducer units 111 are configured to be able to change their angles relative to one another, thereby reducing the physical burden on the operator during ultrasound examination. That is, in this embodiment, by placing the portion of the glove (the wearing member 19) where the index finger is positioned in the examination area of ​​the subject P, each of the plurality of transducer units 111 held on the glove (the wearing member 19) rotates around a plurality of rotation axes 113, and the plurality of transducer units 111 held in the portion of the glove (the wearing member 19) where the index finger is positioned can be positioned in the examination area of ​​the subject P so as to conform to the curved shape of the examination area of ​​the subject P. This eliminates the need for the operator to grip the ultrasound probe 10 and to apply a force to press the ultrasound probe 10 against the body surface of the subject P, thereby enabling ultrasound examination.

[0067] Furthermore, in the ultrasonic probe 10 according to the first embodiment, by arranging the portion of the glove that is the wearing member 19 where the index finger is located in the examination area of ​​the subject P, each of the multiple transducer units 111 held in the glove that is the wearing member 19 rotates around multiple rotation axes 113, and the multiple transducer units 111 held in the portion that is the glove that is the wearing member 19 where the index finger is located can be arranged in the examination area of ​​the subject P so as to fit the curved shape of the examination area of ​​the subject P. Therefore, even when the examination area is a portion with a small curvature such as the breast, upper and lower limbs, or neck, an ultrasonic examination can be performed without pressing the ultrasonic probe 10 hard against the subject P, and the burden on the subject P can also be reduced.

[0068] In the ultrasound probe 10 according to the first embodiment described above, the wearing member 19 is a glove, but the wearing member 19 may be a finger cot worn on the operator's finger. In this case, each of the multiple transducer units 111 is held inside the finger cot, which is the wearing member 19. Meanwhile, the circuit unit 15 may be held inside the finger cot, which is the wearing member 19, or may be held outside the finger cot.

[0069] [Variation 1] In the ultrasound probe 10 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the circuit unit 15 is held so as to face the palm inside the glove that is the wearing member 19, but the circuit unit can also be held so as to face the back of the hand inside the glove that is the wearing member 19. Below, we will describe the case where this modification is applied to the first embodiment described above as Modification 1, and explain the differences from the first embodiment described above.

[0070] Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasonic probe 10a according to Modification 1, and corresponds to Fig. 2 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in Fig. 11, the circuit unit 15a according to this modification is held inside a glove, which is the wearing member 19. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 11, the circuit unit 15a according to this modification is held inside the glove, which is the wearing member 19, so as to face the back of the hand.

[0071] As described above, in the ultrasound probe 10a of the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 according to this modified example, the circuit unit 15a is held inside the glove, which is the wearing member 19, so as to face the back of the hand. This eliminates the unevenness that would otherwise occur when the circuit unit 15a is held so as to face the palm, and therefore the operator can perform an ultrasound examination with the multiple transducer units 111 of the ultrasound probe 10a in closer contact with the body surface of the subject P.

[0072] [Variation 2] Furthermore, in the ultrasound probe 10 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the mounting member 19 holds a plurality of transducer units 111 so as to face one finger, but the mounting member 19 can also hold a plurality of transducer units so as to face a plurality of fingers on the inside of the mounting member 19. Hereinafter, the case where this modification is applied to the first embodiment described above will be referred to as Modification 1, and the differences from the first embodiment described above will be described.

[0073] Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasonic probe 10b according to Modification 2, and corresponds to Fig. 2 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in Fig. 12, the ultrasonic probe 10b according to this modification is configured to include a transducer unit 11a, an angle detection unit 13a, a circuit unit 15, a cable 17, and an attachment member 19a. Note that the ultrasonic probe 10 does not include an operator's finger 100. Furthermore, the configurations of the circuit unit 15 and the cable 17 are similar to those of the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0074] As shown in Fig. 12, the vibrator section 11a according to this modification is held inside the wearing member 19a so as to face the index finger and middle finger, respectively, in a portion of the glove that is the wearing member 19a into which the index finger and middle finger are inserted. Also, as shown in Fig. 12, the vibrator section 11a according to this modification includes a plurality of vibrator units 111a and a plurality of rotation shafts 113a.

[0075] The plurality of transducer units 111a according to this modification has six transducer units, as shown in Fig. 12. In the following description, when describing each of the six transducer units, the six transducer units will be referred to as a first transducer unit 1111, a second transducer unit 1112, a third transducer unit 1113, a fourth transducer unit 1114, a fifth transducer unit 1115, and a sixth transducer unit 1116. In the following description, when describing the six transducer units collectively, they will be referred to as a plurality of transducer units 111.

[0076] Furthermore, the multiple transducer units 111a according to this modification are arranged in two rows in a predetermined direction. Specifically, of the multiple transducer units 111a, the first transducer unit 1111 to the third transducer unit 1113 are held inside the wearing member 19a, which is a glove, in a portion where the index finger and middle finger are inserted, so as to face the palm side of the index finger. Furthermore, of the multiple transducer units 111a, the fourth transducer unit 1114 to the sixth transducer unit 1116 are held inside the wearing member 19a, which is a glove, in a portion where the index finger and middle finger are inserted, so as to face the palm side of the middle finger.

[0077] Each of the multiple rotating shafts 113a is a shaft member that rotatably connects each of the multiple transducer units 111a. This rotating shaft is arranged on the living body side, which is the subject side. In this modified example, each of the multiple rotating shafts 113a is also arranged on the living body side. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, the multiple rotating shafts 113a are attached to the subject-side ends of each of the multiple transducer units 111a, rotatably connecting each of the multiple transducer units 111a. In the example shown in FIG. 12, the multiple rotating shafts 113a include a first rotating shaft 1131a that rotatably connects the first transducer unit 1111 and the fourth transducer unit 1114 to the second transducer unit 1112 and the fifth transducer unit 1115, and a second rotating shaft 1132a that rotatably connects the second transducer unit 1112 and the fifth transducer unit 1115 to the third transducer unit 1113 and the sixth transducer unit 1116.

[0078] According to the transducer section 11a configured as described above, the plurality of transducer units 111a are configured to be able to change their angles relative to one another. In the example shown in FIG. 12, each of the plurality of transducer units 111a according to this embodiment is configured to be able to change its angle relatively by rotating around a rotation axis perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the plurality of transducer units 111a. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 12, the first transducer unit 1111 and the fourth transducer unit 1114, and the second transducer unit 1112 and the fifth transducer unit 1115 are configured to be able to change their angles relatively by rotating around a first rotation axis 1131a around a rotation axis perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the plurality of transducer units 111. More specifically, in this modification, the first transducer unit 1111 and the fourth transducer unit 1114, and the second transducer unit 1112 and the fifth transducer unit 1115 are configured to be able to change their angles relatively to one another. Therefore, the angle change of the second oscillator unit 1112 relative to the first oscillator unit 1111 is the same as that of the fifth oscillator unit 1115 relative to the fourth oscillator unit 1114. Similarly, the second oscillator unit 1112 and the fifth oscillator unit 1115 and the third oscillator unit 1113 and the sixth oscillator unit 1116 are configured to be able to change their angles relative to each other by rotating around a rotation axis orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the multiple oscillator units 111a using the second rotation axis 1132a. More specifically, in this modification, the second oscillator unit 1112 and the fifth oscillator unit 1115 and the third oscillator unit 1113 and the sixth oscillator unit 1116 are configured to be able to change their angles integrally and relatively to each other.

[0079] Each of the multiple transducer units 111a in this modified example is rotatable around a rotation axis perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the multiple transducer units 111a, i.e., around one axis, and is not rotatable around other rotation axes, such as a rotation axis parallel to the arrangement direction of the multiple transducer units 111a.

[0080] The angle detection unit 13a detects angle changes of each of the multiple transducer units 111a. The angle detection unit 13a according to this modification detects angle changes caused by rotation of each of the multiple transducer units 111a around multiple rotation axes 113a. The angle detection unit 13a according to this modification also includes multiple detection units 131a. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the angle detection unit 13a according to this embodiment includes two detection units. As shown in FIG. 12, the multiple detection units 131a according to this modification are attached to the side surfaces of the fifth transducer unit 1115 and the sixth transducer unit 1116, respectively, of the multiple transducer units 111a. In this modification, since the angles of the first oscillator unit 1111 and the fourth oscillator unit 1114 and the second oscillator unit 1112 and the fifth oscillator unit 1115 change together, one of the two detection units detects an angle change between the first oscillator unit 1111 and the fourth oscillator unit 1114 and the second oscillator unit 1112 and the fifth oscillator unit 1115. Furthermore, since the angles of the second oscillator unit 1112 and the fifth oscillator unit 1115 and the third oscillator unit 1113 and the sixth oscillator unit 1116 change together, the other of the two detection units detects an angle change between the second oscillator unit 1112 and the fifth oscillator unit 1115 and the third oscillator unit 1113 and the sixth oscillator unit 1116.

[0081] A glove, which is a wearing member 19a according to this modification, holds a plurality of transducer units 111a so as to face each of two fingers, the index finger and the middle finger. As shown in Fig. 12, a first transducer unit 1111 to a third transducer unit 1113 are held on the inside of the glove, where the index finger and the middle finger are located, so as to face the palm side of the index finger. Furthermore, a fourth transducer unit 1114 to a sixth transducer unit 1116 are held on the inside of the glove, where the index finger and the middle finger are located, so as to face the palm side of the middle finger.

[0082] As described above, in the ultrasound probe 10b of the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 according to this modification, the attachment member 19a holds the multiple transducer units 111a so as to face the multiple fingers, respectively, and therefore, high and low frequencies can be scanned simultaneously even when the high and low frequencies fluctuate.

[0083] Furthermore, in the ultrasound probe 10b of the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 according to this modification, the mounting member 19a holds a plurality of transducer units 111a arranged to face a plurality of fingers, respectively, so that the number of transducers in the probe element direction can be increased, and volume scanning becomes possible.

[0084] The above description of Modification 2 is for the case where it is applied to the above-described first embodiment, but it is clear that this modification can also be applied to Modification 1. Furthermore, the wearing member 19a according to Modification 2 described above holds a plurality of vibrator units 111a arranged along each of two fingers, the index finger and the middle finger, but the two fingers are not limited to the index finger and the middle finger. In other words, the combination of the two fingers is arbitrary, and may be a combination of the middle finger and the ring finger or the ring finger and the little finger.

[0085] Furthermore, the wearing member 19a according to the above-described second modification may hold a plurality of transducer units so as to fit along each of the two fingers, from the thumb to the index finger. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the configuration of an ultrasound probe according to the second modification, and corresponds to FIG. 2 in the above-described first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 13, in an ultrasound probe 10c, the wearing member 19a holds a plurality of transducer units 111b so that the plurality of transducer units 111b are arranged continuously from the thumb to the index finger in the portion of the inside of the glove where the thumb and index finger are located. This configuration makes it possible to scan a wider range of areas, such as the arms, legs, or neck, at once.

[0086] [Variation 3] In the ultrasound probe 10 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 according to the first embodiment described above, the wearing member 19 is a glove that holds multiple transducer units 111 facing one finger, but the wearing member can also hold multiple transducer units continuously from the fingertips to the upper arm in the area inside the wearing member where the operator's fingers and upper arm are located. Hereinafter, this modified example, applied to the first embodiment described above, will be referred to as Modification 3, and differences from the first embodiment described above will be described.

[0087] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasound probe 10d according to Modification 3, and corresponds to FIG. 2 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in FIG. 14(a), the wearing member 19b according to this modification is a glove. When worn by an operator, the wearing member 19b according to this modification covers the operator's fingers through to the upper arm. Furthermore, the wearing member 19b according to this modification holds a plurality of transducer units 111c in a portion of the inside of the wearing member where the operator's fingers and upper arm are located, facing the palm side of the operator's fingers and upper arm, and arranging the plurality of transducer units 111c continuously from the fingertips to the upper arm. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 14(b), the circuit unit 15b is held inside the wearing member 19b so as to face the back of the hand.

[0088] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an ultrasonic probe 10d according to Modification 3 in use. As shown in FIG. 15, the ultrasonic probe 10d according to this modification is used, for example, for rectal examinations when examining the internal organs, urinary system, etc. of a cow. When performing a rectal examination, the operator wears gloves, which are the wearing member 19b according to this modification. Then, the operator inserts his / her fingers and upper arm through the anus of the cow, which is the subject P, and positions the fingers and upper arm along the inner wall of the rectum, thereby positioning the multiple transducer units 111 held by the wearing member 19b along the inner wall of the rectum. In this way, by using the ultrasonic probe 10d according to this modification, the operator can scan a wide area during a rectal examination when examining the internal organs, urinary system, etc. of a cow.

[0089] 15, the ultrasound probe 10d according to this modification is used for a rectal examination, but the ultrasound probe 10d according to this modification is not limited to use for a rectal examination. In other words, the ultrasound probe 10d according to this modification can be used for any examination, and the ultrasound probe 10d according to this modification may be used, for example, for examinations such as breeding and pregnancy assessment of female cattle. In this way, by using the ultrasound probe 10d according to this modification for examinations such as breeding and pregnancy assessment of female cattle, it is possible to scan a wide range of related organs from the vagina to the uterus.

[0090] [Variation 4] In the ultrasound probe 10 according to the first embodiment described above, the facing surface of each of the multiple transducer units 111 facing the operator's finger has a flat shape. However, the facing surface of each of the multiple transducer units 111 may have an uneven shape. Specifically, grooves may be provided in the facing surface of each of the multiple transducer units 111 so that the facing surface of each of the multiple transducer units 111 has an uneven shape. In order to provide grooves in the facing surface of each of the multiple transducer units 111, the multiple transducer units 111 are formed of a material such as plastic resin. In this way, by forming each of the multiple transducer units 111 from plastic resin, grooves can be provided when each of the multiple transducer units 111 is molded.

[0091] As described above, by providing grooves on the opposing surfaces of each of the multiple transducer units 111 in the ultrasonic probe 10, the contact area between each of the multiple transducer units 111 and the operator's finger can be reduced, and the coefficient of friction between the opposing surfaces of each of the multiple transducer units 111 and the operator's finger can be reduced. This makes it easier for the operator's finger to slide over the multiple transducer units 111, thereby smoothing the movement of the angle change of each of the multiple transducer units 111 when the finger is bent.

[0092] Note that, although the above description of Modification 4 is a description of the case where it is applied to the above-described first embodiment, it is clear that this modification can also be applied to Modifications 1 to 3. Furthermore, in the ultrasound probe according to Modification 4, grooves are provided on the opposing surfaces of the plurality of transducer units 111 so that the opposing surfaces of the plurality of transducer units 111 have an uneven shape, but the method of providing the opposing surfaces of the plurality of transducer units with an uneven shape is not limited to providing grooves on the opposing surfaces of the plurality of transducer units. In other words, any method can be used to provide the opposing surfaces of the plurality of transducer units 111 with an uneven shape, and the opposing surfaces of the plurality of transducer units 111 may be provided with an uneven shape by subjecting the opposing surfaces of the plurality of transducer units 111 to blast processing.

[0093] In the ultrasound probe according to the fourth modification, the facing surfaces of the multiple transducer units 111 are each configured to have an uneven shape, but the facing surfaces of all of the multiple transducer units 111 do not have to have an uneven shape. That is, it is sufficient that the facing surface of at least one of the multiple transducer units 111 has an uneven shape.

[0094] Second Embodiment In the ultrasonic probe according to the first embodiment described above, the operator wears the attachment member 19 on his or her finger, allowing the operator to change the relative angles of each of the multiple transducer units 111 of the ultrasonic probe held by the attachment member 19. However, an angle adjustment mechanism for adjusting the angles of each of the multiple transducer units may also change the angles of each of the multiple transducer units relative to each other. Below, differences from the first embodiment described above will be described.

[0095] Fig. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasonic probe 10e according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to Fig. 2 in the first embodiment described above. As shown in Fig. 16, the ultrasonic probe 10e according to this embodiment is configured to include a transducer unit 11, an angle detection unit 13, a circuit unit 15, a cable 17, an angle adjustment mechanism 21, an operation member 23, and a covering member 25. Note that the configurations of the circuit unit 15 and the cable 17 are omitted from Fig. 16. Furthermore, the configurations of the transducer unit 11, the angle detection unit 13, the circuit unit 15, and the cable 17 are the same as those in the first embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0096] The angle adjustment mechanism 21 is a mechanism for adjusting the angle of each of the multiple transducer units 111 of the transducer section 11 so as to change the angle of each of the multiple transducer units 111. As shown in Fig. 16 , the angle adjustment mechanism 21 according to this embodiment has a first wire 211, a second wire 212, a third wire 213, a first pin 214, a second pin 215, a third pin 216, a fourth pin 217, a first turntable 218, a second turntable 219, a shaft member 2110, a third turntable 2111, and a fastener 2112.

[0097] 16, the first wire 211 is attached to an end portion of the upper surface and an end portion of the lower surface of each of the multiple transducer units 111. One end of this first wire 211 is fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the first rotating disk 218. The other end of this first wire 211 is attached via a first pin 214 and a second pin 215 to the outer circumferential surface of the first rotating disk 218, on the side opposite the position where one end of the first wire 211 is attached with respect to the center of the first rotating disk 218.

[0098] As shown in Fig. 16, the second wire 212 is attached to an end portion of the upper surface and an end portion of the lower surface of each of the multiple transducer units 111. One end of this second wire 212 is fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the second turntable 219. Also, as shown in Fig. 16, the other end of the second wire 212 is attached via a third pin 216 and a fourth pin 217 to the outer circumferential surface of the second turntable 219, on the side opposite to the position where one end of the second wire 212 is attached with respect to the center of the second turntable 219.

[0099] The third wire 213 is perpendicular to the first wire 211 and the second wire 212 and is attached to the first wire 211 and the second wire 212 .

[0100] The first pin 214 is disposed on the tip side of the ultrasonic probe 10e, on the transducer surface side of the multiple transducer units 111. The second pin 215 is disposed on the tip side of the ultrasonic probe 10e, on the surface side opposite the vibration surfaces of the multiple transducer units 111. A first wire 211 is wound around the first pin 214 and the second pin 215. As a result, the first wire 211 is formed in a loop shape so as to sandwich the multiple transducer units 111 via the first rotating disk 218, the first pin 214, and the second pin 215.

[0101] The third pin 216 is disposed on the tip side of the ultrasonic probe 10e, on the transducer surface side of the multiple transducer units 111. The third pin 216 is disposed on the opposite side of the first pin 214, with the multiple transducer units 111 sandwiched between them. The fourth pin 217 is disposed on the tip side of the ultrasonic probe 10e, on the surface facing the transducer surfaces of the multiple transducer units 111. The fourth pin 217 is disposed on the opposite side of the second pin 215, with the multiple transducer units 111 sandwiched between them. The second wire 212 is wound around the third pin 216 and the fourth pin 217. As a result, the second wire 212 is formed in a loop shape so as to sandwich the multiple transducer units 111 between them via the second turntable 219, the third pin 216, and the fourth pin 217, similar to the first wire 211.

[0102] The first turntable 218 and the second turntable 219 rotate as the shaft member 2110 and the third turntable 2111 rotate in response to operation of the operating member 23 by the operator. Specifically, the first turntable 218 and the second turntable 219 rotate in the R1 direction or the R2 direction in response to a rotation operation of the operating member 23 in the R1 direction or the R2 direction. As shown in FIG. 16 , the first turntable 218 and the second turntable 219 according to this embodiment are formed in a cylindrical shape. Note that the shapes of the first turntable 218 and the second turntable 219 are not limited to a cylindrical shape. In other words, the shapes of the first turntable 218 and the second turntable 219 are arbitrary, and the first turntable 218a and the second turntable 219a may be configured in a bobbin shape, for example.

[0103] In the ultrasonic probe 10e according to this embodiment, the first turntable 218 and the second turntable 219 rotate in the R1 direction in response to the operation of the operating member 23 by the operator, whereby the first wire 211 located between the first pin 214 and the first turntable 218 and the second wire 212 located between the third pin 216 and the second turntable 219 move in the D1 direction shown in FIG. 16(b). Furthermore, the first turntable 218 and the second turntable 219 rotate in the R1 direction, whereby the first wire 211 located between the second pin 215 and the first turntable 218 and the second wire 212 located between the fourth pin 217 and the second turntable 219 move in the D2 direction shown in FIG. 16(b). As a result, each of the multiple transducer units 111 rotates around the multiple rotation axes 113, and the tip of the ultrasonic probe 10e moves in the R3 direction, thereby bending the ultrasonic probe 10e.

[0104] Furthermore, when the ultrasonic probe 10e is bent, the first turntable 218 and the second turntable 219 rotate in the R2 direction in response to the operation of the operating member 23 by the operator, and the first wire 211 located between the first pin 214 and the first turntable 218 and the second wire 212 located between the third pin 216 and the second turntable 219 move in the D2 direction shown in FIG. 16(b). On the other hand, when the first turntable 218 and the second turntable 219 rotate in the R1 direction, the first wire 211 located between the second pin 215 and the first turntable 218 and the second wire 212 located between the fourth pin 217 and the second turntable 219 move in the D1 direction shown in FIG. 16(b). As a result, each of the multiple transducer units 111 rotates around the multiple rotation axes 113, and the tip of the ultrasonic probe 10e moves in the R4 direction, thereby releasing the bent state of the ultrasonic probe 10e. That is, the ultrasonic probe 10e returns to its unbent state.

[0105] The shaft member 2110 rotates the first turntable 218, the second turntable 219, and the third turntable 2111 in response to operation of the operation member 23 by an operator. As shown in Fig. 16, the operation member 23 is attached to one end of the shaft member 2110. The second turntable 219 is attached to the other end of the shaft member 2110. Furthermore, the first turntable 218 is attached to the shaft member 2110 between the second turntable 219 and the third turntable 2111, and the third turntable 2111 is attached to the shaft member 2110 between the first turntable 218 and the operation member 23.

[0106] The third turntable 2111 rotates in the R1 direction or the R2 direction in response to an operator's operation of the operating member 23. The fastener 2112 is a member for preventing the third turntable 2111 from rotating in the opposite direction so as to limit the rotation of the third turntable 2111 to one direction.

[0107] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a specific configuration of the third turntable 2111 and the fastener 2112 according to the second embodiment. This FIG. 17 is a view of the third turntable 2111 and the fastener 2112 of FIG. 16(c) as viewed from the direction of arrow A1. As shown in FIG. 17, the third turntable 2111 according to this embodiment has a third turntable main body 2111_1 and a plurality of claws 2111_2 provided on the outer periphery of the third turntable main body 2111_1 at equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the third turntable main body 2111_1. In addition, one end of the fastener 2112 has a claw portion 2112_1 that engages with the claw 2111_2 of the third turntable 2111. This fastener 2112 is configured to be movable so that the claw portion 2112_1 engages with or separates from the claw 2111_2 by rotating about a point C1.

[0108] 17, in this embodiment, when the claw portion 2112_1 of the fastener 2112 is engaged with the claw 2111_2, the third turntable 2111 is rotatable only in the R1 direction. That is, the third turntable 2111 can rotate in the R1 direction in response to the operation of the operating member 23, and the tip of the ultrasonic probe 10e can be bent. On the other hand, when the claw portion 2112_1 of the fastener 2112 is separated from the claw 2111_2, the third turntable 2111 can rotate in both the R1 direction and the R2 direction. That is, when the claw portion 2112_1 of the fastener 2112 is separated from the claw 2111_2, the third turntable 2111 rotates in the R1 direction in response to the operation of the operating member 23, and the ultrasonic probe 10e is bent. When the ultrasonic probe 10e is bent, the third turntable 2111 rotates in the R2 direction, and the bent state of the ultrasonic probe 10e is released.

[0109] The operating member 23 is a member for operating the angle adjustment mechanism 21. In this embodiment, when the operating member 23 receives an operation by an operator, the operating member 23 changes the angles of the multiple transducer units 111 relative to each other, thereby bending the ultrasonic probe 10e or releasing the bending of the ultrasonic probe 10e.

[0110] The covering member 25 is a member that covers the vibrator unit 11, the angle detection unit 13, and the angle adjustment mechanism 21 other than the third turntable 2111 and the fasteners 2112. Note that the covering member 25 according to this embodiment is configured so as not to cover the third turntable 2111 and the fasteners 2112, but it may also be configured to cover the third turntable 2111 and the fasteners 2112.

[0111] As described above, the ultrasound probe 10e in the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 according to the second embodiment includes a plurality of transducer units 111, each of which includes a plurality of transducers 111_1 that transmit and receive ultrasound waves, and each of the plurality of transducer units 111 is configured to be able to change its angle relative to another, thereby reducing the physical burden on the operator during ultrasound examination. That is, in this embodiment, an angle adjustment mechanism 21 for adjusting the angle of each of the multiple transducer units 111 so as to change the angle of each of the multiple transducer units 111, and an operating member 23 for operating the angle adjustment mechanism 21 are provided, and by operating the operating member 23, the operator can operate the angle adjustment mechanism 21 to rotate each of the multiple transducer units 111 around the multiple rotation axes 113 and bend the ultrasound probe 10e, thereby arranging the multiple transducer units 111 in the examination area of ​​the subject P so as to conform to the curved shape of the examination area of ​​the subject P, and performing an ultrasound examination. Therefore, the operator does not need to hold the ultrasound probe 10e and can perform an ultrasound examination without needing to apply force to press the ultrasound probe 10e against the body surface of the subject P.

[0112] Furthermore, the ultrasound probe 10e in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment is provided with an angle adjustment mechanism 21 for adjusting the angle of each of the plurality of transducer units 111 so as to change the angle of each of the plurality of transducer units 111, and an operating member 23 for operating the angle adjustment mechanism 21. By operating the operating member 23, the operator can operate the angle adjustment mechanism 21 to rotate each of the transducer units 111 around the plurality of rotation axes 113 and bend the ultrasound probe 10e, thereby positioning the plurality of transducer units 111 in the examination area of ​​the subject P so as to conform to the curved shape of the examination area of ​​the subject P. Therefore, even when the examination area is a part with a small curvature such as the breast, upper and lower limbs, or neck, ultrasound examination can be performed without strongly pressing the ultrasound probe 10 against the subject P, thereby reducing the burden on the subject P.

[0113] [Variation 5] In the angle adjustment mechanism 21 of the ultrasonic probe 10e according to the second embodiment described above, the tip of the ultrasonic probe 10e is bent by rotating the first turntable 218 to which both ends of the first wire 211 are attached and the second turntable 219 to which both ends of the second wire 212 are attached in response to the operation of the operation member 23 by the operator. However, the configuration of the angle adjustment mechanism 21 is not limited to this. For example, the angle adjustment mechanism 21 may be configured to include a first turntable to which one end of the first wire is attached, a second turntable to which one end of the second wire is attached, and a fourth turntable to which one end of the third wire is attached. Hereinafter, a case in which this modification is applied to the second embodiment described above will be referred to as Modification 5, and differences from the second embodiment described above will be described.

[0114] Fig. 18 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasonic probe 10f according to Modification 5, and corresponds to Fig. 16 in the second embodiment described above. As shown in Fig. 18, the ultrasonic probe 10f according to this modification is configured to include a transducer unit 11, an angle detection unit 13, a circuit unit 15, a cable 17, an angle adjustment mechanism 21a, an operation member 23, and a covering member 25. Note that the configurations of the circuit unit 15 and the cable 17 are omitted from Fig. 18. Furthermore, the configurations of the transducer unit 11, the angle detection unit 13, the circuit unit 15, the cable 17, the operation member 23, and the covering member 25 are the same as those of the first or second embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0115] 18, angle adjustment mechanism 21a according to this modification includes first wire 211a, second wire 212a, third wire 213, first pin 214a, third pin 216a, first turntable 218a, second turntable 219a, shaft member 2110a, third turntable 2111, fastener 2112, fourth wire 2113, fifth pin 2114, and fourth turntable 2115. Note that the configurations of third wire 213, third turntable 2111, and fastener 2112 are the same as those in the second embodiment described above, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0116] As shown in Fig. 18, the first wire 211a according to this modification is attached to the end of the lower surface of the plurality of transducer units 111. Also, as shown in Fig. 18, one end of the first wire 211a according to this modification is fixed to the outer peripheral surface of the first rotating disk 218a. Also, as shown in Fig. 18, the other end of the first wire 211a according to this modification is attached to the first pin 214a.

[0117] As shown in Fig. 18, second wire 212a according to this modification is attached to an end portion of the lower surface of each of multiple transducer units 111. Also, as shown in Fig. 18, one end of second wire 212a according to this modification is fixed to the outer circumferential surface of second rotating disk 219a. Also, as shown in Fig. 18, the other end of second wire 212a according to this modification is attached to third pin 216a.

[0118] The first turntable 218a and the second turntable 219a according to this modification are formed in a so-called bobbin shape, as shown in Fig. 18. The shapes of the first turntable 218a and the second turntable 219a are not limited to the bobbin shape. In other words, the shapes of the first turntable 218a and the second turntable 219a are arbitrary, and the first turntable 218a and the second turntable 219a may be formed in a cylindrical shape, for example, similar to the first turntable 218 and the second turntable 219 according to the second embodiment.

[0119] The shaft member 2110a rotates the first turntable 218a, the second turntable 219a, the third turntable 2111, and the fourth turntable 2115 in response to operation of the operation member 23 by the operator. As shown in FIG. 18, the operation member 23 is attached to one end of the shaft member 2110a. The second turntable 219a is attached to the other end of the shaft member 2110a. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 18, in the shaft member 2110a of this modified example, the third turntable 2111, the first turntable 218a, and the fourth turntable 2115 are attached between the operation member 23 and the second turntable 219a, in that order from the operation member 23 side.

[0120] As shown in Fig. 18, the fourth wire 2113 is attached to the upper surface of each of the plurality of transducer units 111. Also, as shown in Fig. 18, one end of the fourth wire 2113 is attached to the outer circumferential surface of the fourth rotating disk 2115. Also, as shown in Fig. 18, the other end of the fourth wire 2113 is attached to the fifth pin 2114.

[0121] The fifth pin 2114 is disposed on the tip side of the ultrasonic probe 10f, on the surface facing the multiple transducer units 111. In other words, the fifth pin 2114 is disposed on the opposite side to the first pin 214a and the third pin 216a across the multiple transducer units 111. One end of the fourth wire 2113 is attached to the fifth pin 2114.

[0122] The fourth turntable 2115 rotates as the shaft member 2110 rotates in response to operation of the operating member 23 by the operator. Specifically, the fourth turntable 2115 rotates in the R1 direction or the R2 direction in response to rotation of the operating member 23 in the R1 direction or the R2 direction. A fourth wire 2113 having a length required to maximally bend the tip of the ultrasonic probe 10f is wound around and stored on the fourth turntable 2115. The fourth turntable 2115 according to this modification is configured in a so-called bobbin shape, as shown in FIGS. 18(a) and 18(c). The shape of the fourth turntable 2115 is not limited to the bobbin shape. That is, the shape of the fourth turntable 2115 is arbitrary, and the fourth turntable 2115 may be configured in a cylindrical shape, for example, similar to the first turntable 218 and the second turntable 219 according to the second embodiment.

[0123] In the ultrasonic probe 10f according to this modification, the first turntable 218a, the second turntable 219a, and the fourth turntable 2115 rotate in the R1 direction in response to the operation of the operating member 23 by the operator, whereby the first wire 211a attached to the first turntable 218a and the second wire 212a attached to the second turntable 219a each move in the D1 direction shown in Fig. 18(b). Furthermore, the first turntable 218a, the second turntable 219a, and the fourth turntable 2115 rotate in the R1 direction, whereby the fourth wire 2113 attached to the fourth turntable 2115 moves in the D2 direction shown in Fig. 18(b). As a result, each of the multiple transducer units 111 rotates around the multiple rotation axes 113, and the tip of the ultrasonic probe 10f moves in the R3 direction, thereby bending the ultrasonic probe 10f.

[0124] Furthermore, when the ultrasonic probe 10f is bent, the first turntable 218a, the second turntable 219a, and the fourth turntable 2115 rotate in the R2 direction in response to the operation of the operating member 23 by the operator, causing the first wire 211a attached to the first turntable 218a and the second wire 212a attached to the second turntable 219a to move in the D2 direction shown in FIG. 18(b). Furthermore, the fourth wire 2113 attached to the fourth turntable 2115 moves in the D1 direction shown in FIG. 18(b). As a result, each of the multiple transducer units 111 rotates around the multiple rotation axes 113, and the tip of the ultrasonic probe 10f moves in the R4 direction, thereby releasing the bent state of the ultrasonic probe 10f. In other words, the ultrasonic probe 10f returns to its unbent state.

[0125] As described above, the ultrasound probe 10f in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the fifth modification, like the second embodiment described above, is provided with the angle adjustment mechanism 21 for adjusting the angle of each of the plurality of transducer units 111 so as to change the angle of each of the plurality of transducer units 111, and the operation member 23 for operating the angle adjustment mechanism 21a. By operating the operation member 23, the operator can operate the angle adjustment mechanism 21a to rotate each of the transducer units 111 around the plurality of rotation axes 113 and bend the ultrasound probe 10f, thereby arranging the plurality of transducer units 111 in the examination area of ​​the subject P so as to conform to the curved shape of the examination area of ​​the subject P, thereby performing an ultrasound examination. Therefore, the operator does not need to hold the ultrasound probe 10f and can perform an ultrasound examination without needing to apply force to press the ultrasound probe 10f against the body surface of the subject P.

[0126] Furthermore, the ultrasound probe 10f in the ultrasound diagnostic device 1 according to the fifth modification includes an angle adjustment mechanism 21a for adjusting the angle of each of the plurality of transducer units 111 so as to change the angle of each of the plurality of transducer units 111, and an operating member 23 for operating the angle adjustment mechanism 21a. By operating the operating member 23, the operator can operate the angle adjustment mechanism 21a to rotate each of the transducer units 111 around the plurality of rotation axes 113 and bend the ultrasound probe 10f, thereby positioning the plurality of transducer units 111 in the examination area of ​​the subject P so as to conform to the curved shape of the examination area of ​​the subject P. Therefore, even when the examination area is a small curvature part such as the breast, upper and lower limbs, or neck, an ultrasound examination can be performed without strongly pressing the ultrasound probe 10f against the subject P, thereby reducing the burden on the subject P.

[0127] Third Embodiment In the ultrasonic probe according to the second embodiment described above, the operator holds the ultrasonic probe 10f in his / her hand, places the ultrasonic probe 10f in the examination area of ​​the subject P, and bends the ultrasonic probe 10f by operating the operating member 23. However, this is not limiting. For example, the ultrasonic probe may be attached to a moving mechanism, and the operator may place the ultrasonic probe 10f in the examination area of ​​the subject P via the moving mechanism. A third embodiment will be defined as a case where this modification is applied to the second embodiment, and differences from the first and second embodiments will be described.

[0128] The configuration of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus and an ultrasound probe according to the third embodiment will be described using FIGS. 19 and 20. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a movement mechanism to which an ultrasound probe is attached in an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment. FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasound probe according to the third embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to this embodiment is configured by adding a movement mechanism 90 and a remote control device 110 to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, the configuration of the ultrasound probe is different from that of the second embodiment, and therefore, in this embodiment, it is referred to as an ultrasound probe 10g. Note that the configurations and functions other than the ultrasound probe 10g, the movement mechanism 90, and the remote control device 110 are the same as those shown in FIG. 1 of the first embodiment or FIG. 16 of the second embodiment, and therefore will not be described.

[0129] The moving mechanism 90 is a mechanism capable of moving the ultrasonic probe 10g. Specifically, the ultrasonic probe 10g is attached to the moving mechanism 90, and the moving mechanism 90 moves the ultrasonic probe 10g to a desired position in response to a user's operation. As shown in Fig. 19, the moving mechanism 90 is configured to include a support base B1, a support column B2, a first rail R1, and a second rail R2.

[0130] The support base B1 supports the ultrasonic probe 10g via a support column B2. This support base B1 is installed on a second rail R2. For example, the support base B1 can be moved on the second rail R2 by a drive unit (not shown), thereby moving the ultrasonic probe 10g in the direction a corresponding to the X-axis. Furthermore, the second rail R2 can be moved on the first rail R1, thereby moving the ultrasonic probe 10g attached to the support base B1 in the direction b corresponding to the Z-axis. The first rail R1 is installed on the ceiling surface.

[0131] The support column B2 holds the ultrasonic probe 10g. The support column B2 is configured to be extendable and retractable in the vertical direction by a drive unit (not shown). That is, the support column B2 can be moved in the c direction corresponding to the Y axis shown in FIG. 19. One end of the support column B2 holds the ultrasonic probe 10g rotatable in the d direction, the e direction, and the f direction around axes parallel to the X axis, the Y axis, and the Z axis shown in FIG. 19. The other end of the support column B2 is attached to the support base B1.

[0132] Although the movement mechanism 90 according to this embodiment has been described as being installed on the ceiling via the first rail R1 and the second rail R2, the movement mechanism 90 is not limited to being installed on the ceiling. That is, the installation location of the movement mechanism 90 is arbitrary, and for example, the movement mechanism 90 may be installed on the ceiling and floor, or on the wall and floor via rails installed on the ceiling and floor, or on the wall and floor.

[0133] As shown in Fig. 20, an ultrasound probe 10g according to this embodiment is configured to include a transducer section 11, an angle detection section 13, a circuit unit 15, a cable 17, an angle adjustment mechanism 21a, an operation member 23, a covering member 25, a drive section 27, and a control circuit 29. Note that the configurations of the circuit unit 15 and the cable 17 are omitted from Fig. 20. Furthermore, the configurations of the transducer section 11, the angle detection section 13, the circuit unit 15, the cable 17, the operation member 23, and the covering member 25 are the same as those of the first or second embodiment described above, and therefore their description will be omitted. Furthermore, the configuration of the angle adjustment mechanism 21a is the same as that of the fifth modified example described above, and therefore their description will be omitted.

[0134] The driver 27 drives the operation member 23 under the control of the control circuit 29. As a result, the driver 27 bends the ultrasonic probe 10g. Specifically, the driver 27 is attached to the operation member 23, and drives the operation member 23 to drive the angle adjustment mechanism 21a and bend the ultrasonic probe 10g. The driver 27 is configured with, for example, a stepping motor. This driver 27 corresponds to the operation member driver according to this embodiment.

[0135] Control circuit 29 controls drive unit 27. Specifically, control circuit 29 controls drive unit 27 in response to an operation signal from remote control device 110 for remotely operating angle adjustment mechanism 21a. This control circuit 29 corresponds to the drive control unit in this embodiment.

[0136] In this modification, the remote control device 110 is configured by an operation device such as a mouse, keyboard, touch panel, trackball, switch, button, joystick, etc., that accepts input operations by an operator regarding the operation of the angle adjustment mechanism 21a. Also, as shown in Fig. 20, in this modification, the remote control device 110 and the control circuit 29 are connected by wired communication. Note that the remote control device 110 and the control circuit 29 may also be connected by wireless communication.

[0137] As described above, in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment, the ultrasonic probe 10g is attached to the moving mechanism 90, so that the operator can perform an ultrasonic examination without holding the ultrasonic probe 10g in his / her own hand, thereby reducing the burden on the operator.

[0138] Furthermore, in the ultrasonic probe 10g of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment, the control circuit 29 controls the driving unit 27 in response to an operation signal from the remote control device 110, thereby bending the ultrasonic probe 10g. This allows the operator to perform an ultrasonic examination without directly operating the ultrasonic probe 10g, thereby reducing the burden on the operator.

[0139] Although the moving mechanism 90 in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment is configured with the first rail R1, the second rail R2, the support base B1, and the support column B2, the configuration of the moving mechanism is not limited thereto. For example, the moving mechanism 90 may be configured with a base that is fixed to the floor surface, stands upright, and is rotatable around an axis perpendicular to the floor surface, and an arm-shaped support that is movable up and down relative to the base and has a predetermined angle. In this configuration, the moving mechanism 90 is configured by attaching an arm-shaped support to the base, and the ultrasonic probe 10g is attached to the arm-shaped support, thereby attaching the ultrasonic probe 10g to the moving mechanism 90. The ultrasonic probe 10g may be configured to be movable in the X-, Y-, and Z-axis directions and rotatable around axes parallel to the X-, Y-, and Z-axes by combining the base that is rotatable around an axis perpendicular to the floor surface and the vertical movement of the arm-shaped support relative to the base.

[0140] [Variation 6] The ultrasound probe in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment described above may also be provided with a pressure detection unit. Fig. 21 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ultrasound probe according to Modification 6, and corresponds to Fig. 20 of the third embodiment described above. As shown in Fig. 21, an ultrasound probe 10h according to Modification 6 is configured by adding a pressure detection unit 12 to the ultrasound probe 10f according to the third embodiment described above.

[0141] The pressure detection unit 12 detects the pressure applied to the subject P. The detection result of this pressure detection unit 12 is output to the control circuit 29a. The detection result of the pressure detection unit 12 is also output to the processing circuit 37 of the device main body 30 via the communication circuit 153 and displayed on the display 50. This pressure detection unit 12 is provided, for example, so as not to overlap with the transducer surface of the transducer unit 11. In the example shown in FIG. 21 , the two pressure sensors 121, 123 in the pressure detection unit 12 are provided on both sides of the transducer unit 11. Note that, although two pressure sensors are provided in the pressure detection unit 12 in Modification 6, the number of pressure sensors provided in the pressure detection unit 12 is not limited to two. In other words, the number of pressure sensors provided in the pressure detection unit 12 is arbitrary, and one pressure sensor may be provided, or three or more pressure sensors may be provided.

[0142] The control circuit 29a controls the driving unit 27 to bend the ultrasonic probe 10h based on the detection result of the pressure detection unit 12 so that the pressure value applied to the subject P does not exceed a certain value, i.e., so that more pressure than necessary is not applied to the subject P. Specifically, pressure values ​​required for the ultrasonic examination are prepared in advance and stored in a memory circuit (not shown) of the ultrasonic probe 10h. The control circuit 29a controls the driving unit 27 to bend the ultrasonic probe 10h so that the pressure value applied to the subject P becomes the pressure value stored in the memory circuit of the ultrasonic probe 10h. The control circuit 29a then fine-tunes the pressure applied to the subject P based on an operation input from the operator to the remote control device 110. In other words, the control circuit 29a according to this modification controls the driving unit 27 based on the detection result of the pressure detection unit 12 as well as an operation signal from the remote control device 110.

[0143] As described above, in the ultrasonic diagnostic device 1 according to this modification, the ultrasonic probe 10h includes the pressure detection unit 12, and the control circuit 29a controls the driving unit 27 based on the detection result of the pressure detection unit 12 as well as the operation input by the operator to the remote control device 110. Therefore, the ultrasonic probe 10h can be bent so that the subject P is not subjected to more pressure than necessary, thereby reducing the possibility of injury to the subject P.

[0144] Note that the above-mentioned description of Modification 6 is a description of the case where it is applied to the above-mentioned third embodiment, but it is clear that this modification can also be applied to Modification 5. Furthermore, in the above-mentioned Modification 6, the detection result of the pressure detection unit 12 is displayed on the display 50, but the display destination of the detection result of the pressure detection unit 12 is not limited to the display 50. In other words, the display destination of the detection result of the pressure detection unit 12 is arbitrary, and for example, it may be displayed on a display provided in the remote control device 110.

[0145] [Variation 7] The remote control device 110 in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment described above is configured as an operation device that accepts input operations from the operator regarding the operation of the angle adjustment mechanism 21a, but is not limited to this. The remote control device can also be configured as one or more position sensors attached to the operator's fingers. FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a remote control device in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to Modification 7, and corresponds to FIG. 20 in the third embodiment described above. As shown in FIG. 22, the remote control device 110a in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to Modification 7 is configured as one or more position sensors.

[0146] As shown in Fig. 22, one or more position sensors are attached to, for example, the operator's fingers. In the example shown in Fig. 22, three position sensors are attached to the operator's fingers. Each of the three position sensors transmits position information regarding the position of the operator's finger to control circuit 29b.

[0147] The control circuit 29b according to this modification controls the driving unit 27 based on the position information transmitted from one or more position sensors. Specifically, the control circuit 29b controls the driving unit 27 based on the position information transmitted from each of the three position sensors to bend the ultrasonic probe 10h in conjunction with the movement of the operator's finger.

[0148] With this configuration, the operator can intuitively operate the ultrasound probe. Although three position sensors are attached to the operator's fingers in the seventh modification, the number of position sensors attached to the operator's fingers is not limited to three. In other words, the number of position sensors attached to the operator's fingers is arbitrary, and may be one, two, or four or more. Furthermore, the seventh modification has been described above in connection with the third embodiment, but it is clear that this modification can also be applied to the fifth and sixth modifications.

[0149] [Variation 8] Furthermore, although the remote control device in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment described above is configured as an operation device that accepts input operations from the operator regarding the operation of the angle adjustment mechanism 21a, the present invention is not limited to this. The remote control device can also be configured as a camera and a sensor. FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a remote control device in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to Modification 8, and corresponds to FIG. 20 in the third embodiment described above. As shown in FIG. 23, the remote control device 110b in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 according to Modification 8 is configured as a camera 1101 and multiple sensors 1103.

[0150] The camera 1101 captures images of the multiple sensors 1103. The camera 1101 is attached to a high location, such as the ceiling or wall of the examination room, so that it can capture images of the multiple sensors 1103. The image captured by the camera 1101 is transmitted to the control circuit 29c.

[0151] Each of the plurality of sensors 1103 is configured by, for example, a marker or the like, as a member that can be photographed by the camera 1101. As shown in Fig. 23, the plurality of sensors 1103 according to this modification are attached to the operator's fingers. Also, as shown in Fig. 23, in this modification, three sensors 1103 are attached to the operator's fingers.

[0152] The control circuit 29c according to this modification also controls the driving unit 27 based on the image capturing result transmitted from the camera 1101. Specifically, the control circuit 29c according to this modification detects the positions of the three sensors 1103 by performing image analysis on the image capturing result, and controls the driving unit 27 based on the detected positions of the three sensors 1103 to bend the ultrasound probe 10h in conjunction with the movement of the operator's finger.

[0153] According to this configuration, the operator can intuitively operate the ultrasound probe, as in the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to the above-described modification 7. Furthermore, according to the configuration according to modification 8, the movements of the operator's fingers can be accurately captured.

[0154] Although multiple sensors 1103 are provided in the above-described eighth modification, multiple sensors 1103 do not necessarily have to be provided. That is, remote control device 110b may be configured with only camera 1101. In such a configuration, camera 1101 may capture an image of the operator's finger, and control circuit 29c may control drive unit 27 based on image analysis of the captured image.

[0155] Furthermore, in the above-described modified example 7, three sensors are attached to the operator's finger, but the number of sensors attached to the operator's finger is not limited to three. That is, the number of sensors attached to the operator's finger is arbitrary, and may be one, two, or four or more. Furthermore, the above-described modified example 7 is a description of the case where it is applied to the above-described third embodiment, but it is clear that this modified example can also be applied to modified examples 5 to 7.

[0156] [Other Modifications of the First and Third Embodiments] In the first and second embodiments described above, the device main body 30 displays the ultrasound image IM on the display 50 based on the priority information stored in the memory circuitry 35. However, it is also possible to change the priority in the priority information stored in the memory circuitry 35 by selecting an ultrasound image IM. Specifically, the display control function 375 of the processing circuitry 37 may accept an input operation related to a change in priority and change the priority in accordance with the accepted input operation. More specifically, as an input operation related to a change in priority, the operator touches and selects a nearby ultrasound image that the operator wishes to increase the priority of from among multiple ultrasound images corresponding to each of multiple transducers displayed on the display 50 or the touch command screen. As a result, the display control function 375 may change the priority so as to increase the priority of the ultrasound image including the portion selected by touch.

[0157] The term "processor" used in the above description refers to a circuit such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA)). The processor realizes its functions by reading and executing a program stored in the memory circuit 35. Instead of storing the program in the memory circuit 35, the processor may be configured so that the program is directly embedded in the circuit. In this case, the processor realizes its functions by reading and executing the program embedded in the circuit. The processor is not limited to being configured as a single circuit, but may be configured as a single processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize its functions. Furthermore, multiple components in FIG. 1 may be integrated into a single processor to realize its functions.

[0158] Although several embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are presented only as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The novel apparatus and method described herein may be embodied in various other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and modifications may be made to the forms of the apparatus and method described herein without departing from the spirit of the invention. The appended claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms and modifications that fall within the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0159] 1...ultrasonic diagnostic device, 10-10h...ultrasonic probe, 11, 11a...transducer unit, 12...pressure detection unit, 13, 13a...angle detection unit, 15-15b...circuit unit, 17...cable, 19-19b...mounting member, 21, 21a...angle adjustment mechanism, 23...operating member, 25...covering member, 27...drive unit, 29-29c...control circuit, 30...device main body, 31...communication circuit, 33...receiving circuit, 35...memory circuit, 37...processing circuit, 50...display, 70...input interface, 90...moving mechanism

Claims

1. It has a plurality of transducer units, Each of the plurality of transducer units includes a plurality of transducers that transmit and receive ultrasonic waves; The plurality of transducer units are configured to be able to change their angles relative to each other. Ultrasound probe.

2. 2. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of transducer units is configured to be able to change its angle relative to the others by rotating around a rotation axis perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the plurality of transducer units.

3. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 2 , wherein the rotation axis is disposed on the living body side.

4. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of transducer units are held inside a glove worn on an operator's hand or inside a finger cot worn on an operator's finger.

5. a transducer unit driver that drives the plurality of transducers included in the plurality of transducer units; a communication unit that communicates with a device main body that generates an ultrasound image based on reflected wave signals output from each of the plurality of transducers included in the plurality of transducer units; a battery that supplies power to at least one of the transducer unit driving section and the communication section; The ultrasound probe of claim 1 , further comprising:

6. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 2 , further comprising an angle detection unit for detecting an angle change of each of the plurality of transducer units.

7. The angle detection unit a magnet that generates a magnetic field and rotates together with the rotation of the vibrator unit; a magnetic sensor for detecting the magnetic field of the magnet; The ultrasonic probe of claim 6 , comprising:

8. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1 , wherein a surface of at least one of the plurality of transducer units that faces an operator's finger has an uneven shape.

9. an angle adjustment mechanism for adjusting the angle of each of the plurality of transducer units so as to change the angle of each of the plurality of transducer units; an operating member for operating the angle adjustment mechanism; The ultrasound probe of claim 2 , comprising:

10. an operating member driving unit that drives the operating member; a drive control unit that controls the operation member drive unit in response to an operation signal from a remote control device for remotely operating the angle adjustment mechanism; The ultrasound probe of claim 9 , comprising:

11. a pressure detection unit that detects a pressure applied to the subject; The ultrasonic probe according to claim 10 , wherein the drive control unit controls the operation member drive unit based on the detection result of the pressure detection unit as well as an operation signal from the remote control device.

12. An ultrasonic probe according to any one of claims 1 to 11; a device main body having an image generating unit that generates a plurality of ultrasound images corresponding to the plurality of transducer units based on reflected wave signals output from the plurality of transducers included in each of the plurality of transducer units; An ultrasound diagnostic device comprising:

13. The device body includes: an acquisition unit that acquires priority order information regarding the priority order of each of the plurality of transducer units of the ultrasonic probe; a display control unit that controls a display unit to display, in an overlapping portion of the plurality of ultrasound images, the ultrasound image based on the reflected wave signal output by the transducer unit having a high priority, based on the priority information acquired by the acquisition unit; The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising:

14. The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus according to claim 13 , wherein the display control unit receives an input operation related to a change of the priority order, and changes the priority order in accordance with the received input operation.

15. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising a movement mechanism capable of moving the ultrasonic probe.

Images