Ultrasound scanner with display interface

Abstract

A system and method for providing an ultrasound scanner with a display interface is described. The ultrasound system includes an ultrasound scanner having an interface configured to display a visual representation and a first transceiver configured to communicate via a communications link. The ultrasound system includes a display device having a reader configured to read the visual representation displayed by the ultrasound scanner, and a second transceiver configured to initiate communication with the first transceiver of the ultrasound scanner via the communications link in response to the reader reading the visual representation, thereby pairing the ultrasound scanner with the display device.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION The embodiments disclosed herein relate to ultrasound systems, particularly to ultrasound scanners with display interfaces. [Background technology]

[0002] In general, wireless transducers help democratize point-of-care imaging and empower medical professionals. However, the advent of wireless ultrasound transducers also introduces new challenges for users. For example, ultrasound examinations are already cognitively complex, requiring users to correctly position the ultrasound probe (e.g., scanner) on the patient while also looking away to a separate monitor to view the imaged anatomical structures. Often, users already have their hands full and rely on an assistant to control the visualization tools on the monitor. Traditional wired transducers are designed for immediate use, with minimal interaction and no interface. However, handheld portable scanners typically do not emulate the simplicity of traditional scanners.

[0003] Conventional handheld wireless ultrasound scanners typically have a simple interface on the scanner, typically including a single light-emitting diode (LED) or a small group of LEDs that communicate various complex system states (e.g., startup, battery level, system updates) to the user. These system states are typically indicated by specific LED behavior patterns, such as blinking, flashing, or color changes. These LED behaviors can be very unclear and uninterpretable, especially without a dedicated display. Users are forced to memorize various LED patterns, which can be cognitively overloading in stressful environments. Excessive cognitive load can lead to user error, delaying procedures and resulting in suboptimal patient care.

[0004] In some cases, handheld transducers include small display screens, but these display screens are limited to displaying only a small amount of data that would normally be shown on an ultrasound machine's clinical display and do not encourage the use of additional transducers beyond that of conventional ultrasound systems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Systems and methods are described that provide an ultrasound scanner with a display interface. In some embodiments, an ultrasound system includes an ultrasound scanner having an interface configured to display a visual representation and a first transceiver configured to communicate over a communications link. The ultrasound system also includes a display device having a reader configured to read the visual representation displayed by the ultrasound scanner and a second transceiver configured to initiate communication with the first transceiver of the ultrasound scanner over the communications link in response to the reader reading the visual representation to pair the ultrasound scanner with the display device.

[0006] In some embodiments, the ultrasound system includes an ultrasound scanner having at least one light source configured to emit light and a processor configured to encode data into the light. The ultrasound system also includes a display device having a light receiver configured to receive the light and a decoder configured to decode data from the light.

[0007] In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner includes a display interface including an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that are visibly hidden from an environment external to the ultrasound scanner when inactive, the display interface being sealed from the environment. The ultrasound scanner also includes a transceiver configured to communicate with the display device via a communications link based on at least one of a pattern displayed within the display interface according to light emitted by the LEDs and a characteristic of the light emitted by the LEDs.

[0008] Other systems, machines and methods for providing an ultrasound scanner with a display interface are also described.

[0009] The accompanying drawings illustrate examples and are therefore to be considered as illustrative embodiments and not limiting in scope. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 illustrates an ultrasound system in accordance with some embodiments. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 is a data flow diagram of a process performed by an ultrasound system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 1C] FIG. 1 is a data flow diagram of a process performed by an ultrasound system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 1D] FIG. 1 illustrates an ultrasound scanner interface according to some embodiments. [Figure 2A] FIG. 1 illustrates an array housing enclosure of an ultrasound scanner, according to some embodiments. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2 is a data flow diagram of a process performed by an ultrasound scanner, according to some embodiments. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 illustrates an array housing enclosure of an ultrasound scanner, according to some embodiments. [Figure 4]1A-1C illustrate examples of information displayed using an LED array of an ultrasound scanner, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5A] FIG. 10 is a data flow diagram of a process performed by an ultrasound scanner to perform pairing with a display device, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5B] FIG. 10 is a data flow diagram of a process performed by a display device to perform pairing with an ultrasound scanner, according to some embodiments. [Figure 6A] FIG. 10 is a data flow diagram of a process performed by an ultrasound scanner to perform pairing with a display device, according to some embodiments. [Figure 6B] FIG. 10 is a data flow diagram of a process performed by a display device to perform pairing with an ultrasound scanner, according to some embodiments. [Figure 7A] FIG. 1 illustrates an ultrasound scanner according to some embodiments. [Figure 7B] FIG. 10 illustrates a line with a needle insertion point projected using light from an ultrasound scanner, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8A] FIG. 1 illustrates a workflow of an ultrasound scanner for pulmonary examination, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8B] FIG. 1 illustrates a single-use scanner with a display screen, according to some embodiments. [Figure 9] 1A-1C illustrate examples of data that can be displayed on a display screen of a single-use scanner in the absence of a trained sonographer, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates the use of a single-use scanner with patient markers, according to some embodiments. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example computing device capable of performing one or more of the operations described herein, according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Systems and methods are described that provide an ultrasound scanner with a display interface. In some embodiments, an ultrasound system includes an ultrasound scanner having an interface configured to display a visual representation and a transceiver configured to communicate via a communication link. The communication link can be wireless, wired, or a combination thereof. The ultrasound system further includes a display device having a reader configured to read the visual representation displayed by the ultrasound scanner, and a second transceiver configured to initiate communication with the transceiver of the ultrasound scanner via the communication link in response to the reader reading the visual representation to pair the ultrasound scanner with the display device.

[0012] The embodiments described herein relate to ultrasound systems that include an ultrasound scanner having an interface that is displayed on the ultrasound scanner and uses a light source to communicate with display devices (e.g., tablets, smartphones, ultrasound machines, etc.). In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner's display (e.g., an LED grid array) is used to communicate system status, simplifying workflows involving interaction between the ultrasound scanner and display devices (e.g., tablets, smartphones, ultrasound machines, etc.) in ways not possible with conventional ultrasound systems.

[0013] References herein to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "one example," or "an example" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment can be included in at least one embodiment. The appearances of "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places in this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment. The processes illustrated in the following figures are performed by processing logic, which may include hardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software, firmware, or a combination thereof. While the processes are described below in terms of several sequential operations, it should be understood that some of the described operations may be performed in a different order. Furthermore, some operations may be performed in parallel rather than sequentially. Furthermore, it should be understood that not all operations of a described process need be performed.

[0014] The term "and / or" as used herein represents three relationships between objects that may exist: for example, A and / or B represents the cases where only A is present, where both A and B are present, and where only B is present, and where A and B can be singular or plural.

[0015] FIG. 1A is a diagram 100 illustrating an ultrasound system 100 according to some embodiments. As shown in FIG. 1A, the ultrasound system 100 includes an ultrasound scanner 101 and a display device 102. In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner 101 is a wireless scanner (e.g., a wireless probe). In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner is a wired scanner (e.g., a probe configured to connect to the display device 102 via a cable). The ultrasound scanner 101 includes an interface 103 configured to display a visual representation 104. In some embodiments, the visual representation includes a quick response (QR) code, a barcode, an animation sequence, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the interface 103 is sealed from the environment external to the ultrasound scanner. In some embodiments, the interface 103 includes an array of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that are visibly hidden from the environment when inactive, as described in more detail below.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1A, ultrasound scanner 101 includes a transceiver 105 configured to communicate over a communication link 106, such as a Wi-Fi network, a near-near field communication link, a cable, or a combination thereof. Ultrasound scanner 101 includes a transducer system 109 that generates ultrasound data based on reflections of ultrasound signals transmitted by the scanner. As shown in FIG. 1A, a processor 115 is coupled to transducer system 109, and a memory 116 is coupled to processor 115 that stores executable instructions for performing methods described herein. In some embodiments, memory 116 includes one or more memories. In some embodiments, processor 115 includes one or more processors.

[0017] 1A , the display device 102 includes a reader 107 configured to read a visual representation 104 displayed by the ultrasound scanner 101. The display device 102 includes a transceiver 108 configured to initiate communication with the transceiver 105 over a communication link 106 to pair the ultrasound scanner 101 and the display device 102 in response to the reader 107 reading the visual representation 104. The communication link 106 can be wireless, wired, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the visual representation 104 includes a pattern, an icon, an animation sequence, other visual representation, or any combination thereof, displayed within the display interface 103 according to light emitted by an LED and characteristics of the light emitted by the LED, as described in further detail below.

[0018] FIG. 1B is a data flow diagram of a process 120 performed by an ultrasound system, according to some embodiments. Process 120 can be performed by processing logic, which can include hardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software (such as those running on a general-purpose computer system or dedicated machine), firmware, or a combination thereof. As shown in FIG. 1B, process 120 includes processing logic, at block 121, for displaying a visual representation on an interface of an ultrasound scanner having a first transceiver configured to communicate over a communication link. The communication link can be wireless, wired, or a combination thereof. Process 120 includes processing logic, at block 122, for reading the visual representation displayed by the ultrasound scanner using a reader of a display device having a second transceiver. In block 123, in response to the reader reading the visual representation, the processing logic initiates communication with the first transceiver of the ultrasound scanner over the communication link using the second transceiver of the display device, thereby pairing the ultrasound scanner and the display device.

[0019] 1A, in some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner 101 includes at least one light source 111 that emits light 112. For example, the light source may be included as part of the interface 103, such as one or more LEDs in the interface 103. Additionally or alternatively, the light source may be separate from the interface 103. In some embodiments, the light 112 includes visible light having a wavelength between 380 nanometers and 740 nanometers, or other wavelengths.

[0020] In some embodiments, the processor 115 is configured to encode data into the light 112. In some embodiments, the data encoded into the light indicates at least one of the availability, battery status, cleanliness status, and transducer configuration of the ultrasound scanner 101.

[0021] In some embodiments, the reader 107 includes a light receiver including one or more sensors configured to receive and detect the light 112. The display device 102 includes a processor 114 and a memory 117 coupled to the processor 114 that stores executable instructions for performing the methods described herein. The display device 102 includes a decoder 118 coupled to the processor 114 and configured to decode data from the light 112 received and detected by the reader 107.

[0022] 1C is a data flow diagram of process 130 performed by an ultrasound system, according to some embodiments. Process 130 can be performed by processing logic, which can include hardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software (such as those running on a general-purpose computer system or dedicated machine), firmware, or a combination thereof. As shown in FIG. 1C, process 130 includes, in block 131, emitting light using at least one light source of an ultrasound scanner having a processor configured to encode data into the light. In block 132, the light is received by a light receiver of a display device having a decoder configured to decode data from the light.

[0023] Returning to FIG. 1A, in some embodiments, the transceiver 108 is implemented to initiate communication with the transceiver 105 via the communication link 106 based on data decoded from the light to pair the ultrasound scanner 101 with the display device 102.

[0024] In some embodiments, the processor 115 is implemented to encode data into the light 112 by modulating at least one of the frequency of the light, the phase of the light, the amplitude of the light, and the polarization of the light. In some embodiments, the at least one light source 111 includes multiple light sources. In some embodiments, the processor 115 is implemented to encode data into the light based on the positions of the multiple light sources on the ultrasound scanner, as described in more detail below.

[0025] In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner 101 is implemented to communicate with the additional ultrasound scanner via an additional communication link (e.g., a wireless communication link) to indicate that the ultrasound scanner is in communication with the display device 102 and is not available for pairing with the additional ultrasound scanner. The additional ultrasound scanner and the additional communication link are not shown in FIG. 1A for clarity.

[0026] In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner 101 includes a light source (such as light source 111) configured to project light onto the patient to indicate an insertion point for an interventional instrument. In some embodiments, the light source is configured to project light onto the patient to indicate the shape of a blood vessel, as described in more detail below. In some embodiments, the light source of the ultrasound scanner includes a light emitting diode (LED) of the display interface 103, and the light source is implemented to generate light by beamforming the LED, as described in more detail below. In some embodiments, the light source includes a mini-projector. Additionally or alternatively, the light source may include a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) device.

[0027] In some embodiments, the transducer system 109 is implemented to generate ultrasound data based on the ultrasound signals it transmits reflected off a patient-worn identifier, and the processor 115 is implemented to determine patient identification data based on the ultrasound data. In some embodiments, the interface 103 and / or the display device 102 are implemented to display the patient identification data as described in more detail below.

[0028] In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner 101 is configured to receive instructions to move the ultrasound scanner 101, and the interface 103 is configured to display a further visual representation (not shown in FIG. 1A ) that indicates how to move the ultrasound scanner based on the instructions. In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner 101 is configured to receive a detachable head having a transducer array, and the interface 103 is configured to display an identifier of the detachable head. In some embodiments, the identifier indicates that the transducer array is one of a linear array, a planar array, a phased array, and a curvilinear array, as described in further detail below.

[0029] In some embodiments, the at least one light source 111 includes multiple light sources. In some embodiments, the ultrasound system 100 includes a registration system including one or more light sensors implemented to detect light emitted from the multiple light sources and a processor system implemented to determine an orientation of the ultrasound scanner 101 based on the light detected by the one or more light sensors. In some embodiments, the one or more light sensors are part of the reader 107, and the processor system 114 is implemented to determine an orientation of the ultrasound scanner 101 based on the light detected by the one or more light sensors. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more light sensors may be separate from the display device 102.

[0030] In some embodiments, the transceiver 105 is configured to communicate with the display device 102 via the communication link 106 based on at least one of a pattern displayed by the display interface 103 according to the light emitted by the LEDs and characteristics of the light emitted by the LEDs of the light source 111, as described in further detail below.

[0031] FIG. 1D is a diagram 140 illustrating an ultrasound scanner interface 141 according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, ultrasound scanner interface 141 represents one of the scanner interfaces described in this application. As shown in FIG. 1D , ultrasound scanner interface 141 includes a dot matrix 142 including m×n LEDs spaced apart by a fixed distance (e.g., 2 millimeters (mm) or other distance) and paired with a microcontroller 143. In some embodiments, m and n can be any number greater than zero. In some embodiments, dot matrix 142 is a rectangular, circular, square, or other shaped dot matrix. In some embodiments, dot matrix 142 is a 5×20 LED rectangular dot matrix with LEDs spaced apart by approximately 2 mm and paired with a microcontroller. In some embodiments, the LED grid array allows the scanner to be much more descriptive than conventional scanners in communicating certain system states, including, but not limited to, battery status, Bluetooth pairing, warnings, etc. For example, an LED matrix can simply spell out "updating" or display a more easily interpreted icon, rather than requiring the user to remember a series of flashes from a single LED to indicate a system update. LED arrays can enable the scanner to communicate numerous actions and the ability to update new actions with reduced cognitive load. For example, including new or updated actions in a software update to the scanner allows the LEDs to be reprogrammed to display new patterns, icons, animation sequences, etc. that update existing actions or add new actions to the scanner.

[0032] FIG. 2 is a diagram 200 illustrating an array housing enclosure of an ultrasound scanner 201 having a display interface 202, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner 201 represents one of the ultrasound scanners described in this application. As shown in FIG. 2, the display interface 202 includes an array of LEDs that generate a plurality of pixels, such as an LED that generates pixel 203, an LED that generates pixel 204, and an LED that generates pixel 206. As shown in FIG. 2, the LEDs of the grid array are visibly hidden from the environment external to the ultrasound scanner 201 when the LEDs are inactive. As shown in FIG. 2, the LEDs of the display interface 201 are sealed from the environment external to the scanner by an array housing enclosure 205.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 2, the LED grid is a “deadfronted” system, meaning that the LEDs are only visible when lit. A “deadfront” can be achieved by placing the LED array behind an array housing enclosure 205. In some embodiments, the array housing enclosure 205 is a molded plastic housing enclosure. In some embodiments, the back side of the array housing enclosure 205 has pockets (e.g., openings 302 shown in FIG. 3) for placing individual LEDs. The LEDs of the array are placed in the individual pockets and transmit light to the front side of the array housing enclosure 205. Each LED of the array generates an individual pixel, such as pixel 203, having a predetermined size that does not intermingle with each other. In some embodiments, the individual openings 302 formed in the back side 301 of the array housing have a predetermined depth so that light transmitted by the LED is collimated and does not intermingle with light generated by other LEDs in the array. In some embodiments, the LED grid array has a single color (e.g., blue, white, or green). In other embodiments, the LED grid array has multiple colors.

[0034] FIG. 2B is a data flow diagram of a process 210 performed by an ultrasound scanner, according to some embodiments. The process 210 can be performed by processing logic, which can include hardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software (such as those running on a general-purpose computer system or a dedicated machine), firmware, or a combination thereof. As shown in FIG. 2B , the process 210 includes, in block 211, displaying a pattern on a display interface of an ultrasound scanner having a transceiver, the display interface including an array of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that are visibly hidden from an environment outside the ultrasound scanner when the LEDs are inactive, and the display interface being sealed from the environment. In block 122, the transceiver communicates with the display device via a communication link (e.g., a wireless communication link or a wired communication link) based on at least one of the pattern displayed in the display interface according to the light emitted by the LEDs and characteristics of the light emitted by the LEDs.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a diagram 300 illustrating an array housing enclosure 301 for an ultrasound scanner, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the array housing enclosure 301 represents one of the array housing enclosures described in this application. As shown in FIG. 3, the back side of the array housing enclosure 301 has locally machined thin openings, such as opening 302, in which individual LEDs are positioned to allow light from the LEDs of the LED array to pass through the front side of the array housing enclosure. This "dead-front" assembly of the LED array provides a smooth surface for the scanner, uses fewer parts, and is easier to clean than conventional systems by eliminating undesirable parting lines. The "dead-front" LED array provides an interface that is visually hidden from the environment when the LEDs are inactive to avoid distracting the user during an ultrasound examination.

[0036] 4 is a diagram 400 illustrating an example of information displayed using an LED array on an ultrasound scanner, according to some embodiments. Each individual LED in the array can be turned on / off, dimmed, or programmed for animation to change the visual representation displayed on the scanner's display interface. In some embodiments, the LEDs can be programmed via a software update to display updated or new patterns, such as patterns 401, 402, 403, and 404 on the ultrasound scanner interface.

[0037] Pairing a scanner with a display device In one example, the scanner includes a display interface, such as an LED matrix or array as described above, or any suitable display, such as an LCD, OLED, etc. The display can be of any suitable shape, size, and dimensions. For example, the display can be a 2D or 3D display capable of displaying any suitable visual representation that can be used to initiate pairing with a display device, such as a tablet, smartphone, ultrasound machine, heads-up display, and smart glasses / goggles. For example, the scanner's display interface can display visual representations, such as barcodes (one-dimensional or two-dimensional), quick response (QR) codes, glyphs, optical characters, sequences (e.g., animated sequences), etc. In one example, the scanner is configured to display the visual representation on the display interface upon power-on, eliminating the need for a user to explicitly select a visual representation. The display device can include a reader configured to read the visual representation.

[0038] Upon reading the visual representation, the display device can automatically initiate communication with the scanner over a wireless communication link without further user intervention, pairing the scanner and display device. By pairing the scanner and display device using the scanner's display interface, a user does not need to navigate menus on the display device, select the scanner, and manually perform the steps of enabling pairing. Rather, a user can select to display the visual representation on the scanner's display interface, move the scanner within the reader's field of view on the display device, and initiate pairing without further user input. Thus, patients can receive treatment more quickly than with conventional wireless scanners, which require manual interaction and selection via the display device to initiate pairing.

[0039] 5A is a data flow diagram of a process 500 performed by an ultrasound scanner to pair with a display device, according to some embodiments. The process may be performed by processing logic, which may include hardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software (such as those running on a general-purpose computer system or dedicated machine), firmware, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, as described above, the ultrasound scanner includes a transducer system that generates ultrasound data as part of an ultrasound examination based on reflections of ultrasound signals transmitted by the ultrasound scanner, and a transceiver, implemented at least in part within the ultrasound scanner's hardware, that communicates the ultrasound data via a communications link to a display device that displays an ultrasound image based on the ultrasound data. In some examples, the communications link includes a wireless communications link. In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner includes one or more processors and a memory coupled to the processor(s) for performing process 500.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 5A , process 500 includes processing logic for displaying a visual representation on an interface of an ultrasound scanner at block 501. In some embodiments, the visual representation includes at least one of a quick response (QR) code, a barcode, and an animation sequence. Process 500 proceeds to block 502, which includes processing logic for receiving a communication from a display device via a communication link to pair the ultrasound scanner with the display device. In one example, the communication link includes a wireless communication link. In some embodiments, the display device includes a reader for reading the visual representation displayed on the ultrasound scanner interface and a transceiver for sending a notification to the ultrasound scanner in response to reading the visual representation. In some embodiments, the display device is a tablet, a smartphone, an ultrasound imaging device, or the like. In block 503, processing logic communicates with a further ultrasound scanner via a further wireless communication link to indicate that the display device is unavailable for pairing with the further ultrasound scanner because the ultrasound scanner is in communication with the display device.

[0041] At block 504, processing logic determines patient identification data. In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner includes a transducer system implemented to generate ultrasound data based on ultrasound signals transmitted by the ultrasound scanner reflected off a patient-worn identifier, and the processing logic determines the patient identification data based on the ultrasound data.

[0042] At block 505, processing logic displays patient identification data on an interface of the ultrasound scanner. In some embodiments, the processing logic of the ultrasound scanner receives instructions to operate the ultrasound scanner and displays a further visual representation on the interface showing how to operate the ultrasound scanner based on the instructions. In some embodiments, the processing logic of the ultrasound scanner receives a detachable head having a transducer array and displays an identifier of the detachable head on the interface. In some embodiments, the identifier of the detachable head indicates the transducer array of the detachable head as one of a linear array, a planar array, a phased array, and a curvilinear array.

[0043] In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner includes a light source configured to project light onto the patient to indicate an insertion point of an interventional instrument. In some embodiments, the light source of the ultrasound scanner projects light onto the patient to indicate the shape of a blood vessel. In some embodiments, the light source of the ultrasound scanner includes a light emitting diode (LED) of a display, and the light source is implemented to generate the light by beamforming the LED. Additionally or alternatively, the light source can include a mini-projector or a MEMS device, and can generate the light including by beamforming light generated by the mini-projector or MEMS device.

[0044] 5B is a data flow diagram of a process 510 performed by a display device to perform pairing with an ultrasound scanner, according to some embodiments. The process may be performed by processing logic, which may include hardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software (such as those running on a general-purpose computer system or a dedicated machine), firmware, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the display device includes a reader including one or more optical sensors that read visual representations displayed on the ultrasound scanner's interface, and a transceiver implemented at least in part within the display device's hardware. In some embodiments, the display device's transceiver receives ultrasound data from the ultrasound scanner's transceiver via a wireless communication link, and the processing logic displays an ultrasound image on the display device based on the ultrasound data. In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner display device includes one or more processors and a memory coupled to the processor(s) to perform process 510.

[0045] 5B, process 510 includes processing logic in which a reader reads a visual representation displayed on an interface of an ultrasound scanner (block 511). In block 512, in response to reading the visual representation, processing logic initiates communication with a transceiver of the ultrasound scanner via a wireless communication link to pair the ultrasound scanner with a display device. In block 513, processing logic determines patient identification data. In block 514, processing logic displays the patient identification data on the display device as described in further detail below.

[0046] In some examples, an ultrasound scanner can include a suitable number of light sources. For example, light sources such as LEDs and / or MEMs lasers can be included across substantially the entire surface of the scanner or in a grid array that forms the display interface, as described above. In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner's display interface has a rectangular, circular, square, or other shape. Thus, the light sources can be part of the scanner's display interface or can be separate from it. The scanner can encode data in the characteristics of the light emitted by the light sources and communicate this data to a display device. The scanner can encode data in any suitable manner, such as by modulating the phase, frequency, polarization, amplitude, pulse rate, etc. of the light. The display device can read the light-encoded data and use it to pair the scanner with the display device, similar to the visual representations (e.g., QR codes) displayed by the scanner's display interface, as described above. Additionally or alternatively, this data can also be used to communicate the status of the scanner to the display device, such as scanner availability, battery / charging status, cleanliness status, and the type of transducer in the scanner. For example, the scanners can be housed in an ultrasound cart, battery charger, etc., and a user can swipe a display device across the scanners. The display device can then display status data for each scanner, allowing the user and / or the display device to determine which scanner is preferred for selection for an exam.

[0047] In one example, an ultrasound system includes an ultrasound scanner having at least one light source configured to emit light and a processor configured to encode data into the light. The ultrasound system also includes a display device having a light receiver configured to receive the light and a decoder configured to decode the data from the light. To pair the scanner and the display device, the ultrasound scanner can include a first transceiver configured to communicate via a wireless communication link, and the display device can include a second transceiver configured to communicate via the wireless communication link. The second transceiver can initiate communication with the first transceiver via the wireless communication link to pair the ultrasound scanner and the display device based on the data decoded from the light. For example, the data can include a pairing request, pairing parameters, etc.

[0048] The processor can encode data into the light by modulating at least one of the frequency of the light, the phase of the light, the amplitude of the light, and the polarization of the light. In one example, the processor encodes the data by spatially encoding the data based on, for example, the position of the light source on the scanner. For example, the position of the light source on the scanner can act as the modulation. The light emitted by the light source can be visible light, such as light having a wavelength between 380 nanometers and 740 nanometers. Additionally or alternatively, the light can include non-visible light, such as light outside the visible spectrum, such as infrared (IR) light.

[0049] 6A is a data flow diagram of a process 600 performed by an ultrasound scanner to pair with a display device, according to some embodiments. The process may be performed by processing logic, which may include hardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software (such as those running on a general-purpose computer system or a dedicated machine), firmware, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, as described above, the ultrasound scanner includes a transducer system that generates ultrasound data as part of an ultrasound examination based on reflections of ultrasound signals transmitted by the ultrasound scanner, and a transceiver, implemented at least in part within the ultrasound scanner's hardware, that communicates the ultrasound data via a wireless communication link to a display device that displays an ultrasound image based on the ultrasound data. In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner includes one or more processors and a memory coupled to the processor(s) for performing process 600.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 6A, process 600 includes processing logic for emitting light using at least one light source of an ultrasound scanner (block 601). In some embodiments, the light includes visible light having a wavelength between 380 nanometers and 740 nanometers. In some embodiments, the at least one light source includes multiple light sources. In some embodiments, the ultrasound system includes an alignment system including one or more optical sensors and a processor system coupled to the one or more optical sensors. In some embodiments, the one or more optical sensors detect light emitted from the multiple light sources, and the processor system determines an orientation of the ultrasound scanner based on the light detected by the one or more optical sensors. This orientation can indicate the position of the ultrasound scanner in a coordinate system.

[0051] At block 602, processing logic encodes data into the light. In some embodiments, the processing logic encodes the data into the light by modulating at least one of the frequency of the light, the phase of the light, the amplitude of the light, and the polarization of the light. In some embodiments, the at least one light source includes multiple light sources, and the processing logic encodes the data into the light based on the positions of the multiple light sources on the ultrasound scanner. For example, light from a first position can indicate first data (such as a "1"), and light from a second position can indicate second data (such as a "0"). In some embodiments, the data encoded into the light indicates at least one of the availability, battery status, cleanliness status, and transducer configuration of the ultrasound scanner. At block 603, processing logic transmits the light including the encoded data to a display device. In some embodiments, the display device includes a light receiver including one or more light sensors for receiving the light including the encoded data and a decoder for decoding the data from the light. At block 604, processing logic receives a communication from the display device via a wireless communication link using a transceiver and pairs the ultrasound scanner with the display device based on the data decoded from the light as described above.

[0052] 6B is a data flow diagram of a process 610 performed by a display device to perform pairing with an ultrasound scanner, according to some embodiments. The process can be performed by processing logic, which can include hardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software (such as running on a general-purpose computer system or a dedicated machine), firmware, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the display device includes a reader including one or more light sensors that read light emitted from at least one light source, such as a visual representation displayed on an interface of the ultrasound scanner, and a transceiver implemented at least in part within the hardware of the display device. In some embodiments, the transceiver of the display device receives ultrasound data from the transceiver of the ultrasound scanner via a wireless communication link, and the processing logic displays an ultrasound image on the display device based on the ultrasound data. In some embodiments, the display device includes one or more processors and a memory coupled to the processor(s) for performing process 610.

[0053] 6B, process 610 includes processing logic receiving light containing encoded data using a light receiver at block 611. Processing logic decodes the data from the light at block 612. Processing logic sends a notification over a wireless communication link at block 613 to pair the ultrasound scanner with a display device based on the data decoded from the light as described above.

[0054] In one example, the scanner's display interface can be configured as a fingerprint reader, and the fingerprint can be used as part of the pairing process. For example, a user can place a finger on the display interface, and the scanner can authenticate the user based on the user's fingerprint (e.g., verify identity, access level, job title, combinations thereof, extract user ID, etc.). As an example, the scanner's display interface can include a capacitive surface configured to generate a fingerprint image from a user placing their finger on the display interface. The scanner can access a database and match features of the fingerprint image with features of images in the database to authenticate the user. In some embodiments, the scanner includes a database that stores fingerprint data for authentication. In some embodiments, the database that stores fingerprint data for authentication is remote from the scanner.

[0055] The display interface can read a fingerprint as part of pairing the scanner with the display device. For example, a user can authenticate themselves to the display device by entering a password on the display device, providing a biometric input (such as a fingerprint, eye scan, or ear scan), speaking, a combination thereof, or the like. A user can place a finger on the display interface of a scanner configured as a fingerprint reader to initiate pairing between the scanner and the display device. The scanner can authenticate the user via the fingerprint and search for available display devices that have also been authenticated by the user, for example, by sending pairing queries that include or indicate a user ID. When a display device that has been authenticated by the user receives a pairing query from the scanner, the scanner and display device can initiate pairing. In one example, initiating pairing includes verifying knowledge of a user ID without communicating the user ID. For example, the scanner and / or display device can communicate data indicating possession of a user ID without revealing the user ID itself.

[0056] In one example, a scanner includes one or more light sources and light sensors on a head of the scanner, such as on a lens cover through which ultrasound waves are transmitted and received by the scanner. The scanner can be configured with a light source to emit light and a light sensor to measure properties of the emitted light and / or the light reflected from the patient. Based on the light measured by the light sensor, the ultrasound system can determine biometric properties of the patient, including pulse oximetry, surface blood parameters, and peripheral blood flow on the skin.

[0057] In some examples, an ultrasound system includes a registration system that determines the orientation of the ultrasound scanner, such as coordinates representing six degrees of freedom (6DOF), including yaw, pitch, and roll. Six degrees of freedom typically refer to the degrees of freedom of movement of the body in three-dimensional space. For example, the body is free to change position as a combination of translations—forward / backward (surge), up / down (heave), and left / right (sway)—about three perpendicular axes, and orientation changes through rotations about three perpendicular axes, often referred to as yaw (vertical axis), pitch (lateral axis), and roll (longitudinal axis). The registration system can be implemented on a display device, on another device within the scanner's field of view, or a combination of these.

[0058] The alignment system may include one or more optical sensors (e.g., a camera, an IR sensor, etc.) that detect light emitted from a light source on the scanner. The alignment system may also include a processor system that determines the orientation of the ultrasound scanner based on light detected by the one or more optical sensors. For example, the processor system may implement any suitable algorithm that receives light received by the sensor or characteristics of the received light to determine the orientation of the scanner. The processor may have knowledge of the shape of the scanner and the position of the light source on the scanner. In one example, the alignment system determines the orientation of the ultrasound scanner based on light received from a display interface of the scanner, such as a pattern displayed on the display interface. For example, the alignment system may compare the shape of a known pattern displayed on the scanner's display interface when viewing the display interface directly with the shape of a reconstructed pattern generated by light received by the alignment system's optical sensors. The alignment system may determine the orientation of the scanner based on the difference between the known pattern and the reconstructed pattern. The processor may generate an avatar of the scanner to place in an augmented reality (AR) and / or virtual reality (VR) environment based on the determined orientation of the scanner. In this way, a remote user can view the scanner's avatar and determine the scanner's current location for telemedicine applications.

[0059] FIG. 7A is a diagram 700 illustrating an ultrasound scanner 701 according to some embodiments. As shown in FIG. 7A, the ultrasound scanner 701 includes a light source that generates light 702 that can be projected as a line 703 onto a patient to assist in an ultrasound examination or ultrasound-guided examination. FIG. 7B is a diagram 710 illustrating a line including a needle insertion point 712 projected with light (e.g., light 702) from an ultrasound scanner 711 according to some embodiments. The ultrasound scanner 711 is an example of an ultrasound scanner 701. To project the light, the ultrasound scanner may include a beamformer that beamforms light from an LED in a display interface, light from a MEMS device (e.g., a MEMS laser), and / or light from a mini-projector and projects the beamformed light onto the patient's skin. Additionally or alternatively, the scanner may include a MEMS laser that projects the light. The light may indicate the insertion point of an interventional instrument, such as a needle. The insertion point may be projected with a line to indicate the insertion point on the line. The light may also project the shape of the patient's blood vessels. For example, an ultrasound scanner may include a neural network that identifies arteries, veins, and nerves and determines suitable veins for needle insertion (e.g., based on depth, diameter, elasticity, etc.). The neural network may also determine a suitable path for needle insertion and project any suitable pattern onto the patient's skin, including vein shapes, lines, insertion angle indicators, etc.

[0060] Display Data Display data (e.g., visual representation, text, etc.) displayed on the scanner's display interface can include any suitable information. In one example, the visual representation includes data indicating the protocol and / or wireless communication link to be used for pairing. For example, the visual representation can indicate the bandwidth, carrier frequency, number of carrier frequencies, carrier frequency spacing, signal constellation (e.g., 4-QAM, 16-QAM, etc.), error correction code type, protocol name (e.g., 802.11b, 802.11g, etc.), combinations thereof, etc. Based on the data included in the visual representation, the display device can initiate pairing with the scanner as described above.

[0061] Additionally or alternatively, the visual representation may include data about the scanner, such as the scanner's device ID, the type of transducer array included in the scanner, such as linear, planar, phased, and curved arrays, the scanner's ultrasound center frequency or frequency range, and the scanner's cleanliness status. The display device can initiate pairing based on the scanner data shown in the visual representation. In one example, the display device can configure parameters of the ultrasound examination based on the data shown in the visual representation, such as by setting depth, gain, beam angle, and preset configurations (e.g., heart, lung, bladder, etc.) based on the type of transducer included in the scanner and shown by the visual representation (e.g., linear, planar, phased, and curved).

[0062] Examples of data that the scanner can display on its display interface include: For example, but not limited to, the state of the scanner, such as power mode, imaging state, and the state of the state machine that controls the operation of the scanner. For example, but not limited to, battery indicators such as remaining battery charge, amount of charge used, remaining scanner run time based on battery charge, etc. For example, but not limited to, an ultrasound image, such as a low resolution version of the ultrasound image displayed on a display device. The display device can send the image back to the scanner, or the scanner can generate the low resolution image. Scanner temperature. For example, the scanner may include a temperature sensor that determines the temperature of the scanner and display that temperature. A heat map showing temperatures across the scanner area. The power / energy of the emitted ultrasound. The signal strength of the wireless connection between the scanner and the display device. ID of the removable transducer array / head. An indicator that shows when data is being transferred to the display device. An indicator of the type of data being transferred to the display device, for example, image data versus biometric data. The authentication status of the user of the scanner. For example, the scanner may include a camera / eye reader etc. that authenticates the operator and displays authentication status, as well as employee ID, number and name etc. A list of display devices connected (e.g., paired) to the scanner. Recommendations of type, length, size, etc. of interventional instruments determined by neural networks implemented on the display device, server and / or scanner. Alerts when the scanner is out of range of the display device it is paired with. Identification of the paired display device, such as device name and device number. Illumination of needle orientation and / or desired insertion point on a patient's skin for vascular access. The scanner and / or display device may include a MEMS laser that projects a marker on the patient's skin. In one example, LEDs are beamformed toward the patient's skin to project the insertion point marker. For example, the LEDs form a phased array. Firmware update status including firmware revision number. A unique pattern for each display device that allows for quick pairing with the display device. A directional indicator to the nearest charging base or display device. The directional indicator can be updated as the scanner moves. In one example, the user can initiate the display of the directional indicator by saying something like, "Take me to my display device." Unique markers that can be read by a camera to determine the scanner's position and orientation. In some instances, multiple scanners are operating simultaneously and can be tracked by the registration system as described above. Thus, guidance from a remote operator can be conveyed to the sonographer based on tracking the marker(s) displayed by the scanner's display interface. Unique markers are advantageous because they allow for simultaneous tracking of multiple scanners. Icons for remote operation in an augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) environment, such as icons for the patient, clinician, scanner, interventional instrument, and light source (e.g., for photoacoustic imaging).

[0063] In one example, a scanner's display interface displays guidance information to assist a user during an ultrasound examination. For example, a display device paired with the scanner can include a neural network trained in any suitable manner, such as to recognize anatomical structures in ultrasound images. The display device can generate guidance instructions based on the output of the neural network and communicate the guidance instructions to the scanner, which can then display the guidance instructions on the scanner's display interface. The guidance information displayed by the scanner can include any suitable indicator, such as an arrow indicating the direction in which to move the scanner, or an arrow or pattern indicating how to rotate or tilt the scanner.

[0064] In one example, the scanner is configured to execute a calibration routine to determine the normal or faulty state of the scanner and display the results of the calibration routine on the scanner's display interface. For example, as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 132,262, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 11,372,093, the scanner can execute a calibration routine to determine the scanner's faulty transducer elements. Based on the results returned by the calibration routine, the scanner can display indicators of the transducer elements determined to be faulty within the display interface, such as the number (quantity) of faulty transducer elements, the number (quantity) of normal (e.g., non-faulty) transducer elements, and an identification indicator of the faulty transducer elements (e.g., element number or position within the transducer array). In one example, the number of faulty transducer elements the scanner has must be below a threshold to allow pairing with the display device.

[0065] In one example, a scanner can be used to authenticate a patient. For example, the scanner can include a reader (e.g., a camera, laser, barcode scanner, etc.) that reads data on a bracelet worn by a patient in a care facility. The bracelet can include the patient's name, an identification number within the care facility, etc., and the scanner can read this data and display it on the scanner's display interface before performing the ultrasound examination. Additionally or alternatively, the scanner can communicate patient data to a display device paired with the scanner, which can display the patient data. Thus, the scanner can be used to authenticate the patient and verify that the correct patient is undergoing the examination. In one example, the scanner reads patient data (e.g., on a bracelet or wristband worn by the patient) using the scanner's transducer array. For example, the wristband can store data in a format readable via ultrasound, such as a wire matrix or ink doped with ultrasound-readable particles. Additionally or alternatively, the scan can read patient data using a light source, such as a MEMs laser, on the scanner. In future care facilities, display devices may take the form of heads-up displays, goggles, glasses, etc., rather than smartphones or tablets. Thus, it is advantageous to be able to authenticate a patient via the scanner without the need for a smartphone or tablet. In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner is a single-use scanner designed for a specific type of exam, such as a pulmonary exam, and the display screen of the ultrasound scanner can display the type of information that is available. In other embodiments, the ultrasound scanner is a multi-use scanner.

[0066] FIG. 8A is a diagram 800 illustrating the workflow of an ultrasound scanner for lung examination, according to some embodiments. In block 801, a patient coughs and experiences shortness of breath. In block 802, a trained ultrasound operator examines the patient. In block 803, the trained operator scans the patient using an ultrasound scanner 808 and marks a monitoring spot 807 on the patient. In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner 808 is a single-use ultrasound scanner designed for a specific type of examination, such as for lung examination, and the ultrasound scanner's display screen can display information about the type of use. In some embodiments, the ultrasound scanner 808 is a multi-use ultrasound scanner. The monitoring spot 807 can be generated using light projected onto the patient by the ultrasound scanner 808. The monitoring spot 807 indicates the location on the patient where the ultrasound scanner should be placed for the lung examination.

[0067] In block 804, an untrained ultrasound operator, such as a nurse who is not a certified sonographer, visits the patient. In block 805, the nurse places the ultrasound probe at a monitoring spot 807 designated by the trained ultrasound operator and activates the ultrasound probe. The ultrasound probe can include a neural network or be paired with a display device that includes a neural network. The neural network can process the ultrasound data from the scanner and display information about the ultrasound exam, such as "5," the number of A-lines or B-lines that should be considered to indicate no fluid in the lungs. Thus, pass / fail criteria can be verified without displaying any ultrasound images, and follow-up exams can be performed by the nurse (e.g., an untrained sonographer) as opposed to a trained, certified sonographer. In block 806, the untrained ultrasound operator uploads the data for review by a physician.

[0068] FIG. 8B is a diagram 810 illustrating a single-use scanner 811 having a display screen 812, according to some embodiments. Scanner 811 is an example of scanner 808 from FIG. 8A. FIG. 9 is a diagram 900 illustrating example data that may be displayed on the display screen 812 of a single-use scanner 811 in the absence of a trained sonographer, according to some embodiments. As shown in FIG. 9, the display screen may display a visual representation 901 representing identification data. The display screen may display a visual representation 902 representing instructions to an operator on how to move the ultrasound scanner. For example, visual representation 902 may include the instruction "hold the tip against the mark and fan until you hear a beep," or other instructions to the operator. The display screen may display a visual representation 903 indicating the operating mode of the scanner (e.g., "scan," "update" (e.g., for receiving software / firmware updates), "charging," "pairing," etc.). The display screen may display visual representations 904 of data related to the ultrasound examination, such as the number of A-lines or B-lines required to determine that the lungs are fluid-free, buttons indicating that the procedure is "complete" or that a "next" action (e.g., the next step in the ultrasound examination protocol) needs to be taken, and scan mode icons.

[0069] Figure 10 is a diagram 1000 illustrating the use of a single-use scanner 1001 with patient markers 1002, according to some embodiments. The single-use scanner 1001 is an example of a scanner 811. As shown in Figure 10, an operator positions the single-use scanner 1001 on the patient at marker locations 1002 designated by a trained sonographer based on light projected by at least one light source of the ultrasound scanner as described above.

[0070] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an exemplary computing device 1100 capable of performing one or more of the operations described herein, according to some embodiments. The computing device 1100 can be connected to other computing devices within a LAN, an intranet, an extranet, and / or the Internet. The computing device can operate in the capacity of a server machine in a client-server network environment or in the capacity of a client in a peer-to-peer network environment. The computing device can be provided by a personal computer (PC), a server computer, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions the computing device is to take. Furthermore, while only a single computing device is shown, the term “computing device” should be interpreted to include any group of computing devices that individually or collectively execute a set of instructions (or multiple sets) to perform the methods described herein. In some embodiments, the computing device 1100 can be one or more of an access point and a packet forwarding component.

[0071] The example computer device 1100 includes a processing unit (e.g., a general-purpose processor, PLD, etc.) 1102, a main memory 1104 (e.g., synchronous dynamic random access memory (DRAM), read-only memory (ROM)), a static memory 1106 (e.g., flash memory, and a data storage device 1118), which can communicate with each other via a bus 1130.

[0072] The processing unit 1102 can be provided by one or more general-purpose processing units, such as a microprocessor or central processing unit. In one illustrative example, the processing unit 1102 includes a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, or a processor implementing other instruction sets or combinations of instruction sets. The processing unit 1102 may also include one or more special-purpose processing units, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), a network processor, or the like. The processing unit 1102 can be configured to perform the operations and steps described herein in accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure.

[0073] The computing device 1100 includes a network interface device 1108 capable of communicating with a network 1120. The computing device 1100 also includes a video display unit 1110 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a cathode ray tube (CRT)), an alphanumeric input device 1112 (e.g., a keyboard), a cursor control device 1114 (e.g., a mouse), and an acoustic signal generation device 1116 (e.g., a speaker and / or a microphone). In one embodiment, the video display unit 1110, the alphanumeric input device 1112, and the cursor control device 1114 may be combined into a single component or device (e.g., an LCD touch screen).

[0074] In accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure, the data storage device 1118 includes a computer-readable storage medium 1128 having stored thereon one or more sets of instructions 1126, such as, for example, instructions for performing the operations described herein. The instructions 1126 may reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory 1104 and / or the processing unit 1102 during execution of the instructions 1126 by the computing device 1100, with the main memory 1104 and the processing unit 1102 also constituting computer-readable media. Additionally, the instructions may be transmitted or received over a network 1120 via the network interface device 1108.

[0075] While the illustrative example shows computer-readable storage medium 1128 as being a single medium, the term "computer-readable storage medium" should be interpreted to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., centralized or distributed databases and / or associated caches and servers) that store one or more sets of instructions. The term "computer-readable storage medium" should also be interpreted to include any medium that can store, encode, or carry sets of instructions for execution by a machine and that cause a machine to perform the methods described herein. Accordingly, the term "computer-readable storage medium" is intended to include, but is not limited to, solid-state memory, optical media, and magnetic media.

[0076] As will be apparent from this description, the embodiments described herein may be embodied at least in part in software. That is, the techniques and methods may be executed in a data processing system or set of data processing systems in response to one or more processors executing sequences of instructions stored in a storage medium, such as a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium, such as volatile DRAM or non-volatile flash memory. In various embodiments, hardwired circuitry may be used in combination with software instructions to implement the embodiments described herein. Thus, the techniques and methods are not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software, or to any particular source of instructions executed by one or more data processing systems.

[0077] Unless specifically stated otherwise, terms such as "transmitting," "determining," "receiving," or "generating" refer to actions and processes performed or implemented by a computing device that manipulate and convert data represented as physical (electronic) quantities in the registers and memory of the computing device into other data similarly represented as physical quantities in the memory or registers of the computing device, or other such information storage, transmission, or display device. Also, as used herein, terms such as "first," "second," "third," and "fourth" are intended as labels distinguishing between different elements and may not necessarily have an ordinal meaning due to their numerical designations.

[0078] The examples described herein also relate to apparatus for performing the operations described herein. This apparatus may be specially constructed for the required purposes, or it may comprise a general-purpose computing device selectively programmed by a computer program stored in the computing device. Such a computer program may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

[0079] The methods and illustrative examples described herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. Various general-purpose systems may be used in accordance with the teachings described herein, or it may prove convenient to construct more specialized apparatus to perform the required method steps. The required structure for a variety of such systems is set forth in the description above.

[0080] The above description is intended to be illustrative, not limiting. While the present disclosure has been described with reference to certain illustrative examples, it will be recognized that the disclosure is not limited to the described examples. The scope of the present disclosure should be determined with reference to the following claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0081] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, as used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," and / or "including" specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, etc., but will be understood not to exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Accordingly, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0082] Also, in some alternative implementations, the functions / acts shown may occur in an order different from that shown in the figures. For example, two figures shown in succession may in fact be executed substantially concurrently or may be executed in the reverse order, depending on the functions / acts involved.

[0083] Although method operations are described in a particular order, it should be understood that other operations may be performed between the operations described, the operations described may be arranged to occur at slightly different times, or the operations described may be distributed within a system that allows process operations to occur at various intervals relative to the process.

[0084] Various units, circuits, or other components may be described or claimed as being "configured to" or "configurable to" perform one or more tasks. In this context, the phrase "configured to" or "configurable to" is used to connote structure by indicating that the unit / circuit / component includes structure (e.g., a circuit) that performs these one or more tasks during operation. Thus, a unit / circuit / component may be said to be configured to perform a task or to be configurable to perform a task even when the specified unit / circuit / component is not currently operating (e.g., not turned on). A unit / circuit / component used with the phrase "configured to" or "configurable to" includes hardware such as a circuit, memory that stores executable program instructions to perform an operation, etc. When describing a unit / circuit / component as being "configured to" or "configurable to" perform one or more tasks, it is expressly intended not to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6 against that unit / circuit / component. Additionally, "configured to" or "configurable to" can include general-purpose structure (e.g., general-purpose circuitry) that is manipulated to operate in a manner capable of performing the task(s) addressed by software and / or firmware (e.g., an FPGA or general-purpose processor running software). "Configured to" can also include adapting a manufacturing process (such as a semiconductor fabrication facility) to produce devices (e.g., integrated circuits) adapted to perform or execute one or more tasks."Configurable to" is expressly intended not to apply to blank media, unprogrammed processors, unprogrammed general-purpose computers, unprogrammed programmable logic devices or programmable gate arrays, or other unprogrammed apparatus, unless accompanied by programmed media that gives the unprogrammed device the ability to be configured to perform the disclosed function(s).

[0085] The foregoing description has been given with reference to specific embodiments for purposes of illustration. However, this illustrative description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. These embodiments were chosen and described to best explain the principles of the embodiments and their practical application, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to best utilize the embodiments and various modifications thereof in a manner suitable for the particular use under consideration. Therefore, the present embodiments should be considered illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein, but may be modified within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0086] 100 Ultrasound Systems 101 Ultrasound Scanner 102 Display device 103 Interface 104 Visual Representation 105 Transceiver 106 Communication Links 107 Leader 108 Transceiver 109 Transducer System 111 Light source 112 light 114 processors 115 processors 116 memory 117 memory 118 Decoder

Claims

1. an ultrasound scanner having an interface configured to display a visual representation and a first transceiver configured to communicate over a communications link; a display device having a reader configured to read the visual representation displayed by the ultrasound scanner and a second transceiver configured to initiate communication with the first transceiver of the ultrasound scanner over the communication link in response to the reader reading the visual representation to pair the ultrasound scanner with the display device; An ultrasound system comprising:

2. the visual representation comprises at least one of a quick response (QR) code, a barcode, an animation sequence, a pattern, and an image; The ultrasound system of claim 1 .

3. the interface is sealed from an environment external to the ultrasound scanner; The ultrasound system of claim 1 .

4. the interface includes an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that are visibly hidden from the environment when inactive; The ultrasound system of claim 3 .

5. the ultrasound scanner is implemented to communicate with a further ultrasound scanner via a further communication link and to indicate that the ultrasound scanner is in communication with the ultrasound scanner and is not available for pairing with the further ultrasound scanner. The ultrasound system of claim 1 .

6. the ultrasound scanner includes a light source configured to project light onto the patient to indicate an insertion point of an interventional instrument; The ultrasound system of claim 1 .

7. the light source is configured to project the light onto the patient to indicate a shape of a blood vessel; The ultrasound system of claim 6.

8. the light source includes at least one of a light emitting diode (LED), a mini-projector, and a MEMS device of the display, and the light source is implemented to generate the light using at least one of the LED, the mini-projector, and the MEMS device; The ultrasound system of claim 6.

9. The ultrasound scanner includes: a transducer system configured to generate ultrasound data based on ultrasound signals transmitted by the transducer system being reflected by a discriminator attached to a patient; a processor implemented to determine patient identification data based on the ultrasound data; and wherein at least one of the interface and the display device is implemented to display the patient identification data. The ultrasound system of claim 1 .

10. the ultrasound scanner is configured to receive instructions for moving the ultrasound scanner, and the interface is configured to display a further visual representation indicating how to move the ultrasound scanner based on the instructions. The ultrasound system of claim 1 .

11. the ultrasound scanner is configured to receive a detachable head having a transducer array, and the interface is configured to display an identifier of the detachable head. The ultrasound system of claim 1 .

12. the identifier designates the transducer array as one of a linear array, a planar array, a phased array, and a curvilinear array; The ultrasound system of claim 11.

13. an ultrasound scanner having at least one light source configured to emit light and a processor configured to encode data into the light; a display device having a light receiver configured to receive the light and a decoder configured to decode the data from the light; An ultrasound system comprising:

14. the ultrasound scanner includes a first transceiver configured to communicate over a communications link; the display device includes a second transceiver configured to communicate over the communication link; the second transceiver is implemented to initiate communication with the first transceiver over the communication link based on the data decoded from the light to pair the ultrasound scanner with the display device.

14. The ultrasound system of claim 13.

15. the processor is implemented to encode the data into the light by modulating at least one of a frequency of the light, a phase of the light, an amplitude of the light, and a polarization of the light.

14. The ultrasound system of claim 13.

16. the at least one light source includes a plurality of light sources, and the processor is implemented to encode the data into the light based on positions of the plurality of light sources on the ultrasound scanner.

14. The ultrasound system of claim 13.

17. The light includes visible light having a wavelength of 380 nanometers to 740 nanometers.

14. The ultrasound system of claim 13.

18. the at least one light source includes a plurality of light sources, and the ultrasound system one or more light sensors mounted to detect the light emitted from the plurality of light sources; a processor system implemented to determine an orientation of the ultrasound scanner based on the light detected by the one or more light sensors; and a registration system including:

14. The ultrasound system of claim 13.

19. the data indicating at least one of availability, battery status, cleanliness status, and transducer configuration of the ultrasound scanner; 14. The ultrasound system of claim 13.

20. 1. An ultrasound scanner comprising: an environmentally sealed display interface including an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that is visibly hidden from an environment external to the ultrasound scanner when inactive; a transceiver configured to communicate with a display device over a communications link based on at least one of a pattern displayed within the display interface according to light emitted by the LED and characteristics of the light emitted by the LED; An ultrasound scanner comprising:

Images