Relay device and ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus

Abstract

To generate a clock used in a body cavity insertion type probe between the body cavity insertion type probe and an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus body.SOLUTION: The relay module 200 is connected to the console 100 via the cable 4, and is connected to the transducer module 302 in the body cavity insertion type probe 300 via the cable 8. The relay module 200 includes a clock generation unit 202 that generates a high-frequency clock based on a low-frequency clock output from the console 100. The transducer module 302 included in the probe 300 performs signal processing for transmit beamforming based on the high-frequency clock from the repeater 200.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a relay device and an ultrasound diagnostic device including the same, and more particularly to an ultrasound diagnostic device equipped with an intracorporeal ultrasound probe. [Background technology]

[0002] Known intracavity ultrasound probes include small-diameter probes such as intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) probes and ultrasound endoscopes. IVUS probes are also called catheter-type ultrasound probes.

[0003] In a conventional electronic scanning IVUS probe, a ring-shaped FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) board is disposed within the tip. An annular transducer array is provided inside the ring-shaped FPC board, and an electronic circuit connected to the transducer array is also provided. Patent Document 1 discloses an ultrasound catheter device that scans an ultrasound beam by phase-controlling a transmission signal.

[0004] An IVUS ultrasound diagnostic device generally includes the above-mentioned IVUS probe and a device main body, also called a console, that controls the transmission and reception of ultrasound waves in the IVUS probe and displays the generated ultrasound images on a display device.

[0005] A relay module is provided between the IVUS probe and the console as needed, and relays data exchanged between the IVUS probe and the console.

[0006] For example, Patent Document 2 describes an ultrasound imaging system including an imaging engine (console), a patient interface module (relay module), and an imaging assembly (IVUS probe). The patient interface module is connected to the console and the imaging assembly via wires (cables). The patient interface module relays commands from the imaging engine to the imaging assembly. The patient interface module also relays ultrasound signal data generated by the imaging assembly to the imaging engine. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-165865 [Patent Document 2] Special Publication No. 2022-544560 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] As mentioned above, an electronic circuit is provided in the tip of an intracavity probe. For example, a clock is required to perform signal processing for beamforming in the electronic circuit. However, the diameter of the tip of the probe is very small, making it impractical to incorporate a clock generator into the electronic circuit.

[0009] It is also possible to generate a clock used in the electronic circuitry within the ultrasound diagnostic device itself and then supply the clock to the electronic circuitry from the ultrasound diagnostic device itself, but in this case, various problems may arise, as described below.

[0010] For example, if the clock frequency is high, problems such as attenuation or distortion of the clock waveform may occur during long-distance transmission from the device main body to the electronic circuit. Alternatively, if multiple types of clocks must be supplied to the electronic circuit, problems may arise in that the configuration and control of the ultrasound diagnostic device main body become complicated. While it is conceivable to transmit the clock in accordance with a standard that enables high-speed data transmission (e.g., LVDS: Low Voltage Differential Signal), this would result in problems such as an increase in the size of the electronic circuit and increased power consumption in the electronic circuit.

[0011] An object of the present disclosure is to generate a clock used in a body cavity insertion probe between the body cavity insertion probe and an ultrasound diagnostic device main body, or to prevent or suppress an increase in the thickness of a cable inside the body cavity insertion probe when multiple types of clocks are supplied to an electronic circuit inside the body cavity insertion probe. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] The relay device according to the present disclosure includes a first connection unit connected via a first cable to an ultrasound diagnostic device main body having a master clock generating unit that generates a master clock, a second connection unit connected via a second cable to a probe to be inserted into a body cavity, and a probe clock generating unit that generates a probe clock to be used in the probe based on the master clock supplied from the ultrasound diagnostic device main body via the first cable, and the probe clock is supplied to the probe via the second cable.

[0013] The probe clock generating unit generates a first probe clock as the probe clock, the first probe clock being used when generating a delay data set used in beamforming within the probe. The frequency of the first probe clock may be higher than the frequency of the original clock.

[0014] Furthermore, the probe clock generation unit further generates a second probe clock as the probe clock, which is used when processing a parameter set used in the beamforming within the probe, and the frequency of the second probe clock may be different from the frequency of the first probe clock.

[0015] Furthermore, the second cable may have a clock signal line, and the first probe clock may be output from the probe clock generating unit to the clock signal line during a first period, and the second probe clock may be output from the probe clock generating unit to the clock signal line during a second period different from the first period.

[0016] Furthermore, a circuit may be included that outputs to the probe a signal indicating the type of the probe clock that is output to the clock signal line.

[0017] An ultrasound diagnostic device according to the present disclosure includes: an ultrasound diagnostic device main body having a master clock generating unit that generates a master clock; a probe to be inserted into a body cavity; and a relay device connected to the ultrasound diagnostic device main body via a first cable and connected to the probe via a second cable, the relay device having a probe clock generating unit that generates a probe clock used in the probe based on the master clock and outputs the probe clock to the probe via the second cable.

[0018] Furthermore, the probe clock generation unit may selectively generate, as the probe clock, a first probe clock having a first frequency and a second probe clock having a second frequency lower than the first frequency, and the probe may have an electronic circuit that performs beamforming, and the electronic circuit may generate a delay data set to be used in the beamforming based on the first probe clock, and store a parameter set sent from the relay device and to be used in the beamforming based on the second probe clock.

[0019] Furthermore, the relay device may output the first probe clock and the second probe clock to the probe via a clock signal line in the second cable, and output a signal indicating the type of the probe clock to the probe via the second cable, and the electronic circuit may identify the type of the probe clock input via the clock signal line according to the signal indicating the type.

[0020] Furthermore, the parameter set may include a first parameter set that is common across multiple beamformings and a second parameter set that can be changed for each beamforming, the relay device may output the first parameter set and the second parameter set as the parameter sets to the probe via the second cable and output a signal indicating a storage location of the parameter sets to the probe, and the electronic circuit may store the first parameter set in the first storage location and store the second parameter set in the second storage location based on the signal indicating the storage location of the parameter sets.

[0021] Furthermore, the second cable may have a first signal line, a second signal line, a third signal line, and a fourth signal line, the first signal line being a signal line for the clock, the second signal line being a signal line for transmitting the parameter set from the relay device to the electronic circuit and for transmitting a first received signal from the electronic circuit to the relay device, the third signal line being a signal line for transmitting a signal indicating a storage location of the parameter set from the relay device to the electronic circuit and for transmitting a second received signal from the electronic circuit to the relay device, and the fourth signal line being a signal line for transmitting a signal indicating the type of the probe clock from the relay device to the electronic circuit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] According to the present disclosure, a clock used in a body cavity insertion probe is generated between the body cavity insertion probe and an ultrasound diagnostic device main body. Alternatively, according to the present disclosure, when multiple types of clocks are supplied to an electronic circuit in the body cavity insertion probe, an increase in the thickness of a cable inside the body cavity insertion probe can be prevented or suppressed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a transducer module according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] 3 is a diagram showing a plurality of signals (including a clock) relayed by a relay module in the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a timing chart showing various signals exchanged between a relay module and a transducer module when transmit beamforming is performed in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a body cavity insertion probe according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a timing chart showing various signals exchanged between the relay module and the transducer module when performing ultrasonic diagnosis in the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0025] <Embodiment 1> (Configuration of Ultrasound Diagnostic Equipment) 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present embodiment. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment includes an apparatus main body (hereinafter also referred to as a "console") 100, a relay module 200, and probes 2, 300. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 can also be called an ultrasonic diagnostic system.

[0026] In this embodiment, two types of probes, a body surface probe 2 and a body cavity insertion probe 300, are connected to the console 100. Only the probe 300 may be connected to the console 100, or other probes may also be connected to the console 100.

[0027] The illustrated probe 2 is a probe (for example, a linear probe or a convex probe) that is brought into contact with the surface of a subject and used to perform ultrasonic diagnosis in that state.

[0028] The probe 300 is an ultrasound probe inserted into a body cavity. Specifically, the probe 300 is an electronically scanned IVUS probe inserted into a blood vessel of a subject. The probe 300 is a flexible, elongated member. The outer diameter of the probe 300 is, for example, within a range of 1 to 3 mm. The outer diameter of the probe 300 may be smaller than or larger than this range. The probe 300 has a hollow passage formed along its central axis. A guidewire is inserted into this passage. The probe 300 advances through the blood vessel along a guidewire already placed in the blood vessel of the subject.

[0029] The ultrasound diagnostic device 10 in this embodiment has a function of assisting a user who performs ultrasound diagnosis using beamforming. In this embodiment, the term "beamforming" simply refers to both transmit beamforming and receive beamforming.

[0030] The console 100 and the relay module 200 are connected by a cable 4 serving as a first cable. Specifically, one end of the cable 4 is connected to a connector 122 of the console 100. The other end of the cable 4 is connected to a connector 252, which is a first connection portion of the relay module 200. The probe 2 is connected to the console 100 by a cable 6. Specifically, one end of the cable 6 is connected to a connector 124 of the console 100. The other end of the cable 6 is connected to the probe 2. The probe 300 is connected to the relay module 200 by a cable 8 serving as a second cable. One end of the cable 8 is connected to a connector 254, which is a second connection portion of the relay module 200. The other end of the cable 8 is connected to the probe 300.

[0031] The transducer module 302 is disposed within the tip of the probe 300 and includes electronic circuits. In Fig. 1, the cable 8 is shown as a separate component from the probe 300. Like the transducer module 302, the cable 8 may also be a component included in the probe 300. In fact, the cable 8 is a part that passes through the catheter, and therefore, in a broad sense, is positioned as one component of the probe 300.

[0032] The console 100 includes a user interface (UI) unit 102 , a clock generating unit 104 , a transmitting / receiving unit 106 , a switching unit 108 , an information processing unit 110 , and a control unit 112 .

[0033] The user interface unit 102 has a display means and an input means. The display means is composed of an organic EL display device, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), etc., and displays ultrasound images, etc. The input means is composed of an operation panel, operation buttons, a keyboard, etc., operated by a user such as a technician. The display means and input means may also be composed of a touch screen panel, etc.

[0034] The clock generating unit 104 functions as a source clock generating unit. In response to an instruction from the control unit 112, the clock generating unit 104 generates a clock to be sent to the probe 300 as the source clock. The clock generating unit 104 generates a clock having a frequency of, for example, 20 MHz as the source clock. The clock generating unit 104 may also generate a base clock used in the console 100. In this case, the source clock may be generated from the base clock. The source clock may be sent to the probe 2.

[0035] The transceiver 106 functions as a transmission circuit (transmission beamformer) and a reception circuit (reception beamformer) under the control of the control unit 112. However, the transceiver 106 functions according to the specifications of the probe 2, 300 in operation. For example, when multiple transmission signals are generated for transmission beamforming within the probe, the transceiver 106 does not generally function during transmission. When sub-reception beamforming is performed within the probe, the transceiver 106 performs main reception beamforming.

[0036] The switching unit 108, under the control of the control unit 112, selects one of the connected probes 2, 300 to be electrically connected to the transmitting / receiving unit 106. The switching unit 108 may be configured as an electronic switch made up of multiple transistors, or may be configured as a mechanical switch made up of multiple relays.

[0037] The information processing unit 110 executes various information processes in response to user operations, etc. Specifically, the information processing unit 110 functions as a beam data processing unit, an image forming unit, a display processing unit, etc. The information processing unit 110 generates ultrasound images such as tomographic images, and causes the user interface unit 102 to display the generated ultrasound images. More specifically, the information processing unit 110 generates ultrasound images based on reception information (more precisely, reception frame data as a reception beam data sequence), and causes the ultrasound images to be displayed. The control unit 112 controls the operations of the other components 102 to 110.

[0038] The relay module 200 functions as a relay device that transmits data etc. from the console 100 to the probe 300 and also transmits data etc. from the probe 300 to the console 100. The relay module 200 is generally installed near a bed on which a subject is placed. The length of the cable 8 connecting the relay module 200 and the transducer module 302 in the tip of the probe 300 is, for example, 1 to 2 m. In contrast, the length of the cable 4 connecting the relay module 200 and the console 100 is, for example, 4 to 5 m.

[0039] The relay module 200 includes a clock generating unit 202, a receiving unit 204, and a control unit 206. Components not used in the description of this embodiment are omitted from the drawing.

[0040] The clock generating unit 202 functions as a probe clock generating unit that generates a clock (hereinafter also referred to as the "probe clock") used within the probe 300 based on the original clock supplied from the console 100 via cable 4 under the control of the control unit 206.

[0041] The clock generating unit 202 in this embodiment generates a first probe clock and a second probe clock as probe clocks. The first probe clock is a clock used when generating a delay data set (specifically, a plurality of transmission delay times) used in transmit beamforming in the probe 300. The frequency of the first probe clock is higher than the frequency of the original clock.

[0042] Incidentally, in this embodiment, the frequency of the original clock is, for example, 20 MHz. To effectively perform transmit beamforming, the first probe clock needs to have a frequency several to several tens of times the center frequency of the ultrasound pulse (for example, about 10 to 40 MHz in the case of IVUS). In order to perform transmit beamforming and obtain high-quality ultrasound images, it is preferable that the frequency of the first probe clock be about 100 to several hundred MHz. In this embodiment, a clock of, for example, 200 MHz is used as the first probe clock.

[0043] In the following description, since the frequency of the original clock is lower than the frequency of the first probe clock, the original clock may be referred to as a "low-frequency clock" for convenience. Also, since the frequency of the first probe clock is higher than the frequency of the original clock and it is assumed that a frequency of about 100 to several hundred MHz is used as the frequency of the first probe clock, the first probe clock may be referred to as a "high-frequency clock" for convenience.

[0044] On the other hand, the second probe clock is a clock used when processing a parameter set used in beamforming in the transducer module 302 (more specifically, an electronic circuit) in the probe 300. Processing the parameter set includes storing the parameter set in a register in the electronic circuit. More specifically, the register is composed of multiple storage elements connected in series. Serial data representing the parameter set is transferred sequentially in accordance with the second probe clock, and the serial data is temporarily stored in the multiple storage elements. The frequency of the second probe clock is different from the frequency of the first probe clock. As will be described in detail later, in this embodiment, the frequency of the second probe clock is lower than the frequency of the first probe clock.

[0045] The clock generating unit 202 includes a multiplier 212, a frequency divider 214, and a clock output circuit 216. The multiplier 212 may be formed of, for example, a PLL (Phase Locked Loop). The multiplier 212 generates a clock having a frequency n times the frequency of the original clock based on the original clock sent from the console 100. Here, n is typically an integer equal to or greater than 2, for example, a value in the range of 2 to 500. Although n is a fixed value, n may be a variable value. The frequency divider 214 selectively generates the frequency of a first probe clock and the frequency of a second probe clock by dividing the clock output from the multiplier 212. Since the center frequency of the ultrasonic pulse differs depending on the type of probe, the frequency divider 214 sets the frequency division number of the first probe clock according to the type of probe, etc., under the control of the control unit 206. The frequency of the second probe clock may be variably set. The clock output circuit 216 controls the output of the clock generated by the frequency divider 214. Specifically, the clock output circuit 216 outputs the probe clock or stops outputting it (for example, fixes the signal level at Low).

[0046] The receiving unit 204 has a function of amplifying a received signal input from the probe 300 via the cable 8. Specifically, the receiving unit 204 has two amplifiers that amplify two received signals input in parallel. Each amplified received signal is output to the console 100 via the cable 4. One received signal may be transmitted between the transducer module 302 and the console 100 for each transmission and reception. In this case, one amplifier is provided.

[0047] The control unit 206 controls the operation of each component in the relay module 200. In particular, the control unit 206 has a function of controlling the execution of beamforming in the probe 300 under the control of the control unit 112. For example, the control unit 206 generates a parameter set used for beamforming in accordance with instructions from the console 100, and also controls the generation of a clock of a predetermined frequency. The control unit 206 also controls the input and output of multiple signals via multiple signal lines included in the cable 8. For example, the control unit 206 controls the output of a probe clock generated by the clock generation unit 202 to the probe 300 via a clock output signal line included in the cable 8.

[0048] The multiplier 212 may be implemented as a circuit separate from the PLL. In that case, the clock generator 202 may convert the original clock into a probe clock having an arbitrary frequency, rather than multiplying the original clock.

[0049] (Configuration of the transducer module 302) 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the transducer module 302 included in the probe 300 in this embodiment. The transducer module 302 is a module provided at the tip of the probe 300, and has an electronic circuit and a transducer array connected thereto. The transducer module 302 has a configuration capable of performing beamforming. In particular, the transducer module 302 in this embodiment is capable of performing signal processing for transmit beamforming based on a high-frequency clock (approximately 100 to several hundred MHz).

[0050] The transducer module 302 in this embodiment has a transducer array 304, a transmitter 306, a receiver 308, a transmission / reception multiplexer (MUX) 310, and a control unit 312. The transducer array 304 is provided at the tip of the transducer module 302 and is composed of, for example, a plurality of transducers arranged in a ring shape. The transmitter 306, the receiver 308, the transmission / reception multiplexer 310, and the control unit 312 as a whole are an electronic circuit made up of one or more integrated circuits (ICs).

[0051] The transmitter 306 is a circuit for transmitting ultrasound waves from the transducer array 304. Under the control of the control unit 312, the transmitter 306 executes processing for transmit beamforming based on an input clock. In FIG. 2, one delay generator 314, one waveform generator 316, and one pulser 318 are shown as components of the transmitter 306. In reality, a delay generator 314, a waveform generator 316, and a pulser 318 are provided for each transducer constituting the transducer array 304. For example, if the transducer array 304 is composed of 64 transducers, 64 delay generators 314, 64 waveform generators 316, and 64 pulsers 318 are provided. Note that a multiplexer may be provided between the transmitter 306 and the transducer array 304. In this case, the transmit / receive separation multiplexer 310 may function in both the transmission process and the reception process.

[0052] The multiple delay generators 314 generate multiple delays (multiple delay times) corresponding to the multiple transducers that make up the transmit aperture, based on an input clock (first probe clock). The multiple delays are also referred to as a transmit delay profile or transmit delay data set. Generally, one cycle of the clock defines the minimum delay. The multiple waveform generators 316 each generate transmit pulses with a predetermined waveform. Specifically, the multiple waveform generators 316 generate multiple transmit pulses based on the multiple delays. The multiple pulsers 318 generate multiple transmit pulses (multiple transmit signals) having high voltages based on the multiple transmit pulses generated by the multiple waveform generators 316. These are output to the multiple transducers that make up the transmit aperture.

[0053] Multiple transmit signals are supplied to multiple transducers, thereby forming a transmit beam. That is, ultrasound waves are emitted from the transducer array 304 into the living body. The reflected waves reflected by the living tissue are received by the transducer array 304. As a result, a receive signal sequence is output from the transducer array 304. The transmit / receive multiplexer 310 has a function equivalent to that of a transmit / receive switch in a general ultrasound diagnostic device, and separates the high-voltage transmit signals output from the transmitter 306 and input to the transducer array 304 so that they are not input to the receiver 308, which operates at a low voltage. In addition, the transmit / receive multiplexer 310 functions as a multiplexer for receive signal sequences. In this embodiment, the transmit / receive multiplexer 310 selects two spatially adjacent receive signals for each reception. A single receive signal may be selected, or three or more receive signals may be selected.

[0054] The receiver 308 is a circuit that processes two received signals output from the transmit / receive multiplexer 310. In this embodiment, the receiver 308 has two amplifiers 320 that amplify the two received signals. However, FIG. 2 shows only one amplifier 320 for simplicity. The two amplified received signals are sent to the console 100 via the relay module 200. In a receive circuit (receive beamformer) in the console 100, multiple spatially aligned received signals (e.g., 16 received signals) are delayed and then added together to form receive beam data. A receive dynamic focusing technique is used for the delay processing. As will be described later, multiple received signals may be phased and added together in the transducer module 302.

[0055] The control unit 312 controls the operations of the transmitter 306 and the receiver 308. The control unit 312 in this embodiment has two types of registers 322-1 and 322-2 as storage means for parameter sets used in transmission and reception processing. The control unit 312 has a function of dividing and saving the parameter sets sent from the relay module 200 in either the register 322-1 or the register 322-2 depending on the properties of each parameter. Note that in this embodiment, two separated parameter sets are sent from the relay module 200.

[0056] It should be noted that registers 322-1 and 322-2 are collectively referred to as "register 322" when there is no need to distinguish between them. A parameter set includes one or more parameters. In this embodiment, the term "parameter" can refer to either the type of parameter or the set value of each parameter.

[0057] As described above, the register 322 stores parameter sets used in beamforming. The parameter sets in this embodiment include a first parameter set that is common across multiple transmissions and receptions, and a second parameter set that changes for each transmission and reception. That is, the first parameter set is made up of a plurality of parameters that do not change for each transmission and reception. The second parameter set is made up of a plurality of parameters that can be changed for each transmission and reception. For example, one register 322-1 (hereinafter referred to as "register 1") functions as a first storage unit that stores the first parameter set. The other register 322-2 (hereinafter referred to as "register 2") functions as a second storage unit that stores the second parameter set. In the following description, the first parameter set will be referred to as "static parameters," and the second parameter set will be referred to as "dynamic parameters." One transmission and reception consists of one transmission and one subsequent reception. Transmission and reception are repeated while rotational scanning of the transmit aperture and the receive aperture is performed.

[0058] As shown in Fig. 2, the various signals input and output to and from the transducer module 302 include a transmission enable signal, two reception signals, a data signal, a register selection signal, and a clock signal. As described with reference to Fig. 1, the relay module 200 and the transducer module 302 are connected via a cable 8. This cable 8 includes multiple signal lines for exchanging the various signals described above. The various signals will be described later.

[0059] 2, an amplifier 324 is provided on the wiring inside the transducer module 302. Electronic components such as the amplifier 324 are provided as needed, and may be provided in the same IC as the transmitter 306, receiver 308, etc.

[0060] (Types of signals transmitted and received by the relay module 200) 3 is a diagram illustrating signals exchanged between the relay module 200 of this embodiment and the console 100 and between the relay module 200 and the probe 300. Furthermore, FIG. 3 illustrates a hardware configuration not shown in FIG. 1. In FIG. 3, the relay module 200 includes a power supply circuit 260, a reference current generating circuit 262, a receiving amplifier unit 264, a switch 266, and a control IC 268. The control IC 268 shown in FIG. 3 corresponds to the control unit and clock generator shown in FIG. 1. The receiving amplifier unit 264 shown in FIG. 3 corresponds to the function as a receiving circuit of the transmitting / receiving unit 106 shown in FIG. 1.

[0061] The power supply circuit 260 supplies the probe 300 with power to be used therein. Of the supplied power, a transmission voltage is supplied to the transmitter 306. A reception / logic control voltage is supplied to the receiver 308 and the control unit 312. The reference current generation circuit 262 supplies a reference current as a current signal for determining a bias current to be passed through analog circuits such as a reception amplifier. In this embodiment, the reception amplifier unit 264 is composed of two reception amplifiers arranged in parallel. Each reception amplifier amplifies a reception signal output from the probe 300.

[0062] Under the control of the control IC 268, the switch 266 switches whether the signal line (signal lines 604 and 606 shown later in FIG. 4) is used for output (i.e., for a data signal or a register select signal) or for input (i.e., for a received signal). The switch 266 may be configured as a three-state buffer. When configured as a three-state buffer, the control IC 268 controls the switch 266 to output the value of the data signal or the register select signal and to be in a High Z (Open) state while receiving a received signal. By being in the High Z (Open) state, the data signal and the register select signal are not output. In this way, by increasing the output impedance, it is possible to prevent noise from being mixed into the received signal.

[0063] The control IC 268 performs control to transmit a control signal and a parameter set to the probe 300 in response to an instruction from the console 100. The control IC 268 also selectively generates a first probe clock and a second probe clock based on the original clock. The control IC 268 is configured, for example, by an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). (Configuration of signal lines of cable 8 connecting transducer module 302)

[0064] Fig. 4 is a timing chart of various signals exchanged between the relay module 200 and the transducer module 302 when transmit beamforming is performed in this embodiment. Fig. 4 shows various signals exchanged using the signal lines 602 to 608, associated with the signal lines 602 to 608 included in the cable 8. The uses of the various signals and the timing of transmitting and receiving the various signals will be described in detail later, but here we will briefly explain the types of signals that use each of the signal lines 602 to 608 and the signal states (i.e., states indicated by the signal levels (High or Low)). Note that the signal levels may be reversed between High and Low depending on the type and combination of signals.

[0065] First, the signal line 602 is a clock output signal line (first signal line) for transmitting a clock signal. Specifically, a transmission clock signal (hereinafter also referred to as a "transmission clock") used when generating a transmission delay time is transmitted to the signal line 602 as a first probe clock. Also, a register setting clock signal (hereinafter also referred to as a "register setting clock") used when processing a parameter set used in transmit beamforming is transmitted to the signal line 602 as a second probe clock. That is, in this embodiment, a separate clock signal line for register setting is not provided, and one signal line 602 is used as both the signal line for the transmission clock and the signal line for the register setting clock.

[0066] The signal line 604 is a second signal line for transmitting a data signal. The data signal in this embodiment is a signal representing a parameter set used in beamforming or the like. The signal line 604 is also a signal line for transmitting a first received signal from the transducer module 302 to the relay module 200. That is, the signal line 604 is used both as a signal line for transmitting a data signal and a signal line for transmitting the first received signal. The signal line 606 is a third signal line for transmitting a register selection signal representing a storage location of the parameter set. The register selection signal can also be said to be a signal that distinguishes between a first period in which static parameters are output to register 1 and a second period in which dynamic parameters are output to register 2. Naturally, the second period is a period different from the first period. In this embodiment, when outputting static parameters to be set in register 1, the level of the register selection signal is set to Low. On the other hand, when outputting dynamic parameters to be set in register 2, the level of the register selection signal is set to High. The signal line 606 also serves as a signal line for transmitting a second reception signal from the transducer module 302 to the relay module 200 .

[0067] In this embodiment, two received signals (first received signal and second received signal) output from receiver 308 are transmitted using two signal lines, signal line 604 and signal line 606. Note that the more signal lines that transmit received signals, the more the transmission efficiency can be improved. Therefore, the number of signal lines in cable 8 may be increased (three or more, for example, four signal lines may be used for transmitting received signals). This allows transmission efficiency to take priority over reducing the cable diameter.

[0068] The signal line 608 is provided as a fourth signal line for transmitting a control signal indicating the type of the transmission clock (first probe clock) and the register setting clock (first probe clock). In this embodiment, the type of probe clock is identified by the high / low level of the signal. For example, the period during which the level of the control signal is high is the output period of the transmission clock (or the transmission standby period). In other words, this period is the transmission enable period (the period during which transmission is possible). From this perspective, the control signal is a transmission enable signal. On the other hand, the period during which the level of the control signal is low is not the transmission enable period, that is, the period during which transmission is not possible, and is the parameter setting period. Note that the period during which the level of the control signal is low is also the period during which the receiver 308 is operable.

[0069] When the level of the control signal on signal line 608 changes from low to high, the control unit 312 determines that the parameter set has been stored in register 322 and transfers the parameter set from register 322 to other circuits (including transmitter 306 and receiver 308). From this perspective, the control signal is a parameter reflection signal that instructs the parameter set to be reflected (specifically, transferred). More specifically, after the static parameter set has been stored in register 1, a single pulse is generated as part of the control signal. This single pulse corresponds to the parameter reflection signal. The static parameter set is transferred from register 1 to other circuits at the rising edge (change from low to high) of the single pulse. After the dynamic parameter set has been stored in register 2, a rising edge occurs in the control signal. At that point, the dynamic parameter set is transferred from register 2 to other circuits. Note that the single pulse is generated before the first transmission / reception in a transmission / reception sequence consisting of a series of multiple transmissions / receptions.

[0070] If necessary, an electronic component such as a three-state buffer may be provided on the wiring of the transducer module 302 shown in Figure 2. This may be provided in the same IC as the transmitter 306 and receiver 308. The electronic component may selectively switch the signal transmission destination or electrically separate a specific signal line from other signal lines.

[0071] For example, when a transmission enable signal is output to the signal line 608 (when the signal level is High), the signal line 602 and the control unit 312 may be electrically disconnected so that the clock signal (transmission clock) input from the signal line 602 is output only to the transmitter 306. On the other hand, when a transmission enable signal is not output to the signal line 608 (when the signal level is Low), the signal line 602 and the transmitter 306 may be electrically disconnected so that the clock signal (register setting clock) input from the signal line 602 is output only to the control unit 312.

[0072] (Transmit beamforming execution control) Next, the execution control of transmit beamforming executed in this embodiment will be described while clearly showing the states of various signals transmitted over signal lines 602 to 608 shown in Fig. 4. Note that the switching unit 108 selects the probe 300 as a partner for data exchange in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 112.

[0073] When the probe 300 is selected on the console 100 by user operation (or when the relay module 200 automatically detects that the probe 300 has been connected), the relay module 200 receives the original clock from the console 100 until the selection is canceled (until the connection is released).

[0074] A user (doctor, technician, etc.) operates the console 100 to issue various instructions prior to an ultrasound examination or imaging (and during an ultrasound examination or imaging). For example, the user may instruct whether the image to be displayed is of high or low image quality. Alternatively, the user may instruct the setting (or change) of the frame rate, imaging mode (B-mode, blood flow, etc.), various measurement functions (vascular lumen area, blood vessel diameter, stenosis rate, etc.), imaging range, and transmission focus conditions (for example, focal depth (focus distance)). Furthermore, the user may instruct the setting (or change) of the clock, transmission / reception sequence, signal processing in the console 100, and image processing.

[0075] The control unit 206 of the relay module 200 in this embodiment generates parameter sets in response to these instructions. The relay module 200 generates static parameter sets at the beginning of a transmission / reception sequence, that is, prior to the first transmission / reception, and sends them to the probe 300. The relay module 200 generates dynamic parameter sets prior to each transmission / reception and sends them to the probe 300.

[0076] The control unit 206 determines the frequency to be generated by referring to instructions from the user. For example, if the control unit 206 determines that high-accuracy testing or the like is necessary, it instructs the clock generation unit 202 to generate a clock having a frequency of, for example, 200 MHz. If the control unit 206 determines that medium-accuracy testing or the like is necessary, it instructs the clock generation unit 202 to generate a clock having a frequency of, for example, 160 MHz. If the control unit 206 determines that low-accuracy testing or the like is sufficient, it instructs the clock generation unit 202 to generate a clock having a frequency of, for example, 100 MHz. When the center frequency of the transmission pulse is 20 MHz and a clock having a frequency of 160 MHz is to be generated, the control unit 206 sets the multiplication factor to 8. In this case, the multiplier unit 212 outputs a clock having a frequency of 20 × 8 = 160 MHz.

[0077] Furthermore, the control unit 112 calculates an appropriate transmission focus distance (a profile of the transmission delay amount) according to the diagnostic depth specified by the user. The maximum value of the transmission delay amount is determined by the clock frequency and the number of stages of the delay line that constitutes the delay generator 314. For example, if the clock frequency is 200 MHz and the number of stages of the delay line is 16, the maximum value of the transmission delay amount is 200 MHz (5 ns) × 16 = 80 ns.

[0078] The control unit 206 according to the embodiment has a function of calculating the delay resolution required for transmit beamforming based on the calculated result of the transmit delay profile and the center frequency of the transmit pulse. If the delay resolution is low, the accuracy of the transmit beamforming decreases, resulting in degradation of image quality. On the other hand, if the delay resolution is too high, the accuracy of the transmit beamforming saturates and becomes ineffective. Therefore, for example, if the center frequency of the transmit pulse is doubled, the delay resolution is doubled.

[0079] Specifically, the control unit 206 determines the frequency of the clock to be used for transmit beamforming based on the maximum value of the transmit delay amount and the delay resolution, thereby reducing power consumption by not generating a clock with a frequency higher than necessary.

[0080] Furthermore, the control unit 206 sets the reception gain in the transducer module 302 and the reception gain in the relay device to optimal values ​​according to the reception gain setting value.

[0081] In this manner, the control unit 206 generates a parameter set to be sent to the probe 300. The dynamic parameter set includes multiple parameters that define the amount of transmit delay, the transmit aperture, the receive aperture, etc. On the other hand, the static parameter set includes multiple parameters that define the transmit pulse waveform, the transmit frequency, the receive gain, TGC (Time Gain Compensation), etc. Of course, each parameter set may include parameters other than those described above. Below, the process of setting the parameter set in the register 322 in the transducer module 302 will be described in more detail.

[0082] The timing chart shown in Figure 4 is a diagram showing the change in status over time. For example, the time length of each status period is merely an example, and the change in each signal is also merely an example. In Figure 4, the horizontal axis is the time axis.

[0083] In S402, when the relay module 200 is started up, the signal levels on the signal lines 602 to 608 are at the initial level, that is, Low.

[0084] In S404 after startup, the static parameter set sent from the relay module 200 is stored in register 1. Specifically, the relay module 200 outputs a data signal indicating the static parameter set via signal line 604, and maintains the level of the register selection signal output via signal line 606 at Low. This Low level indicates that the parameter set is stored in register 1. Furthermore, the relay module 200 outputs a register setting clock signal (second probe clock) via signal line 602. Note that in the illustrated example, a single pulse indicating the start of the register setting status is output prior to the register setting clock signal.

[0085] Next, when the static parameter set has been stored in register 1, the relay module 200 briefly changes the level of the control signal on signal line 608 to High, i.e., generates a single pulse. This notifies the control unit 312 that the parameter setting period has ended. The change in the signal level on signal line 608 causes the control unit 312 in the transducer module 302 to transfer the static parameter set temporarily stored in register 1 to another circuit, creating a situation in which the static parameter set can actually be used.

[0086] In S406, the relay module 200 transitions the level of the register selection signal on the signal line 606 from Low to High in order to prepare for the next step S408.

[0087] In S408, the dynamic parameter set sent from the relay module 200 is stored in register 2. Specifically, the relay module 200 outputs a data signal representing the dynamic parameter set via signal line 604. The level of the register selection signal output via signal line 606 is High. This High indicates that the parameter set is stored in register 2. In addition, the relay module 200 outputs a register setting clock signal (second probe clock) via signal line 602.

[0088] Once the dynamic parameter set has been stored in register 2, in S410 the relay module 200 sets the level of the control signal on signal line 608 to High. This High in S410 is a single pulse equivalent to a parameter reflection signal. The change in the control signal from Low to High signifies the end of the parameter setting period. Based on this change, the control unit 312 in the transducer module 302 transfers the dynamic parameter set stored in register 2 to another circuit, creating a situation in which the dynamic parameter set can actually be used. Note that the signal level is maintained at High in S412 as well, but this High indicates a transmission enable state. A control signal having a High level corresponds to a transmission enable signal.

[0089] In this way, the parameter set used in transmit beamforming is stored in the transducer module 302, thereby making it possible to execute transmit beamforming.

[0090] Furthermore, when the level of the control signal on the signal line 608 becomes High, the transfer of the dynamic parameter set stored in the register 2 starts as described above, and at the same time, the transmitter 306 and the receiver 308 start operating. At this time, the relay module 200 opens the switch 266 shown in FIG. 3 to disconnect the output of the logic signal from the signal lines 606 and 608.

[0091] S412 corresponds to a transmission standby period. S414 corresponds to a transmission period (the transmission period includes a transmission preparation period in which delay time calculations, etc. are performed). The control unit 112 outputs a transmission trigger signal to the relay module 200. In S412, upon receiving the transmission trigger signal, the control unit 206 in the relay module 200 starts outputting a transmission clock signal (first probe clock) to the transducer module 302. In S414, the transducer module 302 generates a delay set for transmit beamforming based on the transmit clock signal, and then generates multiple transmit pulses based on the delay set. This forms a transmit beam.

[0092] At the end of S414, the level of the control signal on the signal line 608 is changed from High to Low. This level change signifies the end of the period during which transmission is possible and the transition to the reception period, i.e., the start of S416.

[0093] In S416, reflected waves from within the living body are received by the transducer array, and two of the resulting received signal series are output from the transducer module 302 to the relay module 200 via signal lines 604 and 606, and then output from the relay module 200 to the console.

[0094] S418 corresponds to S408 described above, and in S418, a dynamic parameter set is set in the same manner as above. S408 (S418) to S416 are repeated until the user ends the examination using ultrasound, in other words, until the relay module 200 receives an end instruction from the console 100. Note that if the user issues an instruction to change a static parameter, such as the transmission frequency (to view at a higher resolution with a higher frequency, or to ensure penetration with a lower frequency) or TGC (to apply stronger TGC because the brightness at close range is high), the process returns to S404.

[0095] In this embodiment, transmission beamforming can be performed using a high-frequency clock, and therefore, a captured image with high image quality can be displayed.

[0096] In this embodiment, the register setting clock is set to a frequency lower than that of the transmission clock. Since the transmission clock is used for transmission beamforming, a high frequency is preferable. On the other hand, the register setting clock is a clock used when setting parameters in the register 322. If the register setting clock is set to a high frequency, it may be possible to set the parameters in the register 322 in a short time. However, if the circuit that transmits the register setting clock is made compatible with a high-frequency clock, there is a possibility that the manufacturing cost and power consumption of the transducer module 302 will increase, and problems will arise such as an increase in the size of the electronic circuit.

[0097] Therefore, in this embodiment, the frequency of the register setting clock is set to a frequency different from that of the transmission clock, i.e., a lower frequency. The lower frequency may be selected from the range of 10 to 40 MHz, which does not fall under the category of a high-frequency clock.

[0098] According to this embodiment, even if the console 100 and the relay module 200 are connected by a long cable 4, the high-frequency clock necessary for beamforming can be generated in the relay module 200, and the generated high-frequency clock can be supplied to the probe 300 from the relay module 200 via a relatively short cable 6 (corresponding to the length of the catheter, generally 1 to 2 m), so problems caused by long-distance transmission of the high-frequency clock are unlikely to occur. Furthermore, with the above configuration, multiple types of clocks can be transmitted via a single signal line, which has the advantage of preventing or suppressing an increase in the thickness of the cable 8 (i.e., the thickness of the probe 300).

[0099] <Embodiment 2.> In the above-described first embodiment, the high-frequency clock is used for transmitting beamforming. In the second embodiment, the high-frequency clock is also used for receiving beamforming. This will be described in detail below.

[0100] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of body cavity insertion probe 300 according to this embodiment. In Fig. 5, the same components as those included in transducer module 302 according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 2 are designated by the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0101] In this embodiment, receive beamforming is performed, and therefore the internal configuration of the receiver 308 differs from the internal configuration of the receiver 308 according to the first embodiment. In Fig. 5, the receiver 308 includes an amplifier 320, a delay circuit (delay element) 326, and an adder circuit 328. In practice, the receiver 308 includes a plurality of amplifiers 320, a plurality of delay circuits 326, and a plurality of adder circuits 328. For example, when the receive aperture is configured with 12 transducers (i.e., when the receiver 308 is configured with 12 receive channels), the receiver 308 is configured with 12 amplifiers 320, 12 delay circuits 326, and two adder circuits 328. Note that one adder circuit 328 may be provided.

[0102] The transmit / receive multiplexer 310 extracts 12 receive signals in parallel from the receive signal sequence output from the transducer array 304, corresponding to the 12 transducers that make up the receive aperture. The extracted 12 receive signals are input to 12 amplifiers 320. Each amplifier 320 amplifies the receive signal. Twelve delay circuits 326 apply delay processing to the 12 amplified receive signals. Specifically, each delay circuit 326 applies delay processing to each receive signal according to a receive delay time generated based on a clock. Two adder circuits 328 add the 12 receive signals to which delay processing has been applied. Specifically, each adder circuit 328 adds six delayed receive signals to generate an added receive signal. Two added receive signals are generated from the two adder circuits 328. Each added receive signal corresponds to receive beam data.

[0103] The two received signals (two added received signals) output from the receiver 308 are transmitted to the relay module 200 via two signal lines 604 and 606 as shown in FIG.

[0104] In this embodiment, the control unit 312 also has a function of storing a parameter set for reception delay from the relay module 200 and generating a reception delay amount set based on the parameter set for reception delay.

[0105] 6 is a timing chart of various signals exchanged between the relay module and the transducer module when receiving beamforming is performed in this embodiment. In this embodiment, a signal line 610 is added to the signal lines 602 to 608 used in the first embodiment.

[0106] In this embodiment, the high-frequency clock is also used when executing receive beamforming. Therefore, the relay module 200 outputs the high-frequency clock to the transducer module 302 via the signal line 602 while executing receive beamforming. At this time, because the level of the signal on the signal line 608 is Low, there is a possibility that the clock signal input from the signal line 602 will be mistaken for a register setting clock signal rather than a receive clock signal.

[0107] Therefore, in this embodiment, a signal line 610 is added. The signal line 610 is a fifth signal line through which a receive enable signal is output from the relay module 200 to the transducer module 302. By referring to the receive enable signal, it is determined whether the clock signal input from the signal line 602 is a receive clock signal or another clock signal.

[0108] In addition, it is assumed that the receive clock signal used for receive beamforming in Fig. 6 is the same as the transmit clock signal used for transmit beamforming. Therefore, in Fig. 6, it is simply shown as the "transmit clock signal."

[0109] Instead of providing signal line 610, a parameter may be used to distinguish the clock signal input from signal line 602 as a receive clock signal. For example, parameters that can specify the period during which receive beamforming is performed, such as a time length or a counter, are saved as dynamic parameters in register 2. As a result, the clock input from signal line 602 during a period that can be determined to be the receive period is treated as the receive clock. The clock input from signal line 602 after the receive period ends is for register setting, since the signal level of signal line 608 is Low.

[0110] The relay module 200 relays to the console 100 the receive beam data output from the transducer module 302 as a result of receive beamforming being executed.

[0111] In this embodiment, receive beamforming can be performed using a high-frequency clock, making it possible to display a captured image with high image quality. In particular, according to this embodiment, information on more receive signals, such as a 12-channel receive aperture, can be acquired using only two signal lines, signal lines 604 and 606. In the case of a 12-channel receive aperture, while in the first embodiment six transmissions and receptions are required to acquire the information, this can be acquired with one transmission and reception in this embodiment. As a result, in this embodiment, it is possible to increase the frame rate or the number of beams to achieve higher image quality.

[0112] The configurations according to the above-described embodiments may also be applied to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus equipped with an intracavitary probe to be inserted into the bronchi or the like. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 2,300 probe, 4, 6, 8 cable, 10 ultrasound diagnostic device, 100 console (device body), 102 user interface (UI) unit, 104 clock generation unit, 106, 206 transmitting / receiving unit, 108 switching unit, 110 diagnostic processing unit, 112, 206, 312 control unit, 122, 124, 254 connector, 200 relay module, 202 clock generation unit, 212 multiplication unit, 214 frequency division unit, 216 clock output circuit, 260 power supply circuit, 262 reference current generation circuit, 264 receiving amplifier unit, 266 switch, 268 control IC, 302 transducer module, 304 transducer array, 306 transmitter, 308 receiver, 310 transmission / reception separation multiplexer (MUX), 314 delay generator, 316 Waveform generator, 318 Pulsar, 320,324 Amplifier, 322-1,322-2 Register, 326 Delay circuit, 328 Adding circuit, 602,604,606,608,610 Signal line.

Claims

1. a first connection unit connected via a first cable to an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus main body having an original clock generation unit that generates an original clock; a second connection portion connected via a second cable to a probe inserted into a body cavity; a probe clock generating unit that generates a probe clock used in the probe based on the original clock supplied from the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus main body via the first cable; Including, the probe clock is supplied to the probe via the second cable; A relay device characterized by:

2. 2. The relay device according to claim 1, the probe clock generation unit generates, as the probe clock, a first probe clock used when generating a delay data set used in beamforming within the probe; The frequency of the first probe clock is higher than the frequency of the original clock. A relay device characterized by:

3. 3. The relay device according to claim 2, The probe clock generation unit further generates, as the probe clock, a second probe clock used when processing a parameter set used in the beamforming within the probe; the frequency of the second probe clock is different from the frequency of the first probe clock; A relay device characterized by:

4. 4. The relay device according to claim 3, the second cable has a clock signal line, the first probe clock is output from the probe clock generating unit to the clock signal line during a first period; the second probe clock is output from the probe clock generating unit to the clock signal line during a second period different from the first period; A relay device characterized by:

5. 5. The relay device according to claim 4, a circuit for outputting to the probe a signal indicating the type of the probe clock output to the clock signal line; A relay device characterized by:

6. an ultrasonic diagnostic device main body having a master clock generating unit that generates a master clock; a probe inserted into a body cavity; a relay device connected to the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus main body via a first cable and to the probe via a second cable, the relay device having a probe clock generating unit that generates a probe clock used in the probe based on the original clock, and that outputs the probe clock to the probe via the second cable; 1. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising:

7. 7. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 6, the probe clock generation unit selectively generates, as the probe clock, a first probe clock having a first frequency and a second probe clock having a second frequency lower than the first frequency; the probe having electronic circuitry for performing beamforming; The electronic circuit generating a delay data set for use in the beamforming based on the first probe clock; storing a parameter set used in the beamforming, the parameter set being transmitted from the relay device based on the second probe clock; An ultrasonic diagnostic device characterized by:

8. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 7, The relay device outputting the first probe clock and the second probe clock to the probe via a clock signal line in the second cable; outputting a signal indicating the type of the probe clock to the probe via the second cable; the electronic circuit identifies the type of the probe clock input via the clock signal line in accordance with the signal indicating the type. An ultrasonic diagnostic device characterized by:

9. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 8, the parameter sets include a first parameter set that is common across multiple beamformings and a second parameter set that can be changed for each beamforming; The relay device outputting the first parameter set and the second parameter set as the parameter sets to the probe via the second cable; outputting a signal indicating a storage location of the parameter set to the probe; the electronic circuit stores the first parameter set in a first storage location and the second parameter set in a second storage location based on a signal representing the storage location of the parameter set; An ultrasonic diagnostic device characterized by:

10. 10. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 9, the second cable has a first signal line, a second signal line, a third signal line, and a fourth signal line; the first signal line is the clock signal line, the second signal line is a signal line for transmitting the parameter set from the relay device to the electronic circuit and for transmitting a first reception signal from the electronic circuit to the relay device; the third signal line is a signal line for transmitting a signal indicating a storage location of the parameter set from the relay device to the electronic circuit, and for transmitting a second reception signal from the electronic circuit to the relay device; the fourth signal line is a signal line for transmitting a signal indicating the type of the probe clock from the relay device to the electronic circuit; An ultrasonic diagnostic device characterized by:

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