Device Usage Time Estimation

Abstract

A method and system are provided for estimating the operational capability of portable medical devices, such as ultrasound imaging devices. A user can select a medical procedure, which can determine one or more operational parameters of the device. Then, indicators from the device's sensors can be used to calculate a capability estimate based on the designated procedure and operational parameters. The capability estimate can be presented or output to the user, for example, through a display, or incorporated into a treatment program or system usage parameters.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 464,438, filed on May 5, 2023, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002]

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to systems, methods, and devices for estimating the remaining time available to use an electronic medical device until shut - off parameters are reached.

Background Art

[0003]

[0003] Ultrasonic imaging is an imaging method that uses sound waves to generate images of structures within a patient's body. Since ultrasonic scans are captured in real - time, they can also show the movement of internal organs of the body and blood flow through blood vessels. The images can provide valuable information for diagnosing and guiding the treatment of various diseases and conditions.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004]

[0004] Electronic devices have several known limitations, including limited battery power and the maximum heat at which the device can operate properly. Battery - powered electronic devices can only operate for a limited length of time until the battery runs out. If it is known that a procedure takes a specified amount of time and the electronic device has remaining battery power such that it can only operate for less than this specified time, this procedure cannot be completed using this electronic device. Similarly, when an electronic device heats up during use, the electronic device can only be used until it reaches its maximum temperature and cannot continue to operate properly beyond the maximum temperature.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005]

[0005] The systems, methods, and devices of this disclosure each have several innovative aspects, and not just one of these innovative aspects alone fulfills the desirable attributes disclosed herein.

[0006]

[0006] Portable (e.g., handheld, and / or battery-operated) ultrasonic devices can offer superior ease of use and flexibility compared to traditional cart-based or wired ultrasonic systems. Nevertheless, according to at least some embodiments disclosed herein, there is a recognition that improvements in portability and ease of use do not presuppose the problems addressed by this disclosure, and, if not, do not enable the unique and essential improvements presented herein.

[0007]

[0007] For example, according to at least some embodiments disclosed herein, there is a recognition that in certain procedures or in certain clinical environments, the use of portable ultrasound devices may make patient care difficult due to battery life and overheating issues. Nevertheless, the innovative principles disclosed herein, according to some embodiments, can enable users of portable ultrasound devices or systems of devices to minimize the occurrence of overheating or battery depletion while performing medical procedures. In some embodiments, the device or system may include predictive modeling components, operational capability estimators, and / or characteristic monitoring equipment capable of assisting users in planning and performing one or more procedures for one or more patients.

[0008]

[0008] The disclosure provides a system and relationship method capable of calculating and communicating to the user of an ultrasound imaging probe the remaining time that an ultrasound imaging probe can be used before battery power is depleted, overheats, or other critical performance levels are reached.

[0009]

[0009] For example, the algorithm can take in readings from various sensors in, on, and around the imaging probe. The algorithm can also take in information or set operating settings entered by the probe user. The algorithm can use pre-stored data, current readings or signals from the probe, and / or other accumulated information about the imaging probe.

[0010]

[0010] The algorithm can predict how long the probe will be usable before it needs to be cooled, recharged, maintained, or otherwise temporarily shut down. This prediction can be updated in real time by changing the operating parameters. This prediction can be presented to the probe user or other stakeholders through a communication interface or through other auditory, visual, tactile, or other feedback. The algorithm can also consider other similar imaging probes in the imaging probe system and recommend the use of one or more probes in the system.

[0011]

[0011] As disclosed herein, in some embodiments, a method for estimating the operational capability of an ultrasound imaging device may include receiving a selection of a medical procedure and determining the operational parameters of the imaging device based on the selected medical procedure. Operational data from the sensors of the imaging device can then be used to calculate the capability estimate. The capability estimate may be presented or output to the user, for example, through a display, or incorporated into a treatment program or system usage parameters (such as a pre-planned arrangement, sequence, or predetermined use of one or more ultrasound devices in the system).

[0012]

[0012] Some embodiments of the methods disclosed herein can be implemented in a computing device which includes one or more processors and memory associated with at least one ultrasound imaging device.

[0013]

[0013] Furthermore, according to some embodiments, capability estimation may relate to a selected medical procedure performed using an imaging device and may be based on at least one operating parameter and at least one operating dataset.

[0014]

[0014] In some embodiments, a system comprising at least one ultrasound imaging probe and an electronic device can be used by a clinician to complete medical procedures on a patient. These procedures may include, for example, ultrasound imaging scans. The clinician may be able to select which procedures to complete and various settings regarding the operation of the procedures or devices via the device or via the probe itself.

[0015]

[0015] Optionally, one or more components of the System, such as an ultrasound imaging probe and / or electronic device (which may be referred to collectively or individually as the “System” together with the associated software and / or hardware), may be able to operate or function a program available to facilitate the management of the device or the System. The program may include an algorithm that can receive data from one or more sensors in the probe and / or electronic device, such as temperature, time, battery level, battery power level, and / or other operating parameters. The algorithm may then be able to use this data to predict whether the probe (and / or device) can complete a selected procedure.

[0016]

[0016] According to some embodiments, there is an awareness that the probe may be unable to complete the selected procedure for a variety of different reasons, some of which may not be readily identifiable or discernible by the user before the procedure is initiated. For example, the probe may be at an elevated temperature before the selected procedure is initiated. This may be due to a variety of reasons, including, for example, having been recently used for another prior procedure, or due to an elevated ambient temperature in the probe's environment, which may cause the probe to overheat or become uncomfortable for the patient before the selected procedure can be completed. Furthermore, for example, in some embodiments, the probe may have a certain battery charge or level that is insufficient to perform the selected procedure before it is initiated, and therefore the probe, device, or system may anticipate that the probe or device may deplete its battery power before the procedure can be completed.

[0017]

[0017] Optionally, according to some embodiments, the devices and systems disclosed herein may also provide real-time monitoring, which reflects data from one or more sensors of the probe and / or device as the selected procedure is performed, and which may affect the performance of the selected procedure. As discussed above with respect to exemplary parameters or data, real-time monitoring provides ongoing feedback based on real-time monitoring and execution of algorithms based on parameters and / or data from the probe, device and / or system, and may prompt changes from one probe or device to another if necessary.

[0018]

[0018] For example, in some embodiments, there is a maximum or shut-off temperature, and the probe cannot or should not be operated above this temperature for safety or device longevity. When the probe reaches this maximum temperature, the probe can be automatically shut off. This can prevent the probe from reaching temperatures that are too high and could potentially cause damage to the probe's internal electrical components and / or discomfort to the patient.

[0019]

[0019] When the system can predict when and whether the probe and / or device can complete the selected procedure, the user can begin the procedure with confidence that their probe can complete it. Furthermore, the user can have confidence that a single probe is suitable for use and / or that it is interchangeable with another probe so that the user can complete the procedure without overheating or battery life issues during the procedure. Thus, this disclosure improves patient care by minimizing discomfort to the patient and minimizing delays due to restarting the procedure or replacing hardware during the procedure, thereby providing convenient reassurance.

[0020]

[0020] In some embodiments, the algorithm calculates the heating curve of the probe. The heating curve can be calculated using real-time data. Furthermore, some embodiments can also use historically recorded temperatures from prior and / or other probes and / or other scans, including prior scans of the same type of treatment as the current treatment and scans different from the selected treatment. The algorithm can calculate or use a time constant τ, which can be used in conjunction with real-time temperature data collected from sensors in the probe to estimate how long the probe can be used before it reaches its maximum / shut-off temperature. The time constant can be calculated using a lumped capacitance model.

[0021]

[0021] In some embodiments, the algorithm may optionally calculate the probe cooling curve by using real-time and / or historically recorded temperatures from other probes and / or other scans, including prior scans of the same type of procedure as the current procedure and scans different from the selected procedure. Using this recorded data along with real-time temperature data collected from sensors in the probe, the algorithm may estimate how long the probe needs to be cooled before it is ready to complete the selected procedure.

[0022]

[0022] In some embodiments, the algorithm may be able to predict when the probe can complete the selected procedure. If the algorithm determines that the probe is currently unable to complete the procedure as selected by the user, the algorithm may be able to calculate and / or predict the time until the probe can complete the procedure, or the time until it can complete the procedure. This may include calculating how long the probe needs to be charged to have enough battery power to complete the procedure, or how long the probe needs to rest or cool down before it can generate heat during the procedure while still remaining below the maximum / shutoff temperature.

[0023]

[0023] Furthermore, in some embodiments, this prediction may include recommended maintenance or repair actions based on data associated with detected operational data regarding scan quality or hardware problems. The algorithm may be able to compare the collected real-time data with a calculated prediction curve or model. If the real-time data deviates from the prediction data by a predetermined amount, it can be inferred that the probe is requesting maintenance, repair, or other consideration. Furthermore, the algorithm may be able to output this maintenance requirement to warn the user of the probe, including, for example, transmitting a warning indicator to an electronic device or transmitting a form of visual, auditory, or haptic feedback that the probe itself will send.

[0024]

[0024] In some embodiments where a clinician has access to the probe system, the system can calculate which of the probes can complete the procedure and then display this to the user. For example, the system can indicate to the user when each probe can complete the procedure and / or how long each probe needs to be charged or cooled before use.

[0025] According to at least some embodiments disclosed herein, there is a recognition that a properly functioning medical device is important in order to correctly complete a medical procedure and provide correct information to a patient. As disclosed herein, some embodiments can provide a method for estimating replacement time or providing a diagnostic ability estimate for components of an ultrasonic imaging device. For example, the method can include determining an operating parameter of a component, receiving operating data from a sensor of the imaging device, where the operating data represents the operating parameter of the component, calculating a service estimate based on the operating parameter and the operating data, and outputting the service estimate to a user to assist in replacing or repairing a component of the imaging device. This method can be achieved in a computing device including one or more processors and memories associated with the ultrasonic imaging device.

[0026] Therefore, some embodiments can provide a method that enables diagnostic ability. Thus, in some embodiments, this diagnostic ability can enable a clinician to easily know when to replace various components of a probe. For example, an ultrasonic imaging device may use a transducer array, a battery, and other electronic components that will eventually become unusable. Some embodiments disclosed herein can enable a clinician to be assured that their probe is operating within specified parameters when an algorithm returns a good service estimate. The clinician can be notified as soon as a component ceases to function as originally, and thus the clinician can operate with confidence knowing that their probe is functioning correctly.

[0027]

[0027] In some embodiments, an ultrasonic imaging system can include one or more medical imaging devices each having a processor and a sensor, and a controller device having a program stored in a memory. The program can include instructions for receiving a selection of one or more medical procedures, determining respective operating parameters of the one or more medical devices based on the selection of the one or more medical devices, receiving operating data from the respective sensors of the one or more medical devices, calculating an ability estimate based on the respective operating parameters and operating data of the one or more medical devices with respect to a selection of one or more medical procedures to be performed using the one or more imaging devices, and outputting the ability estimate to a user.

[0028]

[0028] Additional features and advantages of the subject technology are described in the following description and are partially apparent from the description or can be learned by practice of the subject technology. The advantages of the subject technology are realized and attained by the structures particularly pointed out in the written description and embodiments of this specification and the appended drawings.

[0029]

[0029] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the subject technology.

[0030] Various features of illustrative embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The illustrated embodiments are intended to illustrate the present invention but not to limit it. The drawings include the following figures.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0030] [Figure 1]

[0031] FIG. is a schematic diagram of a clinician using an ultrasonic imaging probe to complete a treatment on a patient while viewing information on an electronic device, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2]

[0032] This is a schematic diagram of an ultrasonic imager according to some embodiments. [Figure 3]

[0033] This is a top view of a transceiver tile according to one embodiment. [Figure 4]

[0034] This is a diagram illustrating an exemplary user interface for a single-probe system according to some embodiments. [Figure 5]

[0035] This is a diagram illustrating an exemplary user interface for a multi-probe system according to some embodiments. [Figure 6]

[0036] This is a schematic diagram of a user interface for interacting with a multi-probe system according to one embodiment. [Figure 7A]

[0037] This is a diagram illustrating an exemplary user interface display according to some embodiments. [Figure 7B] This is a diagram illustrating an exemplary user interface display according to some embodiments. [Figure 7C] This is a diagram illustrating an exemplary user interface display according to some embodiments. [Figure 7D] This is a diagram illustrating an exemplary user interface display according to some embodiments. [Figure 7E] This is a diagram illustrating an exemplary user interface display according to some embodiments. [Figure 7F] This is a diagram illustrating an exemplary user interface display according to some embodiments. [Figure 8]

[0038] This graph shows the temperature of the probe over time in some embodiments. [Figure 9]

[0039] Figure 9A is a graph showing the temperature and power of the probe over time for some embodiments of the probe.

[0040] Figure 9B is a diagram of an exemplary user interface display according to some embodiments. Figure 9C is a diagram of an exemplary user interface display according to some embodiments. Figure 9D is a diagram of an exemplary user interface display according to some embodiments. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0031]

[0041] It should be understood that various configurations of the subject art will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure, and that these various configurations of the subject art are illustrated and described as illustrations. As will be recognized, there is room for other and different configurations of the subject art, and some of its details are ripe for modification in various other respects without departing entirely from the scope of the subject art. Therefore, the summary, drawings, and detailed description should be considered as illustrations and not limitations in nature.

[0032]

[0042] The detailed description below is intended to describe various configurations of the subject art, and not merely to represent a practical configuration of the subject art. The accompanying drawings are incorporated herein and constitute part of the detailed description. The detailed description includes certain details to provide a complete understanding of the subject art. Nevertheless, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the subject art is practical even without these specific details. In some examples, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subject art. For ease of understanding, similar components are given the same element number.

[0033]

[0043] Figure 1 shows a system 100 that a clinician 102 can use to perform a medical procedure on a patient 104. The clinician 102 may use medical devices such as a probe 106 to complete the medical procedure on patient 104. The clinician 102 may further use an electronic device 108 to assist in completing the medical procedure. The device 108 can interact with the probe 106 by controlling an aspect of the probe 106, displaying information from the probe 106, or otherwise communicating with the probe 106 to send or receive information or commands that can be displayed and / or executed during the procedure.

[0034]

[0044] In some embodiments, the device 108 may include a user interface 110. The user interface 110 may include various graphics and display information that can help a clinician 102 use the probe 106. The device 108 can be further used to modify or control various aspects of the probe 106. The device 108 may further include a memory 112. The memory 112 within the device 108 can be used to store and run an application or program that controls the user interface 110.

[0035]

[0045] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of probe 106 according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, probe 120 may be an ultrasonic imaging device.

[0046] As depicted in Figure 2, the probe 106 may include a transceiver 210 for transmitting and receiving pressure waves. The coating layer 212 can act as a lens for steering the propagation direction of the pressure waves and / or for focusing the pressure waves, and can also function as an impedance interface between the transceiver 210 and the skin of the patient 104.

[0036]

[0047] The probe 106 may further include a control unit 202, such as an application-specific integrated circuit chip (hereinafter "ASIC"), for controlling the transceiver tile 210 and connected to the transceiver tile 210 by bumps or other appropriate connections. A field-programmable gate array (FPGA) 214 can control the components of the probe 120. Circuitry 215, such as an analog front-end (AFE), may be present to process / regulate the signals.

[0037]

[0048] The acoustic absorption layer 203 can absorb waves generated by the transceiver 210 and propagating toward the circuit 215.

[0049] The probe 106 may further include a communication unit 208 for communicating data with external devices such as an electronic device 108 and / or other devices. Communication between the probe 106 and other devices may be possible through one or more ports 216. The probe 106 may also include a speaker, microphone, and / or other equipment for enabling communication and prompting with the clinician 102.

[0038]

[0050] The probe 106 may further include a memory 218 capable of storing data. Furthermore, the probe 106 may further include a battery 206 for supplying power to the imager components.

[0039]

[0051] Optionally, the probe 106 may include a display 217 for displaying, for example, an image of a target organ scanned with ultrasound.

[0052] In some embodiments, the electronic device 108 may have a display / screen. In some embodiments, the display may be advantageously incorporated into the electronic device 108 in place of or in addition to some parts of the probe 106. Nevertheless, the system may be configured to allow modular operation, viewing, and / or control of the probe and its operation. For example, the display produced from the probe 106 may be separate from the probe 106 itself, and optionally separate from a device or controller that the clinician 102 can use to control one or more functions or features of the probe 106.

[0040]

[0053] In some embodiments, the probe 106 can receive power from the electronic device 108 through one of the ports 216. In such cases, the probe 106 may not include the battery 206. Note that one or more components of the probe 106 can be combined into a single integrated electrical element. Similarly, each component of the probe 106 can be mounted on one or more electrical elements.

[0041]

[0054] In some embodiments, a clinician or other personnel may apply a gel to the patient's skin before the skin comes into direct contact with the covering layer 212, in order to improve impedance matching at the interface between the covering layer 212 and the patient's skin. The transceiver tile 210 can be mounted on a substrate and attached to an acoustic absorption layer. This layer can absorb all ultrasonic signals emitted in the opposite direction, which would otherwise be reflected and interfere with image quality.

[0042]

[0055] As discussed below, the coating layer 212 may include a flat matching layer to facilitate the maximization of acoustic signal transmission from the transducer to the body and vice versa. In some embodiments, the thickness of the coating layer 212 may be a quarter wavelength of the pressure wave generated by the transceiver tile 210. An altitude beam focus that can be along the length of the column can be electronically realized within the control unit 202. Even in this case, a lens may be designed at the focus, if applicable. The probe 106 can use the reflected signal to produce images of the organs of the patient 104, and the results can be displayed on the screen in various formats, such as graphs, plots, and statistics, with or without images of the organs.

[0043]

[0056] In some embodiments, a control unit 202, such as an ASIC, can be assembled as a single unit with the transceiver tile. In other embodiments, the control unit 202 is located outside the probe 106 and can be electrically connected to the transceiver tile 210 via a cable. In some embodiments, the probe 106 may include a housing or enclosure surrounding the components of the probe 106, and a heat dissipation mechanism for releasing the thermal energy generated by the components.

[0044]

[0057] The probe 106 may also include one or more temperature sensors 220. For example, one or more temperature sensors 220 may be placed on or near the battery 206 to monitor the battery temperature. In addition, one or more temperature sensors 220 may be placed near the circuit 215 to monitor the circuit temperature. Furthermore, one or more temperature sensors 220 may be placed elsewhere within the probe or outside the probe 106. The external temperature sensors may monitor ambient temperature, the temperature of the clinician's handgrip 102, or other possible temperatures that may affect the overall operation of the probe 106.

[0045]

[0058] Figure 3 shows a top view of a transceiver tile 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the probe 106 may include any suitable number of tiles, the tiles may be arranged in any suitable manner, and each tile 300 may include any suitable number of piezoelectric elements 302 arranged on the transceiver substrate 306. One or more temperature sensors 304 may be placed on the substrate 306 to monitor the temperature of the transceiver tile 300 in operation. In some embodiments, the transceiver tile 300 may be a micro-machined element fabricated from the substrate.

[0046]

[0059] Figure 4 shows an exemplary user interface (UI) in some embodiments of a single probe available for use. Probe 106 is available for use by a clinician 102 to perform medical procedures on a patient 104. Probe 106 may have a connection to an electronic device 108. This connection, along with any program or algorithm stored in probe 106 or device 108, can allow probe 106 and device 108 to continuously share data and other information. Through the UI, device 108 can be used to control one or more settings, functions, actions, or other aspects of probe 106. These settings, other aspects, and controls may be further controllable from probe 106 itself, for example, through buttons, dials, switches, or other indicators on probe 106.

[0047]

[0060] Device 108 may have a display screen showing a user interface 110 that can be viewed, for example, by a clinician 102. The user interface 110 may have a screen that allows a probe user 106, such as a clinician 102, to select a procedure to be performed on a patient 104. The user interface 110 may include various screens, for example, a screen showing an exemplary human patient displaying various locations where medical procedures can be performed using the probe 106.

[0048]

[0061] In some embodiments where the probe 106 is an ultrasound imaging device, available procedures may include, for example, cardiac scans of the patient's heart, scans of the patient's lungs, kidneys, or other internal organs, vascular scans, gynecological scans, or other possible procedures that can be performed using ultrasound imaging.

[0049]

[0062] After selecting a procedure, the user interface 110 can display information via a screen layout, which displays / confirms the selected procedure and / or allows the clinician 102 to select other device settings or scales available to control one or more functions of the probe and / or aspects of the selected procedure.

[0050]

[0063] The user interface 110 can then display a screen to the clinician 102 or any other person viewing the device 108, confirming the selected procedure or operation and any selected mode or other settings.

[0051]

[0064] As discussed herein, in some embodiments, the user interface may provide an indication of whether the probe has the capability to now perform the selected action on a selected scale. For example, one or more components of the system (e.g., a probe and / or device) may include an algorithm capable of providing recommendations or decisions regarding the capabilities of the system, such as the capabilities of the probe or device, by considering one or more factors.

[0052]

[0065] For example, the algorithm may also be able to calculate, on a selected scale, whether the probe 106 can perform the selected procedure at a later point in time. Such a later point in time may be after the probe 106 has charged and increased the battery power available to it, or after the probe has rested to allow it to cool down.

[0053]

[0066] After the clinician 102 or any other person has optionally selected a procedure to be performed, the algorithm can further calculate the probe's readiness, such as various process options related to the selected procedure. These process options that the algorithm can consider may include, for example, the number of images that must be successfully completed to complete the selected procedure, the number of scans that must be completed to successfully complete the selected procedure, the number of steps from start to finish required to successfully complete the selected procedure, or other requirements such as which settings have been selected, including quality settings, resolution settings, noise settings, or other settings related to the operation of the selected procedure or probe.

[0054]

[0067] Optionally, after the algorithm calculates the probe's readiness for the selected procedure and various other procedures or probe-related metrics, the user interface 110 may indicate to the device user whether the algorithm has determined that the probe can complete the procedure, i.e., that it is “OK” to use, or whether the probe has determined that it cannot complete the selected procedure, i.e., that it is “not OK”. The example of the display shown in Figure 4 is an illustration of one possible display, and it should be recognized that other possible display formats exist. In some embodiments, for example, the UI may indicate whether the probe can complete the entered / selected procedure by showing “OK” and “Not OK”. In some embodiments, the display may show “Ready”, “Needs to Charge”, “Needs to Cool”, or other similar words or phrases that indicate the probe's status. In some embodiments, the display may indicate whether the probe can complete the procedure by showing a check mark, i.e., “X”, or other similar graphics or words. In some embodiments, the display may utilize colors, such as green to indicate readiness and red to indicate problems.

[0055]

[0068] The user interface 110 can also display information to the user of device 108 and / or the user of probe 106, such as the calculated remaining time that probe 106 should be able to operate in its current settings. This “estimated usage time” can be displayed by a countdown timer, a clock, graphics showing changes in the remaining level, or other visual or auditory cues. Optionally, the user interface 110 can also display information such as the calculated remaining time that probe 106 can function even if certain settings are changed, as well as which and how certain settings should be changed.

[0056]

[0069] In some embodiments, when displaying information to a clinician 102 or another user of the device 108, the user interface 110 may allow the user to select which procedure to complete by showing the user a list of all available procedures, different icons to indicate different procedures, or other visual representations of any available procedures.

[0057]

[0070] The user interface 110 may include various guidance screens to instruct the user of device 108 to enter other necessary information. In some embodiments where probe 106 is an ultrasound imaging device, this information may include selecting various settings for probe 106, such as different available stimulation modes including low, medium, and high wattage settings, scan depth, gain value, and contrast level.

[0058]

[0071] The user interface 110 can visually display information of particular importance to the user of device 108, or signal to the user whether the result is desirable or undesirable. This may include, for example, displaying "OK" or similar wording in green and "Not OK" or similar wording in red. The user interface 110 can also use a variety of common indicator colors in displaying the calculated information, such as green for desirable results, orange or yellow for warnings, and red for errors or undesirable results.

[0059]

[0072] In some embodiments, the algorithm can be run continuously whenever probe 106 and / or device 108 are in use. Nevertheless, the algorithm can also be run automatically only at startup, shutdown, and / or when initiated or prompted by the user.

[0060]

[0073] If running continuously, the algorithm may run in the background of the user interface 110 so that the viewer of the interface is unaware that the algorithm is currently running. Alternatively, the user interface 110 may include some indication that the algorithm is currently running, such as showing an updating progress bar, keeping an arrow running continuously, or other visual indications that the algorithm is currently processing information. In these embodiments, the algorithm can continuously monitor data about probe 106 and continuously update prediction results.

[0061]

[0074] If running during individual or selected times in use, the algorithm can run and complete its initial calculations and / or predictions before the clinician or other user of the probe begins using it. In some embodiments, the algorithm can be run before, at the end of, or after use of the probe, and the results can be updated. Furthermore, the algorithm can optionally be triggered or started by the user at any time during use, or otherwise programmed to run automatically at selected times, such as the beginning and / or end of a procedure, or individual intervals during a procedure.

[0062]

[0075] Figure 5 shows an exemplary user interface (UI) in some embodiments of the probe system available for use. Each probe system includes two or more monitorable probes. This monitoring may include monitoring battery levels and internal and ambient temperatures. Similar to Figure 4 discussed above, the UI shown in Figure 5 can display a series of screens to a clinician 102 or any other person using probe 106, or any other probe in the same probe system as probe 106. The UI can guide the probe user to select a series of options, including what procedure the clinician or user wants to perform and in what mode they want to operate the probe. Mode options may include, for example, low, medium, or high wattage settings. The user may be able to select which probe in the probe system they want to use.

[0063]

[0076] In some embodiments, the algorithm can calculate / predict whether a selected probe can complete a selected procedure according to selected parameters and other factors. Other factors that the algorithm can consider include the probe temperature, ambient temperature, the probe's remaining battery life, and the remaining battery life of electronic devices or other system components, as well as temperature, battery, or other sensor data obtained from previous procedures (whether the procedures are the same or different). This data can be included in the algorithm's elements using exact values, or using data-based averaging, projection, or estimation.

[0064]

[0077] When calculating the algorithm, various process options can be considered. In some embodiments where the probe 106 is an ultrasound imaging device, these process options may include factors such as the number of images required to complete the selected procedure, the number of scans required to complete the selected procedure, the number of steps required to successfully complete the selected procedure, or any other quantitative values ​​to be considered. Process options may also include resolution settings, minimum signal-to-noise requirements, scan quality requirements, or any other settings related to the probe's output.

[0065]

[0078] The UI can then display calculations and / or predictions to the user of device 108 displaying the UI. The results may include a screen detailing to the user which procedure was selected, which mode or other settings were selected, which probe the user wanted to use, and whether the algorithm determined that this probe could complete the procedure as detailed. The UI can also display to the user a timer showing the remaining time that the selected probe should be able to operate in its current settings.

[0066]

[0079] In some embodiments where the algorithm operates continuously and updates predictions as specified, the countdown timer can be updated to reflect changes in the monitored system that affect the predicted amount of time the probe can operate until it runs out of power or overheats.

[0067]

[0080] For example, if the ambient temperature in the room rises during a procedure, the countdown timer can be reduced by more than one minute within a 60-second timeframe to reflect the effect of the increased ambient temperature. In another example, if a clinician starts a procedure but takes a break in the middle of it, the algorithm can update its countdown timer with an increased remaining time prediction because the idle probe uses less battery and generates less heat than the probe in use.

[0068]

[0081] In some embodiments, the UI can guide the user to first select which procedure they wish to complete and one of the mode settings for that procedure. The UI can then display to the user which of the probes in the user's available system can complete the procedure as entered by the user. The UI can also indicate to the user which of the probes in the system are currently unable to complete the procedure. Optionally, the UI can indicate when these probes may be able to complete the procedure later. For example, the UI can indicate whether a probe needs to be cooled and how long it is estimated to take, or the UI can indicate whether a probe needs to be charged and / or how long it has calculated the charging time required before the probe is ready to complete the procedure as entered.

[0069]

[0082] In some embodiments, the user may initially input which procedures they want to complete and any other parameters. The algorithm can then connect to at least one or all of the available probes, considering each probe's monitored temperature, battery life, and / or other factors, to predict whether each probe can complete the procedure. These results can then be displayed to the user viewing the UI.

[0070]

[0083] Figure 6 shows an exemplary UI 110 and electronic device 108 according to some embodiments. The electronic device 108 may be remotely connectable to the system of probe 600. Through this remote connection, the electronic device may be able to access information about at least one or all of the probes in the system of probe 600. This information may include, for example, the internal temperature of each device, including the temperature in or near heat-generating electrical components such as transducers and / or batteries. This information may further include the ambient temperature around each probe and the battery level of each probe. This information about each probe can be used by an algorithm to predict whether each probe can complete a specified medical procedure.

[0071]

[0084] In some embodiments, the UI 110 indicates to the user viewing the interface whether each probe in the probe 600 system is available for use in completing a selected procedure. The UI can indicate whether each probe is available or unavailable. This indication may include words, graphics, or other symbols or combinations of display types to indicate to the user whether each probe is available for the user's needs. In some embodiments, this indication may also include graphics, such as fully filled, partially filled, or empty progress bars, to indicate the calculated percentage of “life” remaining for each probe.

[0072]

[0085] In some embodiments, this display in UI110 may also explain why a particular probe is unavailable, such as indicating whether the probe is already in use by another person accessing the same system of the probe 600, or whether the probe's current temperature is already too high, or the probe's battery level is too low to complete the procedure before it runs out of power or generates too much heat. In examples such as these, the algorithm may be able to calculate and display to the user when the currently unavailable probe will become available. This could include, for example, calculating and displaying how long the probe needs to be charged or cooled before it can be used to complete a specified procedure.

[0073]

[0086] Figures 7A–7F illustrate exemplary user interfaces 110 that can be displayed on the electronic device 108. These UIs can display various sets of information to a clinician using the probe 106 or to anyone else viewing the user interface.

[0074]

[0087] As shown in Figure 7A, the UI 110 can display, for example, which medical procedure type the clinician has selected, which operating mode type they have selected, and whether it is predicted that the selected probe will be able to complete the procedure as selected. The UI 110 may also include graphics such as a countdown timer that shows the remaining time the probe in use should be able to operate at its current level before running out of battery power or overheating. The UI 110 may further include other graphics, colors, sounds, haptic feedback that are perceived within the device 108, or other indications to the clinician or other viewers or users of the device 108 about the current status of the probe in use.

[0075]

[0088] In some embodiments, the algorithm's calculation results, such as estimates / predictions, remaining time countdowns, or other display information, can be updated as needed during the procedure. The algorithm can be provided with data about the probe in use, such as battery and temperature levels, either pre-defined or continuously. For example, if one of these monitored factors changes at a rate different from the predicted value, the algorithm can update the displayed results accordingly. For example, the probe may indicate the current ambient temperature before the procedure begins. During the medical procedure, however, the ambient temperature may rise or fall. A rise in ambient temperature may reduce the time it takes for the probe to reach its maximum / shutoff temperature. A fall in ambient temperature may extend the time the probe can be used before it reaches its maximum / shutoff temperature. Therefore, the algorithm can take this change in ambient temperature into account, update the predicted amount of time the probe can be used before overheating, and update the displayed results accordingly.

[0076]

[0089] Figure 7B shows an exemplary user interface 110 in one embodiment, which includes various potential information that can be displayed in the UI. If the program controlling the UI is programmed to track specific aspects of medical procedures, the UI 110 can display information about these aspects to the user.

[0077]

[0090] For example, if a particular procedure has a known number of steps, the program can track how many of these steps have been completed and display how many steps need to be completed. If the program includes data on how long each of these steps tends to take on average to complete, it may be able to track whether the clinician or probe 106 user is “on pace” to complete the selected procedure within a standard time. The “pace tracking” feature may be useful for internal metrics such as letting the clinician know whether they are on track to complete a particular procedure within a standard time. This pace tracking may also be useful for insurance purposes, such as tracking whether the procedure is completed in the correct amount of time to ensure that the procedure is completed correctly or to match the clinician’s billed time to the completed procedure submitted.

[0078]

[0091] Figure 7C shows an exemplary UI110 in some embodiments. The UI110 may be able to display information about the probe in use through various graphical formats. This may include showing the current temperature of the probe in relation to how close it is to its maximum / shut-off temperature, or showing how much battery power the probe has left relative to a full charge. This may also include displaying an estimated time calculated by an algorithm for the clinician to complete the selected medical procedure, which may also include showing how much of this time has already passed. These various exemplary graphical displays can be updated in real time as the medical procedure nears completion.

[0079]

[0092] Figures 7D and 7E show exemplary user interfaces 110 according to some embodiments. User interfaces 110 may include various combinations of the possible displays described previously.

[0080]

[0093] In some embodiments, specific metrics can be used to discover possible problems with the functionality of probe 106. For example, a program that operates user interface 110 may store programmed or calculated information about ideal probe functionality in the program memory of user interface 110. This information may, for example, be about how long it should take for a probe operating in a specified mode and at a known ambient temperature to reach its maximum / shutoff temperature. If the true operation of the probe, as tracked by the program and / or algorithm during probe operation, differs from this idealized time frame by a specified tolerance, it can be inferred that the probe is not operating at peak performance. This may potentially include the need to replace some component of the probe. Thus, in some embodiments, the system can provide a “diagnostic” feature that can give insight into the performance status of the probe. This feature can allow the probe to be replaced or upgraded as needed. This diagnostic feature can easily enable clinicians to ensure their probes are functioning correctly and can easily enable the probe, system, or probe supervisor to know when the probe needs to be upgraded or replaced.

[0081]

[0094] In some embodiments, the UI can display the selected settings and prediction results. In some embodiments, the UI can display the selected settings and prediction results, and the user of device 108 can also change the selected settings from this display screen. For example, the UI can indicate that the user has selected a gynecological procedure and has selected to operate the probe with a "high" power setting. From this same display screen, the user may then click the "high" power selection to change it to "low" power. The UI may then update the display with the updated prediction results as calculated by the algorithm.

[0082]

[0095] Figure 7F shows an exemplary UI110 according to one embodiment. As discussed, the UI may be able to display calculated information to the user through a combination of words and graphical displays that update in real time. These graphical displays may include a progress bar that is empty or filled based on the scale being displayed and the progress of the procedure. For example, a bar may be filled as the probe heats up during the procedure to show how close the probe is to reaching its maximum / shutoff temperature. A bar may be empty as the probe's battery is used during the procedure to show how close the probe is to running out of battery power. These calculated values ​​can then be used by an algorithm to display the overall predicted usage time the probe has available. This, too, can be displayed, for example, with a progress bar that is empty as the probe is used.

[0083]

[0096] Figure 8 shows an exemplary plot illustrating how the probe temperature may change over time during various actions. These actions may include different procedures, probe charging, and the probe remaining dormant.

[0084]

[0097] In some embodiments, the probe is an ultrasonic imaging device and includes a transducer. These transducers may be piezoelectric micro-machined ultrasonic transducers (PMUTs). These PMUTs may generate heat during use, which can raise the temperature of the probe.

[0085]

[0098] While using the probe, the internal temperature of the device will rise. The probe may have a pre-programmed maximum or shut-off temperature. When the probe reaches this shut-off temperature, it can automatically turn off. This automatic shut-off feature can help extend the lifespan of the probe, as overheating beyond a certain temperature can damage the probe's components.

[0086]

[0099] In some embodiments, this shut-off temperature can be considered the temperature at which continued use of the probe becomes uncomfortable for the patient. Since ultrasound imaging devices are typically applied to the patient's skin, if the device or probe becomes too warm, the probe may become uncomfortable to the patient's skin. Therefore, the shut-off temperature may also be a temperature calculated and pre-programmed to be the maximum temperature at which the probe can be used on the patient's skin. When the probe reaches this temperature, it can be automatically shut off, as continued use at a warmer temperature may cause discomfort to the patient.

[0087]

[0100] As shown in Figure 8, the probe can cool down while it is at rest after use. When the probe is not in use and not actively charging, it does not generate heat and therefore should cool down towards ambient temperature. While the probe is at rest and remains at rest for a long enough time to reach ambient temperature, it will remain at ambient temperature until it is used or charged.

[0088]

[0101] Charging a device can cause the probe to generate heat. If the probe is at ambient temperature and then charged, the probe will reach a higher temperature than the ambient temperature during charging. The charging temperature is lower than the shut-off temperature but may be higher than the ambient temperature. If the probe has been used recently and generated heat during that time, and then is charged, the probe will cool down during rest, but it may also generate heat during charging. In this case, the probe will cool down while charging, but at a slower rate than it would cool down during rest.

[0089]

[0102] Figure 9A shows exemplary plots 900 of probe temperature versus time 902 and power versus time 904 during charging, rest, and use. This plot 900 illustrates how charging the probe increases temperature and power, how keeping the probe rest can decrease the probe temperature while maintaining the same power level, how using the probe may cause the probe temperature to rise and the probe power to decrease over time, and how charging the probe may increase the probe power and cause the probe to retain heat.

[0090]

[0103] Figures 9B to 9D show various user interfaces corresponding to different points in time on plot 900. The user interface may be able to display to the user the current state of the probe, as well as the probe's current power level and temperature. Power levels, such as 100% for full power and 0% for completely depleted battery, can be displayed, for example, as a percentage. Temperature can be displayed as a percentage, such as the maximum temperature programmed for the probe to reach.

[0091]

[0104] For example, the temperature range can start at 0% at ambient temperature and increase to 100% at the maximum / shutoff temperature. The UI can also display other calculated information, such as how long it will take for the probe to fully charge its battery, or how long the probe can operate at its current settings before overheating or power depletion.

[0092] Technical illustration of the subject as a clause

[0105] Various examples of aspects of this disclosure are described for convenience as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.). These are provided as examples and do not limit the art of the subject matter. Figures and reference number identifications are provided below solely as examples and for illustrative purposes, and the clauses are not limited by these identifications.

[0093]

[0106] Clause 1. A method for estimating the operational capability of an ultrasound imaging device, comprising a computing device including one or more processors and memory associated with the ultrasound imaging device, the method comprising: receiving a selection of a medical procedure; determining operational parameters of the imaging device based on the selected medical procedure; receiving operational data from sensors of the imaging device; calculating a capability estimate based on the operational parameters and operational data with respect to a selected medical procedure performed using the imaging device; and outputting the capability estimate to a user.

[0094]

[0107] Clause 2. The method of Clause 1, wherein the sensor comprises an internal temperature sensor.

[0108] Clause 3. The sensor comprises an ambient temperature sensor, and the operating data is based on the ambient temperature reading from the ambient temperature sensor, in either way of Clause 1 or 2.

[0095]

[0109] Clause 4. Any method of Clauses 1 to 3, further comprising receiving a mode input based on a desired operating mode of the imaging device.

[0110] Clause 5. Outputting capability estimates is performed using any of the methods described in Clauses 1-4, prior to using the imaging device to perform a medical procedure.

[0096]

[0111] Clause 6. The ability estimate is updated during the use of the imaging device to perform a medical procedure, using any of the methods described in Clauses 1-5.

[0112] Clause 7. Receiving a choice involves any method in Clauses 1-6, including presenting multiple medical treatments from which the choice of medical treatment is based.

[0097]

[0113] Clause 8. Any method of Clauses 1 to 7, wherein determining the operating parameters includes determining at least one of the following: the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the imaging device, the temperature profile of the imaging device, the scan uptime, the maximum operating temperature of the imaging device, the cooling time, the battery power consumption rate of the imaging device, the battery power level of the imaging device, the battery power level of the electronic device, the battery power consumption rate of the electronic device used with the imaging device, the minimum power level of the imaging device, the minimum power level of the electronic device, the battery recharge rate of the imaging device, or the battery recharge rate of the electronic device.

[0098]

[0114] Clause 9. Receiving operational data includes any method described in Clauses 1 to 8, including receiving temperature readings from the imaging device.

[0115] Clause 10. Calculation is performed using any method described in Clauses 1-9, which includes inputting the functional capacity and selected medical procedures into an algorithm.

[0099]

[0116] Clause 11. Outputting any method of Clauses 1 to 10, including providing an indication of whether the imaging device can complete the selected medical procedure.

[0100]

[0117] Clause 12. Any method of Clauses 1-11, further including receiving a mode input based on the selected medical procedure.

[0118] Clause 13. Any method of Clauses 1 to 11, further comprising the imaging device receiving a mode input selected from a plurality of available stimulation modes on which it can operate.

[0101]

[0119] Clause 14. The method of Clause 13, wherein the stimulation mode corresponds to the different imaging capabilities of the imaging device.

[0120] Clause 15. The stimulation mode uses different amounts of available power from the imaging device, as in the method of Clause 13 or 14.

[0102]

[0121] Clause 16. The stimulation mode is one of the methods of Clauses 13-15, which generates a different amount of heat when in operation.

[0122] Clause 17. The imaging device comprises a battery, in any manner described in Clauses 1 to 16.

[0103]

[0123] Clause 18. The battery is rechargeable in the manner of Clause 17.

[0124] Clause 19. The method of Clause 17 or 18, wherein the sensor comprises a temperature sensor for the battery.

[0104]

[0125] Clause 20. Operating data is obtained using the method of Clause 19, based on internal temperature readings from the imaging device.

[0126] Clause 21. Operating data is based on component temperature indices from the electrical components of the imaging device, as per the method of Clause 19 or 20.

[0105]

[0127] Clause 22. Operating data is obtained using any one of the methods described in Clauses 19-21, based on the internal temperature index from the transducer array of the imaging device.

[0128] Clause 23. Any method of Clauses 1-22, further including receiving an estimate of how long the imaging device needs to remain idle before it can be used to complete a medical procedure.

[0106]

[0129] Clause 24. The method of Clause 23, including a state in which the resting state is a state in which the imaging device is cooling and not in use.

[0130] Clause 25. The method of Clause 23 or 24, wherein the idle state includes a state in which the imaging device is charging.

[0107]

[0131] Clause 26. Any method of Clauses 1 to 25, further comprising determining a second operating parameter of a second imaging device based on a selected medical procedure, receiving second operating data from a sensor of the second imaging device, calculating a second capability estimate based on the second operating parameter and the second operating data with respect to a selected medical procedure performed using the second imaging device, and outputting the second capability estimate to the user.

[0108]

[0132] Clause 27. The method of Clause 26, further including receiving an estimate of how long the second imaging device needs to remain idle before it can be used to complete a medical procedure.

[0109]

[0133] Clause 28. Outputting capability estimates includes any method in Clauses 1 to 27, including displaying capability estimates on a display.

[0134] Clause 29. Display including the estimated remaining usage time of the imaging device, in the manner of Clause 28.

[0110]

[0135] Clause 30. The display includes the estimated remaining battery power of the imaging device, in accordance with the method of Clause 28 or 29.

[0136] Clause 31. Display, including the estimated remaining time before the imaging device will require repair, in any one of the manners described in Clauses 28-30.

[0111]

[0137] Clause 32. Receiving an elective means any of the methods described in Clauses 1 through 31, including receiving a set of elective medical treatments.

[0138] Article 33. The method of calculating the capacity estimate, including consideration for each medical procedure in the above series, as set out in Article 32.

[0112]

[0139] Clause 34. The method of Clause 33, wherein the calculation of capacity estimation includes determining the prescription order for each medical procedure in the above series.

[0140] Clause 35. Outputting a capability estimate is any one of the methods described in Clauses 32-34, including displaying the capability estimate on a display.

[0113]

[0141] Clause 36. The method of Clause 35, wherein outputting a capability estimate includes an estimate of which of the above series of medical procedures the imaging device is capable of completing.

[0142] Clause 37. The method of Clause 36, wherein the display includes an expectation of which of the above series of medical procedures the imaging device can complete.

[0114]

[0143] Clause 38. A method for estimating replacement time for components of an ultrasonic imaging device, comprising: determining the operating parameters of a component in a computing device including one or more processors and memory associated with an ultrasonic imaging device; receiving operating data from a sensor of the imaging device, wherein the operating data represents the operating parameters of the component; calculating a service estimate based on the operating parameters and the operating data; and outputting the service estimate to a user to assist in the replacement or repair of the components of the imaging device. Methods that include...

[0115]

[0144] Clause 39. The method of Clause 38, which includes determining at least one of the following operating parameters: the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the imaging device, the temperature profile of the imaging device, the scan uptime, the maximum operating temperature of the imaging device, the cooling time, the battery power consumption rate of the imaging device, the battery power level of the imaging device, the battery power level of the electronic device, the battery power consumption rate of the electronic device used with the imaging device, the minimum power level of the imaging device, the minimum power level of the electronic device, the battery recharge rate of the imaging device, or the battery recharge rate of the electronic device.

[0116]

[0145] Clause 40. The method of Clause 38 or 39, wherein the operational data indicates at least one aspect of the current performance of the imaging device.

[0146] Clause 41. Determining the operating parameters is done in any one of the manner described in Clauses 38-40, including receiving a selection of medical procedures and basing the operating parameters on the selected medical procedures.

[0117]

[0147] Clause 42. The service estimation includes, in any way as stipulated in Clauses 38-41, an estimated remaining time for use of the component and / or an indication of whether the component should be replaced.

[0118]

[0148] Clause 43. Any one of the methods in Clauses 38-42, further including shutting down the operation of the imaging device based on service estimation.

[0149] Clause 44. A system for predicting whether an electronic medical imaging device can complete a particular task, comprising a medical imaging device having a housing configured to carry internal electrical components, a plurality of temperature sensors, and circuitry configured to enable the imaging device to operate in a plurality of operating modes; an algorithm capable of receiving input from the imaging device; a processor and memory for executing the algorithm based on data from the imaging device and a given operating mode; and a display capable of showing capability estimations based on the algorithm.

[0119]

[0150] Clause 45. A system of Clause 44 in which multiple operating modes correspond to different medical procedures that the imaging device can perform.

[0151] Clause 46. A system of capabilities estimation under Clause 44 or 45, which includes a prediction of whether the imaging device can complete a medical procedure.

[0120]

[0152] Clause 47. A system of any one of Clauses 44-46 in which capability estimation includes a prediction of whether the imaging device can complete a series of medical procedures.

[0153] Clause 48. One of the systems in any of Clauses 44-47, in which capability estimation includes a prediction of whether the imaging device can complete a test, diagnostic procedure, or examination scan.

[0121]

[0154] Clause 49. A system in any one of Clauses 44-48, wherein the display allows the user of the imaging device to select one of several operating modes.

[0155] Clause 50. Any one of the systems in Clauses 44-49, on which the data from the imaging device on which the algorithm on which the capability estimation is based includes (i) one or more temperature indicators from multiple temperature sensors and (i) the operating mode of the medical device.

[0122]

[0156] Clause 51. One of the systems described in Clauses 44-50, in which one of multiple temperature sensors measures the internal temperature of the imaging device.

[0157] Clause 52. One of the systems specified in Clauses 44-51, in which one of multiple temperature sensors measures the ambient temperature.

[0123]

[0158] Clause 53. A system of any one of Clauses 44-52 in which the internal electrical components of a medical device include a transducer array.

[0159] Clause 54. The internal electrical components of a medical device include a battery, one of the systems specified in Clauses 44-53.

[0124]

[0160] Clause 55. A system under Clause 54 in which the battery is wirelessly rechargeable.

[0161] Clause 56. A system of Clause 54 or 55 in which one of several temperature sensors measures the temperature of the battery.

[0125]

[0162] Clause 57. Any one of the systems in Clauses 44-56, wherein the processor is configured to calculate heating and cooling curves for predicting whether the imaging device can complete a task.

[0126]

[0163] Clause 58. An ultrasound imaging system comprising one or more medical imaging devices, each having a processor and a sensor, and a controller device having a program stored in memory, the program comprising instructions for receiving a selection of one or more medical procedures, determining the respective operating parameters of one or more medical devices based on the selection of one or more medical procedures, receiving operating data from the respective sensors of one or more medical devices, calculating a capability estimate based on the respective operating parameters and operating data of one or more medical devices with respect to a selection of one or more medical procedures performed using one or more imaging devices, and outputting the capability estimate to the user.

[0127]

[0164] Clause 59. A system of Clause 58 in which determining the operating parameters includes determining at least one of the following: the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the imaging device, the temperature profile of the imaging device, the scan operating time, the maximum operating temperature of the imaging device, the cooling time, the battery power consumption rate of the imaging device, the battery power level of the imaging device, the battery power level of the electronic device, the battery power consumption rate of the electronic device used with the imaging device, the minimum power level of the imaging device, the minimum power level of the electronic device, the battery recharge rate of the imaging device, or the battery recharge rate of the electronic device.

[0128]

[0165] Clause 60. A system of Clause 58 or 59 in which the controller is configured to harmonize treatment protocols for a single patient or for a large number of patients in which one or more medical procedures are performed using multiple medical devices.

[0129]

[0166] Clause 61. A system according to any of Clauses 58-60, in which the imaging device has multiple operating modes, and the calculation of capability estimates is also based on the operating modes of one or more imaging devices.

[0130]

[0167] Clause 62. One or more medical devices comprising one or more ultrasound imaging probes, one of any one of the systems in Clauses 58 to 61.

[0168] Clause 63. One or more medical procedures comprising any one of the systems in Clauses 58-62, including multiple imaging scans.

[0131]

[0169] Clause 64. A system for avoiding downtime during medical imaging scans, comprising one or more medical imaging devices, each having a sensor, a plurality of operating modes, and an operating shutoff limit that causes one or more medical imaging devices to terminate operation in response to the sensor, wherein the system processor and memory are configured to receive an indication from the sensor and implement an algorithm for providing a real-time operational capability prediction for one or more medical imaging devices based on the indication, the selected operating mode, and the selected medical procedure.

[0132]

[0170] The system of Clause 64, further comprising means for displaying a real-time operational capability prediction of one or more medical imaging devices.

[0171] Clause 66. A system of Clause 64 or 65 in which operational capability prediction includes a calculated answer regarding whether a medical imaging device can complete a medical imaging scan.

[0133]

[0172] Clause 67. Any one of the systems in Clauses 64-66, where the shut-off limit includes the maximum permissible temperature of one or more medical imaging devices.

[0173] Clause 68. The shut-off limit includes any one system of Clauses 64-67, including the battery power level of one or more medical imaging devices.

[0134]

[0174] Clause 69. A system comprising any one of Clauses 64-68, wherein the sensor is a temperature sensor.

[0175] Clause 70. A system comprising a battery power sensor, as specified in any one of Clauses 64-69.

[0135]

[0176] Clause 71. Any one of the systems described in Clauses 64-70, further configured to implement an algorithm based on at least one of the following: the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the imaging device, the temperature profile of the imaging device, the scan uptime, the maximum operating temperature of the imaging device, the cooling time, the battery power consumption rate of the imaging device, the battery power level of the imaging device, the battery power level of the electronic device, the battery power consumption rate of the electronic device used with the imaging device, the minimum power level of the imaging device, the minimum power level of the electronic device, the battery recharge rate of the imaging device, or the battery recharge rate of the electronic device.

[0136]

[0177] A system of any one of the provisions of 64 to 71, wherein one of the multiple operating modes of one or more medical imaging devices is a battery-saving mode with a lower frame rate than the operating mode that is not a battery-saving mode.

[0137]

[0178] Clause 73. Any one of the systems in Clauses 70-72, in which one or more medical imaging devices automatically switch to battery-saving mode when one or more medical imaging devices reach a predetermined temperature.

[0138]

[0179] Clause 74. Any one of the systems in Clauses 64-73, in which a processor calculates a diagnostic prediction about how one or more medical imaging devices will operate and compares this calculation with a real-time prediction of the operational capabilities of the medical imaging devices.

[0139]

[0180] Clause 75. A system of Clause 74 in which diagnostic predictions and real-time predictions are displayed on a display to the user of a medical imaging device.

[0181] Clause 76. One or more medical imaging devices constitute any one of the systems specified in Clauses 64 to 75, comprising multiple medical imaging devices.

[0140]

[0182] Clause 77. A system of Clause 76 in which a single medical procedure can be initiated using a first medical imaging device and completed using a second medical imaging device.

[0141]

[0183] Clause 78. A system of Clause 76 or 77 in which operational capability prediction estimates whether a medical procedure can be completed before the first of multiple medical imaging devices reaches its shut-off limit.

[0142]

[0184] Clause 79. The system of Clause 78, which further estimates whether a second of multiple medical imaging devices can complete a medical procedure based on the operational capability prediction.

[0185] Clause 80. A non-temporary computer-readable storage medium storing one or more programs that cause a computing device having one or more processors and memory to perform an operation including receiving a selection of a medical procedure, determining operating parameters of an imaging device based on the selected medical procedure, receiving operating data from sensors of the imaging device, calculating a capability estimate based on the operating parameters and operating data with respect to the selected medical procedure performed using the imaging device, and outputting the capability estimate to a user.

[0143]

[0186] Clause 81. A computer-readable storage medium further comprising any of the steps, features, or operations of Clauses 1 through 80. Further consideration

[0187] In some embodiments, any of the provisions of this Spectrum may depend on any one of the independent provisions or any one of the dependent provisions. In one embodiment, any provision (e.g., a dependent or independent provision) may be combined with any one or more other provisions (e.g., dependent or independent provisions). In one embodiment, a claim may include some or all of the words (e.g., steps, actions, means, or components) contained in a provision, sentence, statement, or paragraph. In one embodiment, a claim may include some or all of the words contained in one or more provisions, sentences, statements, or paragraphs. In one embodiment, some of the words in each provision, sentence, statement, or paragraph may be removed. In one embodiment, additional words or elements may be added to a provision, sentence, statement, or paragraph. In one embodiment, the subject art may be carried out without using any of the components, elements, functions, or actions described herein. In one embodiment, the subject art may be carried out using additional components, elements, functions, or actions.

[0144]

[0188] The above description is provided so that those skilled in the art can implement the various configurations described herein. While the subject art has been described with reference to various figures and configurations, it should be understood that these are for illustrative purposes only and should not be understood as limiting the scope of the subject art.

[0145]

[0189] There are many other ways to carry out the subject art. Various functions and elements described herein can each be separated from those shown without departing from the scope of the subject art. Various modifications to these configurations will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other configurations. Thus, many changes and modifications to the subject art can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the subject art.

[0146]

[0190] Please understand that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the disclosure process is illustrative of an exemplary approach. Please understand that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the process can be rearranged based on design preferences. Some steps can be performed simultaneously. The claims of the attached method present the elements of various steps in a sample order and are not intended to limit the presentation to a specific order or hierarchy.

[0147]

[0191] As used herein, the phrase “at least one of” preceding a list of items accompanied by the terms “and” or “or” to separate any of the items qualifies the list as a whole, rather than each member of the list (i.e., each item). Rather than requiring a selection of at least one of each item listed, the phrase “at least one of” allows for the meaning of at least one of any one of the items, and / or at least one of any combination of the items, and / or at least one of each of the items. For example, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C” or “at least one of A, B, or C” refer to A only, B only, or C only, any combination of A, B, and C, and / or at least one of each of A, B, and C, respectively.

[0148]

[0192] Terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “rear,” and similar terms as used in this disclosure should be understood to refer to an arbitrary reference frame, not a common gravity reference frame. Therefore, the top, bottom, front, and rear surfaces can extend upward, downward, diagonally, or horizontally in a gravity reference frame.

[0149]

[0193] Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “include,” “have,” or similar terms are used in this description or in the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “equip,” as when “equip” is used as a substitute term in a claim.

[0150]

[0194] As used herein, the term “about” refers to the actual value stated, as recognized by those skilled in the art, and allows for approximations, inaccuracies, and limitations of measurement under the relevant circumstances. In one or more embodiments, the terms “about,” “substantially,” and “approximately” may provide industry-acceptable tolerances for the relationship between their corresponding terms and / or items, such as tolerances of less than 1 percent to 10 percent of the actual value stated, and other appropriate tolerances.

[0151]

[0195] As used herein, the term “comprising” refers to the existence of a specified integer, but allows for the possibility of other integers not specified. The term does not imply a specific ratio of the specified integers. Variations of the word “comprising,” such as “comprise” and “comprises,” have similar meanings.

[0152]

[0196] The term “exemplary” is used herein to mean “to serve as an example, case, or illustration.” No embodiment described herein “exemplary” should necessarily be construed as preferable or advantageous to any other embodiment.

[0153]

[0197] References to singular elements are intended to mean "one or more" and not "one and just one" unless specifically stated. Masculine pronouns (e.g., his) include feminine and neuter genders (e.g., her and its), and vice versa. The term "some" refers to one or more things. Underlined and / or italicized headings and subheadings are used for convenience only and do not limit the subject art or make any reference to the interpretation of the description of the subject art. All structural and functional equivalents of elements of the various configurations described throughout this disclosure, either known to those skilled in the art or to be known later, are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the subject art. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be made public, whether such disclosure is expressly stated in the above description or not.

Claims

1. A method for estimating the operational capability of an ultrasonic imaging device, In a computing device including one or more processors and memory associated with the ultrasonic imaging device, Steps to receive medical treatment options, The steps include determining the operating parameters of the imaging device based on the selected medical procedure, The steps include receiving operational data from the sensor of the imaging device, With respect to the selected medical procedure performed using the imaging device, based on the operating parameters and operating data Steps to calculate ability estimates, The steps include outputting the capability estimate to the user and Methods that include...

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the sensor comprises an internal temperature sensor.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensor comprises an ambient temperature sensor, and the operation data is based on an ambient temperature index from the ambient temperature sensor.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising the step of receiving a mode input based on a desired operating mode of the imaging device.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the step of outputting the capability estimation is performed before using the imaging device to perform the medical procedure.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the step of outputting the capability estimate is updated while the imaging device is used to perform the medical procedure.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the step of receiving the selection includes a step of presenting a plurality of medical procedures from which the selection of the medical procedure is based.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the step of determining the operating parameters includes determining at least one of the following: the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the imaging device, the temperature profile of the imaging device, the scan operating time, the maximum operating temperature of the imaging device, the cooling time, the battery power consumption rate of the imaging device, the battery power level of the imaging device, the battery power level of the electronic device, the battery power consumption rate of an electronic device used with the imaging device, the minimum power level of the imaging device, the minimum power level of the electronic device, the battery recharge rate of the imaging device, or the battery recharge rate of the electronic device.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the step of receiving operational data includes the step of receiving a temperature index of the imaging device.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the calculation step includes inputting the operational ability and the selected medical procedure into an algorithm.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the output step includes providing an indication of whether the imaging device can complete the selected medical procedure.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising the step of receiving a mode input based on the selected medical procedure.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising the step of receiving a mode input selected from a plurality of available stimulation modes on which the imaging device can operate.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the stimulation mode corresponds to different imaging capabilities of the imaging device.

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the stimulation mode uses different amounts of available power of the imaging device.

16. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the stimulation mode generates different amounts of heat when in operation.

17. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the imaging device comprises a battery.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the battery is rechargeable.

19. The method according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the sensor comprises a temperature sensor for the battery.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein the operation data is based on an internal temperature index from the imaging device.

21. The method according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the operation data is based on component temperature indices from the electrical components of the imaging device.

22. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the operation data is based on an internal temperature index from the transducer array of the imaging device.

23. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 22, further comprising the step of receiving an estimate of how long the imaging device needs to remain idle before it can be used to complete the medical procedure.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein the idle state includes a state in which the imaging device is being cooled and is not in use.

25. The method according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the resting state includes a state in which the imaging device is being charged.

26. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 25, further comprising the steps of: determining a second operating parameter of a second imaging device based on the selected medical procedure; receiving second operating data from a sensor of the second imaging device; calculating a second capability estimate based on the second operating parameter and the second operating data with respect to the selected medical procedure performed using the second imaging device; and outputting the second capability estimate to the user.

27. The method according to claim 26, further comprising the step of receiving an estimate of how long the second imaging device needs to remain idle before it becomes available to complete the medical procedure.

28. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the step of outputting the capability estimation includes the step of displaying the capability estimation on a display.

29. The method according to claim 28, wherein the display includes the estimated remaining usage time of the imaging device.

30. The method according to claim 28 or 29, wherein the display includes the estimated remaining battery power of the imaging device.

31. The method according to any one of claims 28 to 30, wherein the display includes an estimated remaining time before the imaging device will require repair.

32. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 31, wherein the step of receiving the selection includes the step of receiving a set of medical procedures of the selection.

33. The method according to claim 32, wherein the step of calculating the capacity estimate includes an examination of each medical procedure in the series.

34. The method according to claim 33, wherein the step of calculating the capacity estimate includes the step of determining the prescription order for each medical procedure in the series.

35. The method according to any one of claims 32 to 34, wherein the step of outputting the capability estimate includes the step of displaying the capability estimate on a display.

36. The method according to claim 35, wherein the step of outputting the capability estimate includes an estimate of which of the series of medical procedures the imaging device can complete.

37. The method according to claim 36, wherein the display includes the prediction of which of the series of medical procedures the imaging device can complete.

38. A method for estimating replacement time for components of an ultrasonic imaging device, In a computing device including one or more processors and memory associated with the ultrasonic imaging device, The steps include determining the operating parameters of the aforementioned components, A step of receiving operational data from the sensor of the imaging device, wherein the operational data represents the operational parameters of the component, A step of calculating a service estimate based on the aforementioned operating parameters and the aforementioned operating data, The steps include: outputting the service estimate to the user in order to assist in the replacement or repair of the components of the imaging device; Methods that include...

39. The method according to claim 38, wherein the step of determining the operating parameters includes determining at least one of the following: the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the imaging device, the temperature profile of the imaging device, the scan operating time, the maximum operating temperature of the imaging device, the cooling time, the battery power consumption rate of the imaging device, the battery power level of the imaging device, the battery power level of the electronic device, the battery power consumption rate of an electronic device used with the imaging device, the minimum power level of the imaging device, the minimum power level of the electronic device, the battery recharge rate of the imaging device, or the battery recharge rate of the electronic device.

40. The method according to claim 38 or 39, wherein the operation data indicates at least one aspect of the current performance of the imaging device.

41. The method according to any one of claims 38 to 40, wherein the step of determining the operating parameters includes the step of receiving a selection of a medical procedure and the step of basing the operating parameters on the selected medical procedure.

42. The method according to any one of claims 38 to 41, wherein the service estimate includes an estimated remaining time for use of the component and / or an indication of whether the component should be replaced.

43. The method according to any one of claims 38 to 42, further comprising the step of shutting down the operation of the imaging device based on the service estimation.

44. A system for predicting whether an electronic medical imaging device can complete a specific task, A medical imaging device comprising a housing configured to carry internal electrical components, multiple temperature sensors, and a circuit configured to enable the imaging device to operate in multiple operating modes, An algorithm capable of receiving input from the aforementioned imaging device, A processor and memory for executing the algorithm based on data from the imaging device and a given operating mode, A display capable of showing capability estimation based on the aforementioned algorithm and A system equipped with these features.

45. The system according to claim 44, wherein the plurality of operating modes correspond to different medical procedures that the imaging device can perform.

46. The system according to claim 44 or 45, wherein the capability estimation includes a prediction of whether the imaging device can complete a medical procedure.

47. The system according to any one of claims 44 to 46, wherein the capability estimation includes a prediction of whether the imaging device can complete a series of medical procedures.

48. The system according to any one of claims 44 to 47, wherein the capability estimation includes a prediction of whether the imaging device can complete a test, diagnostic procedure, or examination scan.

49. The system according to any one of claims 44 to 48, wherein the display allows the user of the imaging device to select one of the plurality of operating modes.

50. The system according to any one of claims 44 to 49, wherein the data from the imaging device on which the algorithm is based for the capability estimation includes (i) one or more temperature indices from the plurality of temperature sensors and (i) the operating mode of the medical device.

51. The system according to any one of claims 44 to 50, wherein one of the plurality of temperature sensors measures the internal temperature of the imaging device.

52. The system according to any one of claims 44 to 51, wherein one of the plurality of temperature sensors measures the ambient temperature.

53. The system according to any one of claims 44 to 52, wherein the internal electrical components of the medical device include a transducer array.

54. The system according to any one of claims 44 to 53, wherein the internal electrical component of the medical device comprises a battery.

55. The system according to claim 54, wherein the battery is wirelessly rechargeable.

56. The system according to claim 54 or 55, wherein one of the plurality of temperature sensors measures the temperature of the battery.

57. The system according to any one of claims 44 to 56, wherein the processor is configured to calculate heating and cooling curves for predicting whether the imaging device can complete the task.

58. One or more medical imaging devices, each having a processor and a sensor, A controller device having a program stored in memory, wherein the program is To receive a choice of one or more medical procedures, Determining the operating parameters of each of the one or more medical devices based on the selection of one or more medical procedures, Receiving operational data from each of the sensors of the one or more medical devices, With respect to the selection of one or more medical procedures performed using the one or more imaging devices, the ability estimate is calculated based on the operating parameters and operating data of each of the one or more medical devices, and Outputting the aforementioned capability estimate to the user A controller device equipped with instructions for performing the following actions An ultrasonic imaging system equipped with [specific features / equipment].

59. The system according to claim 58, wherein determining the operating parameters includes determining at least one of the following: the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the imaging device, the temperature profile of the imaging device, the scan operating time, the maximum operating temperature of the imaging device, the cooling time, the battery power consumption rate of the imaging device, the battery power level of the imaging device, the battery power level of the electronic device, the battery power consumption rate of an electronic device used with the imaging device, the minimum power level of the imaging device, the minimum power level of the electronic device, the battery recharge rate of the imaging device, or the battery recharge rate of the electronic device.

60. The system according to claim 58 or 59, wherein the controller is configured to harmonize treatment protocols for a single patient or for a number of patients, in which the one or more medical procedures are performed using multiple medical devices.

61. The system according to any one of claims 58 to 60, wherein the imaging device has a plurality of operating modes, and the calculation of the capability estimation is also based on the operating modes of each of the one or more imaging devices.

62. The system according to any one of claims 58 to 61, wherein the one or more medical devices comprises one or more ultrasound imaging probes.

63. The system according to any one of claims 58 to 62, wherein the one or more medical procedures comprises a plurality of imaging scans.

64. A system for avoiding downtime during medical imaging scans, comprising one or more medical imaging devices, each having a sensor, a plurality of operating modes, and an operating shutoff limit that causes one or more medical imaging devices to cease operation in response to the sensor, wherein a system processor and memory are configured to receive an index from the sensor and implement an algorithm for providing a real-time operational capability prediction of the one or more medical imaging devices based on the index, a selected operating mode, and a selected medical procedure.

65. The system according to claim 64, further comprising means for displaying the real-time operational capability prediction of one or more medical imaging devices.

66. The system according to claim 64 or 65, wherein the operational capability prediction includes a calculated answer regarding whether the medical imaging device can complete the medical imaging scan.

67. The system according to any one of claims 64 to 66, wherein the shut-off limit includes the maximum allowable temperature of the one or more medical imaging devices.

68. The system according to any one of claims 64 to 67, wherein the shut-off limit includes the battery power level of one or more medical imaging devices.

69. The system according to any one of claims 64 to 68, wherein the sensor comprises a temperature sensor.

70. The system according to any one of claims 64 to 69, wherein the sensor comprises a battery power sensor.

71. The system according to any one of claims 64 to 70, wherein the system processor and memory are further configured to implement the algorithm based on at least one of the following: the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the imaging device, the temperature profile of the imaging device, the scan operating time, the maximum operating temperature of the imaging device, the cooling time, the battery power consumption rate of the imaging device, the battery power level of the imaging device, the battery power level of the electronic device, the battery power consumption rate of an electronic device used with the imaging device, the minimum power level of the imaging device, the minimum power level of the electronic device, the battery recharge rate of the imaging device, or the battery recharge rate of the electronic device.

72. The system according to any one of claims 64 to 71, wherein one of the plurality of operating modes of the one or more medical imaging devices includes a battery-saving mode with a lower frame rate than an operating mode that is not a battery-saving mode.

73. The system according to any one of claims 70 to 72, wherein when one or more of the medical imaging devices reach a predetermined temperature, the one or more medical imaging devices automatically switch to a battery saving mode.

74. The system according to any one of claims 64 to 73, wherein the processor calculates a diagnostic prediction of how the one or more medical imaging devices will operate and compares this calculation with the real-time prediction of the operational capability of the medical imaging devices.

75. The system according to claim 74, wherein the diagnostic prediction and the real-time prediction are displayed on a display to the user of the medical imaging device.

76. The system according to any one of claims 64 to 75, wherein the one or more medical imaging devices comprises a plurality of medical imaging devices.

77. The system according to claim 76, wherein a single medical procedure can be initiated using a first medical imaging device and completed using a second medical imaging device.

78. The system according to claim 76 or 77, wherein the operational capability prediction estimates whether the first of the plurality of medical imaging devices can complete the medical procedure before it reaches the shut-off limit.

79. The system according to claim 78, wherein the operational capability prediction further estimates whether a second of the plurality of medical imaging devices can complete the medical procedure.

80. A non-temporary computer-readable storage medium storing one or more programs that, when executed by a computing device having one or more processors and memory, cause the computing device to perform an operation including receiving a selection of a medical procedure, determining operating parameters of the imaging device based on the selected medical procedure, receiving operating data from the sensors of the imaging device, calculating a capability estimate based on the operating parameters and the operating data with respect to the selected medical procedure performed using the imaging device, and outputting the capability estimate to a user.

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