Fluid flow detection using an ultrasonic imaging system

Abstract

In one embodiment, a method is provided. The method includes transmitting a first set of ultrasonic waves to determine whether there is fluid flow in a target area. The first set of ultrasonic waves is transmitted at a first pulse repetition frequency. The method also includes determining whether there is fluid flow in a second area based on the first set of ultrasonic waves. The second area is between the target area and the ultrasonic probe. The method further includes transmitting a second set of ultrasonic waves to detect fluid flow in the target area in response to determining that there is fluid flow in the second area between the target area and the ultrasonic probe. The second set of ultrasonic waves is directed toward the target area. The second set of ultrasonic waves is transmitted at a second pulse repetition frequency.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 16 / 805,442, filed February 28, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to ultrasound imaging systems, and more particularly to detecting fluid flow using ultrasound imaging systems. [Background technology]

[0003] Transducers, such as acoustic or ultrasonic transducers, are used in medical imaging, where an acoustic or ultrasonic probe transmits and receives ultrasonic waves to generate images of a patient's internal tissues. The ultrasonic probe can allow a user (e.g., a doctor, clinician, technician, etc.) to view images of a target area within the patient's body. The ultrasonic probe can also allow a user to detect fluid movement within the patient's body. For example, the ultrasonic probe can allow a user to detect fluid movement in the patient's veins, arteries, capillaries, etc. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] In one embodiment, a method is provided. The method includes transmitting a first set of ultrasonic waves to determine whether there is fluid flow in a target area. The first set of ultrasonic waves is directed toward the target area. The first set of ultrasonic waves is transmitted at a first pulse repetition frequency. The method also includes determining whether there is fluid flow in a second area based on the first set of ultrasonic waves. The second area is between the target area and the ultrasonic probe. The method further includes transmitting a second set of ultrasonic waves to detect fluid flow in the target area in response to determining there is fluid flow in the second area between the target area and the ultrasonic probe. The second set of ultrasonic waves is directed toward the target area. The second set of ultrasonic waves is transmitted at a second pulse repetition frequency.

[0005] In one embodiment, an ultrasonic probe is provided. The ultrasonic probe includes a probe array assembly configured to transmit ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic probe also includes a processing device coupled to the probe array assembly. The processing device is configured to transmit a first set of ultrasonic waves to determine whether there is fluid flow in a target area. The first set of ultrasonic waves is directed toward the target area. The first set of ultrasonic waves is transmitted at a first pulse repetition frequency. The processing device is further configured to determine whether there is fluid flow in a second area based on the first set of ultrasonic waves. The second area is between the target area and the ultrasonic probe. In response to determining there is fluid flow in the second area between the target area and the ultrasonic probe, the processing device is further configured to transmit a second set of ultrasonic waves to detect fluid flow in the target area. The second set of ultrasonic waves is directed toward the target area. The second set of ultrasonic waves is transmitted at a second pulse repetition frequency.

[0006] In one embodiment, a method is provided. The method includes transmitting a first set of ultrasonic waves to determine whether fluid flow exists in a target area. The first set of ultrasonic waves is directed toward the target area. The first set of ultrasonic waves is transmitted at a first pulse repetition frequency. The method also includes determining whether fluid flow exists in a second area based on the first set of ultrasonic waves. The second area is between the target area and the ultrasonic probe. The method further includes, in response to determining that fluid flow exists in the second area between the target area and the ultrasonic probe, providing an indication that additional fluid flow exists between the ultrasonic probe and the target area.

[0007] The described embodiments and their advantages can best be understood by referring to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which in no way limit any changes in form and detail that may be made to the described embodiments by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1A] 1 is an isometric view of an exemplary ultrasound imaging system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] 1 is an isometric view of an exemplary ultrasound imaging system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagrammatic view of an exemplary ultrasound imaging system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] 1 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary ultrasound wave transmitted by an ultrasound probe according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] 1 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary ultrasound wave transmitted by an ultrasound probe according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] 1 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary ultrasound wave transmitted by an ultrasound probe according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 1 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary ultrasound probe according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 is a flow diagram of a method for detecting fluid flow according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1 is a flow diagram of a method for detecting fluid flow according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary computing device capable of performing one or more of the operations described herein in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] In the following description, numerous details are set forth to provide a more thorough explanation of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form, rather than in detail, in order to avoid obscuring the present invention.

[0010] As discussed above, ultrasound probes allow a user (e.g., a doctor, clinician, technician, etc.) to view an image of a target area within a patient's body. Similarly, ultrasound probes allow a user to detect fluid movement within a patient's body. For example, ultrasound probes allow a user to detect fluid movement in a target area (e.g., a vein, artery, capillary, etc.) of a patient. However, the ultrasound probe may not be able to accurately detect or determine fluid movement in the target area if there are one or more other areas (e.g., areas between the ultrasound probe and the target area) where fluid movement is present.

[0011] Implementations, examples, and / or embodiments described herein allow an ultrasound probe and / or ultrasound imaging system to accurately detect or determine fluid movement in a target area, even if fluid movement is present in other areas. The ultrasound probe can vary the pulse repetition frequency of the ultrasound waves to accurately detect or determine fluid movement in the target area. Similarly, the ultrasound probe can provide an indication (e.g., an error message) if the ultrasound probe is unable to accurately detect or determine fluid movement in the target area.

[0012] 1A and 1B illustrate an exemplary ultrasound imaging system 100 that implements techniques of the present invention to detect fluid movement (e.g., movement of fluid and / or particles within the fluid) in a target area. In one embodiment, ultrasound imaging system 100 is a cart-based system that includes an imaging unit removably connected to an adjustable stand. The imaging unit is configured to image a human or animal subject by transmitting ultrasound signals or pulses to a target (e.g., a patient's body), receiving reflected echo signals / pulses, and processing the received reflections.

[0013] In some embodiments, the imaging unit includes a first interface rotatably connected to a second interface, such that the relative angle or orientation between the two interfaces can be changed. For example, in some embodiments, the first and second interfaces are connected through a pin or hinge joint, such that the first and second interfaces rotate about an axis corresponding to the joint. In some embodiments, the ultrasound imaging system 100 switches between supported modes depending on the relative position, angle, or orientation of the two interfaces. In alternative embodiments, the ultrasound imaging system 100 switches between supported modes depending on the relative position, angle, or orientation of one interface relative to another component of the ultrasound imaging system 100, or a plane defined relative to the ultrasound imaging system 100, or a portion thereof.

[0014] In some embodiments, ultrasound imaging system 100 supports a diagnostic imaging mode and one or more procedural modes performed by a medical professional. During a diagnostic exam, a medical professional and / or operator can passively observe a physiological region of a patient using ultrasound imaging system 100. For example, the ultrasound exam can include one or more of cardiac imaging, abdominal imaging, pelvic imaging, obstetric imaging, a Fast Acoustic Tongue for Trauma (FAST) exam, etc.

[0015] In comparison, during a procedure, a medical professional and / or operator uses the ultrasound imaging system 100 to image / track progress while actively performing a medical procedure on a patient's physiological region to accomplish a specific task (e.g., a nerve block). Generally, the procedure may require puncturing the patient's skin or otherwise inserting a device into the patient's body. Some example examinations and / or procedures may include applications in anesthesiology, vascular medicine, cardiology, emergency medicine, various surgeries, gynecology / obstetrics, otolaryngology, neonatology, ophthalmology, pulmonology, urology, etc. For example, ultrasound-based procedures may include trauma or emergency procedures (e.g., bullet removal or suturing), anesthesia procedures (e.g., performing nerve blocks), PICC line procedures, etc.

[0016] Ultrasound imaging system 100 is configured to operate in different modes corresponding to various purposes / scenarios, in some embodiments, ultrasound imaging system 100 operates in a diagnostic mode and a treatment mode supporting one or more diagnostic exams and one or more treatments, respectively.

[0017] When supporting a diagnostic examination, the ultrasound imaging system 100 operates in a diagnostic mode with targeted monitoring of the patient's body / tissue. For example, the imaging system processes received reflections to present a visual depiction of the examined portion of the patient's body. In processing the received reflections, the ultrasound imaging system 100 quantifies characteristics of the received echo signals (e.g., their amplitude, phase, power, frequency shift, etc.) and converts them into data that is displayed to a user as an image representing the tissue, bone, blood, etc. of the patient's body in the examination region.

[0018] When supporting a procedure, ultrasound imaging system 100 operates in a procedure mode by monitoring the location of medical devices / instruments relative to the patient's body / tissue. For example, in one embodiment, in the procedure mode, ultrasound imaging system 100 displays representations of treatment instruments (e.g., needles, stents, catheters / tubes, robotic devices, etc.) and / or injected substances (e.g., contrast agents, anesthetic agents, oral medications, etc.) relative to the imaging area of the patient's body. Also, in one embodiment, in the procedure mode, ultrasound imaging system 100 tracks the position, location, orientation, etc. of medical instruments within the patient's body during a medical procedure.

[0019] In some embodiments, the stand of the ultrasound imaging system 100 includes an adjustable hinge configured to facilitate multiple orientations / positions and therefore different modes of operation (e.g., a diagnostic imaging mode and one or more treatment modes). In at least one embodiment, the adjustable hinge is positioned in front of the support post supporting the imaging unit and / or the docking tray. In one embodiment, the adjustable hinge is further configured to provide different levels of resistance to movement based on various factors, such as the direction of force applied by the operator, control input from the operator, etc. In one embodiment, the adjustable hinge includes a clutch mechanism configured to provide different levels of resistance depending on one or more of a user-actuated lever / button, the direction of force or movement, or a combination thereof.

[0020] FIG. 1A is an isometric view of an exemplary ultrasound imaging system 100 in a storage configuration in accordance with embodiments of the present technology. In some embodiments, the ultrasound imaging system 100 is a conventional clamshell design having a lid 112 containing a display screen (shown closed) and a base portion 114 containing processing electronics, a power supply, a fan, etc. (not shown). The ultrasound imaging system 100 is mounted on a stand 150 with tilt adjustment, as described below. When in the storage configuration, the lid 112 can be rotated about a hinge axis to position parallel to and above the base portion 114. The resulting angle between the two portions can be substantially 0°. In the storage configuration, in one embodiment, the ultrasound imaging system 100 turns off, deactivates, modifies, etc., one or more of its portions or functions, or a combination thereof, based on the attitude and orientation of the imaging system. For example, the ultrasound imaging system 100 turns off or deactivates one or more of the display, signal generator, input keys / controllers, software processes, etc.

[0021] FIG. 1B is an isometric view of an ultrasound imaging system 100 in a first operating configuration in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology. In some embodiments, the imaging unit, in the operating configuration, includes a lid 112 of FIG. 1A (e.g., including a display screen, touch screen, etc.) that is opened relative to a base portion 114 of FIG. 1A. The ultrasound imaging system 100 is connected to one or more probes 128 of FIG. 1A through which an operator can direct ultrasound signals or pulses into a patient's body and receive reflected echo signals / pulses. The received reflections are processed to present a visual representation of the examined portion of the patient's body and / or medical device, such as during a diagnostic examination.

[0022] 1A . Stand 150 includes a support post 164 extending upward from a base 162 (e.g., a wheeled base). Stand 150 further includes a docking tray 168 connected to the top of support post 164. Docking tray 168 removably connects to / accommodates the imaging unit, such as by connecting to and accepting base portion 114. In some embodiments, docking tray 168 includes a handle 170 that an operator can grasp to move / replace ultrasound imaging system 100 and / or to orient / position docking tray 168 and / or base portion 114.

[0023] In some embodiments, an adjustable hinge connects the docking tray 168 to the support posts 164 and allows the docking tray 168 and the bottom / docking portion of the imaging unit (e.g., the base portion 114 and / or interfaces thereon) to rotate relative to a horizontal plane. In one embodiment, the adjustable hinge secures or holds the docking tray 168 at multiple angles relative to a horizontal plane. For example, in one embodiment, the adjustable hinge is a barrel-type hinge that includes position stops that limit the range of motion / angle for the docking tray 168 (e.g., 0-90 degrees below horizontal). Other ranges can be selected based on user / design specifications. For example, in one embodiment, the adjustable hinge includes one or more adjustable motion stops that can be repositioned by a user. Similarly, in one embodiment, the adjustable hinge includes one or more motion stops that correspond to a specified / designed range of motion. In one embodiment, the hinge has a locking mode that increases the force required to move it (e.g., when the clutch is engaged) so that the imaging system does not reorient due to gravity but can be easily moved to a new orientation when desired. In one embodiment, the hinge includes a button or lever that is activated by the weight of the docking tray 168, thereby activating the locking mode. The button or lever can be disengaged when the user grips or lifts the handle 170 or based on user operation of the clutch mechanism.

[0024] To change the operational mode of the imaging system, in one embodiment, the two interfaces are positioned to generate two or more angular ranges of angles. For example, in one embodiment, a medical professional rotates the bottom interface about a horizontal plane to change the operational mode between diagnostic and procedural modes. To keep the system stable during use, the support post is positioned behind the center of gravity of the imaging unit and / or docking tray 168 (i.e., away from the user operating / facing the imaging unit), while the adjustable hinge is positioned below the center of gravity and in front of the support post 164. Compared to having the adjustable hinge collinear with and immediately above the support post 164, this location of the adjustable hinge increases stability during movement and orientation changes.

[0025] In some embodiments, the adjustable hinge includes a clutch mechanism configured to control the resistance / friction level required to move the docking tray 168 and imaging unit. For example, the clutch mechanism can be configured to provide multiple resistance / friction levels for different directions of movement (e.g., changing the orientation of the docking tray 168). The clutch mechanism provides a first level of resistance when a user tilts the docking tray 168 upward (e.g., rotates it about the axis of rotation of the adjustable hinge) and a second level of resistance when the user tilts the docking tray 168 downward. Also, for example, in one embodiment, the clutch mechanism is attached to a control mechanism (e.g., a handle, lever, foot pedal, button, etc.) configured to engage and disengage the clutch mechanism according to user manipulation. In one embodiment, the clutch mechanism is configured to provide varying amounts of resistance / friction according to a control mechanism, such as the force applied thereto or its position. In some embodiments, the clutch mechanism includes a wrap spring clutch that can reduce the tightness of a wrap spring based on the position of the control mechanism. Additionally, the wrapping direction provides different levels of resistance depending on different directions of orientation (e.g., upward or downward movement at the handle 170) or corresponding direction of force. In some embodiments, the clutch mechanism includes a pair of plates that are compressed together with different levels of force according to a control mechanism.

[0026] FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of an ultrasonic transducer probe having an ultrasonic transducer assembly configured in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosed technology. Referring to FIG. 2, an ultrasonic transducer probe 128 includes an enclosure 210 extending between a distal end portion and a proximal end portion 214. In one embodiment, the enclosure 210 of the ultrasonic transducer probe 128 has a transparent cover surrounding an inner shell. In one embodiment, the inner shell is constructed from a metallic material (e.g., die-cast aluminum, etc.). In one embodiment, the transparent cover comprises a transparent plastic (e.g., polysulfone) overmolded onto the die-cast metal inner shell. In one embodiment, the outer cover and inner shell cooperate to form the enclosure 210 and transfer heat away from the probe.

[0027] The enclosure 210 is configured to carry or house system electronics (e.g., one or more processors, integrated circuits, ASICs, FPGAs, beamformers, batteries and / or other power sources) disposed within an interior or cavity of the enclosure 210. The system electronics (not shown) are electrically coupled to an ultrasound imaging system 280 through a cable 218 attached to the proximal end of the probe by a strain relief element 219.

[0028] At the probe tip, a transducer assembly 220 having one or more transducer elements is electrically coupled to the system electronics. During operation, the transducer assembly 220 transmits ultrasonic energy from the one or more transducer elements toward a subject and receives ultrasonic echoes from the subject. The ultrasonic echoes are converted into electrical signals by the transmit / receive circuitry and electrically transmitted to the system electronics and to electronics within the ultrasound imaging system 280 (e.g., one or more processors, memory modules, beamformers, FPGAs, etc.) configured to process the electrical signals to form one or more ultrasound images.

[0029] Capturing ultrasound data from a subject using an exemplary transducer assembly (e.g., transducer assembly 220) generally involves generating ultrasound waves, transmitting the ultrasound waves to the subject, and receiving the ultrasound waves reflected by the subject. A wide range of ultrasound frequencies can be used to capture the ultrasound data, including, for example, low-frequency ultrasound (e.g., less than 15 MHz) and / or high-frequency ultrasound (e.g., greater than or equal to 15 MHz). One skilled in the art can readily determine which frequency range to use based on factors such as, but not limited to, imaging depth and / or desired resolution.

[0030] In one embodiment, ultrasound imaging system 280 includes an ultrasound control subsystem 281 having one or more processors. At least one processor sends electrical current to the transducer of probe 128 to cause it to emit sound waves and also receives electrical pulses from the probe that are generated from the returning echoes. The processor processes raw data associated with the received electrical pulses to form an image that is sent to ultrasound imaging subsystem 282, which displays the image on display screen 283. That is, display screen 283 displays an ultrasound image from the ultrasound data processed by the processor of ultrasound control subsystem 281.

[0031] In one embodiment, the ultrasound system also includes one or more user input devices (e.g., keyboard, cursor control device, etc.) that allow data to be entered and measurements taken from the display of the ultrasound display subsystem, a disk storage device (e.g., hard disk, floppy disk, compact disk (CD), digital video disk (DVD)) for storing acquired images, and a printer for printing images from the display data (as shown in Figures 1A and 1B). These are also not shown in Figure 2 so as not to obscure the technology disclosed herein.

[0032] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic probe 128 may be a pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasonic probe. The pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasonic probe may be an ultrasonic probe capable of detecting fluid movement within the target area 325 (e.g., in a gate, sample volume, sample area, etc.). For example, the pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasonic probe may be capable of detecting movement of fluid, such as blood, and / or substances within a fluid, within a target area subcutaneously (e.g., beneath or within body tissue) of a patient. The pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasonic probe may detect fluid movement within the target area using the Doppler effect. For example, the pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasonic probe may detect changes or fluctuations in the frequency of ultrasonic waves. The changes and / or fluctuations in the frequency of ultrasonic waves may be used to determine whether there is fluid movement within the target area 325 (e.g., whether the fluid is moving). The pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasonic probe may be capable of detecting the direction of fluid movement, the amount of fluid moving within the target area, and / or the direction / angle of fluid movement.

[0033] 3 is a diagram illustrating exemplary ultrasound waves 315 transmitted by an ultrasound probe 128 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the ultrasound probe 128 may be capable of detecting the movement of fluid, such as blood, and / or material within the fluid, in a target area immediately beneath the patient's skin 305 (e.g., immediately beneath or within body tissue). The ultrasound probe 128 may be capable of detecting changes or fluctuations in the frequency of the ultrasound waves. The changes and / or fluctuations in the frequency of the ultrasound waves may be used to determine whether there is fluid movement in the target area 325 (e.g., whether the fluid is moving). The ultrasound probe 128 may be capable of detecting the direction of fluid movement, the amount of fluid moving within the target area, and / or the direction / angle of fluid movement.

[0034] In one embodiment, the ultrasonic probe 128 can use pulses of ultrasound to determine whether there is fluid movement in the target area 325. For example, as shown in FIG. 3 , fluid may be moving through a tube 335 located just below the patient's skin 305. The tube may be a blood vessel, a capillary, or some other type of structure within the patient's body that allows fluid to flow from one area to another. The ultrasonic probe 128 can transmit ultrasound waves 315 (e.g., pulses of ultrasound) downward below the patient's skin 305. The ultrasound waves 315 may also be referred to as bursts, pulses, etc. of ultrasound. The ultrasonic probe 128 can also receive reflections of the ultrasound waves 315. An imaging system (which may be coupled to the ultrasonic probe 128 as discussed above) can process the received reflections to generate, provide, present, display, etc. a visual representation of the target area 325.

[0035] FIG. 4A is a diagram illustrating exemplary ultrasound waves 415 transmitted by an ultrasound probe 128 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the ultrasound probe 128 may be a pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasound probe. The pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasound probe may be an ultrasound probe capable of detecting fluid movement within a target area 425 (e.g., in a gate, sample volume, sample area, etc.). For example, the pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasound probe 128 may detect fluid movement in the target area using the Doppler effect. The ultrasound probe 128 may be able to detect the direction of fluid movement, the amount of fluid moving through the target area 425, and / or the angle of fluid movement. In one embodiment, the ultrasound probe 128 may use pulses of ultrasound to determine whether there is fluid movement in the target area 425. For example, as shown in FIG. 4 , fluid may be moving through a tube 435 (e.g., a blood vessel, capillary, artery, etc.) beneath the patient's skin 405. The ultrasound probe 128 may transmit ultrasound waves 415 (e.g., pulses of ultrasound) downward beneath the patient's skin 405. The ultrasound probe 128 may also receive reflections of the ultrasound waves 415. An imaging system (which may be coupled to the ultrasound probe 128 as discussed above) may process the received reflections to generate, provide, present, display, etc. a visual representation (e.g., one or more images, videos, etc.) of the target area 425.

[0036] 4A, fluid may also be moving within a tube 455 positioned between the ultrasonic probe 128 and the tube 435. While the ultrasonic probe 128 may be able to determine whether fluid is moving within the target area 425, it may not be able to accurately determine that fluid is moving within the target area 425 due to fluid moving within another area 445 above the target area 425. For example, errors and / or aliasing may occur due to fluid movement within area 445.

[0037] The ultrasonic probe 128 may transmit ultrasonic waves 415 at a pulse repetition frequency (PRF). The pulse repetition frequency may be the frequency or period at which the ultrasonic probe 128 transmits ultrasonic waves toward a target area. For example, the pulse repetition frequency may be 50 hertz (e.g., 50 times per second), 1 kilohertz (e.g., 1000 times per second), or some other suitable value. Similarly, the pulse repetition frequency may be expressed or represented in terms of time. For example, the pulse repetition frequency may be every 10 milliseconds, every 200 milliseconds, or some other suitable time.

[0038] As discussed above, the ultrasound probe 128 can transmit ultrasound waves 415 toward the target area 425 and detect reflections of the ultrasound waves 415 to determine whether there is movement in the target area 425. If there is fluid movement in an area outside of the target area 425 (e.g., area 445), this can prevent the ultrasound probe from accurately determining whether there is fluid movement in the target area 425 (e.g., can cause error or aliasing). As shown in FIG. 4A , the target area 425 is at a first distance below the skin 405. The first distance can be referred to as D1. An ultrasound wave may take an amount of time T1 to reach distance D1, and a reflection of the ultrasound wave may take an equal amount of time T1 to reflect back to the ultrasound probe 128. FIG. 4A can show the location of the ultrasound wave at time T1. The total amount of time for the ultrasound wave to be transmitted, reflected, and returned to the ultrasound probe 128 is 2 * As shown in FIG. 4A, at time T1, ultrasound is present in the target area 425 and area 445. The ultrasound probe 128 *When receiving ultrasound reflections from target area 425 at T1, the ultrasound probe may also receive ultrasound reflections from area 445. Fluid movement in area 445 may cause a change / variation in the frequency of the ultrasound reflected from area 445. Fluid movement in area 445 may also cause a change / variation in the frequency of the ultrasound reflected from target area 425. Because there are two sets of variations / variations in the frequency of the ultrasound, the ultrasound probe may not be able to accurately detect fluid movement in target area 425 using the variations / variations in the frequency of the reflected ultrasound. For example, errors and / or aliasing may occur when the ultrasound probe 128 attempts to detect fluid movement in target area 425.

[0039] FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating exemplary ultrasound waves 416 transmitted by an ultrasound probe 128 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the ultrasound probe 128 may be a pulsed wave Doppler ultrasound probe. The ultrasound probe 128 may be capable of detecting the direction of fluid movement, the amount of fluid moving through the target area 425, and / or the direction / angle of fluid movement. In one embodiment, the ultrasound probe 128 may use pulses of ultrasound to determine whether there is fluid movement in the target area 425. For example, as shown in FIG. 4 , fluid may be moving through a tube 435 (e.g., a blood vessel, capillary, artery, etc.) beneath the patient's skin 405. The ultrasound probe 128 may transmit ultrasound waves 416 (e.g., pulses of ultrasound) downward beneath the patient's skin 405. The ultrasound probe 128 may also receive reflections of the ultrasound waves 416. An imaging system (which may be coupled to the ultrasound probe 128 as discussed above) may process the received reflections to generate, provide, present, display, etc. a visual representation of the target area 425.

[0040] As discussed above, fluid may also be moving within the tube 455 positioned between the ultrasonic probe 128 and the tube 435. While the ultrasonic probe 128 may be able to determine whether fluid is moving within the target area 425, it may not be able to accurately determine that fluid is moving within the target area 425 due to fluid moving within another area 445 above the target area 425. In FIG. 4A , the ultrasonic probe 128 transmitted ultrasound waves 415 at a first pulse repetition frequency. As shown in FIG. 4B , the ultrasonic probe 128 has changed its pulse repetition frequency and is now transmitting ultrasound waves 416 at a second pulse repetition frequency. For example, the ultrasonic probe 128 has increased its pulse repetition frequency.

[0041] As shown in Figure 4B, the target area 425 is at a first distance D1 below the skin 405. It may take an amount of time T1 for the ultrasound wave to reach the distance D1, and an equal amount of time T1 for the reflection of the ultrasound wave to reflect back to the ultrasound probe 128. Figure 4B may show the location of the ultrasound wave at time T1. The total amount of time for the ultrasound wave to be transmitted and reflected back to the ultrasound probe 128 is 2 * As shown in FIG. 4B, at time T1, ultrasound is present in the target area 425 and area 445. * When receiving the ultrasound reflection from the target area 425 at time T1, the other ultrasound waves are located in locations / areas where there is no fluid movement. Therefore, the reflection of the other ultrasound waves (e.g., ultrasound waves that are not located in the target area 425 at time T1) may not change or fluctuate in their frequency. This may allow the ultrasound probe 128 to accurately detect fluid movement within the target area 425 based on the fluctuation / change in the frequency of the ultrasound waves that are reflected back from the target area 425.

[0042] 5 is a diagram illustrating an ultrasound probe 128 in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure. The ultrasound probe 128 includes a transducer assembly 220, a detection component 505, and a beamforming component 506. Each of the detection component 505 and the beamforming component 506 can be hardware (e.g., a circuit, a processing device, a processor, a processing core, an FPGA, an ASIC, etc.), software (e.g., an application, a service, etc.), firmware, or a combination thereof.

[0043] In one embodiment, the detection component 505 can transmit a first set of ultrasonic waves toward the target area and determine whether there is fluid flow in the target area (e.g., whether the fluid is moving or flowing). The first set of ultrasonic waves can be transmitted at a first pulse repetition frequency. For example, as discussed above, pulses, bursts, etc. of ultrasonic waves can be transmitted at fixed periodic time intervals (e.g., every millisecond, every 20 milliseconds, every 100 milliseconds, or some other suitable periodicity). In one embodiment, the detection component 505 can determine whether there is fluid flow in the second area based on the first set of ultrasonic waves (e.g., based on the bursts / pulses of the first set of ultrasonic waves).

[0044] In one embodiment, the detection component 505 can determine whether there is fluid flow in the second area based on the first set of ultrasonic waves. As discussed above, reflections of the ultrasonic waves can be detected by the ultrasonic transducer 128 (e.g., detected using a transducer assembly). The detection component 505 can use the reflections of the ultrasonic waves to detect and / or determine whether there is fluid flow in the target area. The second area can be between the target area and the ultrasonic probe. As discussed above, if there is fluid movement in an area other than the target area, the detection component 505 may not be able to accurately determine fluid movement in the target area (e.g., due to error or aliasing).

[0045] In one embodiment, the detection component 505 can determine whether there is fluid flow in the target area when it determines that there is no fluid flow in the second area. For example, the detection component 505 can analyze ultrasound reflections to determine whether fluid is flowing through a tube (e.g., an artery, vein, capillary, etc.) in the target area.

[0046] In one embodiment, the detection component 505 can generate one or more images (or videos) of the target if it determines that there is fluid flow in the target area. For example, the detection component 505 can transmit ultrasound data (e.g., sensor data, data representing detected objects and / or fluid) to an imaging system that can generate one or more images of the target area. In another example, the detection component 505 can generate one or more images (e.g., directly generate one or more images rather than transmitting the ultrasound data to another system / component). The one or more images can indicate fluid movement in the target area. For example, the one or more images can include the direction of fluid flow within the target area. In another example, the one or more images can indicate the amount of fluid flowing within the target area. In yet another example, the one or more images can indicate the angle of fluid flow within the target area.

[0047] In one embodiment, if the detection component 505 determines that there is fluid flow in the second area, it can transmit a second set of ultrasonic waves (e.g., a second set of ultrasonic bursts / pulses) toward the target area to detect fluid flow in the target area. The second set of ultrasonic waves can be transmitted at a second pulse repetition frequency. The second pulse repetition frequency can be different from the first pulse repetition frequency. For example, the second pulse repetition frequency can be higher than the first pulse repetition frequency. In another example, the second pulse repetition frequency can be lower than the first pulse repetition frequency.

[0048] In one embodiment, the detection component 505 can determine whether there is fluid flow in a third area based on the second set of ultrasound waves. The third area can be between the target area and the ultrasound probe. Also, the third area can be different from the second area. For example, the third area can be located at a different location from the second area. In another example, the second area and the third area can be non-overlapping.

[0049] In one embodiment, the detection component 505 transmits a set of ultrasound waves (at a particular pulse repetition frequency), and each time the detection component 505 determines that there is fluid movement in an area outside the target area, the detection component 505 can decide whether to continue transmitting ultrasound waves. For example, if fluid movement is detected in a second area or a third area, i.e., an area other than the target area, the detection component 505 can decide whether to continue transmitting ultrasound waves, bursts / pulses of ultrasound waves, etc.

[0050] In one embodiment, the ultrasound imaging system, ultrasound probe, detection component 505, etc. can be configured to retransmit ultrasound waves at different pulse repetition frequencies a certain number of times. For example, the ultrasound imaging system, ultrasound probe, detection component 505, etc. can be configured to retry transmitting ultrasound waves at different pulse repetition frequencies specified by a user (e.g., a clinician, doctor, technician, etc.). The ultrasound imaging system, ultrasound probe, detection component 505, etc. can retransmit ultrasound waves (e.g., sets, pulses, bursts, etc.) at different pulse repetition frequencies until a threshold number of retries is reached. In another example, the ultrasound imaging system, ultrasound probe, detection component 505, etc. can be configured with a set of pulse repetition frequencies, and the ultrasound imaging system, ultrasound probe, detection component 505, etc. can retransmit ultrasound waves at each pulse repetition frequency in the set of pulse repetition frequencies before ceasing. In another embodiment, the ultrasound imaging system, ultrasound probe, detection component 505, etc. can request input from a user (e.g., user input from a doctor, clinician, technician, etc.) indicating whether they should continue retransmitting ultrasound waves at different pulse repetition frequencies. For example, the ultrasound imaging system, ultrasound probe, and detection component 505 may be provided with a user interface that allows the user to indicate whether the detection component 505 should continue transmitting ultrasound waves at a different pulse repetition frequency.

[0051] In one embodiment, if the detection component 505 determines that it should not continue transmitting ultrasound sets (e.g., pulses, bursts, etc.), the detection component 505 can provide an indication that fluid movement has been detected in an area other than the target area. For example, the detection component 505 can display a message (e.g., an error message) on a user interface. The message can indicate that fluid movement in the target area may not be accurately detected due to fluid movement in another area between the ultrasound probe 128 and the target area.

[0052] In one embodiment, the detection component 505 may not retransmit ultrasound if it determines that there is fluid movement in another area between the ultrasound probe 128 and the target area. For example, the detection component 505 may display a message (e.g., an error message) on a user interface. The message may indicate that fluid movement in the target area may not be accurately detected due to fluid movement in another area between the ultrasound probe 128 and the target area.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 5 , the ultrasound probe 128 also includes multiple beamforming components 506. The beamforming components 506 can perform weighting and summation on data representing reflections of ultrasound signals detected by the transducer assembly 220. The beamforming components can allow for compensation for delays due to the location of the transducer elements within the array. In one embodiment, the ultrasound probe 128 includes multiple beamforming components 506, allowing the ultrasound probe 128 to simultaneously receive and process ultrasound waves or ultrasound reflections at multiple transducer elements. For example, a first beamforming component 506 can perform summation and weighting to compensate for different delays when receiving ultrasound waves at right / left transducer elements of the transducer assembly 220, and a second beamforming component 506 can perform summation and weighting to compensate for different delays when receiving ultrasound waves at a center transducer element of the transducer assembly 220. The beamforming components 506 can already be present in the detection component 505 (e.g., the ultrasound probe 128), so the detection component 505 can use the beamforming components 506 when the ultrasound probe 128 is not performing beamforming. For example, when detecting fluid movement in a target area, the detection components 505 can use a first set of beam forming components 506 (one or more beam forming components 506) to determine whether there is fluid movement in the target area, and simultaneously use another set of beam forming components to determine whether there is fluid movement in other areas.

[0054] 6 is a flow diagram of a process 600 for detecting fluid movement at a target area according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Process 600 may be performed by processing logic, which may include hardware (e.g., circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, processor, processing device, central processing unit (CPU), system-on-chip (SoC), etc.), software (e.g., instructions running / executed on a processing device), firmware (e.g., microcode), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, process 600 may be performed by one or more of a detection component, an ultrasound probe, an ultrasound imaging system, and / or a computing device.

[0055] Process 600 begins at block 605 by transmitting a set of ultrasound waves to a target area to detect fluid movement in the target area. The ultrasound waves may be transmitted at a first pulse repetition frequency. At block 610, process 600 may determine whether there is fluid movement in another area different from the target area. If there is no fluid movement in the other area, process 600 may determine whether fluid movement is detected in the target area at block 630. If fluid movement is detected in the target area, process 600 may generate a set of images at block 635. As discussed above, the set of images may indicate fluid movement in the target area.

[0056] If there is fluid movement in an area different or other than the target area, process 600 may determine whether to continue transmitting ultrasound waves at block 615. For example, process 600 may determine whether a threshold number of retransmissions has been reached. In another example, process 600 may determine whether a set of different pulse repetition frequencies has been tried. If process 600 should continue transmitting ultrasound waves, process 600 may transmit another set of ultrasound waves at a different pulse repetition frequency at block 620. If process 600 should not continue transmitting ultrasound waves, process 600 may provide an indication at block 625 that there is fluid movement in other areas and / or that process 600 is unable to accurately detect fluid movement in the target area.

[0057] 7 is a flow diagram of a process 700 for detecting fluid movement at a target area according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Process 700 may be performed by processing logic, which may include hardware (e.g., circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, processor, processing device, central processing unit (CPU), system-on-chip (SoC), etc.), software (e.g., instructions running / executed on a processing device), firmware (e.g., microcode), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, process 700 may be performed by one or more of a detection component, an ultrasound probe, an ultrasound imaging system, and / or a computing device.

[0058] Process 700 begins at block 705 by transmitting a set of ultrasound waves to a target area to detect fluid movement in the target area. The ultrasound waves may be transmitted at a first pulse repetition frequency. At block 710, process 700 may determine whether there is fluid movement in another area different from the target area. If there is fluid movement in an area different from the target area, process 700 may provide an indication at block 725 that there is fluid movement in another area and / or that process 700 is unable to accurately detect fluid movement in the target area.

[0059] If there is no fluid movement in other areas, process 700 may determine whether fluid movement is detected in the target area at block 730. If fluid movement is detected in the target area, process 700 may generate a set of images at block 735. As discussed above, the set of images may show fluid movement in the target area.

[0060] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an exemplary computing device 800 capable of performing one or more of the operations described herein, according to some embodiments. The computing device 800 can be connected to other computing devices within a LAN, an intranet, an extranet, and / or the Internet. The computing device can operate in the capacity of a server machine in a client-server network environment or in the capacity of a client in a peer-to-peer network environment. The computing device can be provided by a personal computer (PC), a server computer, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be performed by the machine. Furthermore, although only a single computing device is depicted, the term “computing device” shall be considered to include any collection of computing devices that individually or jointly execute a set (or sets) of instructions to perform the methods described herein. In some embodiments, the computing device 800 can be one or more of an access point and a packet forwarding component.

[0061] The exemplary computing device 800 may include a processing device (e.g., a general-purpose processor, PLD, etc.) 802, a main memory 804 (e.g., synchronous dynamic random access memory (DRAM), read-only memory (ROM)), a static memory 806 (e.g., flash memory and a data storage device 818), which may communicate with each other via a bus 830.

[0062] Processing device 802 may be provided by one or more general-purpose processing devices, such as, for example, a microprocessor or a central processing unit. In an exemplary embodiment, processing device 802 may include a complex instruction set computer (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computer (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, or a processor implementing other instruction sets or a combination of instruction sets. Processing device 802 may also include one or more special-purpose processing devices, such as, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a network processor. Processing device 802 may be configured to perform the operations described herein in accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure to perform the operations and steps described herein.

[0063] Computing device 800 may further include a network interface device 808 capable of communicating with a network 820. Computing device 800 may also include a video display unit 810 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or cathode ray tube (CRT)), an alphanumeric input device 812 (e.g., a keyboard), a cursor control device 814 (e.g., a mouse), and an audio signal generation device 816 (e.g., a speaker). In one embodiment, video display unit 810, alphanumeric input device 812, and cursor control device 814 may be combined into a single component or device (e.g., an LCD touchscreen).

[0064] Data storage device 818 may include a computer-readable storage medium 828 capable of storing one or more sets of instructions in accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure, e.g., instructions for performing the operations described herein. Similarly, instructions 826 implementing one or more of the detection components may reside, completely or at least partially, within main memory 804 and / or processing device 802 during their execution by computing device 800, with main memory 804 and processing device 802 also comprising computer-readable media. Instructions may also be transmitted or received over network 820 through network interface device 808.

[0065] While the exemplary embodiment depicts computer-readable storage medium 828 as being a single medium, the term "computer-readable storage medium" should be understood to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., centralized or distributed databases and / or associated caches and servers) that store one or more sets of instructions. Likewise, the term "computer-readable storage medium" shall be considered to include any medium that can store, encode, or carry a set of instructions for execution by a machine, causing the machine to perform the methods described herein. Accordingly, the term "computer-readable storage medium" shall be considered to include, but not be limited to, semiconductor memory, optical media, and magnetic media.

[0066] Unless otherwise specified, terms such as "transmit," "determine," "receive," or "generate" refer to actions and processes performed or carried out by a computing device that manipulates and converts data represented as physical (electronic) quantities in the registers and memory of the computing device into other data that is also represented as physical quantities in the memory or registers of the computing device or other such information storage, transmission, or display device. Similarly, terms such as "first," "second," "third," "fourth," etc., as used herein, are meant as labels to distinguish between different elements and do not necessarily have an hierarchical meaning according to their numerical designations.

[0067] The examples described herein also relate to apparatus for performing the operations described herein. This apparatus may be specially constructed for the required purposes, or it may include a general-purpose computing device selectively programmed by a computer program stored in a computer. Such a computer program may be stored on a computer-readable non-transitory storage medium.

[0068] The methods and illustrative embodiments described herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. Various general-purpose systems can be used in accordance with the teachings described herein, or it may prove advantageous to include more specialized apparatus to perform the required method steps. The required structure for a variety of these systems will appear as set forth in the above description.

[0069] The foregoing description is illustrative and not intended to be limiting. While the present disclosure has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments, it will be recognized that the present disclosure is not limited to the described examples. The scope of the present disclosure should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0070] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It will be further understood that as used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," and / or "comprising" specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Accordingly, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0071] It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions / acts noted may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two figures shown in succession may in fact be executed substantially concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending on the functions / acts involved.

[0072] Although the method acts have been described in a particular order, it should be understood that other acts may be performed between the acts described, that the acts described may be adjusted so that they occur at slightly different times, or that the acts described may be distributed within a system that allows the process acts to occur at various intervals associated with the process.

[0073] Various units, circuits, or other components may be described or claimed as being "configured to" or "configurable to" perform one or more tasks. In such contexts, the phrase "configured to" or "configurable to" is used to suggest structure by indicating that the unit / circuit / component includes structure (e.g., circuitry) that performs a task when in operation. Thus, a unit / circuit / component may be said to be configured to perform a task or to be configurable to perform a task even when the specified unit / circuit / component is not currently in operation (e.g., not turned on). A unit / circuit / component used in conjunction with the phrase "configured to" or "configurable to" includes hardware, e.g., circuits, memory that stores executable program instructions to perform an operation, etc. By describing a unit / circuit / component as "configured" to perform one or more tasks or "configurable" to perform one or more tasks, it is expressly intended not to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6, for that unit / circuit / component. Additionally, "configured to" or "configurable to" can include general-purpose structure (e.g., general-purpose circuitry) operated by software and / or firmware (e.g., an FPGA or general-purpose processor executing software) that operates to perform the tasks in question. "Configured to" can also include adapting a manufacturing process (such as semiconductor manufacturing equipment) to produce devices (e.g., integrated circuits) adapted to perform or execute one or more tasks. It is expressly intended that "configured to" does not apply to blank media, unprogrammed processors or unprogrammed general-purpose computers, or unprogrammed programmable logic devices, programmable gate arrays, or other unprogrammed devices unless accompanied by programmed media that imparts the functionality to the unprogrammed device configured to perform the disclosed functions.

[0074] The foregoing description has been set forth in connection with specific embodiments for purposes of explanation. However, the exemplary discussion above is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. These embodiments were chosen and described to best explain the principles of the embodiments and their practical application, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to best utilize possible embodiments and various modifications suited to the particular uses contemplated. Therefore, the present embodiments should be considered as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention should not be limited to the details given herein, but modifications may be made within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0075] 100 Ultrasound imaging system 122 Lid 124 Base part 126 Imaging unit

Claims

1. transmitting a first set of ultrasound waves; the first set of ultrasound waves is directed at a target area; and the first set of ultrasound waves is transmitted at a first pulse repetition frequency; And, determining fluid flow in a second area between the target area and an ultrasound probe based on the first set of ultrasound waves; the ultrasonic probe includes a plurality of beamforming components including a first beamforming component and a second beamforming component, the first beamforming component correcting a first delay of reception of ultrasonic waves on a first transducer element of a transducer assembly, the second beamforming component correcting a second delay of reception of the ultrasonic waves on a second transducer element of the transducer assembly, and when the ultrasonic probe is not performing beamforming, the first beamforming component determines whether there is fluid flow in the target area, and simultaneously the second beamforming component determines whether there is fluid flow in a second area separate from the target area. And, A method comprising:

2. determining the fluid flow in the second area based on a first change in the first pulse repetition frequency of a first set of ultrasound reflections from the second area in the first set of waves and a second change in the first pulse repetition frequency of a second set of ultrasound reflections from the target area in the first set of waves; The method of claim 1.

3. and in response to determining that there is no fluid flow in the second area, the first set of ultrasound waves is used to generate one or more images indicative of the fluid flow in the target area on a display device. The method of claim 1.

4. transmitting a second set of ultrasound waves to the target area in response to determining the fluid flow in the second area, the second set of ultrasound waves being transmitted at a second pulse repetition frequency different from the first pulse repetition frequency to generate a set of images indicative of the fluid flow in the target area on a display device; determining fluid flow in a third area based on the second set of ultrasonic waves transmitted in response to determining that there is fluid flow in the second area, the third area being between the target area and the ultrasonic probe and different from the second area; and The method of claim 1 further comprising:

5. determining whether to continue transmitting the ultrasound waves in response to determining that there is fluid flow in the third area, wherein the ultrasound waves are transmitted at different pulse repetition frequencies until a threshold number of retransmissions is reached; and using the second set of ultrasound waves to generate a set of images indicative of the fluid flow in the target area on the display device in response to determining that the fluid flow is absent in the third area; The method of claim 4 further comprising:

6. and, in response to determining not to continue transmitting ultrasound waves, providing an indication that there is additional fluid flow between the ultrasound probe and the target area. The method of claim 5.

7. in response to determining to continue transmitting the ultrasound waves, transmitting a third set of ultrasound waves to detect the fluid flow in the target area, the third set of ultrasound waves being directed toward the target area, the third set of ultrasound waves being transmitted at a third pulse repetition frequency to direct the third set of ultrasound waves away from the third area and the second area, and the third area being located at a different location than the second area; determining fluid flow in a fourth area based on the third set of ultrasonic waves transmitted in response to determining the fluid flow in the third area and determining to continue transmitting the ultrasonic waves, the fourth area being between the target area and the ultrasonic probe; and The method of claim 5 further comprising:

8. the fourth area is separate from the second area and the third area; The method of claim 7.

9. the ultrasound probe comprises a pulsed wave Doppler ultrasound probe; The method of claim 1.

10. An ultrasound probe, a probe array assembly configured to transmit ultrasound; a processing device coupled to the probe array assembly, Transmitting a first set of ultrasound waves directed at the target area and transmitted at a first pulse repetition frequency; determining fluid flow in a second area between the target area and the ultrasonic probe based on the first set of ultrasonic waves; the ultrasonic probe includes a plurality of beamforming components including a first beamforming component and a second beamforming component, the first beamforming component correcting a first delay of reception of ultrasonic waves on a first transducer element of a transducer assembly, the second beamforming component correcting a second delay of reception of the ultrasonic waves on a second transducer element of the transducer assembly, and when the ultrasonic probe is not performing beamforming, the first beamforming component determines whether there is fluid flow in the target area, and simultaneously the second beamforming component determines whether there is fluid flow in a second area separate from the target area. the processing device configured to An ultrasound probe comprising:

11. determining the fluid flow in the second area based on a first change in the first pulse repetition frequency of a first set of ultrasound reflections from the second area in the first set of waves and a second change in the first pulse repetition frequency of a second set of ultrasound reflections from the target area in the first set of waves; The ultrasonic probe according to claim 10.

12. the processing device responsive to determining that there is no fluid flow in the second area, using the first set of ultrasound waves to generate one or more images indicative of the fluid flow in the target area on a display device. further configured as follows: The ultrasonic probe according to claim 10.

13. the processing device transmitting a second set of ultrasound waves into the target area in response to determining the fluid flow in the second area, the second set of ultrasound waves being transmitted at a second pulse repetition frequency different from the first pulse repetition frequency to generate a set of images indicative of the fluid flow in the target area on a display device; determining fluid flow in a third area based on the second set of ultrasonic waves transmitted in response to determining that there is fluid flow in the second area, the third area being between the target area and the ultrasonic probe and different from the second area; further configured as follows: The ultrasonic probe according to claim 10.

14. the processing device determining whether to continue transmitting the ultrasound waves in response to determining that there is fluid flow in the third area, and the ultrasound waves are transmitted at different pulse repetition frequencies until a threshold number of retransmissions is reached; and in response to determining that the fluid flow is absent in the third area, using the second set of ultrasound waves to generate a set of images indicative of the fluid flow in the target area on the display device. further configured as follows: The ultrasonic probe according to claim 13.

15. the processing device and in response to determining not to continue transmitting ultrasound waves, providing an indication that there is additional fluid flow between the ultrasound probe and the target area. further configured as follows: The ultrasonic probe according to claim 13.

16. the processing device in response to determining to continue transmitting the ultrasonic waves, transmitting a third set of ultrasonic waves to detect the fluid flow in the target area, the third set of ultrasonic waves being directed toward the target area, the third set of ultrasonic waves being transmitted at a third pulse repetition frequency to direct the third set of ultrasonic waves away from the third area and the second area, the third area being located at a different location than the second area; determining fluid flow in a fourth area based on the third set of ultrasonic waves transmitted in response to determining the fluid flow in the third area and determining to continue transmitting the ultrasonic waves, the fourth area being between the target area and the ultrasonic probe; further configured as follows: The ultrasonic probe according to claim 13.

17. the fourth area is separate from the second area and the third area; 17. The ultrasonic probe of claim 16.

18. the ultrasound probe comprises a pulsed wave Doppler ultrasound probe; The ultrasonic probe according to claim 10.

19. transmitting a first set of ultrasound waves; the first set of ultrasound waves is directed at a target area; and the first set of ultrasound waves is transmitted at a first pulse repetition frequency; And, determining fluid flow in a second area between the target area and the ultrasonic probe based on the first set of ultrasonic waves; providing an indication that there is fluid flow between the ultrasonic probe and the target area, wherein the ultrasonic probe includes a plurality of beam forming components including a first beam forming component and a second beam forming component, the first beam forming component correcting a first delay of reception of ultrasonic waves on a first transducer element of a transducer assembly, the second beam forming component correcting a second delay of reception of the ultrasonic waves on a second transducer element of the transducer assembly, and when the ultrasonic probe is not performing beam forming, the first beam forming component determining whether there is fluid flow in the target area, and simultaneously the second beam forming component determining whether there is fluid flow in a second area separate from the target area; A method comprising:

20. transmitting a second set of ultrasound waves to the target area in response to determining the fluid flow in the second area, the second set of ultrasound waves being transmitted at a second pulse repetition frequency different from the first pulse repetition frequency to generate a set of images indicative of the fluid flow in the target area on a display device; determining fluid flow in a third area based on the second set of ultrasonic waves transmitted in response to determining that there is fluid flow in the second area, the third area being between the target area and the ultrasonic probe and different from the second area, and determining the fluid flow in the second area based on a first change in the first pulse repetition frequency of the first set of ultrasonic waves from the second area and a second change in the first pulse repetition frequency of the second set of ultrasonic waves reflected from the target area in the first set; 20. The method of claim 19 further comprising:

Images