Control device for ultrasonic generator and control method thereof

Abstract

The present disclosure may include the steps of: (a) a control unit setting basic information regarding one or more of an ultrasound movement trajectory, a treatment unit, and a spot, and outputting a corresponding transducer control signal; (b) a transducer irradiating one or more spots with ultrasound while moving along the already set movement trajectory in synchronization with the transducer control signal, and image scanning the irradiated spots; and (c) the control unit receiving the image of the image scanning and determining whether or not a tumor remains in the treatment area, and if the tumor remains, after the machine learning unit has learned, the control unit receiving the already learned information on possible tumor remaining and performing additional volumetric treatment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a control device for an ultrasonic generator and a control method thereof, and particularly to an ultrasonic irradiation when a plurality of Ultrasound irradiation units are set to induce a thermal superposition phenomenon, and an additional volume is determined for the remaining tumor after the first Ultrasound irradiation using a machine learning method. The present invention relates to a control device for an ultrasonic generator and a control method thereof that can perform Another ultrasound irradiation this.

Background Art

[0002] Generally, high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) The irradiation method using is a treatment that burns and removes pathological tissues in the body by using the high heat of 65 to 100 °C generated from the focus when focusing high-density ultrasonic energy at one point.

[0003] That is, when ultrasonic waves about 100,000 times stronger than the intensity of ultrasonic waves used for diagnosis are focused at one point, heat is generated from the focus site, and this heat can be used to burn and remove pathological tissues in the body.

[0004] Since ultrasonic waves themselves are harmless to the human body and heat is generated only from the focus where the ultrasonic waves are focused, compared to surgical operations or chemical treatment (chemotherapy) methods, etc., the trauma to the patient is less damaged, and the pathological changes in the body can be It can cause necrosis performed non-invasively.

[0005] Thus, high-intensity focused ultrasound irradiation is applicable to pancreatic cancer, uterine fibroids, liver cancer, etc., and active research is also being conducted on prostate cancer, endometrial cancer, kidney cancer, breast cancer, soft tissue tumors, bone tumors, etc.

[0006] In particular, it has a more sensitive destructive effect on anaerobic tumor cells.

[0007] However, due to the natural heat conductivity and blood supply of the human body, Ultrasound irradiation The target region dissipates heat as it is heated by high-intensity focused ultrasound.

[0008] Based on the average acoustic and biophysical parameters of the body's soft tissues, high-intensity focused ultrasound can detect subcutaneous soft tissue lesions (niduses) with the greatest average effect. irradiation It is known that the resulting depth can be several centimeters.

[0009] Furthermore, high-intensity focused ultrasound is, irradiation The rate is very slow, and even for moderate lesions, it is beneficial for the patient. Ultrasound irradiation It is difficult to endure the time required for this.

[0010] Research into techniques that enable the stable emission of KW-level high-density focused ultrasound through superior focusing execution is a "one-time non-invasive" approach to high-density focused ultrasound. irradiation This will be the key to realizing the concept of "".

[0011] To realize this, conventional high-intensity focused ultrasound irradiation The head is equipped with a high-density focused ultrasonic transducer at its end.

[0012] A high-intensity focused ultrasound transducer is configured to emit high-intensity focused ultrasound.

[0013] Furthermore, the membrane is attached to the high-density focused ultrasonic transducer so as to cover the high-density ultrasonic emission surface of the high-density focused ultrasonic transducer.

[0014] In this state, the ultrasonic transmission medium is filled into the containment space between the high-density ultrasonic radiation surface and the membrane.

[0015] Generally, degassed water is used as the ultrasonic transmission medium.

[0016] Note that for high-density focused ultrasound irradiation The head can be equipped with an imaging transducer for acquiring diagnostic images.

[0017] Such high-density focused ultrasound irradiation The head is positioned above the patient and emits high-density focused ultrasound through a high-density ultrasonic radiation surface with the membrane in contact with the patient's skin.

[0018] However, the size of tumors in the human body can vary in their incidence, and unless the entire such diseased tissue is necrotic and eliminated Ultrasound irradiation it is not completed.

[0019] Therefore, when performing ultrasonic irradiation along a treatment pathway without specific conditions, the volume Another ultrasound irradiation is not achieved, and the larger the volume of the diseased tissue, the longer the time taken for the ultrasound irradiation to complete.

[0020] In such a case, for the patient Ultrasound is irradiated onto it. the time becomes long, which not only causes inconvenience to the patient, but Ultrasonic irradiation method when performing user there is a problem that the labor and fatigue levels of the operator may increase.

[0021] On the other hand, artificial intelligence (AI) mimics the human brain and neural network, and someday computers and robots will be able to think and act like humans.

[0022] Machine learning refers to the field that defines various problems handled in the field of artificial intelligence and studies methodologies for solving them.

[0023] An artificial neural network (ANN: Artificial Neural Network) is a model used in machine learning, which can generally refer to models with problem-solving capabilities composed of artificial neurons (nodes) that form a network through synaptic connections.

[0024] An artificial neural network can include an input layer (Input Layer), an output layer (Output Layer), and optionally one or more hidden layers (Hidden Layer).

[0025] Machine learning can be classified into supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning according to the learning method.

[0026] Supervised learning means a method of training an artificial neural network with labels provided for the training data. A label can mean the correct answer (or result value) that the artificial neural network must infer when the training data is input into the artificial neural network.

[0027] Unsupervised learning can mean a method of training an artificial neural network without labels provided for the training data.

[0028] Reinforcement learning can mean a learning method in which an agent defined in an environment is trained to select actions or action sequences that maximize the cumulative reward in each state.

[0029] Generally, it is represented by the interconnection of a neuron system that calculates values from inputs, is adaptable, and can perform machine learning such as pattern recognition.

[0030] Like other machine learning methods that learn from data, neural networks are generally used to solve a wide range of problems, such as image recognition or speech recognition, which are difficult to solve with rule-based programming.

[0031] In other words, various machine learning methods such as random forests, which output categories (classifications) or average predicted values ​​(regression analysis) from a large number of decision trees constructed during the training process; extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), which creates a strong learner by sequentially adding predictors to correct previous errors; and lasso regression, which has the absolute value of the regression coefficient as a penalty term and sets the weighted value to "0," have been applied to fields such as image recognition, and machine learning methods with excellent performance have been developed.

[0032] Therefore, the present inventors have developed an ultrasonic wave irradiation Sometimes multiple Ultrasound irradiation The unit is set up to induce a thermal superposition phenomenon, and the first Ultrasound irradiation Machine learning techniques can also be used to analyze residual tumors based on past data. Ultrasonic irradiation area In response to the application of previously learned residual tumor information, an additional volume is added. Separate ultrasound irradiation By performing this action, we have invented a control device for an ultrasonic generator and a control method thereof that can safely cause necrosis of the entire lesional tissue in a short time. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0033] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to provide an ultrasonic wave irradiation Ultrasound is focused within the point. irradiation Multiple events Ultrasound irradiation The unit is set up to induce a thermal superposition phenomenon, and the first Ultrasound irradiation Machine learning techniques are used to add volume to residual tumors later on. Separate ultrasound irradiation The objective is to provide a control method for an ultrasound generator that can cause necrosis of the entire lesioned tissue in a short time by performing the following actions.

[0034] Another object of the present invention is to provide a control device for an ultrasonic generator to achieve the above objectives.

[0035] The problems that this invention aims to solve are not limited to those mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by an ordinary engineer from the description below. [Means for solving the problem]

[0036] A control method for an ultrasonic generator according to one aspect of the present invention, which solves the above-mentioned problems, involves a control unit that controls the movement trajectory of the ultrasonic waves, Ultrasound irradiation The steps include setting basic information for one or more units and spots and outputting a corresponding transducer control signal; the transducer irradiates one or more spots with ultrasound while moving along the already set movement trajectory in synchronization with the transducer control signal and performing image scanning of the irradiated spots; and the control unit receiving the transmitted image scanned by the control unit. Ultrasound irradiation The system determines whether tumor remains in the region, and if such remains are determined, the machine learning unit learns, and then the control unit receives the previously learned information on possible tumor remains to determine the additional volume. Another ultrasound irradiation The method is characterized by including a step of causing the following to happen.

[0037] The aforementioned Output The steps are 、 The control unit The aforementioned The trajectory of the ultrasound The 1 treatment Ultrasound irradiation The steps of setting the unit and the control unit Ultrasound irradiation Number of units and Ultrasound irradiation The method is characterized by including the steps of setting the number of ultrasonic spots irradiated per unit, and the steps of setting the number of ultrasonic pulses irradiated per spot and the interval between spots by the control unit.

[0038] The aforementioned Scan The steps are 、Steps include: the image acquisition transducer unit within the transducer transmits an image ultrasonic signal to a subject in response to control from the control unit, receives an ultrasonic signal reflected from the subject, and scans an image of the subject; the control unit generates a transducer control signal having a fixed time interval; the transducer moves along the already set movement trajectory in synchronization with the generated transducer control signal; and the transducer is configured so that the high-density focused ultrasonic signal is focused to one focal point on the already set movement trajectory. Ultrasound irradiation The steps include: the transducer unit focuses and irradiates one or more spots with ultrasound; and the image acquisition transducer unit within the transducer responds to the control of the control unit to irradiate the one or more spots and the surrounding area Ultrasound irradiation The method is characterized by including the step of scanning the region with video.

[0039] The aforementioned Scan The step is that the control unit and the transducer Ultrasound irradiation The process involves calculating the distance to the target, and the control unit applying a first control signal to the main body to cause the main body to move in translation by the calculated distance. Ultrasound irradiation The steps of moving the transducer to the periphery of the area and the control unit applying a second control signal to the main body to move the transducer to the subject Ultrasound irradiation wobble and rotate toward the target as described above Ultrasound irradiation The steps of aligning with the target and the transducer Ultrasound irradiation The transducer section uses the aligned high-density focused ultrasonic signal Ultrasound irradiation The steps include focusing on the target position and irradiating one or more spots with ultrasound, and the image acquisition transducer section within the transducer responding to the control of the control unit to the irradiated one or more spots and the surrounding area Ultrasound irradiation The method is characterized by including the step of scanning the region with video.

[0040] The aforementioned To carry outThe steps include: the control unit receiving the scanned video and determining whether or not the tumor remains; if it is determined that the tumor remains, the machine learning unit generating tumor retention information for the expected three-dimensional position and size of the tumor that can remain through a machine learning method and storing it in a big database; the control unit receiving the already learned tumor retention information for the relevant area through the big database and moving the main unit to the tumor retention location; and the transducer, which is linked to the main unit, moving up, down, left, and right and rotating to add volume to the tumor retention location. Separate ultrasound irradiation The method is characterized by including the step of performing the following:

[0041] The aforementioned machine learning method is characterized by being an extreme gradient boosting method.

[0042] The control unit The 1 Ultrasound irradiation The unit is characterized by having 1 to 5 movement trajectories.

[0043] The control unit Ultrasound irradiation The device is characterized by setting the number of ultrasonic spots irradiated per unit to 1 to 7.

[0044] The control unit but The device is characterized by setting the number of ultrasonic pulses emitted per spot to 20 to 50 or less.

[0045] The control unit but The feature is that the spacing between spots is set to 1 to 5 mm.

[0046] A control device for an ultrasonic generator according to another aspect of the present invention for solving the aforementioned other problems, the ultrasonic movement trajectory, Ultrasound irradiationA control unit sets basic information for one or more units and spots and outputs a corresponding transducer control signal; a transducer synchronized with the transducer control signal moves along the already set movement trajectory and irradiates one or more spots with ultrasound and performs image scanning on the irradiated spots; and the control unit receives the transmitted image from the image scan and determines that a tumor remains. Ultrasound irradiation The system includes a machine learning unit that performs machine learning on a region and generates tumor residability information for the expected 3D position and size of residable tumors, and the control unit receives the tumor residability information already learned from the machine learning unit to add an additional volume Separate ultrasound irradiation It is characterized by causing the following to happen.

[0047] The control unit may be characterized by setting the movement trajectory of the ultrasonic waves to the first ultrasonic irradiation unit, setting the maximum number of ultrasonic irradiation units and the number of ultrasonic spots irradiated per ultrasonic irradiation unit, and setting the number of ultrasonic pulses irradiated per spot and the interval between spots.

[0048] The image acquisition transducer unit within the transducer transmits an image ultrasonic signal to a subject in response to the control unit, receives an ultrasonic signal reflected from the subject and scans an image of the subject, the control unit generates a transducer control signal having a fixed time interval, the transducer moves along a pre-set movement trajectory in synchronization with the generated transducer control signal, the ultrasonic irradiation transducer unit within the transducer focuses a high-density focused ultrasonic signal to converge to one focal point on the pre-set movement trajectory and irradiates one or more spots with ultrasonic waves, and scans the irradiated one or more spots and the surrounding ultrasonic irradiation area in response to the control unit.

[0049] The control unit calculates the distance between the transducer and the ultrasonic irradiation target, applies a first control signal to the main body to move the main body by the calculated distance to move the transducer to the periphery of the ultrasonic irradiation area, applies a second control signal to the main body to wobble and rotate the transducer toward the ultrasonic irradiation target of the subject to align with the ultrasonic irradiation target, the ultrasonic irradiation transducer section within the transducer focuses a high-density focused ultrasonic signal to the position of the aligned treatment target and irradiates one or more spots with ultrasound, and in response to the control of the control unit, scans the irradiated one or more spots and the surrounding ultrasonic irradiation area with video.

[0050] The control unit applies the scanned video to determine whether or not the tumor remains, and if it is determined that the tumor remains, the machine learning unit generates tumor retention information for the expected three-dimensional position and size of the tumor that can remain through a machine learning method and stores it in a big database, the already learned tumor retention information is applied to the relevant area through the big database and the main unit moves to the tumor retention position, and the transducer, which is linked to the main unit, moves up, down, left, and right and rotates to perform the additional volume-specific ultrasound irradiation to the tumor retention position.

[0051] Other specific aspects of the present invention are included in the detailed description and drawings. [Effects of the Invention]

[0052] This invention utilizes the diffusion and superposition phenomena of heat generated during ultrasonic irradiation to create a three-dimensional representation of the heat generated from the initial point along the moving trajectory of the ultrasonic point. of By diffusing in a three-dimensional form and being maintained until the final ultrasound point, it is possible to rapidly necrotize the diseased tissue by increasing the volume. Separate ultrasound irradiation This will become possible.

[0053] Also, the first ultrasound irradiation Even if the entire lesioned tissue cannot be completely necrotized, Ultrasound irradiation Determine whether tumor remains in the region and use machine learning techniques to determine the additional volume. Separate ultrasound irradiationBy performing this procedure, the entire lesioned tissue can be safely necrotized.

[0054] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by an ordinary person from the description below. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0055] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram of a control device for an ultrasonic generator according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a flowchart illustrating the overall operation of a control method for an ultrasonic generator according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the wobbling operation of a transducer in an ultrasonic generator according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the ultrasonic spot distance adjustment operation of the control device for the ultrasonic generator. [Figure 5] Figure 3 is a sequential diagram illustrating an embodiment in which multiple thermal lesions are formed by focusing in three dimensions along a movement trajectory through the wobbling motion of a transducer within the ultrasonic generator shown. [Figure 6] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating the detailed operation of step (S100) in the control method of the ultrasonic generator shown. [Figure 7] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating the detailed first operation of step (S200) in the control method for the ultrasonic generator shown. [Figure 8] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating the detailed second operation of step (S200) in the control method for the ultrasonic generator shown. [Figure 9] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating the detailed operation of steps (S300 to S500) in the control method of the ultrasonic generator shown. [Figure 10]This figure shows the thermal superposition phenomenon of multiple thermal lesions formed along the movement trajectory through the wobbling motion of the transducer according to the embodiment shown in Figure 5. [Figure 11] This is an ultrasound image showing the movement trajectory set during ultrasonic irradiation with an actual volume according to an embodiment of the present invention, and multiple points to which ultrasound was irradiated. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0056] The advantages and features of the present invention, and methods for achieving them, will become clear with reference to the embodiments described later in detail with the accompanying drawings.

[0057] However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and can be embodied in a variety of different forms. These embodiments are provided to complete the disclosure of the present invention and to enable a person ordinary in the art to fully understand the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims.

[0058] The terms used herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention. In this specification, singular terms include plural terms unless otherwise specified. The terms “comprises” and / or “comprising” used in this specification do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components in addition to those mentioned. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals indicate the same component, and “and / or” includes each of the components mentioned and all combinations of one or more of them. Even if terms such as “first,” “second,” etc., are used to describe a variety of components, these components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used simply to distinguish one component from another. Accordingly, it goes without saying that the first component mentioned below may also be the second component within the technical concept of the invention.

[0059] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) are used in the sense that they would be commonly understood by an ordinary person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Furthermore, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries shall not be interpreted ideally or excessively unless explicitly defined otherwise.

[0060] Spatially relative terms such as "below," "beneath," "lower," "above," and "upper," as illustrated, can be used to easily describe the correlation between one component and another. Spatially relative terms should be understood as terms that include different directions of components in use or operation, in addition to the directions illustrated. For example, if the illustrated components are flipped over, a component described as "below" or "beneath" of another component can be placed "above" of the other component. Thus, the illustrative term "below" can include both downward and upward directions. Components can also be oriented in other directions, and thus spatially relative terms can be interpreted by orientation.

[0061] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0062] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a control device for an ultrasonic generator according to one embodiment of the present invention, Ultrasound irradiation It includes a head 100, a control unit 200, a machine learning unit 300, and a big database 400.

[0063] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating the general operation of a control method for an ultrasonic generator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating the wobbling operation of a transducer in an ultrasonic generator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Ultrasound irradiation Includes a head 100 and a control unit 200.

[0065] Ultrasound irradiation The head 100 includes the main body 110 and the transducer 120, and the transducer 120 includes an image acquisition transducer section and Ultrasound irradiation Includes a transducer section.

[0066] The image acquisition transducer unit transmits and receives ultrasonic signals for imaging in order to scan the treatment area of ​​the subject. Ultrasound irradiation The transducer section transmits high-density focused ultrasonic signals. Ultrasound irradiation It focuses to concentrate on a single focal point within the region, forming a thermal lesion.

[0067] Referring to Figures 1 to 3, the operation of the control method for an ultrasonic generator according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in general terms as follows.

[0068] First, the control unit 200 determines the ultrasonic wave's movement trajectory. Ultrasound irradiation Basic information for one or more units and spots is set, and the corresponding transducer control signal is output (S100).

[0069] Here, the movement trajectory is a line that continuously connects the spots to which ultrasound is emitted. Ultrasound irradiation The unit uses ultrasound irradiation The smallest unit of movement trajectory, the spot, is an ultrasound. Irradiation area This refers to a bright area created when ultrasound is irradiated into it.

[0070] In other words, the control unit 200 determines the moving trajectory to which the ultrasonic waves are irradiated. The 1 Ultrasound irradiation Set to unit (S110), maximum Ultrasound irradiation Number of units and Ultrasound irradiation The number of ultrasonic spots to be irradiated per unit is set (S120), and the number of ultrasonic pulses irradiated per spot and the interval between spots are set (S130).

[0071] Next, the transducer 120 moves in synchronization with the transducer control signal of the control unit 200, along a movement trajectory already set by the control unit 200, irradiating one or more spots with ultrasound and performing image scanning on the irradiated spots (S200).

[0072] Specifically, the image acquisition transducer unit within the transducer 120 transmits an ultrasonic signal for video to the subject in response to control from the control unit 200, and receives the ultrasonic signal reflected from the subject to scan an image of the subject (S210).

[0073] Furthermore, when the control unit 200 generates a transducer control signal with a fixed time interval (S220), the transducer 120 is synchronized with the transducer control signal generated by the control unit 200 and moves along a movement trajectory already set by the control unit 200 (S230).

[0074] Subsequently, the high-density focused ultrasonic signal is focused to a single focal point on a movement trajectory already set by the control unit 200 within the transducer 120. Ultrasound irradiation The transducer unit focuses and irradiates one or more spots with ultrasound (S240), and the image acquisition transducer unit within the transducer 120 responds to the control of the control unit 200 to the irradiated one or more spots and the surrounding area. Ultrasound irradiation Scan the area with video (S250).

[0075] Next, the control unit 200 receives the video transmitted by the transducer 120. Ultrasound irradiation The machine learning unit 300 determines whether tumor remains in the region, and if tumor remains are determined, after learning, the control unit 200 receives the already learned information on possible tumor retention to determine the additional volume Separate ultrasound irradiation Perform the following action (S300).

[0076] Specifically, the control unit 200 receives the image scanned by the transducer 120 and determines whether or not there is any residual tumor (S310).

[0077] If it is determined that there is no residual tumor (S320), ultrasound irradiation The operation ends (S330), and if residual tissue is determined to exist, the machine learning unit 300 uses machine learning methods to predict the three dimensions of the residual tumor. of Information on the potential residual tumor location and size is generated and stored in the big database 400 (S410).

[0078] Subsequently, the control unit 200 receives the previously learned tumor retention information for the relevant area via the big database 400 and moves the main unit to the tumor retention position (S510). The transducer 120, which is linked to the main unit, moves up, down, left, and right and rotates to add volume to the retention position. Separate ultrasound irradiation Perform (S520).

[0079] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating the ultrasonic spot distance adjustment operation of the control device of the ultrasonic generator shown in Figure 3. Ultrasound irradiation Includes a head 100 and a control unit 200.

[0080] Ultrasound irradiation The head 100 includes the main body 110 and the transducer 120, and the transducer 120 includes an image acquisition transducer section and Ultrasound irradiation Includes a transducer section.

[0081] Figure 5 is a configuration diagram sequentially showing an embodiment in which multiple thermal lesions are formed by focusing in three dimensions along a movement trajectory through the wobbling motion of a transducer in the ultrasonic generator shown in Figure 3, and includes a main body 110 and a transducer 120.

[0082] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating the detailed operation of step (S100) in the control method of the ultrasonic generator shown in Figure 2.

[0083] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the detailed first operation of step (S200) in the control method of the ultrasonic generator shown in Figure 2.

[0084] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the detailed second operation of step (S200) in the control method of the ultrasonic generator shown in Figure 2.

[0085] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the detailed operation of steps (S300 to S500) of the control method for the ultrasonic generator shown in Figure 2.

[0086] Figure 10 shows the thermal superposition phenomenon of multiple thermal lesions formed along the movement trajectory through the wobbling motion of the transducer according to the embodiment shown in Figure 5.

[0087] Figure 11 shows the actual volume according to an embodiment of the present invention. Ultrasound irradiation This is an ultrasound image showing the set movement trajectory and multiple points to which ultrasound waves were irradiated.

[0088] Referring to Figures 1 to 11, the organic operation of the control method for an ultrasonic generator according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail as follows.

[0089] Referring to Figure 3, the image acquisition transducer unit within the transducer 120 transmits an ultrasonic signal for video to the subject and receives the ultrasonic signal reflected from the subject to scan an image of the subject. Ultrasound irradiation The transducer section uses high-density focused ultrasonic signals. Ultrasound irradiation It focuses to concentrate on a single focal point within the region, forming a thermal lesion.

[0090] In other words, Ultrasound irradiation Head 100's transducer 120 wobbles around the wobbling axis while moving towards the subject. Ultrasound irradiation The area is scanned in 3D, Ultrasound irradiation High-density focused ultrasound signals are focused in four dimensions on a region to create multiple thermal lesions.

[0091] For example, as shown in Figure 3, the transducer 120 moves along a trajectory (clockwise or counterclockwise) to the subject. Ultrasound irradiation Within the area Ultrasound irradiation By focusing the high-intensity focused ultrasound signal onto targets 10a, 10b, 10c, and 10d, four thermal lesions can be formed.

[0092] Referring to Figure 4, the control unit 200 electronically controls the transducer 120 to move the subject Ultrasound irradiation Adjust the distance of the ultrasonic spot irradiated onto the area.

[0093] For example, transducer 120 and Ultrasound irradiation The distance to targets 20a, 20b, and 20c is calculated, and the calculated distance Ultrasound irradiation The position of the transducer 120 can be electronically adjusted to focus a high-density focused ultrasonic signal onto the target.

[0094] The control unit 200 Ultrasound irradiation Around the area Ultrasound irradiation After moving head 100, Ultrasound irradiation The transducer 120 of head 100 is precisely and mechanically adjusted (wobbling and rotating) Ultrasound irradiation Through 3D image scanning and 4D focusing on a region Ultrasound irradiation Have them do it.

[0095] For example, the control unit 200 controls the first control signal Ultrasound irradiation Apply to head 100 Ultrasound irradiation The head 100 and the main body 110 are moved in translation by a calculated distance, and inside the body Ultrasound irradiation Move transducer 120 to the periphery of the area.

[0096] After that, the second control signal Ultrasound irradiation Applying the signal to the head 100, the transducer 120 moves the subject Ultrasound irradiation Wobble and rotate towards the target Ultrasound irradiation After aligning with the target, the image acquisition transducer unit scans the subject's 3D image, Ultrasound irradiation The transducer section Ultrasound irradiation High-density focused ultrasound signals are focused in four dimensions on a specific region.

[0097] At this point, the reason for scanning a 3D image of the subject is the initial ultrasound. irradiation In cases where the entire lesioned tissue may not be completely necrotic, the control unit 200 receives the application of a 3D image of the subject scanned by the image acquisition transducer unit in the transducer 120. Ultrasound irradiation This is to confirm whether or not tumor tissue still remains in the area.

[0098] In the above embodiment, the control unit 200 was shown to electronically control the transducer 120 to adjust the distance of the ultrasonic spot, but the transducer 120 can also be controlled mechanically.

[0099] Referring to Figure 6, the control unit 200 determines one of the movement paths (pathways) on which the ultrasound is irradiated. The 1 Ultrasound irradiation Let's assume it's set up as a unit.

[0100] The control unit 200 generates multiple pulses having one or more of the following: a fixed time interval, energy amount, and ON / OFF time. It determines the acoustic power and sonication time, which are set according to the size of the tumor, and outputs a corresponding transducer control signal.

[0101] The transducer 120 responds to the transducer control signal from the control unit 200 and has already been set The 1 Ultrasound irradiation The unit moves along a designated path, and synchronizes with the generated transducer control signal to irradiate one or more spots with ultrasound at regular time intervals.

[0102] In this case, the present invention uses the thermal superposition phenomenon to cause necrosis of the entire lesioned tissue in a short time, using ultrasound under the following conditions. irradiation To do so.

[0103] In other words, the control unit 200 determines one of the movement paths (pathways) on which the ultrasound is irradiated. The 1 Ultrasound irradiation Set to the unit, maximum Ultrasound irradiation Set the number of units to 10.

[0104] However, if more than six ultrasonic beams are used, there is a risk of burns, so one to five beams are preferable.

[0105] In particular, uterine fibroids Irradiate with ultrasound In the case, maximum Ultrasound irradiation The number of units is preferably 1 to 4.

[0106] Here, the control unit 200 can also be referred to as a processor, controller, microcontroller, microprocessor, microcomputer, etc., and can be realized by hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof.

[0107] The transducer 120 responds to the control of the control unit 200, The 1 Ultrasound irradiation Each unit illuminates 1 to 10 spots.

[0108] However, if ultrasound is applied to more than 8 spots, there is a risk of burns, so 1 to 7 spots are preferable.

[0109] In particular, uterine fibroids Ultrasound is irradiated onto it. case, Ultrasound irradiation The most preferable number of ultrasonic spots irradiated per unit is 5 spots.

[0110] The range of ultrasound spots can be adjusted according to the size of the lesion.

[0111] The transducer 120 delivers 5 to 50 pulses of ultrasound per spot.

[0112] The number of ultrasound pulses irradiated per spot is preferably 20 to 50, and when irradiating uterine fibroids with ultrasound, 35 to 45 pulses is most preferable.

[0113] The transducer 120 emits ultrasound with an energy of 20 to 70 J per pulse.

[0114] The energy level of the ultrasound spot is preferably 30 to 60 J, and for uterine fibroids... Ultrasound of Irradiate In this case, 40 to 60 J is most preferable.

[0115] In the ON / OFF time during which ultrasound is irradiated by the transducer 120, the ON time is preferably 1 to 1500 ms and the OFF time is preferably 3 to 20 ms.

[0116] The ON time during irradiation is preferably 1 to 1000 ms, and the OFF time is preferably 5 to 15 ms.

[0117] The transducer 120 emits ultrasound at regular time intervals.

[0118] The spacing between each spot is 0.1 to 10 mm, preferably 1 to 5 mm, and uterine fibroids Ultrasound is irradiated onto it. In this case, 1.5 to 2.5 mm is most preferable.

[0119] Furthermore, even if ultrasound is accurately irradiated according to the above conditions, the first ultrasound irradiation In some cases, the entire lesioned tissue may not be completely necrotic.

[0120] To address this, the present invention provides a machine learning unit 300 that uses machine learning techniques such as extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) to produce the first ultrasonic waves. irradiation Predictors can be added sequentially to correct for errors.

[0121] That is, the first ultrasound irradiation The control unit 200 then determines whether or not the tumor still remains.

[0122] If it is determined that the tumor has completely necrotized and no residue remains, then ultrasound irradiation Terminate operation.

[0123] On the other hand, if it is determined that the tumor has not completely necrotized and remains, the machine learning unit 300 performs machine learning using machine learning methods such as extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost).

[0124] That is, the first ultrasound irradiation By correcting for errors in the process (residual tumor), and sequentially adding information about the possible residual tumor, such as the expected 3D position and size of residual tumor, so that the tumor is completely necrotic, the relevant Ultrasound irradiation body part Ultrasound irradiation The system accurately identifies tumor remnants that can remain around the target and stores this information in the Big Database 400.

[0125] Furthermore, the control unit 200 receives information on tumor remnants that have been previously learned for the relevant site through the extreme gradient boosting method via the big database 400, and moves the main unit 110 to the tumor remnant location.

[0126] As a result, the transducer 120, which is linked to the main unit 110, moves up, down, left, and right and rotates to add volume to the remaining possible position. Separate ultrasound irradiation To do so.

[0127] Referring to Figure 10, the circles represent the points where ultrasound is irradiated, and the arrows in the XYZ axis directions represent the direction of heat diffusion generated by the transducer 120 when ultrasound is irradiated.

[0128] When ultrasound is irradiated along a movement trajectory, for example, the diffusion of heat generated from each of the five points overlaps, Ultrasound irradiation is complete. .

[0129] As a result, the present invention allows heat generated from the first point P1 on the movement trajectory to be superimposed and diffused in 4D, and the temperature is maintained until the last point P5, thereby affecting the entire lesion tissue in a short time. but necrosis so volume Ultrasound can be emitted using this method. .

[0130] At this time, the reason why heat is superimposed and diffused in 3D is that the transducer 120 moves up, down, left, right, and rotates, adding volume. Ultrasound irradiation This is because it is done by moving in four dimensions in real time.

[0131] Referring to Figure 11, the actual volume is Ultrasound irradiation The set movement trajectory is displayed as a line T on a black background in the lower right corner of the photograph, and the multiple points where ultrasound was applied are displayed as points P.

[0132] In this case, the angle of the line representing the movement trajectory becomes larger in the case of a large lesion and concentrated in a narrow area in the case of a small lesion. Ultrasound of Irradiate Therefore, it can be set to a smaller value.

[0133] Thus, the present invention is ultrasonic irradiation Ultrasound is focused within the point. Ultrasound irradiation Multiple events Ultrasound irradiation The unit is set up to induce a thermal superposition phenomenon, and the first Ultrasound irradiation Machine learning techniques are used to add to residual tumors Ultrasound irradiation By doing so, it is possible to cause necrosis of the entire diseased tissue in a short time. Control device and control method for ultrasonic generator. To provide.

[0134] This invention utilizes the diffusion and superposition phenomena of heat generated during ultrasonic irradiation, so that the heat generated from the first point diffuses in a three-dimensional form along the trajectory of the ultrasonic point and is maintained until the last ultrasonic point, thereby quickly removing lesion tissue. but necrosis so volume Ultrasound can be emitted using this method. .

[0135] Also, the first ultrasound irradiation Even if the entire lesioned tissue cannot be completely necrotized, Ultrasound irradiation Determine whether tumor remains in the region and use machine learning techniques to determine the additional volume. Separate ultrasound irradiation By performing this procedure, the entire lesioned tissue can be safely necrotized.

[0136] The steps of the methods or algorithms described in relation to embodiments of the present invention can be implemented directly in hardware, in software modules executed by hardware, or in combination thereof. The software modules may always reside in RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM), flash memory, hard disk, removable disk, CD-ROM, or any form of computer-readable storage medium known in the art to which the present invention belongs.

[0137] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the attached drawings, a person of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains will understand that the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without changing its technical idea or essential features. Accordingly, the embodiments described above should be understood to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects.

Claims

1. The control unit sets basic information regarding the ultrasonic movement trajectory, ultrasonic irradiation unit, and spot, and outputs a corresponding transducer control signal, The aforementioned movement trajectory is a line that continuously connects spots to which ultrasound is irradiated, the ultrasound irradiation unit is the smallest unit of the movement trajectory to which ultrasound irradiation is performed, and the spot is a bright area created by the irradiation of ultrasound within the ultrasound irradiation area. The setting of basic information regarding the ultrasonic movement trajectory, ultrasonic irradiation unit, and spot is as follows: the control unit sets the ultrasonic movement trajectory to the first ultrasonic irradiation unit, the control unit sets the maximum number of ultrasonic irradiation units and the number of ultrasonic spots irradiated per ultrasonic irradiation unit, and the control unit sets the number of ultrasonic pulses irradiated per spot and the interval between spots. The transducer receives a signal to irradiate one or more spots with ultrasound while moving along a movement trajectory already set by the control unit, synchronized with the transducer control signal, and performs image scanning on the irradiated spots. A method for controlling an ultrasonic generator, comprising the steps of: the control unit receiving the transmitted image scanned from the image and determining whether or not tumor remains in the ultrasonic irradiation area; if the presence or absence of tumor remains is determined, the machine learning unit learns based on residual information consisting of the three-dimensional position and size of the residual tumor after irradiation in the ultrasonic irradiation area; and then the control unit receives the already learned residual information on tumors and activates additional volume-specific ultrasonic irradiation means via a transducer.

2. The aforementioned step of scanning the video is: The image acquisition transducer unit within the transducer transmits an ultrasonic signal for video to a subject in response to the control of the control unit, and receives the ultrasonic signal reflected from the subject to scan an image of the subject. The control unit uses the outputted corresponding transducer control signal to control the transducer based on the transducer control signal having a fixed time interval, The steps include: the transducer moving along the already set movement trajectory in synchronization with the generated transducer control signal; The steps include: the ultrasonic irradiation transducer section within the transducer focuses the high-density focused ultrasonic signal so that it converges to one focal point on the already set movement trajectory, thereby irradiating ultrasonic waves to one or more spots; A control method for an ultrasonic generator according to claim 1, characterized in that the image acquisition transducer section within the transducer scans the irradiated spot and the surrounding ultrasonic irradiation area in response to control by the control unit.

3. The aforementioned steps of operation are: The control unit receives the scanned video and determines whether or not the tumor remains, If it is determined that there is residual tumor, the machine learning unit generates residual tumor information for the expected three-dimensional position and size of the residual tumor after irradiation in the ultrasound irradiation area using machine learning methods, and stores this information in a big database. The control unit receives the previously learned tumor persistence information for the tumor site via the big database and moves the main unit to the tumor persistence location. A control method for an ultrasonic generator according to claim 1, characterized in that the transducer, which is linked to the main body, moves up, down, left, and right and rotates to activate the additional volume-specific ultrasonic irradiation means for the residual possible position.

4. The control method for an ultrasonic generator according to claim 3, characterized in that the machine learning method is an extreme gradient boosting method.

5. The control method for an ultrasonic generator according to claim 1, characterized in that the number of movement trajectories set by the control unit for the first ultrasonic irradiation unit is 1 to 5.

6. The control method for an ultrasonic generator according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit sets the number of ultrasonic spots irradiated per ultrasonic irradiation unit to 1 to 7.

7. The control method for an ultrasonic generator according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit sets the number of ultrasonic pulses irradiated per spot to 20 to 50 or less.

8. The control method for an ultrasonic generator according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit sets the interval between spots to 1 to 5 mm.

9. A control unit that sets basic information regarding the movement trajectory of ultrasound, ultrasound irradiation units, and spots, and outputs a corresponding transducer control signal, wherein the movement trajectory is a line that continuously connects spots to which ultrasound is irradiated, the ultrasound irradiation unit is the smallest unit of the movement trajectory in which ultrasound irradiation is performed, and the spot is a bright area created by the irradiation of ultrasound within the ultrasound irradiation area, and the setting of the basic information regarding the movement trajectory of ultrasound, ultrasound irradiation units, and spots is to set the movement trajectory of ultrasound to a first ultrasound irradiation unit, to set the maximum number of ultrasound irradiation units and the number of ultrasound spots irradiated per ultrasound irradiation unit, to set the number of ultrasound pulses irradiated per spot and the interval between spots, A transducer synchronized with the transducer control signal, which irradiates one or more spots with ultrasound while moving along a movement trajectory already set by the control unit, and performs image scanning on the irradiated spots, The control unit includes a machine learning unit that, upon receiving the transmitted video scanned, performs machine learning on the tumors in the ultrasound irradiation area that are determined to be tumors, based on the three-dimensional position and size of the remaining tumors in the ultrasound irradiation area after irradiation, and generates tumor residability information for the expected three-dimensional position and size of tumors that can remain, and the control unit A control device for an ultrasound generator, characterized by performing additional volume-specific ultrasound irradiation by applying residual tumor information already learned from the machine learning unit.

10. The image acquisition transducer unit within the transducer transmits an ultrasonic signal for video to the subject in response to the control unit, receives the ultrasonic signal reflected from the subject, and scans an image of the subject. The control unit generates transducer control signals having a fixed time interval, and the transducer moves in synchronization with the generated transducer control signals along the already set movement trajectory. The control device for an ultrasonic generator according to claim 9, wherein the ultrasonic irradiation transducer section within the transducer focuses a high-density focused ultrasonic signal to concentrate to one focal point on the already set movement trajectory and irradiates ultrasonic waves to one or more spots, and in response to the control of the control unit, it performs image scanning of the irradiated one or more spots and the surrounding ultrasonic irradiation area.

11. The control unit receives the scanned video and determines whether or not the tumor remains. If it determines that the tumor remains, the machine learning unit generates information on the remaining tumor after irradiation in the ultrasound irradiation area, based on the expected three-dimensional position and size of the tumor that may remain, using a machine learning method, and stores this information in a big database. The unit then receives the already learned information on the remaining tumor via the big database and moves the main unit to the location where the tumor may remain. The control device for an ultrasonic generator according to claim 9, wherein the transducer, which is linked to the main body, moves up, down, left, and right and rotates to perform additional volume-specific ultrasonic irradiation on the residual possible position.

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