Integrated ultrasound device

Abstract

An integrated ultrasound device includes a housing, a transducer unit, a processing unit and a display unit and / or display unit socket. The transducer unit, processing unit and display unit can be supported by the housing. The transducer unit includes an array of transducers configured to transmit sound waves toward an object and to receive sound waves reflected by the object. The processing unit is in communication with the transducer unit and configured to generate an image based on the sound waves received by the array of transducers. The display unit is in communication with the processing unit. The display unit can be supported in a display unit socket for displaying the image generated by the processing unit.

Description

INTEGRATED ULTRASOUND DEVICECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 603 ,116, titled “INTEGRATED IMAGING DEVICE” filed November 27, 2023, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to imaging devices, and more specifically, to imaging devices that can be held with a single hand and provide a compact, integrated system to enable the components thereof to function in a seamless, nearly latency- free or latency -free operation by which a user can observe a live image of a target object that is being imaged.BACKGROUND

[0003] Ultrasound imaging is an imaging method that uses soundwaves to produce images of structures or features within a region probed by the sound waves. In biological or medical applications, ultrasound images can be captured in real-time to show movement of internal organs as well as blood flowing through the blood vessels. The images can provide valuable information for diagnosing and directing treatment for a variety of diseases and conditions.SUMMARY

[0004] Medical ultrasound is an imaging modality that is based on the reflection of propagating sound waves at the interface between different tissues. Advantages of ultrasound imaging with respect to other imaging modalities may include one or more of: (1) its non- invasive nature, (2) its reduced costs, (3) its portability, and (4) its ability to provide a good temporal resolution, for example on the order of millisecond or better. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) may be used at bedside by healthcare providers as a real-time tool for answering clinical questions (e.g., whether a patient has developmental hip dysplasia). A trained clinician may perform both the task of acquiring and the task of interpreting ultrasound images, without the need for a radiologist to analyze ultrasound images acquired by a highly trained technician.Depending on specifics of the ultrasound examination, there may still be highly specialized training to learn different protocols for acquiring medically relevant images that are high quality images.

[0005] Presently, most ultrasound examinations are done by pressing a portion of an ultrasound device (e.g., an ultrasound probe or scanner) against a surface or inside a cavity of a patient’s body, adjacent to the area being studied. After a patient is positioned in an appropriate way, a clinician moves the ultrasound probe about an area of a patient’s body until the clinician finds a location and pose of the probe that results in an image of the anatomical structures of interest with sufficiently high quality. In some instances, identifying the location and pose of the probe suitablefor data (e.g., image) acquisition can be challenging and typically requires much experience and time on the part of the clinician. After the appropriate location and pose of the probe has been determined, the clinician can proceed to use the probe to acquire and save ultrasound image data for analysis, diagnosis, and / or pathology detection. In some instances, for the diagnosis of some conditions, the clinician may need to perform manual measurements on the acquired images.

[0006] A conventional ultrasound system usually includes an ultrasound probe and a separate, external computing device (e.g., a smartphone or computer) that is connected to the ultrasound probe via a wire, a cable, a Bluetooth, or other means. The ultrasound probe can send and receive sound waves and the computing device for processing the signals and displaying the images.

[0007] However, in accordance with at least some embodiments disclosed herein is the realization that imaging (e.g., ultrasound imaging) involves massive amounts of data, and it is a challenge to transfer such massive amounts of data between the ultrasound probe and the separate, external computing device and / or other components without latency or with acceptable minimal latency. In addition, in accordance with at least some embodiments disclosed herein is the realization that in some cases, the use of an imaging probe that has to be connected with the separate, external computing device may not be feasible (e.g., in a disaster, in a battleground, or in a rural area).

[0008] Further, in accordance with at least some embodiments disclosed herein is the realization that there is a need for integrated imaging devices and methods to provide easy, quick and reliable image acquisition, processing and analysis.

[0009] Therefore, improved imaging devices and methods can be provided in accordance with at least some embodiments disclosed herein. Such imaging devices and methods can be used in the field of ultrasound imaging.

[0010] For example, an imaging device can be provided that comprises a compact, integrated system that enables the components thereof to function in a seamless, nearly latency- free or latency -free operation that enables a user to observe a live image of a target object that is being imaged. Thus, in some embodiments, the imaging device can comprise a handheld unit that integrates the imaging functions, the processing functions, and the display functions of an imaging system into a single, handheld unit.

[0011] In some embodiments, the imaging devices and methods disclosed herein integrate ultrasound probing, computing, and / or other capabilities into one housing and reduce the data throughput bottleneck while maintaining and / or increasing their performance and diagnostic capabilities. The ultrasound devices disclosed herein are small and can be deployed easily and quickly. They can be used in a variety of environments. For instance, they can be used in disasters (e.g., earthquakes, floods), battleground, rural areas, or other demanding environments to provide quickand reliable results. Indeed, someembodiments disclosed herein can provide a compact, simplified imaging or diagnostic tool that can be easily stored, efficiently manufactured, and quickly implemented in use, which can provide numerous benefits in several different points of care or environments. Such devices and methods disclosed herein can be used in hospitals, clinics, points of care, or at homes.

[0012] The devices and methods of this disclosure have several innovative aspects, the desirable attributes disclosed herein may be derived from one or more of the innovative aspects individually or as a combination, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0013] In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, an integrated ultrasound device includes a housing, a transducer unit, a processing unit and a display unit. The transducer unit, processing unit and display unit are disposed at the housing The transducer unit includes an array of transducers configured to transmit soundwaves toward an object and to receive sound waves reflected by the object. The processing unit is in communication with the transducer unit and configured to generate an image based on the sound waves received by the array of transducers. The display unit is in communication with the processing unit and includes a display for showing the image generated by the processing unit.

[0014] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device includes a power unit disposed at the housing and including a battery configured to power the transducer unit, processing unit and display unit.

[0015] In some embodiments, the battery is removable from the housing.

[0016] In some embodiments, the battery is rechargeable.

[0017] In some embodiments, battery is rechargeable wirelessly.

[0018] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device includes a sensor unit configured for automatically rotating the image on the display.

[0019] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the transducer unit is movable relative to the housing in at least one direction to allow an alignment of at least the portion of the transducer unit with respect to the object.

[0020] In some embodiments, the transducer unit is connected to the housing via a joint selected from the group consisting of joystick, ball, socket, saddle, hinge, condyloid, pivot and gliding.

[0021] In some embodiments, the transducer unit is rotatable relative to the housing about at least one axis.

[0022] In some embodiments, the transducer unit is rotatable relative to the housing about a first axis within a first angular range and about a second axis within a second angular range.

[0023] In some embodiments, the first and second angular ranges are different.

[0024] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device includes a locking mechanism configured to selectively lock the transducer unit with respect to the housing.

[0025] In some embodiments, the transducer unit is disposed adjacent to an end portion of the housing.

[0026] In some embodiments, the transducer unit is disposed at a middle portion of a back side of the housing.

[0027] In some embodiments, the array of transducers collectively defines a footprint region in a range of about 1 cm2to about 10 cm2, about 5 cm2to about 15 cm2, about 10 cm2to about 20 cm2, about 15 cm2to about 30 cm2, or about 20 cm2to about 50 cm2.

[0028] In some embodiments, the processingunitincludes one or more applicationspecific integrated circuits (ASICs).

[0029] In some embodiments, the processing unit is further configured to control an operation of the transducer unit.

[0030] In some embodiments, the display includes a touch screen.

[0031] In some embodiments, the display is configured to serve as a user interface.

[0032] In some embodiments, ultrasound device is a portable and handheld device.

[0033] Note that the various embodiments described above can be combined with any other embodiments described herein. The features and advantages described in the specification are not all inclusive and, in particular, many additional features and advantages will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the drawings, specification, and claims. Moreover, it should be noted that the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes and may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] The disclosed aspects will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings, provided to illustrate and not to limit the disclosed aspects, wherein like designations denote like elements.

[0035] Figures 1 A and IB illustrate an exemplary imaging device for imaging a patient in an exemplary operating environment, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0036] Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary imaging device, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0037] Figures 3Ato 3Lillustrate an exemplary imaging device, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0038] Figures 4A to 4H illustrate another exemplary imaging device, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0039] Figures 5 to 11 are perspective, front, rear, left and right side, and top and bottom views of the device illustrated in Figures 3 A to 3L.

[0040] Figures 12 to 18 are perspective, front, rear, left and right side, and top and bottom views of the device illustrated in Figures 4A to 4H.

[0041] Reference will now be made to implementations, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention.However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the present invention may be practiced without requiring some of these specific details.DESCRIPTION OF IMPLEMENTATIONS

[0042] The present disclosure relates to imaging devices, and in some embodiments, ultrasound imaging devices. Such imaging devices and methods can be used in the field of ultrasound imaging, and although referred to as an ultrasound device, can be configured to be used for other imaging modalities.

[0043] Referring now to Figures 1 A and IB, an integrated ultrasound device 100 for imaging a patient in an exemplary operating environment, in accordance with some embodiments. The ultrasound device 100 integrates ultrasound probing, computing and / or other capabilities into one housing and reduces the data throughput bottleneck while maintaining or increasing their performance and diagnostic capabilities. The ultrasound device 100 can be used in a variety of environments (e.g., in fields, hospitals, clinics, points of care, or at homes) to provide easy, quick and reliable image acquisition, processing and analysis.

[0044] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 100 includes a housing 130, a transducer unit 140 (e.g., a probe portion), a processing unit 150, and a display unit 160. The transducer unit, processing unit and display unit are disposed at or within the housing. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 100 includes a power unit 170 disposed at or within the housing. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 100 includes a sensor unit 180 disposed at or within the housing. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 100 is a portable, handheld device.

[0045] In some embodiments, the transducer unit 140 includes one or more transducers (e.g., transducers 220, Figure 2) configured for sending and receiving sound waves. In some embodiments, sending and receiving sound waves are achieved through the piezoelectric effect. In some embodiments, the transducers are arranged in an array (e.g., a onedimensional array, two-dimensional array).

[0046] In some embodiments, the processingunit 150 is in communication with the transducer unit 140. In some embodiments, the processing unit 150 includes one or more processors (e.g., processors 202, Figure 2), In some embodiments, the processing unit 150 is configured to control an operation of the transducer unit 140, e.g., telling the transducer unit what to do and how to do it. In some embodiments, the processing unit 150 is configured toprocess the signals (e.g., sound waves received by the transducer unit) and convert them into image(s). In some embodiments, the processing unit 150 is configured to process the signals and provide measurement(s) and / or other result(s) (e.g., heart rates).

[0047] In some embodiments, the display unit 160 is in communication with the processingunit 150. In some embodiments, the display unit 160 includes a display (e.g., display 330, Figure 3 A). In some embodiments, the display unit 160 takes the data from the processing unit 150 and shows the image(s) and / or other results on the display. In some embodiments, the display is configured to serve as a user interface. For instance, in some embodiments, the display is configured to serve as an input interface (e.g., input interface 210, Figure 2), an output interface (e.g., output interface 232), or both of the input and output interfaces. The display may be used for entering information and data, adjusting the image on the display, helping a user to ensure that they are scanning the right area of a body, and / or performing other functions.

[0048] In some embodiments, the power unit 170 includes a battery configured to power at least one of the transducer unit 140, the processing unit 150, and the display unit 160. In some embodiments, the power unit 170 includes a battery configured to power all of the transducer unit 140, the processing unit 150, and the display unit 160. In some embodiments, the power unit 170 includes a power management configured to manage the power consumption and / or improve the power efficiency of the ultrasound device 100.

[0049] In some embodiments, the sensor unit 180 is in communication with the display unit 160 and configuredto enable autorotation, optical image stabilization, and / or other features. In some embodiments, autorotation is based at least in part on the orientation and / or movement of the ultrasound device. In some embodiments, the sensor unit 180 includes one or more accelerometers, one or more gyroscopes, one or more magnetometers, or any combination thereof.

[0050] During operation, the ultrasound device 100 (e.g., via the transducers) produces sound waves 120 that are transmitted toward an organ, such as a heart or a lung of a patient 110. The internal organ, or other object(s) to be imaged, may reflect a portion of the sound waves toward the probe portion (e.g., the transducer unit 140) of the ultrasound device 100, which are received by the transducers 220. The processing unit 150 uses the received signals to create an image that is also known as a sonogram. In some embodiments, the imagecreated by the processingunit 150 is then displayed by the display unit 160, which may include keyboard, touch screenjoystick, touchpad, speaker, and / or other input and output devices.

[0051] Figure 2 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary ultrasound device 100, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0052] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 100 includes one or more processors 202 (e.g., processing units of CPU(s)), one or more optional communication interfaces 204 (e.g., network interface(s)), memory 206, and one or more communication buses 208 for interconnecting these components (sometimes called a chipset).

[0053] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 100 includes one or more input interfaces 210 thatfacilitate user input. For example, in some embodiments, the input interfaces 210 include port(s) 212 and button(s) 214. In some embodiments, the port(s) can be used for receiving a cable for powering or charging the ultrasound device 100, or for facilitating communication between the ultrasound device and other devices (e.g., printing device, and / or other input output devices and accessories). In some embodiments, the one or more input interfaces 210 includes a keyboard, a mouse, a voice-command input unit or microphone, a touch screen display, a touch-sensitive input pad, a gesture capturing camera, or other input buttons or controls. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 100 uses a microphone and voice recognition or a camera and gesture recognition to supplement or replace the keyboard. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 100 includes one or more output interfaces 232 that enable presentation of user interfaces and display content, such as one or more speakers and / or one ormore visual displays (e.g., display unit 160). In some embodiments, the display unit 160 serves as both the input and output interfaces for the ultrasound device 100.

[0054] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 100 includes a power supply 216 (e.g., the power unit 170). For example, in some embodiments, the ultrasound device 100 is battery-powered. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device is powered by a continuous AC power supply.

[0055] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 100 includes a probe portion (e.g., the transducer unit 140) that includes transducers 220, which may also be referred to as transceivers or imagers. Examples of transducers 220 include, without limitation, piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducers (PMUT) and capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducers (CMUT). In some embodiments, the transducers 220 are based on photo-acoustic or ultrasonic effects. For ultrasound imaging, the transducers 220 transmit ultrasonic wavestowards a target (e.g., a target organ, blood vessels, etc.) to be imaged. The transducers 220 receive reflected soundwaves (e.g., echoes) that bounce off body tissues. The reflected waves are then converted to electrical signals and / or ultrasound images. In some embodiments, the probe portion of the ultrasound device 100 is integrated in the same housing as the computing and control portion (e.g., the processing unit 150) of the ultrasound device 100. In some embodiments, the probe portion of the ultrasound device has a respective transducer array that is tailored to a respective scanner type (e.g., linear, convex, endocavitary, phased array, transesophageal, 3D, and / or 4D). In the present disclosure, “ultrasound probe” may refer to the probe portion of an ultrasound device, or an ultrasound device that includes a probe portion.

[0056] The memory 206 includes high-speed random-access memory, such as DRAM, SRAM, DDR RAM, or other random access solid state memory devices; and, optionally, includes non-volatile memory, such as one or more magnetic disk storage devices, one or more optical disk storage devices, one or more flash memory devices, or one or more other non-volatile solid state storage devices. The memory 206, optionally, includes one or more storage devices remotely located from one or more processor(s) 202. The memory 206, or alternatively the non-volatile memory within the memory 206, includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. In some implementations, the memory 206, or the non- transitory computer-readable storage medium of the memory 206, stores the following programs, modules, and data structures, or a subset or superset thereof :• operating logic 240 including procedures for handling various basic system services and for performing hardware dependent tasks;• a communication module 242 (e.g., a radio communication module) for connecting to and communicating with other network devices (e.g., a local network, such as a router that provides Internet connectivity, networked storage devices, network routing devices, server systems, computer device 130, computer device 300, and / or other connected devices etc.) coupled to one or more communication networks via the communication interface(s) 204 (e.g., wired or wireless);• a user interface module 246 for enabling presentation of information (e.g., a graphical user interface for presenting application(s), widgets, websites and web pages thereof, games, audio and / or video content, text, etc.) either at the ultrasound device 100 or another device;application 250 for acquiring ultrasound data (e.g., imaging data) of a patient, and / or for controlling an operation of one or more components of the ultrasound device 100 and / or other connected devices (e.g., in accordance with a determination that the ultrasound data meets, or does not meet, certain conditions). In some embodiments, the application 250 includes: o an acquisition module 252 for acquiringultrasound data. In some embodiments, the ultrasound data includes imaging data. In some embodiments, the acquisition module 252 activates the transducers 220 (e.g., less than all of the transducers 220, different subset(s) of the transducers 220, all the transducers 220, etc.) according to whether the ultrasound data meets one or more conditions associated with one or more quality requirements; o a receiving module 254 for receiving ultrasound data; o a transmitting module 256 for transmitting ultrasound data to other device(s) (e.g., a server system, computer device 130, computer device 300, display device 140, and / or other connected devices etc.); o an analysis module 258 for analyzing whether the data (e.g., imaging data) acquired by the ultrasound device 100 meets one or more conditions associated with quality requirements for an ultrasound scan. For example, in some embodiments, the one or more conditions include one or more of: a condition that the imaging data includes one or more newly acquired images that meet one or more threshold quality scores, a condition that the imaging data includes one or more newly acquired images that correspond to one or more anatomical planes that match a desired anatomical plane of a target anatomical structure, a condition that the imaging data includes one or more newly acquired images that include one or more landmark / features (or a combination of landmarks / features), a condition that the imaging data includes one or more newly acquired images that include a feature having a particular dimension, a condition that the imaging data supports a prediction that an image meeting one or more requirements would be acquired in the next one or more image frames, a condition that the imaging data supports a prediction that a first change (e.g, an increaseby a percentage, or numb er) in the numb er of transducer used wouldsupport an improvement in the quality score of an image acquired in the next one or more image frames, and / or other analogous conditions; and o a transducer control module 260 for activating (e.g., adjusting) a number of transducers 220 during portions of an ultrasound scan based on a determination that the ultrasound data meets (or does not meet) one or more quality requirements. For example, in some embodiments, the transducer control module 260 activates a first sub set of the transducers 220 duringthe first portion of an ultrasound scan. In some embodiments, the transducer control module 260 activates a second subset of the transducers 220, different from the first subset of the transducers, during a second portion of the scan following the first portion of the scan, when the imaging data corresponding to the first portion of the scan meets (or does not meet) one or more quality requirements. In some embodiments, the transducer control module260 controls one or more operating modes of the ultrasound device 100. For example, in some embodiments, the ultrasound device 100 is configuredto operate in one or more low-power modes. In a respective low-power mode, the transducer control module 260 activates only a subset (e.g., 10%, 15%, 20%, or other preset subsets) of all the available transducers 220 in the ultrasound device 100. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 100 is configuredto operate in a full-power mode. In the fullpower mode, the transducer control module 260 activates all the available transducers 220 to acquire a high-quality image; device data 280 for the ultrasound device 100, including but not limited to: o device settings 282 for the ultrasound device 100, such as default options and preferred user settings. In some embodiments, the device settings 282 include imaging control parameters. For example, in some embodiments, the imaging control parameters can include one or more of: a number of transducers that are activated, a power consumption threshold of the ultrasound device, an imaging frame rate, a scan speed, a depth of penetration, and other scan parameters that control the power consumption, heat generation rate, and / or processing load of the ultrasound device; o user settings 284, such as a preferred gain, depth, zoom, and / or focus settings;o ultrasound scan data 286 (e.g., imaging data) that are acquired (e.g., detected, measured) by the ultrasound device 100 (e.g., via transducers 220); o image quality requirements data 288. In some embodiments, the image quality requirements data 288 include clinical requirements for determining the quality of an ultrasound image; and o an atlas 290. In some embodiments, the atlas 290 includes anatomical structures of interest. In some embodiments, the atlas 290 includes three-dimensional representations of the anatomical structure of interest (e.g., hip, heart, lung, and / or other anatomical structures); and• a database 270, including but not limited to: o imaging control parameters 272. For example, in some embodiments, the imaging control parameters include one or more of: a number of transducers that are activated, a power consumption threshold of the ultrasound device, an imaging frame rate, a scan speed, a depth of penetration, and other scan parameters that control the power consumption, heat generation rate, and / or processing load of the ultrasound device; o ultrasound scan data processing models 274 for processing ultrasound data. For example, in some embodiments, the ultrasound scan data processingmodels 274 are trained neural network models that are trained to determine whether an ultrasound image meets quality requirements corresponding to a scan type, or trained to output an anatomic plane corresponding to an anatomical structure of an ultrasound image, or trained to predict, based on a sequence of ultrasound images and their quality scores, whether a sub sequent frame to be acquired by an ultrasound device will contain certain anatomical structures and / or landmarks of interest; and o labeled images 276 (e.g., a databank of images), including images fortraining the models that are used for processing new ultrasound data, and / or new images that have been or need to be processed. In some embodiments, the labeled images 276 are images of anatomical structures thathave been labeled with their respective identifiers and relative positions.

[0057] Each of the above identified executable modules, applications, or sets of procedures may be stored in one or more of the previously mentioned memory devices, andcorresponds to a set of instructions for performing a function described above. The above identified modules or programs (i.e., sets of instructions) need not be implemented as separate software programs, procedures, or modules, and thus various subsets of these modules may be combined or otherwise re-arranged in various implementations. In some implementations, the memory 206 stores a subset of the modules and data structures identified above. Furthermore, the memory 206 may store additional modules or data structures not described above.

[0058] Figures 3A to 3L illustrate an exemplary ultrasound device 300, in accordance with some embodiments. The ultrasound device 300 integrates ultrasound probing computing and / or other capabilities into one housing and reduces the data throughput bottleneck while maintaining or increasing their performance and diagnostic capabilities. The ultrasound device 300 canbeused in a variety of environments (e.g., in fields, hospitals, clinics, points of care, or at homes) to provide easy, quick and reliable image acquisition, processing and analysis.

[0059] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 300 includes a housing 310 configured for housing components of the ultrasound device. In some embodiments, the housing 310 is configured for housing all the components of the ultrasound device that are required for ultrasound imaging and analysis. In some embodiments, the housing 310 has a configuration (e.g., size and / shape) similar to a housing of a smartphone, a tablet device, or the like. In some embodiments, the housing 310 has a form factor in the range of about 1 to about 5, about 2 to about 6, about 3 to about 7, about 4 to 8, or about 5 to 10 compared to the housing of a smartphone or tablet device. In some embodiments, the housing 310 is configured to enable easy use and handle of the ultrasound device by one hand.

[0060] In some embodiments, the housing 310 includes a first end portion 311 and a second end portion 312. In some embodiments, the second end portion 312 is thicker than the first end portion 311. In some embodiments, the housing 310 includes a port 313 disposed adjacent to the second end portion 312 and at an angle with respect to the second end portion 312. In some embodiments, the housing 310 includes one or more enhancement elements 314 (e.g., ribs, grooves) configured to enhance the strength of the housing and / or to allow easy use and handle of the ultrasound device.

[0061] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 300 includes a transducer unit 320 disposed atthe housing 310 and including one ormore transducers (e.g., transducers 220, Figure 2) configured to transmit sound waves toward an object (e.g., an organ of a body) andto receive sound waves reflected by the object. In some embodiments, the transducer unit 320 includes an array of transducers. In some embodiments, the transducer unit 320 includes 1 to 100 transducers, 50 to 200 transducers, 100 to 500 transducers, 200 to 1000 transducers, or more than 1000 transducers.

[0062] In some embodiments, the transducer unit 320 includes a footprint region 321 (e.g., a probe area) where the sound waves leave and return to the transducer unit 320. During operation, the footprintregion 321 may needto remain in contact with the body in order to transmit and receive ultrasound waves. In some embodiments, the footprint region 321 is defined by the array of transducers. In some embodiments, the footprint region 321 is about 1 cm2to about 10 cm2, about 5 cm2to about 15 cm2, about 10 cm2to about 20 cm2, about 15 cm2to about 30 cm2, or about 20 cm2to about 50 cm2.

[0063] In some embodiments, the transducer unit 320 is disposed at the housing 310 such that the footprint region 321 exposes to the outside through the port 313. In some embodiments, atleast a portion of the transducer unit (e.g., the footprintregion 321) is movable relative to the housing (e.g., the port 313) in at least one direction. For instance, in some embodiments, the transducer unit is connected to the housingvia ajoint, such as joystick, ball, socket, saddle, hinge, condyloid, pivot, gliding, or the like. This allows adjustment of atleast a portion of the transducer unit to align the footprint region 321 with the object (e.g., an organ of a body). The alignment may be done by a user or automatically in response to the contact of thetransducerunitwiththebody. In some embodiments, the transducerunitor atleasta portion of the transducer unit is rotatable relative to the housing about one or more axes. For instance, in some embodiments, the transducer unit or at least a portion of the transducer unit is rotatable relative to the housing about a first axis 322 and a second axis 323. Rotation about the first and second axes may be the same or different. For instance, in some embodiments, rotation about the first axis 322 is limited within a first angular range and rotation about the second axis 323 is limited within a second angular range. In some embodiments, the transducer unit or atleast a portion of the transducer unit is allowed to rotate more about one axis than about the other axis.

[0064] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 300 includes a locking mechanism 324. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 324 is disposed at the housing 310. The locking mechanism 324 is configured to selectively lock the transducer unit with respect to the housing so that the transducer unit is fixed with the housing when desired. Insome embodiments, the locking mechanism 324 is configured to selectively unlock the transducer unit, thereby allowing the transducer to move with respect to the housing when needed.

[0065] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 300 includes a processing unit (e.g., processing unit 150). The processing unit is disposed at the housing (e.g., embedded within the housing and not shown) and in communication with the transducerunit 310. In some embodiments, the processing unit is configured to control an operation of the transducer unit 310, e.g., telling the transducer unit what to do and how to do it. In some embodiments, the processing unit 150 is configured to process the signals (e.g., sound waves received by the transducer unit) and convert them into image(s) (e.g., generating image(s) based on the sound waves received by the array of transducers). In some embodiments, the processing unit is configured to process the signals and provide measurement(s) and / or other result(s).

[0066] In some embodiments, the processingunitincludes one or more applicationspecific integrated circuits (ASICs). ASICs are custom designed for specific applications, and generally offer high performance and efficiency. While field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) are reprogrammable devices that provide flexibility and rapid prototyping capabilities, in some embodiments, the processing unit may only include a minimal number of FPGAs. In some embodiments, the processing unit may not include any FPGAs. In some such embodiments, the ultrasound device is generally more compact and more efficient.

[0067] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 300 includes a display unit (e.g., display unit 160). The display unit is disposed at the housing and in communication with the processing unit (e.g., the processing unit 150). In some embodiments, the display unit includes a display 330 for showing image(s) 331 generated by the processing unit and / or other result(s) 332. The result(s) may include a plurality of measurements or calculations (e.g., 332- 1, 332-2, ..., 332-n). The image(s) 331 and result(s) 332 may be displayed separately, simultaneously, or in other formats as a user desires, on the display 330.

[0068] In some embodiments, the display 330 is configured to serve as a user interface to allow user input (e.g., serving as an input interface 210), to provide results and / or answers (e.g., serving as an output interface 232), or both. In some embodiments, the display 330 is a touch screen, e.g., similar to those of a smartphone, a tablet device or the like. In some embodiments, the display 330 shows one or more icons 333 (e.g., image, menu, text) to facilitate user interaction (e.g., for entering information and data). In some embodiments, thedisplay 330 is configured to allow for adjusting the image on the display, for instance, by touching the screen with finger(s).

[0069] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 300 includes a sensor unit (e.g., sensor unit 180). The sensor unit is disposed at the housing (e.g., embedded within the housing and not shown) and in communication with the display unit. The sensor unit is configured to automatically rotate the image(s) 331 and / or other items on the display 330 based at least in part on the orientation and / or movement of the ultrasound device 300. In some embodiments, the sensor unit is also configured to stabilize the image(s), for instance, during vibration of the ultrasound device or when no rotation of the ultrasound device is detected. In some embodiments, the sensor unit includes one or more accelerometers, one or more gyroscopes, one or more magnetometers, or any combination thereof.

[0070] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 300 includes a power unit (e.g., power unit 170). The power unit is disposed at the housing (e.g., embedded within the housing and not shown) and includes a battery configured to power at least one of the transducer unit, the processing unit, and the display unit. In some embodiments, the power unit includes a battery configured to power all of the transducer unit, the processing unit, and the display unit. In some embodiments, the battery is removable from the housing. In some embodiments, the battery is rechargeable. In some embodiments, the battery is rechargeable wirelessly.

[0071] In some embodiments, the housing 310 has a front portion 315 that includes a display screen socket 316, a rear portion 317 configured to be held in a user’s hand, and a transducer head portion 318. The transducer unit is coupled to the housing at the transducer head portion and includes an array of transducers. The processing unit is supported by the housing and in communication with the transducer unit and the display screen socket for displaying an image based on image data generated by the processing unit.

[0072] In some embodiments, the display 330 is coupled to the display screen socket 316. In some embodiments, the display is from a mobile device that can be coupled to the display screen socket. In some embodiments, the mobile deviceis a mobile phone, a mobile computer, a computer screen.

[0073] In some embodiments, the display 330 is or includes a display screen supported by the display screen socket. In some embodiments, the display screen extends across a face of the front portion 315. In some embodiments, the display screen extends adjacent to one or more edges of the front portion to occupy a majority of the front portion ofthe housing. In some embodiments, the display screen has a size of at least 1 inch by at least 1 inch, at least 1 inch by at least 2 inches, at least 1.5 inch by at least 3 inches, at least 2 inches by at least 4 inches, at least 2.5 inches by at least 5 inches.

[0074] In some embodiments, the display screen socket 316 permits removable coupling of a mobile device to the housing. In some embodiments, the display screen socket 316 includes one or more connection flanges 319 for removably engaging with the mobile device.

[0075] Figures 4A to 4H illustrate an exemplary ultrasound device 400, in accordance with some embodiments. The ultrasound device 400 integrates ultrasound probing computing and / or other capabilities into one housing and reduces the data throughput bottleneck while maintaining or increasing their performance and diagnostic capabilities. The ultrasound device400 canbeusedin avariety of environments (e.g., in fields, hospitals, clinics, points of care, or at homes) to provide easy, quick and reliable image acquisition, processing and analysis.

[0076] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 400 includes a housing 410 configured for housing components of the ultrasound device. In some embodiments, the housing 410 is configured for housing all the components of the ultrasound device that are required for ultrasound imaging and analysis. In some embodiments, the housing 410 has a configuration (e.g., size and / shape) similar to a housing of a smartphone, a tablet device, or the like. In some embodiments, the housing 410 has a form factor in the range of in the range of about 1 to about 5, about2to about6, about 3 to about 7, about 4 to 8, or about 5 to 10 compared to the housing of a smartphone or tablet device. In some embodiments, the housing 410 is configured to enable easy use and handle of the ultrasound device by one hand. In some embodiments, the housing 410 is substantially symmetrical with respect to a first central plane (e.g., a central plane in a width direction of the housing). In some embodiments, the housing 410 is substantially symmetrical with respect to a second central plane (e.g., a central plane in a height direction of the housing).

[0077] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 400 includes a transducer unit 420 disposed atthe housing410 and including one or more transducers (e.g., transducers 220, Figure 2) configured to transmit sound waves toward an object (e.g., an organ of a body) and to receive sound waves reflected by the object. In some embodiments, the transducer unit 420 includes an array of transducers. In some embodiments, the transducer unit 420 includes 1 to100 transducers, 50 to 200 transducers, 100 to 500 transducers, 200 to 1000 transducers, or more than 1000 transducers.

[0078] In some embodiments, the transducer unit 420 includes a footprint region 421 (e.g., a probe area) where the sound waves leave and return to the transducer unit 420. During operation, the footprint region 421 may needto remain in contact with the body in order to transmit and receive ultrasound waves. In some embodiments, the footprint region 421 is defined by the array of transducers. In some embodiments, the footprint region 421 is about 1 cm2to about 10 cm2, about 5 cm2to about 15 cm2, about 10 cm2to about 20 cm2, about 15 cm2to about 30 cm2, or about 20 cm2to about 50 cm2.

[0079] In some embodiments, the transducer unit 420 is disposed at a middle portion of a back side of the housing 410. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the transducer unit (e.g., the footprint region 421 ) is movable relative to the housing in at least one direction. For instance, in some embodiments, the transducer unit is connected to the housing via a joint, such as joystick, ball, socket, saddle, hinge, condyloid, pivot, gliding, or the like. This allows adjustment of at least a portion of the transducer unit to align the footprint region 421 with the object (e.g., an organ of a body). The alignment may be done by a user or automatically in response to the contact of the transducer unit with the body. In some embodiments, the transducer unit or at least a portion of the transducer unit is rotatable relative to the housing about one or more axes. For instance, in some embodiments, the transducer unit or at least a portion of the transducer unit is rotatable relative to the housing about a first axis 422.

[0080] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 400 includes a processing unit (e.g., processing unit 150) disposed at the housing (e.g., embedded within the housing and not shown) and in communication with the transducer unit 420. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 400 includes a display unit (e.g., display unit 160) disposed at the housing (e.g., embedded within the housing and not shown) and in communication with the processing unit. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 400 includes a sensor unit (e.g., sensor unit 180) disposed at the housing (e.g., embedded within the housing and not shown) and in communication with the display unit. In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 400 includes a power unit (e.g., power unit 170) disposed at the housing (e.g., embedded within the housing and not shown) and includes a battery configured to power at least one of the transducer unit, the processing unit, and the display unit. The processing unit, display unit,sensor unit and / or power unit of the ultrasound device 400 are substantially the same as those of the ultrasound device 100 or 300. As such, description of these units is omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0081] In some embodiments, the ultrasound device 100, 300 or 400 is a compact, integrated imaging device forperforming an imaging procedure of a target object. The imaging device includes a housing (e.g. , the housing 130, 310 or 410) that is configured to be held in a user’s hand and a display (e.g., the display 330) that is integrated into and supported by the housingforvisually displaying a live image of the target object on the display held by theuser’s hand while performing the imaging procedure.

[0082] In some embodiments, the imaging device further includes a transducer unit (e.g., the transducer unit 140, 320, or 420) coupled to the housing and a processing unit (e.g., the processing unit 150) supported by the housing that is in communication with the transducer unit and the display. In some embodiments, the transducer unit and the processing unit are in direct, electrical communication with each other, and wherein the display is in direct, electrical communication with at least the processing unit for reducing latency in displaying the live image. In some embodiments, the direct, electrical communication comprises a connection via one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). In some embodiments, the direct, electrical communication comprises a connection via a plurality of application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

[0083] In some embodiments, the imaging device further includes a cooling unit for cooling the device. In some embodiments, the imaging device further includes a power unit (e.g., a battery unit) for providing electrical power to the device. In some embodiments,

[0084] In some embodiments, the imaging procedure includes an ultrasound imaging procedure.

[0085] Figures 5 to 11 are perspective, front, rear, left and right side, and top and bottom views showing features of the design of the device illustrated in Figures 3 A to 3L.

[0086] Figures 12 to 18 are perspective, front, rear, left and right side, and top and bottom views showing features of the design of the device illustrated in Figures 4A to 4H.

[0087] Although some of various drawings illustrate a number of logical stages in a particular order, stages that are not order dependent may be reordered and other stages may be combined or broken out. While some reordering or other groupings are specifically mentioned, others will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art, so the ordering andgroupings presented herein are not an exhaustive list of alternatives. Moreover, it should be recognized that the stages could be implemented in hardware, firmware, software or any combination thereof.Illustration of Subject Technology as Clauses

[0088] Various examples of aspects of the disclosure are described as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.) for convenience. These are provided as examples, and do not limit the subject technology. Identifications of the figures and reference numbers are provided below merely as examples and for illustrative purposes, and the clauses are not limited by those identifications.

[0089] Clause 1 : An ultrasound device, comprising: a housing; a transducer unit disposed at the housing and comprising an array of transducers configured to transmit sound waves toward an object to be imaged and to receive sound waves reflected by the object; a processing unit disposed at the housing and in communication with the transducer unit, the processing unit configured to generate an image based on the sound waves received by the array of transducers; and a display unit disposed at the housing and in communication with the processing unit, the display unit comprising a display for showing the image generated by the processing unit.

[0090] Clause 2: The ultrasound device of Clause 1, further comprising a power unit disposed at the housing and comprising a battery configured to power the transducer unit, processing unit and display unit.

[0091] Clause 3 : The ultrasound device of Clause 2, wherein the battery is removable from the housing.

[0092] Clause 4: The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 2-3, wherein the battery is rechargeable.

[0093] Clause 5 : The ultrasound device of Clause 4, wherein the battery is rechargeable wirelessly.

[0094] Clause 6: The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 1-5, further comprising a sensor unit configured to automatically rotating the image on the display.

[0095] Clause 7 : The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 1 -6, wherein at least a portion of the transducer unit is movable relative to the housing in at least one direction to allow an alignment of at least the portion of the transducer unit with respect to the object.

[0096] Clause 8: The ultrasound device of Clause 7, wherein the transducer unit is connected to thehousingvia ajoint selectedfrom the group consisting of joystick, ball, socket, saddle, hinge, condyloid, pivot and gliding.

[0097] Clause 9: The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 7-8, wherein the transducer unit is rotatable relative to the housing about at least one axis.

[0098] Clause 10: The ultrasound device of Clause 9, wherein the transducer unit is rotatable relative to the housing about a first axis within a first angular range and about a second axis within a second angular range.

[0099] Clause 11 : The ultrasound device of Clause 10, wherein the first and second angular ranges are different.

[0100] Clause 12: The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 1-11, further comprising a lockingmechanism configured to selectively lock the transducer unit with respect to the housing.

[0101] Clause 13 : The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 1-12, wherein the transducer unit is disposed adjacent to an end portion of the housing.

[0102] Clause 14: The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 1-13, wherein the transducer unit is disposed at a middle portion of a back side of the housing.

[0103] Clause 15: The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 1-14, wherein the array of transducers collectively defines a footprint region in a range of about 1 cm2to about 10 cm2, about 5 cm2to about 15 cm2, about 10 cm2to about 20 cm2, about 15 cm2to about 30 cm2, or about 20 cm2to about 50 cm2.

[0104] Clause 16: The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 1-15, wherein the processing unit comprises one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

[0105] Clause 17: The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 1-16, wherein the processing unit is further configured to control an operation of the transducer unit.

[0106] Clause 18: The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 1-17, wherein the display comprises a touch screen.

[0107] Clause 19: The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 1-18, wherein the display is configured to serve as a user interface.

[0108] Clause 20: The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 1-19, wherein the ultrasound device is a portable and handheld device.

[0109] Clause 21 : An ultrasound device, comprising: a housing having a front portion that includes a display screen socket, a rear portion configured to be held in a user’s hand, and a transducer head portion; a transducer unit coupled to the housing at the transducer head portion and comprising an array of transducers; and a processing unit supported by the housing and in communication with the transducer unit and the display screen socket for displaying an image based on image data generated by the processing unit.

[0110] Clause 22 : The ultrasound device of Clause 21 , further comprising a display coupled to the display screen socket.[OHl] Clause 23 : The ultrasound device of Clause 22, wherein the display is from a mobile device that can be coupled to the display screen socket.

[0112] Clause 24: The ultrasound device of Clause 23, wherein the mobile device is a mobile phone.

[0113] Clause 25: The ultrasound device of Clause 23, wherein the mobile device is a mobile computer.

[0114] Clause 26: The ultrasound device of Clause 23, wherein the mobile device is a computer screen.

[0115] Clause 27: The ultrasound device of Clause 21, wherein the array of transducers is configured to transmit sound waves toward an object to be imaged and to receive sound waves reflected by the object.

[0116] Clause 28: The ultrasound device of Clause 21, wherein the processing unit is configured to generate image data based on the sound waves received by the array of transducers.

[0117] Clause 29: The ultrasound device of Clause 21, further comprising a display screen supported by the display screen socket, the display screen extending across a face of the front portion.

[0118] Clause 30: The ultrasound device of Clause 29, wherein the display screen has a size of at least 1 inch by at least 1 inch.

[0119] Clause 31 : The ultrasound device of Clause 29, wherein the display screen has a size of at least 1 inch by at least 2 inches.

[0120] Clause 32: The ultrasound device of Clause 29, wherein the display screen has a size of at least 1.5 inch by at least 3 inches.

[0121] Clause 33 : The ultrasound device of Clause 29, wherein the display screen has a size of at least 2 inches by at least 4 inches.

[0122] Clause 34: The ultrasound device of Clause 29, wherein the display screen has a size of at least 2.5 inches by at least 5 inches.

[0123] Clause 35 : The ultrasound device of Clause 29, wherein the display screen extends adjacentto one or more edges of the front portion to occupy a majority of the front portion of the housing.

[0124] Clause 36: The ultrasound device of Clause 21, wherein the display screen socket permits removable coupling of a mobile device to the housing.

[0125] Clause 37: The ultrasound device of Clause 36, wherein the display screen socket comprises one or more connection flanges for removably engaging with the mobile device.

[0126] Clause 38 : The ultrasound device of Clause 21, wherein the transducer unit is movable relative to the housingfor adjusting an alignment of the transducer unit with respect to an object to be imaged.

[0127] Clause 39: The ultrasound device of Clause 38, wherein the transducer unit is coupled to the housing via a joint selected from the group consisting of a joystick, ball, socket, saddle, hinge, condyloid, pivot, and gliding joint.

[0128] Clause 40: The ultrasound device of Clause 38, wherein the transducer unit is rotatable relative to the housing about at least one axis.

[0129] Clause 41 : The ultrasound device of Clause 38, wherein the transducer unit is rotatable relative to the housing about a first axis within a first angular range and about a second axis within a second angular range.

[0130] Clause 42: The ultrasound device of Clause 41, wherein the first and second angular ranges are different.

[0131] Clause 43 : The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 21 to 42, further comprising a lockingmechanism configured to selectively lock the transducer unit with respect to the housing.

[0132] Clause 44: The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 21 to 43, wherein the transducer unit is disposed adjacent to an end portion of the housing.

[0133] Clause 45 : The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 21 to 43, wherein the transducer unit is disposed at a middle portion of a back side of the housing.

[0134] Clause 46: The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 21 to 45, wherein the array of transducers collectively defines a footprint region in a range of about 1 cm2to about 10 cm2, about 5 cm2to about 15 cm2, about 10 cm2to about 20 cm2, about 15 cm2to about 30 cm2, or about 20 cm2to about 50 cm2.

[0135] Clause 47 : The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 21 to 46, wherein the processing unit comprises one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

[0136] Clause 48: The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 21 to 47, wherein the processing unit is further configured to control an operation of the transducer unit.

[0137] Clause 49: The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 21 to 48, wherein the display comprises a touch screen.

[0138] Clause 50: The ultrasound device of any one of Clauses 21 to 49, wherein the display is configured to serve as a user interface.

[0139] Clause 51 : A compact, integrated imaging device for performing an imaging procedure of a target object, the device comprising a housing that is configured to be held in a user’s hand and a display that is integrated into and supported by the housing for visually displaying a live image of the target object on the display held by the user’s hand while performing the imaging procedure.

[0140] Clause 52: The imaging device of Clause 51, further comprising a transducer unit coupled to the housing and a processing unit supported by the housing that is in communication with the transducer unit and the display.

[0141] Clause 53 : The imaging device of Clause 52, wherein the transducer unit and the processing unit are in direct, electrical communication with each other, and wherein the display is in direct, electrical communication with at least the processing unit for reducing latency in displaying the live image.

[0142] Clause 54: The imaging device of Clause 53, wherein the direct, electrical communication comprises a connection via one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

[0143] Clause 55: The imaging device of Clause 53, wherein the direct, electrical communication comprises a connection via a plurality of application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

[0144] Clause 56: The imaging device of Clause 51, further comprising a cooling unit for cooling the device.

[0145] Clause 57: The imaging device of Clause 51, further comprising a battery unit for providing electrical power to the device.

[0146] Clause 58 : The imaging device of Clause 51 , wherein the imaging procedure comprises an ultrasound imaging procedure.Further Considerations

[0147] In some embodiments, any of the clauses herein may depend from any one of the independent clauses or any one of the dependent clauses. In one aspect, any of the clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clauses) may be combined with any other one or more clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clauses). In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words (e.g., steps, operations, means or components) recited in a clause, a sentence, a phrase or a paragraph. In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words recited in one or more clauses, sentences, phrases or paragraphs. In one aspect, some of the words in each of the clauses, sentences, phrases or paragraphs may be removed. In one aspect, additional wordsorelementsmaybe addedto a clause, a sentence, aphrase oraparagraph. In one aspect, the subject technology may be implemented without utilizing some of the components, elements, functions or operations described herein. In one aspect, the subject technology may be implemented utilizing additional components, elements, functions or operations.

[0148] As used herein, the word “module” refers to logic embodied in hardware or firmware, or to a collection of software instructions, possibly having entry and exit points, written in a programming language, such as, for example C++. A software module may be compiled and linked into an executable program, installed in a dynamic link library, or may be written in an interpretive language such as BASIC. It will be appreciated that software modules may be callable from other modules or from themselves, and / or may be invoked in response to detected events or interrupts. Software instructions may be embedded in firmware, such as an EPROM or EEPROM. It will be further appreciated that hardware modules may be comprised of connected logic units, such as gates and flip-flops, and / or may be comprised of programmable units, such as programmable gate arrays or processors. The modules described herein are preferably implemented as software modules, but may be represented in hardware or firmware.

[0149] It is contemplated that the modules may be integrated into a fewer number of modules. One module may also be separated into multiple modules. The describedmodulesmay be implemented as hardware, software, firmware or any combination thereof. Additionally, the described modules may reside at different locations connected through a wired or wireless network, or the Internet.

[0150] In general, it will be appreciated that the processors can include, by way of example, computers, program logic, or other substrate configurations representing data and instructions, which operate as described herein. In other embodiments, the processors can include controller circuitry, processor circuitry, processors, general purpose single-chip or multi-chip microprocessors, digital signal processors, embedded microprocessors, microcontrollers and the like.

[0151] Furthermore, it will be appreciated that in one embodiment, the program logic may advantageously be implemented as one or more components. The components may advantageously be configured to execute on one or more processors. The components include, but are not limited to, software or hardware components, modules such as software modules, object-oriented software components, class components and task components, processes methods, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuitry, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables.

[0152] The foregoing description is provided to enable a person skilled in the art to practice the various configurations described herein. While the subject technology has been particularly described with reference to the various figures and configurations, it should be understood that these are for illustration purposes only and should not be taken as limiting the scope of the subject technology.

[0153] There may be many other ways to implement the subject technology. Various functions and elements described herein may be partitioned differently from those shown without departing from the scope of the subject technology. Various modifications to these configurations will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and generic principles defined herein may be applied to other configurations. Thus, many changes and modifications may be made to the subject technology, by one having ordinary skill in the art, without departing from the scope of the subject technology.

[0154] It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes disclosed is an illustration of exemplary approaches. Based upon design preferences, it is understood thatthe specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged. Some of the steps may be performed simultaneously. The accompanyingmethodclaims presentelements of the various steps in a sample order, and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0155] As used herein, the phrase “at least one of’ preceding a series of items, with the term “and” or “or” to separate any of the items, modifies the list as a whole, rather than each member of the list (i.e., each item). The phrase “at least one of’ does not require selection of at least one of each item listed; rather, the phrase allows a meaning that includes at least one of any one of the items, and / or at least one of any combination of the items, and / or at least one of each of the items. By way of example, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C” or “at least one of A, B, or C” each refer to only A, only B, or only C; any combination of A, B, and C; and / or at least one of each of A, B, and C.

[0156] Terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “rear” and the like as used in this disclosure should be understood as referring to an arbitrary frame of reference, rather than to the ordinary gravitational frame of reference. Thus, a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface, and a rear surface may extend upwardly, downwardly, diagonally, or horizontally in a gravitational frame of reference.

[0157] Furthermore, to the extentthatthe term “include,” “have,” or the like is used in the description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprise” as “comprise” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

[0158] As used herein, the term “about” is relative to the actual value stated, as will be appreciated by those of skill in the art, and allows for approximations, inaccuracies and limits of measurement under the relevant circumstances. In one or more aspects, the terms “about,” “substantially,” and “approximately” may provide an industry-accepted tolerance for their corresponding terms and / or relativity between items, such as a tolerance of from less than one percent to *** percent of the actual value stated, and other suitable tolerances.

[0159] As used herein, the term “comprising” indicates the presence of the specified integer(s), but allows for the possibility of other integers, unspecified. This term does not imply any particular proportion of the specified integers. Variations of the word “comprising,” such as “comprise” and “comprises,” have correspondingly similar meanings.

[0160] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0161] A reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically stated, but rather “one or more.” Pronouns in the masculine (e.g, his) include the feminine andneuter gender (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. The term “some” refers to one or more. Underlined and / or italicized headings and subheadings are used for convenience only, do not limit the subject technology, and are not referred to in connection with the interpretation of the description of the subject technology . All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various configurations described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and intended to be encompassed by the subject technology. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the above description.

[0162] Although the detailed description contains many specifics, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the subject technology but merely as illustrating different examples and aspects of the subject technology. It should be appreciated that the scope of the subject technology includes other embodiments not discussed in detail above.

[0163] Various other modifications, changes and variations may be made in the arrangement, operation and details of the method and apparatus of the subject technology disclosed herein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, it is notnecessary for a device or methodto address every problem thatis solvable (or possess every advantage that is achievable) by different embodiments of the disclosure in order to be encompassed within the scopeof the disclosure. The use herein of “can” and derivatives thereof shall be understood in the sense of “possibly” or “optionally” as opposed to an affirmative capability.

[0164] It will also be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. are, in some instances, used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first segmentation value could be termed a second segmentation value, and, similarly, a second segmentation value could be termed a first segmentation value, without departing from the scope of the various described implementations. The first segmentation value and the second segmentation value are both segmentation values, but they are not the same type of segmentation value.

[0165] The terminology used in the description of the various described implementations herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is notintended to be limiting. As used in the description ofthe various describedimplementations and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms “includes,” “including,” “comprises,” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0166] As used herein, the term “if’ is, optionally, construed to mean “when” or “upon” or “in response to determining” or “in response to detecting” or “in accordance with a determination that,” depending on the context. Similarly, the phrase “if it is determined” or “if [a stated condition or event] is detected” is, optionally, construed to mean “upon determining” or “in response to determining” or “upon detecting [the stated condition or event]” or “in response to detecting [the stated condition or event]” or “in accordance with a determination that [a stated condition or event] is detected,” depending on the context.

[0167] The foregoing description, for purpose of explanation, has been described with reference to specific implementations. However, the illustrative discussions above are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the claims to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The implementations were chosen in order to best explain the principles underlying the claims and their practical applications, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best use the implementations with various modifications as are suited to the particular uses contemplated.

Claims

What is claimed is:1 . An ultrasound device, comprising: a housing; a transducer unit disposed atthe housing and comprising an array of transducers configured to transmit sound waves toward an object to be imaged and to receive sound waves reflected by the object; a processing unit disposed at the housing and in communication with the transducer unit, the processingunit configured to generate an image based on the sound waves received by the array of transducers; and a display unit disposed atthe housing and in communication with the processing unit, the display unit comprising a display for showing the image generated by the processing unit.

2. The ultrasound device of Claim 1, further comprising a power unit disposed at the housing and comprising a battery configured to power the transducer unit, processing unit and display unit.

3. The ultrasound device of Claim 2, wherein the battery is removable from the housing.

4. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 2-3, wherein the battery is rechargeable.

5. The ultrasound device of Claim 4, wherein the battery is rechargeable wirelessly.

6. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 1-5, further comprising a sensor unit configured to automatically rotating the image on the display.

7. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 1-6, wherein at least a portion of the transducer unit is movable relative to the housing in at least one direction to allow an alignment of at least the portion of the transducer unit with respect to the object.

8. The ultrasound device of Claim 7, wherein the transducer unit is connected to the housingvia ajoint selected from the group consistingof joy stick, ball, socket, saddle, hinge, condyloid, pivot and gliding.

9. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 7-8, wherein the transducer unit is rotatable relative to the housing about at least one axis.

10. The ultrasound device of Claim 9, wherein the transducer unit is rotatable relative to the housing about a first axis within a first angular range and about a second axis within a second angular range.

11. The ultrasound device of Claim 10, wherein the first and second angular ranges are different.

12. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 1-11, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to selectively lock the transducer unit with respect to the housing.

13. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 1-12, wherein the transducer unit is disposed adjacent to an end portion of the housing.

14. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 1-12, wherein the transducer unit is disposed at a middle portion of a back side of the housing.

15. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 1-14, wherein the array of transducers collectively defines a footprint region in a range of about 1 cm2to about 10 cm2, about 5 cm2to about 15 cm2, about 10 cm2to about20 cm2, about 15 cm2to about 30 cm2, or about 20 cm2to about 50 cm2.

16. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 1-15, wherein the processing unit comprises one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

17. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 1-16, wherein the processing unit is further configured to control an operation of the transducer unit.

18. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 1-17, wherein the display comprises a touch screen.

19. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 1-18, wherein the display is configured to serve as a user interface.

20. The ultrasound device of anyoneof Claims 1-19, whereintheultrasounddevice is a portable and handheld device.

21. An ultrasound device, comprising: a housing having a front portion that includes a display screen socket, a rear portion configured to be held in a user’s hand, and a transducer head portion; a transducer unit coupled to the housing at the transducer head portion and comprising an array of transducers; anda processing unit supported by the housing and in communication with the transducer unit and the display screen socket for displaying an image based on image data generated by the processing unit.

22. The ultrasound device of Claim 21 , further comprising a display coupled to the display screen socket.

23. The ultrasound device of Claim 22, wherein the display is from a mobile device that can be coupled to the display screen socket.

24. The ultrasound device of Claim 23 , wherein the mobile deviceis a mobile phone.

25. The ultrasound device of Claim 23, wherein the mobile device is a mobile computer.

26. The ultrasound device of Claim 23, wherein the mobile device is a computer screen.

27. The ultrasound device of Claim 21, wherein the array of transducers is configured to transmit soundwaves toward an object to be imaged and to receive soundwaves reflected by the object.

28. The ultrasound device of Claim 21, wherein the processing unit is configuredto generate image data based on the sound waves received by the array of transducers.

29. The ultrasound device of Claim 21, further comprising a display screen supported by the display screen socket, the display screen extending across a face of the front portion.

30. The ultrasound device of Claim 29, wherein the display screen has a size of at least 1 inch by at least 1 inch.

31. The ultrasound device of Claim 29, wherein the display screen has a size of at least 1 inch by at least 2 inches.

32. The ultrasound device of Claim 29, wherein the display screen has a size of at least 1.5 inch by at least 3 inches.

33. The ultrasound device of Claim 29, wherein the display screen has a size of at least 2 inches by at least 4 inches.

34. The ultrasound device of Claim 29, wherein the display screen has a size of at least 2.5 inches by at least 5 inches.

35. The ultrasound device of Claim 29, wherein the display screen extends adjacent to one or more edges of the frontportion to occupy a majority of the frontportion ofthe housing.

36. The ultrasound device of Claim 21, wherein the display screen socket permits removable coupling of a mobile device to the housing.

37. The ultrasound device of Claim 36, wherein the display screen socket comprises one or more connection flanges for removably engaging with the mobile device.

38. The ultrasound device of Claim 21, wherein the transducer unit is movable relative to the housingfor adjusting an alignment of the transducer unit with respectto an object to be imaged.

39. The ultrasound device of Claim 38, wherein the transducer unit is coupled to the housing via a joint selected from the group consisting of a joystick, ball, socket, saddle, hinge, condyloid, pivot, and gliding joint.

40. The ultrasound device of Claim 38, wherein the transducer unit is rotatable relative to the housing about at least one axis.

41. The ultrasound device of Claim 38, wherein the transducer unit is rotatable relative to the housing about a first axis within a first angular range and about a second axis within a second angular range.

42. The ultrasound device of Claim 41, wherein the first and second angular ranges are different.

43. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 21 to 42, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to selectively lock the transducer unit with respect to the housing.

44. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 21 to 43, wherein the transducer unit is disposed adjacent to an end portion of the housing.

45. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 21 to 43, wherein the transducer unit is disposed at a middle portion of a back side of the housing.

46. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 21 to 45, wherein the array of transducers collectively defines a footprint region in a range of about 1 cm2to about 10 cm2, about 5 cm2to about 15 cm2, about 10 cm2to about 20 cm2, about 15 cm2to about 30 cm2, or about 20 cm2to about 50 cm2.

47. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 21 to 46, wherein the processing unit comprises one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

48. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 21 to 47, wherein the processing unit is further configured to control an operation of the transducer unit.

49. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 21 to 48, wherein the display comprises a touch screen.

50. The ultrasound device of any one of Claims 21 to 49, wherein the display is configured to serve as a user interface.

51. A compact, integrated imaging device for performing an imaging procedure of a target object, the device comprising a housing that is configured to be held in a user’s hand and a display that is integrated into and supported by the housing for visually displaying a live image of the target object on the display held by the user’s hand while performing the imaging procedure.

52. The imaging device of Claim 51, further comprising a transducer unit coupled to the housing and a processing unit supported by the housing that is in communication with the transducer unit and the display.

53. The imaging device of Claim 52, wherein the transducer unit and the processing unit are in direct, electrical communication with each other, and wherein the display is in direct, electrical communication with at least the processing unit for reducing latency in displaying the live image.

54. The imaging device of Claim 53, wherein the direct, electrical communication comprises a connection via one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

55. The imaging device of Claim 53, wherein the direct, electrical communication comprises a connection via a plurality of application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

56. The imaging device of Claim 51, further comprising a cooling unit for cooling the device.

57. The imaging device of Claim 51, further comprising a battery unit for providing electrical power to the device.

58. The imaging device of Claim 51 , wherein the imaging procedure comprises an ultrasound imaging procedure.

59. The imaging device of Claim 51 , further comprising any of the features recited in any of the preceding Claims.

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