Ultrasonic imaging system and method for controlling same

Abstract

Provided is an ultrasound imaging system for providing a user preset, wherein the ultrasound imaging system comprises a memory for storing a user preset, and a processor. The processor: generates a first user account on the basis of a first user account generation command; generates a first user preset on the basis of a preset generation command; stores the first user preset in the memory; loads the first user preset on the basis of a second user account generation command; and sets a user preset of a second user account as the first user preset on the basis of a first user preset selection command for selecting the first user preset.

Description

Ultrasonic imaging system and its control method

[0001] The disclosed invention relates to an ultrasonic imaging system and a control method thereof.

[0002] In recent years, various medical imaging devices have been widely used in the medical field to obtain visual information about human tissues for the early diagnosis of various diseases or for surgical procedures. Representative examples of these medical imaging devices include ultrasound imaging devices, CT devices, and MRI devices.

[0003] An ultrasound imaging device is a device that non-invasively obtains at least one image of a part inside the object (e.g., soft tissue or blood flow) by irradiating an ultrasound signal generated from a transducer of a probe to the object and receiving information on the signal reflected from the object. In particular, ultrasound imaging devices are used for medical purposes such as observing the inside of an object, detecting foreign substances, and measuring injuries. These ultrasound imaging devices have the advantages of being highly stable compared to imaging devices that use X-rays, being able to display images in real time, and being safe because there is no radiation exposure, and are therefore widely used along with other imaging devices.

[0004] Meanwhile, in large hospitals, multiple users may use ultrasound imaging systems. In such cases, rather than using the system's factory presets, users often set their own preferred presets. Furthermore, large hospitals often uniformly apply presets from a master sonographer skilled in ultrasound diagnostics to multiple users. Typically, uniformly applying presets from a master sonographer to multiple users takes a significant amount of time. Therefore, there is a growing need for a method that can uniformly apply presets from a master sonographer to multiple users in a short period of time.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an ultrasound imaging system for creating a user account and easily setting user presets of the created user account.

[0006] An ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a memory for storing a user preset, in an ultrasound imaging system providing a user preset; and a processor for creating a first user account based on a first user account creation command, creating a first user preset based on a preset creation command, storing the first user preset in the memory, loading the first user preset based on a second user account creation command, and setting a user preset of a second user account as the first user preset based on a first user preset selection command for selecting the first user preset.

[0007] Additionally, the display further includes an image displaying display, wherein the processor can control the display to display information about the first user preset based on the second user account creation command.

[0008] Additionally, the information regarding the first user preset may include a video preset and a system preset.

[0009] Additionally, the image preset may include a plurality of ultrasound image setting parameters, and the system preset may include a plurality of system setting parameters.

[0010] Additionally, the processor can set an ultrasound image setting parameter selected by the user among the plurality of ultrasound image setting parameters as a user preset of the second user account.

[0011] Additionally, the processor can set a system setting parameter selected by the user among the plurality of system setting parameters as a user preset of the second user account.

[0012] Additionally, the processor may create the second user account based on the second user account creation command and then set the user preset of the second user account to the first user preset based on the first user preset selection command.

[0013] Additionally, the processor can create the administrator account based on an administrator account creation command, and the administrator account can set a user preset of multiple user accounts as the first user preset.

[0014] A method for controlling an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a step of creating a first user account based on a first user account creation command; a step of creating a first user preset based on a preset creation command; a step of loading the first user preset based on a second user account creation command; and a step of setting a user preset of a second user account as the first user preset based on a first user preset selection command for selecting the first user preset.

[0015] In addition, the method may further include a step of further including a display on which an image is displayed, and controlling the display to display information about the first user preset based on the second user account creation command.

[0016] Additionally, the information regarding the first user preset may include a video preset and a system preset.

[0017] Additionally, the image preset may include a plurality of ultrasound image setting parameters, and the system preset may include a plurality of system setting parameters.

[0018] In addition, the step of setting the user preset of the second user account as the first user preset may include the step of setting an ultrasound image setting parameter selected by the user from among the plurality of ultrasound image setting parameters as the user preset of the second user account.

[0019] In addition, the step of setting the user preset of the second user account as the first user preset may include the step of setting a system setting parameter selected by the user among the plurality of system setting parameters as the user preset of the second user account.

[0020] In addition, the method may further include a step of creating the second user account based on the second user account creation command and then setting the user preset of the second user account to the first user preset based on the first user preset selection command.

[0021] The method further includes a step of creating the administrator account based on a command to create an administrator account, wherein the administrator account may be an account capable of setting a user preset of a plurality of user accounts as the first user preset.

[0022] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, user presets for a user account can be easily set.

[0023] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0024] The present invention can be readily understood by the following detailed description and its accompanying drawings, wherein reference numerals refer to structural elements.

[0025] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B are block diagrams illustrating the configuration of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D are drawings showing an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of setting a user account of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating an example of a user preset of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 5 is a drawing for explaining a conventional ultrasound imaging system.

[0030] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a method for setting a user preset of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining information regarding user presets of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of setting a user preset after creating a user account according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of ultrasound image setting parameters according to one embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an interface for selecting ultrasound image setting parameters and system setting parameters according to one embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of setting a user preset through an administrator account of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0036] This disclosure clarifies the scope of the claims of the present disclosure and explains the principles of the embodiments of the present disclosure and discloses embodiments thereof so that those skilled in the art can practice the embodiments of the present disclosure. The embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in various forms.

[0037] Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals denote the same components. This specification does not describe all elements of the embodiments, and any content that is general in the technical field to which the present invention pertains or that overlaps between the embodiments is omitted. The term 'module' or 'unit' used in the specification may be implemented by one or a combination of two or more of software, hardware, or firmware, and depending on the embodiments, multiple 'modules' or 'units' may be implemented as a single element, or a single 'module' or 'unit' may include multiple elements.

[0038] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0039] In this disclosure, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0040] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0041] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0042] In addition, terms such as 'front', 'rear', 'top', 'bottom', 'side', 'left', 'right', 'upper', and 'lower' used in the present disclosure are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0043] Terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the present disclosure, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0044] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0045] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0046] Hereinafter, an ultrasonic device according to various embodiments will be specifically described with reference to the attached drawings. In the description with reference to the attached drawings, identical or corresponding components are assigned similar drawing numbers, and redundant descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0047] In the present disclosure, the image may include a medical image acquired by a medical imaging device such as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device, a computed tomography (CT) device, an ultrasound imaging device, or an X-ray imaging device.

[0048] In the present disclosure, an 'object' refers to a subject to be photographed, and may include a human, an animal, or a part thereof. For example, the object may include a part of the body (such as an organ or system) or a phantom.

[0049] Throughout this disclosure, the term “ultrasonic image” means an image of an object that is processed based on an ultrasonic signal transmitted to the object and reflected from the object.

[0050] Hereinafter, embodiments are described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0051] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B are block diagrams illustrating the configuration of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0052] Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, an ultrasound imaging system (100) may include a probe (20) and an ultrasound imaging device (40).

[0053] The ultrasonic imaging device (40) may be implemented in a cart-type as well as a portable type. Examples of portable ultrasonic imaging devices include, but are not limited to, smart phones, laptop computers, PDAs, tablet PCs, etc., which include probes and applications.

[0054] The probe (20) may include a wired probe that is connected to the ultrasonic imaging device (40) by wire and communicates with the ultrasonic imaging device (40) by wire, a wireless probe that is connected wirelessly to the ultrasonic imaging device (40) and communicates wirelessly with the ultrasonic imaging device (40), and / or a hybrid probe that is connected wired or wirelessly to the ultrasonic imaging device (40) and communicates wired or wirelessly with the ultrasonic imaging device (40).

[0055] According to various embodiments, the ultrasonic imaging device (40) may include an ultrasonic transceiver module (110) as illustrated in FIG. 1A, and the probe (20) may include an ultrasonic transceiver module (110) as illustrated in FIG. 1B. According to various embodiments, it is also possible for both the ultrasonic imaging device (40) and the probe (20) to include an ultrasonic transceiver module (110).

[0056] According to various embodiments, the probe (20) may further include an image processor (130), a display (140), and / or an input interface (170).

[0057] Accordingly, the description regarding the ultrasound transmission / reception module (110), the image processor (130), the display (140), and / or the input interface (170) included in the ultrasound imaging device (40) may also be applied to the ultrasound transmission / reception module (110), the image processor (130), the display (140), and / or the input interface (170) included in the probe (20).

[0058] FIG. 1a illustrates a control block diagram of an ultrasound imaging system (100) when the probe (20) is a wired probe or a hybrid probe.

[0059] The probe (20) may include a plurality of transducers. The plurality of transducers may transmit an ultrasonic signal to the target object (10) according to a transmission signal applied from the transmission module (113). The plurality of transducers may receive an ultrasonic signal (echo signal) reflected from the target object (10) and form a reception signal. In addition, the probe (20) may be implemented as an integral part with the ultrasonic imaging device (40), or may be implemented as a separate part connected to the ultrasonic imaging device (40) by a wire. In addition, the ultrasonic imaging device (40) may be connected to one or a plurality of probes (20) depending on the implementation form.

[0060] If the probe (20) is a wired probe or a hybrid probe, it may include a cable and connector that can be connected to the connector of the ultrasonic imaging device (40).

[0061] The probe (20) according to one embodiment may be implemented as a two-dimensional probe. When the probe (20) is implemented as a two-dimensional probe, a plurality of transducers included in the probe (20) may be arranged in two dimensions to form a two-dimensional transducer array.

[0062] For example, a two-dimensional transducer array may be in the form of a plurality of sub-arrays including a plurality of transducers arranged in a first direction in a second direction different from the first direction.

[0063] Additionally, when the probe (20) according to one embodiment is implemented as a two-dimensional probe, the ultrasound transmission / reception module (110) may include an analog beamformer and a digital beamformer. Alternatively, the two-dimensional probe may include one of the analog beamformer and the digital beamformer, or both, depending on the implementation form.

[0064] The processor (120) controls the transmission module (113) to form a transmission signal to be applied to each transducer (115) by considering the positions and focus points of the plurality of transducers included in the probe (20).

[0065] The processor (120) can control the receiving module (117) to generate ultrasonic data by converting an analog-to-digital reception signal received from the probe (20) and adding the digitally converted reception signals by taking into account the positions and focus points of a plurality of transducers.

[0066] When the probe (20) is implemented as a two-dimensional probe, the processor (120) can calculate a time delay value for digital beamforming for each sub-array of a plurality of sub-arrays included in the two-dimensional transducer array. In addition, the processor (120) can calculate a time delay value for analog beamforming for each transducer included in any one of the plurality of sub-arrays. The processor (120) can control the analog beamformer and the digital beamformer to form a transmission signal to be applied to each of the plurality of transducers according to the time delay value for analog beamforming and the time delay value for digital beamforming. In addition, the processor (120) can control the analog beamformer to add up signals received from the plurality of transducers for each sub-array according to the time delay value for analog beamforming. In addition, the processor (120) can control the ultrasound transmission / reception module (110) to convert the signal added up for each sub-array into analog-to-digital. Additionally, the processor (120) can control the digital beamformer to generate ultrasound data by adding digitally converted signals according to a time delay value for digital beamforming.

[0067] The image processor (130) uses the generated ultrasound data to create an ultrasound image.

[0068] The display (140) can display the generated ultrasound image and various information processed by the ultrasound imaging device (40) and / or the probe (20). The probe (20) and / or the ultrasound imaging device (40) may include one or more displays (140) depending on the implementation type. In addition, the display (140) may include a touch panel or a touch screen.

[0069] The processor (120) can control the overall operation of the ultrasonic imaging device (40) and the signal flow between internal components of the ultrasonic imaging device (40). The processor (120) can perform or control various operations or functions of the ultrasonic imaging device (40) by executing programs or instructions stored in the memory (150). In addition, the processor (120) can receive a control signal from an input interface (170) or an external device and control the operation of the ultrasonic imaging device (40).

[0070] The ultrasonic imaging device (40) includes a communication module (160) and can be connected to an external device (e.g., a probe (20), a server, a medical device, a portable device (smartphone, tablet PC, wearable device, etc.)) through the communication module (160).

[0071] The communication module (160) may include one or more components that enable communication with an external device, and may include, for example, at least one of a short-range communication module, a wired communication module, and a wireless communication module.

[0072] The communication module (160) can also receive control signals and data from an external device and transmit the received control signals to the processor (120) so that the processor (120) can control the ultrasonic imaging device (40) according to the received control signals.

[0073] Alternatively, it is also possible to control the external device according to the control signal of the processor by having the processor (120) transmit a control signal to the external device through the communication module (160).

[0074] For example, the external device can process data from the external device according to control signals from the processor received through the communication module.

[0075] An external device may be installed with a program capable of controlling the ultrasonic imaging device (40), and this program may include commands for performing part or all of the operations of the processor (120).

[0076] The program may be pre-installed on an external device, or the user of the external device may download and install the program from a server providing the application. The server providing the application may include a storage medium containing the program.

[0077] The memory (150) can store various data or programs for driving and controlling the ultrasonic imaging device (40), input / output ultrasonic data, ultrasonic images, etc.

[0078] The input interface (170) can receive user input for controlling the ultrasound imaging device (40). For example, the user input may include, but is not limited to, input for operating a button, keypad, mouse, trackball, jog switch, knob, etc., input for touching a touchpad or touch screen, voice input, motion input, biometric information input (e.g., iris recognition, fingerprint recognition, etc.), etc.

[0079] FIG. 1b illustrates a control block diagram of an ultrasound imaging system (100) when the probe (20) is a wireless probe or a hybrid probe.

[0080] According to various embodiments, the ultrasonic imaging device (40) illustrated in FIG. 1b may be replaced with the ultrasonic imaging device (40) described with reference to FIG. 1a.

[0081] According to various embodiments, the probe (20) illustrated in FIG. 1a may of course be replaced with the probe (20) to be described with reference to FIG. 1b.

[0082] The probe (20) may include a transmitting module (113), a battery (114), a transducer (115), a charging module (116), a receiving module (117), a processor (118), and a communication module (119). In FIG. 1B, the probe (20) is illustrated as including both the transmitting module (113) and the receiving module (117), but depending on the implementation form, the probe (20) may include only a part of the configuration of the transmitting module (113) and the receiving module (117), and a part of the configuration of the transmitting module (113) and the receiving module (117) may be included in the ultrasonic imaging device (40). Alternatively, the probe (20) may further include an image processor (130).

[0083] The transducer (115) may include a plurality of transducers. The plurality of transducers may transmit ultrasonic signals to the target object (10) according to a transmission signal applied from the transmission module (113). The plurality of transducers may receive ultrasonic signals reflected from the target object (10) and form a reception signal.

[0084] The charging module (116) can charge the battery (114). The charging module (116) can receive power from an external source. The charging module (116) can receive power wirelessly. However, this is not limited to this, and the charging module (116) can also receive power through a wire. The charging module (116) can transmit the received power to the battery (114).

[0085] The processor (118) controls the transmission module (113) to form a transmission signal to be applied to each of the plurality of transducers by considering the positions and focus points of the plurality of transducers.

[0086] The processor (118) controls the receiving module (117) to generate ultrasound data by converting an analog-to-digital reception signal received from a transducer (115) and adding the digitally converted reception signals by taking into account the positions and focal points of a plurality of transducers. Alternatively, when the probe (20) includes an image processor (130), the generated ultrasound data can be used to generate an ultrasound image.

[0087] When the probe (20) is implemented as a two-dimensional probe, the processor (118) can calculate a time delay value for digital beamforming for each sub-array of a plurality of sub-arrays included in the two-dimensional transducer array. In addition, the processor (118) can calculate a time delay value for analog beamforming for each transducer included in any one of the plurality of sub-arrays. The processor (118) can control the analog beamformer and the digital beamformer to form a transmission signal to be applied to each of the plurality of transducers according to the time delay value for analog beamforming and the time delay value for digital beamforming. In addition, the processor (118) can control the analog beamformer to add up signals received from the plurality of transducers for each sub-array according to the time delay value for analog beamforming. In addition, the processor (118) can control the ultrasound transmission / reception module (110) to convert the signal added for each sub-array into analog-to-digital. Additionally, the processor (118) can control the digital beamformer to generate ultrasound data by adding digitally converted signals according to a time delay value for digital beamforming.

[0088] The processor (118) can control the overall operation of the probe (20) and the signal flow between the internal components of the probe (20). The processor (118) can perform or control various operations or functions of the probe (20) by executing programs or instructions stored in the memory (111). In addition, the processor (118) can receive a control signal from the input interface (170) of the probe (20) or an external device (e.g., an ultrasonic imaging device (40)) and control the operation of the probe (20).

[0089] The communication module (119) can wirelessly transmit generated ultrasound data or ultrasound images to an ultrasound imaging device (40) via a wireless network. In addition, the communication module (119) can receive control signals and data from the ultrasound imaging device (40).

[0090] The ultrasonic imaging device (40) can receive ultrasonic data or ultrasonic images from the probe (20).

[0091] In one embodiment, when the probe (20) includes an image processor (130) capable of generating an ultrasound image using ultrasound data, the probe (20) can transmit the ultrasound data and / or the ultrasound image generated by the image processor (130) to the ultrasound imaging device (40).

[0092] In one embodiment, when the probe (20) does not include an image processor (130) capable of generating an ultrasound image using ultrasound data, the probe (20) may transmit the ultrasound data to an ultrasound imaging device (40). The ultrasound data may include ultrasound raw data, and the ultrasound image may mean ultrasound image data.

[0093] The ultrasonic imaging device (40) may include a processor (120), an image processor (130), a display (140), a memory (150), a communication module (160), and an input interface (170).

[0094] The image processor (130) generates an ultrasound image using ultrasound data received from the probe (20).

[0095] The display (140) can display an ultrasound image received from the probe (20), an ultrasound image generated by processing ultrasound data received from the probe (20), and various information processed in the ultrasound imaging system (100). The ultrasound imaging device (40) may include one or more displays (140) depending on the implementation type. In addition, the display (140) may include a touch panel or a touch screen.

[0096] The processor (120) can control the overall operation of the ultrasonic imaging device (40) and the signal flow between internal components of the ultrasonic imaging device (40). The processor (120) can execute a program or app stored in the memory (150) to perform or control various operations or functions of the ultrasonic imaging device (40). In addition, the processor (120) can receive a control signal from an input interface (170) or an external device to control the operation of the ultrasonic imaging device (40).

[0097] The ultrasonic imaging device (40) includes a communication module (160) and can be connected to an external device (e.g., a probe (20), a server, a medical device, a portable device (smartphone, tablet PC, wearable device, etc.)) through the communication module (160).

[0098] The communication module (160) may include one or more components that enable communication with an external device, and may include, for example, at least one of a short-range communication module, a wired communication module, and a wireless communication module.

[0099] The communication module (160) of the ultrasonic imaging device (40) and the communication module (119) of the probe (20) may communicate using a network or a short-range wireless communication method. For example, the communication module (160) of the ultrasonic imaging device (40) and the communication module (119) of the probe (20) may communicate using any one of wireless data communication methods including wireless LAN, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, zigbee, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct), infrared communication (IrDA, infrared Data Association), BLE (Bluetooth LowEnergy), NFC (Near Field Communication), Wibro (Wireless Broadband Internet, Wibro), WiMAX (World Interoperability for Microwave Access, WiMAX), SWAP (Shared Wireless Access Protocol), WiGig (Wireless Gigabit Alliance, WiGig), RF communication, 60GHz millimeter wave (mm Wave) short-range communication, etc.

[0100] To this end, the communication module (160) of the ultrasound imaging device (40) and the communication module (119) of the probe (20) may include at least one of a wireless LAN communication module, a Wi-Fi communication module, a Bluetooth communication module, a zigbee communication module, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication module, an infrared communication (IrDA, infrared Data Association) module, a BLE (Bluetooth LowEnergy) communication module, an NFC (Near Field Communication) communication module, a Wibro (Wireless Broadband Internet, Wibro) communication module, a WiMAX (World Interoperability for Microwave Access, WiMAX) communication module, a SWAP (Shared Wireless Access Protocol) communication module, a WiGig (Wireless Gigabit Alliance, WiGig) communication module, an RF communication module, and a 60GHz millimeter wave (mm Wave) short-range communication module.

[0101] In one embodiment, the probe (20) may transmit device information (e.g., ID information) of the probe (20) using a first communication method (e.g., BLE), may be wirelessly paired with an ultrasound imaging device (40), and may transmit ultrasound data and / or ultrasound images to the paired ultrasound imaging device (40).

[0102] The device information of the probe (20) may include various information related to the serial number, model name, battery status, etc. of the probe (20).

[0103] The ultrasonic imaging device (40) may receive device information (e.g., ID information) of the probe (20) from the probe (20) using a first communication method (e.g., BLE), may be wirelessly paired with the probe (20), may transmit an activation signal to the paired probe (20), and may receive ultrasonic data and / or ultrasonic images from the probe (20). At this time, the activation signal may include a signal for controlling the operation of the probe (20).

[0104] In one embodiment, the probe (20) may transmit device information (e.g., ID information) of the probe (20) using a first communication method (e.g., BLE), be wirelessly paired with an ultrasound imaging device (40), and transmit ultrasound data and / or ultrasound images to the ultrasound imaging device (40) paired by the first communication method using a second communication method (e.g., 60 GHz millimeter wave, Wi-Fi).

[0105] The ultrasonic imaging device (40) can receive device information (e.g., ID information) of the probe (20) from the probe (20) using a first communication method (e.g., BLE), can be wirelessly paired with the probe (20), can transmit an activation signal to the paired probe (20), and can receive ultrasonic data and / or ultrasonic images from the probe (20) using a second communication method (e.g., 60 GHz millimeter wave, Wi-Fi).

[0106] According to various embodiments, the first communication method used to pair the probe (20) and the ultrasonic imaging device (40) with each other may have a lower frequency band than the frequency band of the second communication method used to transmit ultrasonic data and / or ultrasonic images from the probe (20) to the ultrasonic imaging device (40).

[0107] The display (140) of the ultrasonic imaging device (40) can display UIs indicating device information of the probe (20). For example, the display (140) can display UIs indicating identification information of the wireless ultrasonic probe (20), a pairing method indicating a pairing method with the probe (20), a data communication status between the probe (20) and the ultrasonic imaging device (40), a method of performing data communication with the ultrasonic imaging device (40), and a battery status of the probe (20).

[0108] When the probe (20) includes a display (140), the display (140) of the probe (20) can display UIs indicating device information of the probe (20). For example, the display (140) can display UIs indicating identification information of the wireless ultrasound probe (20), a pairing method indicating a pairing method with the probe (20), a data communication status between the probe (20) and the ultrasound imaging device (40), a method of performing data communication with the ultrasound imaging device (40), and a battery status of the probe (20).

[0109] It is also possible for the communication module (160) to receive control signals and data from an external device and transmit the received control signals to the processor (120) so that the processor (120) controls the ultrasonic imaging device (40) according to the received control signals.

[0110] Alternatively, it is also possible to control the external device according to the control signal of the processor (120) by having the processor (120) transmit a control signal to the external device through the communication module (160).

[0111] For example, the external device can process data of the external device according to a control signal of the processor (120) received through the communication module.

[0112] An external device may be installed with a program capable of controlling the ultrasonic imaging device (40), and this program may include commands for performing part or all of the operations of the processor (120).

[0113] The program may be pre-installed on an external device, or the user of the external device may download and install the program from a server providing the application. The server providing the application may include a storage medium containing the program.

[0114] The memory (150) can store various data or programs for driving and controlling the ultrasonic imaging device (40), input / output ultrasonic data, ultrasonic images, etc.

[0115] An example of an ultrasound imaging system (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is described below with reference to FIGS. 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d.

[0116] FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D are drawings illustrating an ultrasonic imaging device according to one embodiment.

[0117] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the ultrasonic imaging device (40a, 40b) may include a main display (121; 140) and a sub-display (122; 140). At least one of the main display (121) and the sub-display (122) may be implemented as a touch screen. At least one of the main display (121) or the sub-display (122) may display an ultrasonic image or various information processed in the ultrasonic imaging device (40a, 40b). In addition, at least one of the main display (121) or the sub-display (122) may be implemented as a touch screen and may provide a GUI, thereby receiving data for controlling the ultrasonic imaging device (40a, 40b) from a user. For example, the main display (121) may display an ultrasonic image, and the sub-display (122) may display a control panel for controlling the display of the ultrasonic image in the form of a GUI. The sub-display (122) can receive data for controlling the display of images through a control panel displayed in GUI format. For example, a TGC (Time Gain Compensation) button, a Freeze button, a trackball, a jog switch, a knob, etc. can be provided as a GUI on the sub-display (122).

[0118] The ultrasonic imaging device (40a, 40b) can control the display of the ultrasonic image displayed on the main display (121) using the input control data. In addition, the ultrasonic imaging device (40a, 40b) can be connected to the probe (20) by wire or wirelessly to transmit and receive ultrasonic signals to and from the target object.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 2b, the ultrasonic imaging device (40b) may further include a control panel (165) in addition to the main display (121) and the sub-display (122). The control panel (165) may include buttons, a trackball, a jog switch, a knob, etc., and may receive data for controlling the ultrasonic imaging device (40b) from a user. For example, the control panel (165) may include a TGC (Time Gain Compensation) button (171), a Freeze button (172), etc. The TGC button (171) is a button for setting a TGC value according to the depth of the ultrasonic image. In addition, when the ultrasonic imaging device (40b) detects an input of the Freeze button (172) while scanning an ultrasonic image, the ultrasonic imaging device (40b) may maintain a state in which a frame image at the corresponding point in time is displayed.

[0120] Meanwhile, buttons, trackballs, jog switches, knobs, etc. included in the control panel (165) may be provided as a GUI on the main display (121) or sub-display (122). In addition, the ultrasonic imaging device (40a, 40b) may be connected to the probe (20) to transmit and receive ultrasonic signals to the target object.

[0121] Referring to FIGS. 2c and 2d, the ultrasonic imaging device (40c) may also be implemented in a portable form. Examples of portable ultrasonic imaging devices (40c) include, but are not limited to, a smart phone, a laptop computer, a PDA, a tablet PC, etc., including a probe and an application.

[0122] The ultrasonic imaging device (40c) may include a main body (41). Referring to FIG. 2c, a probe (20) may be connected to one side of the main body (41) by a wire. To this end, the main body (41) may include a detachable connection terminal for a cable connected to the probe (20), and the probe (20) may include a detachable connection terminal for a cable connected to the main body (41).

[0123] Referring to FIG. 2d, the probe (20) can be wirelessly connected to an ultrasonic imaging device (40). The main body (41) can include an input / output interface (e.g., a touch screen) (145; 140, 170). The input / output interface (145) can display an ultrasonic image, various information processed by the ultrasonic imaging device, a GUI, etc.

[0124] Additionally, an ultrasound image may be displayed on the input / output interface (145). The ultrasound imaging device (40c) may correct the ultrasound image displayed on the input / output interface (145) using AI. The ultrasound imaging device (40c) may provide an alarm that notifies information about a lesion among the ultrasound images displayed on the input / output interface (145) using various audiovisual tools such as graphics, sound, and vibration using AI.

[0125] The ultrasonic imaging device (40c) can output a control panel displayed in GUI format through the input / output interface (145).

[0126] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of setting a user account of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0127] Referring to FIG. 3(a), the processor (120) can control the display (140) to display a first user account information interface (U1) for providing information on whether a first user account has been created.

[0128] The first user account information interface (U1) may include a first user account creation interface element (U11) for creating a first user account.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 3(b), when a first user account is created, the processor (120) can control the display (140) to display visual information on whether a first user account has been created through the first user account information interface (U1).

[0130] The processor (120) can control the display (140) to display a second user account information interface (U2) to provide information on whether a second user account has been created.

[0131] The second user account information interface (U2) may include a second user account creation interface element (U21) for creating a second user account.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 3(c), when a second user account is created, the processor (120) can control the display (140) to display visual information on whether a second user account has been created through the second user account information interface (U2).

[0133] The number of user accounts according to the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the processor (120) may control the display (140) to display a third user account information interface (U3) to provide information on whether a third user account has been created.

[0134] The third user account information interface (U3) may include a third user account creation interface element (U31) for creating a third user account.

[0135] FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating an example of a user preset of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 4, the display (140) can be controlled to display user preset interfaces (U4 and U5) for setting user presets.

[0137] User presets can include video presets and system presets.

[0138] An image preset may include multiple ultrasound image setting parameters relating to setting items that change the ultrasound image while scanning an object.

[0139] For example, multiple ultrasound image setting parameters may include Gain for adjusting the brightness of the ultrasound image, Depth for adjusting the depth of scanning the target, Focus for adjusting the point at which the beam is focused, Time Gain Compensation (TGC) for automatically adjusting the Gain according to the depth at which the beam is irradiated, and Thermal Index (TI) for measuring the amount of heat in the area where the beam is irradiated.

[0140] However, the plurality of ultrasound image setting parameters according to the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the plurality of image parameters may correspond to setting items that change the ultrasound image while scanning an object, such as Scale and PRF (Pulse Repetition Frequency).

[0141] The processor (120) can control the display (140) to display an image preset interface (U4) for setting an image preset.

[0142] The video preset interface (U4) may include a Gain interface element (U41), a Depth interface element (U42), a Focuse interface element (U43), a TGC interface element (U44) and / or a TI interface element (U45).

[0143] A system preset may include multiple system setting parameters regarding setting items related to the operation of the ultrasound imaging system (1).

[0144] For example, the plurality of system setting parameters may include system for determining whether to display the patient's personal information through the display (140), Annotation and bodymarker for determining how to display annotations or markers on the ultrasound image, Imaging for determining how to display information about the ultrasound image, peripheral and connectivity for determining how to connect to an external device, measurement and report for determining how to display the examination results according to the ultrasound image, protocol for determining the order in which frames of the ultrasound image are stored, and customizing for determining a function according to the user's input.

[0145] The processor (120) can control the display (140) to display a system preset interface (U5) for setting a system preset.

[0146] The system preset interface (U5) may include a system interface element (U51), an Anntation and Bodymarker interface element (U52), an Imaging interface element (U53), a Peripherais interface element (U54), a Measurement and Report interface element (U55), a Connectivity interface element (U56), a Protocol interface element (U57) and / or a Customizing interface element (U58).

[0147] Figure 5 is a drawing for explaining a conventional ultrasound imaging system.

[0148] Referring to Fig. 5, in the case of a conventional ultrasound imaging system, a user preset is set for each user (e.g., USER 1, USER 2, USER 3).

[0149] For example, when a first user (USER 1) creates a first user account, the user preset for the first user account is set. When a second user (USER 2) creates a second user account, the user preset for the second user account is set. When a third user (USER 3) creates a third user account, the user preset for the third user account is set. Therefore, a considerable amount of time and effort was required in the process of setting user presets for each of the multiple users.

[0150] Fig. 6 is a flowchart of a method for setting a user preset of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment. Fig. 7 is a diagram for explaining information regarding a user preset of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0151] Referring to FIG. 6, in one embodiment, the processor (120) may create a first user account based on a first user account creation command (S1). For example, referring to FIG. 3(a), the processor (120) may create a first user account based on a command for selecting a first user account creation interface element (U11). Here, the command for selecting the first user account creation interface element (U11) may include a user's cursor (C) input command.

[0152] In one embodiment, the processor (120) may generate a first user preset based on a preset generation command (S2). For example, referring to FIG. 4, the processor (120) may generate a first user preset based on receiving a command for setting an image preset via the image preset interface (U4). In another example, the processor (120) may generate a first user preset based on receiving a command for setting a system preset via the system preset interface (U5).

[0153] Here, receiving a command to set an image preset via the image preset interface (U4) may include a command to input a plurality of separate ultrasound image parameter setting values ​​by selecting a Gain interface element (U41), a Depth interface element (U42), a Focuse interface element (U43), a TGC interface element (U44) and / or a TI interface element (U45).

[0154] Additionally, receiving a command to set a system preset via the system preset interface (U5) may include a command to input a plurality of separate system setting parameter setting values ​​by selecting a system interface element (U51), an Anntation and Bodymarker interface element (U52), an Imaging interface element (U53), a Peripherais interface element (U54), a Measurement and Report interface element (U55), a Connectivity interface element (U56), a Protocol interface element (U57) and / or a Customizing interface element (U58).

[0155] In one embodiment, the memory (150) may store user presets. For example, the memory (150) may store a first user preset when a first user preset is created.

[0156] In one embodiment, the processor (120) may load a first user preset based on a second user account creation command (S3). For example, the processor (120) may load a first user preset stored in the memory (150) based on the second user account creation command.

[0157] In one embodiment, the processor (120) may control the communication module (160) to receive a first user preset from an external device based on a second user account creation command.

[0158] In one embodiment, the processor (120) may control the display (140) to display information about a first user preset based on a second user account creation command. For example, the processor (120) may control the display (140) to display a first preset interface (U6) for displaying information about a user preset created in advance based on the second user account creation command, a second preset interface (U7) for selecting all or part of the user presets, a third preset interface (U8) for selecting a video preset or a system preset among the user presets, and a fourth preset interface (U9) for determining a user preset setting using the pre-created user preset.

[0159] The second preset interface (U7) may include a system preset selection interface element (U71) for selecting all system presets and / or a system preset selection interface element (U72) for selecting some of the system presets.

[0160] The third preset interface (U8) may include a video preset selection interface (U81) for selecting a video preset from among the user presets and / or a system preset selection interface (U82) for selecting a system preset from among the user presets.

[0161] The video preset selection interface (U81) may include a video preset part selection interface element (U81a) for selecting part of the video presets.

[0162] The system preset selection interface (U82) may include a system selection interface element (U82a) for selecting a system, an Anntation and Bodymarker selection interface element (U82e) for selecting Anntation and Bodymarker, an Imaging selection interface element (U82b) for selecting Imaging, a Peripherais interface element (U82f) for selecting Peripherais, a Measurement and Report selection interface element (U82c) for selecting Measurement and Report, a Connectivity selection interface element (U82g) for selecting Connectivity, a Protocol selection interface element (U82d) for selecting Protocol, and / or a Customizing interface element (U82h) for selecting Customizing.

[0163] The fourth preset interface (U9) may include a user preset selection interface (U91) for setting a user preset with a pre-stored user preset and / or a user preset selection termination interface (U92) for terminating the setting of a user preset with a pre-stored user preset.

[0164] Referring again to FIG. 6, the processor (120) can set the user preset to a pre-stored user preset based on the user preset selection command.

[0165] In one embodiment, the processor (120) may set the user preset of the second user account as the second user preset (S5) based on the first user preset selection command (example of S4).

[0166] For example, referring to FIG. 7, the processor (120) can set the user preset of the second user account as the second user preset based on the first user preset selection command generated by selecting the user preset selection interface (U91).

[0167] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of setting a user preset after creating a user account according to one embodiment.

[0168] Referring to FIG. 8, the processor (120) can control the display (140) to display a first sub-preset interface (U61) and / or a second sub-preset interface (U62) that display information about a pre-stored user preset and a user account that will set the pre-stored user preset as a user preset.

[0169] In one embodiment, the processor (120) may create a second user account based on a second user account creation command and then set a user preset of the second user account to a first user preset based on a first user preset selection command.

[0170] For example, the processor (120) may load the first user preset based on a second user account creation command, create a second user account, then reload the first user preset and set the user preset of the second user account as the second user preset based on the first user preset selection command generated by selecting the user preset selection interface (U91).

[0171] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of ultrasound image setting parameters according to one embodiment.

[0172] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 9, in one embodiment, the processor (120) may control the display (140) to display an ultrasound image setting parameter list interface (U81b) that provides information about a plurality of ultrasound image setting parameters based on selection of an image preset partial selection interface element (U81a).

[0173] In one embodiment, the processor (120) can set an ultrasound image setting parameter selected by the user among a plurality of ultrasound image setting parameters as a user preset.

[0174] For example, the processor (120) may set an ultrasound image setting parameter selected by the user from among multiple ultrasound image setting parameters of the first user preset, such as Gain, Depth, Focus, TGC, and TI, as a user preset of the second user account.

[0175] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an interface for selecting ultrasound image setting parameters and system setting parameters according to one embodiment.

[0176] Referring to FIG. 10, in one embodiment, the processor (120) can set a system setting parameter selected by the user among a plurality of system setting parameters as a user preset.

[0177] For example, the processor (120) can set a system setting parameter selected by the user from among a plurality of system setting parameters of the first user preset, such as System, Annotation and bodymarker, Imaging, Peripherals, Measurement and report, Connectivity, Protocol, and Customizing, as a user preset of the second user account.

[0178] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of setting a user preset through an administrator account of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0179] Referring to FIG. 11, in one embodiment, the processor (120) may create an administrator account based on an administrator account creation command. The administrator account may include an account that has the authority to change settings of a user account.

[0180] An administrator account may include an account that can set the user presets of user accounts to pre-saved presets.

[0181] For example, an administrator account may be an account that can set the user presets of a user account to the presets of the primary user account.

[0182] An administrator account may include an account that can set user presets for multiple user accounts to pre-saved presets.

[0183] For example, an administrator account may be an account that can set presets for multiple user accounts (e.g., a second user account and a third user account) as presets for the first user account.

[0184] However, the number of multiple user accounts that an administrator account can set as a preset for the first user account is not limited to the number disclosed in FIG. 11, and the presets of all created user accounts can be set as presets for the first user account without being limited to the number.

[0185] According to the present disclosure, one user preset can be applied to multiple user accounts of an ultrasound imaging system, thereby increasing the convenience of setting user presets.

[0186] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0187] Computer-readable storage media include all types of storage media that store instructions that can be deciphered by a computer. Examples include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disks, flash memory, and optical data storage devices.

[0188] The disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the attached drawings as described above. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in forms other than the disclosed embodiments without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. In an ultrasound imaging system providing user presets, Memory for storing user presets; and Create a first user account based on a first user account creation command, create a first user preset based on a preset creation command, and store the first user preset in the memory. An ultrasound imaging system comprising a processor for loading the first user preset based on a second user account creation command and setting the user preset of the second user account as the first user preset based on a first user preset selection command that selects the first user preset.

2. In paragraph 1, further comprising a display on which an image is displayed; The above processor, An ultrasound imaging system that controls the display to display information about the first user preset based on the second user account creation command.

3. In paragraph 2, Information about the above first user preset, An ultrasound imaging system comprising an image preset and a system preset.

4. In paragraph 3, An ultrasound imaging system wherein the image preset includes a plurality of ultrasound image setting parameters, and the system preset includes a plurality of system setting parameters.

5. In paragraph 4, The above processor, An ultrasound imaging system that sets an ultrasound image setting parameter selected by a user from among the plurality of ultrasound image setting parameters as a user preset of the second user account.

6. In paragraph 4, The above processor, An ultrasound imaging system that sets a system setting parameter selected by a user from among the plurality of system setting parameters as a user preset of the second user account.

7. In paragraph 1, The above processor, An ultrasound imaging system that creates a second user account based on the second user account creation command and then sets the user preset of the second user account to the first user preset based on the first user preset selection command.

8. In paragraph 1, The above processor, Create the above administrator account based on the administrator account creation command, The above administrator account is an ultrasound imaging system that can set the user preset of multiple user accounts as the first user preset.

9. A method for controlling an ultrasound imaging system that provides user presets, A step of creating a first user account based on a first user account creation command; A step of creating a first user preset based on a preset creation command; A step of loading the first user preset based on a second user account creation command; A control method for an ultrasound imaging system, comprising: a step of setting a user preset of a second user account as the first user preset based on a first user preset selection command for selecting the first user preset; 10. In paragraph 9, further comprising a display on which an image is displayed; A method for controlling an ultrasound imaging system, further comprising: controlling the display to display information about the first user preset based on the second user account creation command.

11. In paragraph 10, Information about the above first user preset, A control method for an ultrasound imaging system including an image preset and a system preset.

12. In paragraph 11, A control method for an ultrasound imaging system, wherein the image preset includes a plurality of ultrasound image setting parameters, and the system preset includes a plurality of system setting parameters.

13. In paragraph 12, The step of setting the user preset of the second user account to the first user preset is: A control method for an ultrasound imaging system, comprising: a step of setting an ultrasound image setting parameter selected by a user from among the plurality of ultrasound image setting parameters as a user preset of the second user account.

14. In paragraph 12, The step of setting the user preset of the second user account to the first user preset is: A control method for an ultrasound imaging system, comprising: a step of setting a system setting parameter selected by a user from among the plurality of system setting parameters as a user preset of the second user account.

15. In paragraph 9, A control method for an ultrasound imaging system, further comprising: a step of creating a second user account based on the second user account creation command and then setting the user preset of the second user account to the first user preset based on the first user preset selection command.

Images