Ultrasonic imaging system and method for controlling same

Abstract

This ultrasonic imaging system may comprise: a display: a probe which emits an ultrasonic signal to a target object and receives a reflected echo signal; a memory; and a processor which: generates a first cross-sectional image of the target object and a second cross-sectional image of the target object on the basis of the echo signal; stores an ultrasonic image including the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image in the memory; and sequentially plays back the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image through the display in response to reception of a playback command for the ultrasonic image, wherein the processor provides a configuration interface which enables a first playback speed of the first cross-sectional image and a second playback speed of the second cross-sectional image to be configured independently of each other through the display.

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 higher stability than imaging devices that use X-rays, real-time image display, and safety due to the absence of radiation exposure, and are therefore widely used along with other imaging devices.

[0004] Meanwhile, by sequentially playing back multiple cross-sectional images acquired from a target object on a single display, a user of an ultrasound imaging device can determine whether there are any abnormalities in various parts of the target object.

[0005] However, when multiple cross-sectional images acquired from a target object are played sequentially on a single display, there is a problem in that multiple cross-sectional images are all played at a uniform playback speed, making it difficult for the user to effectively view the cross-sectional image of interest.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an ultrasound imaging system capable of setting a playback speed of each of a plurality of cross-sectional images acquired from a target object.

[0007] An ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a display; a probe that irradiates an ultrasound signal to a subject and receives a reflected echo signal; a memory; and a processor that generates a first cross-sectional image of the subject and a second cross-sectional image of the subject based on the echo signal, stores an ultrasound image including the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image in the memory, and sequentially reproduces the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image through the display in response to receiving a command to reproduce the ultrasound image; wherein the processor may provide a setting interface that allows a first reproduction speed of the first cross-sectional image and a second reproduction speed of the second cross-sectional image to be independently set through the display.

[0008] The above setting interface may include a first setting interface that enables setting the first playback speed and a second setting interface that enables setting the second playback speed.

[0009] The first setting interface may include a first interface element for changing the first playback speed and a first indicator for indicating information about a first cross-section corresponding to the first cross-section image, and the second setting interface may include a second interface element for changing the second playback speed and a second indicator for indicating information about a second cross-section corresponding to the second cross-section image.

[0010] The processor can change the first playback speed based on a playback speed input through the first interface element during a period in which the first cross-sectional image is played through the display, and can change the second playback speed based on a playback speed input through the second interface element during a period in which the second cross-sectional image is played through the display.

[0011] Additionally, the processor may provide an indicator that indicates the first playback speed during a period in which the first cross-sectional image is played through the display, and that indicates the second playback speed during a period in which the second cross-sectional image is played through the display.

[0012] Additionally, the processor can reproduce the second cross-sectional image based on the fact that the reproduction speed input through the first interface element is greater than or equal to a reference reproduction speed during the period in which the first cross-sectional image is reproduced through the display.

[0013] The above memory stores a playback speed preset corresponding to a cross-sectional image, and the processor, when receiving a playback command of the ultrasound image, can sequentially play back the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image based on the playback speed preset corresponding to the cross-sectional image.

[0014] Additionally, the processor inputs the first cross-sectional image into a learned machine learning model to obtain structural features of an object in the first cross-sectional image, changes the first playback speed based on the structural features of the object, and the structural features of the object may include information about the size of the object.

[0015] A method for controlling an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a method for controlling an ultrasound imaging system including a display and a memory, the method including: irradiating an ultrasound signal to a subject and receiving a reflected echo signal; generating a first cross-sectional image of the subject and a second cross-sectional image of the subject based on the echo signal; storing an ultrasound image including the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image in the memory; sequentially reproducing the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image through the display in response to receiving a command to reproduce the ultrasound image; and providing a setting interface that allows a first reproduction speed of the first cross-sectional image and a second reproduction speed of the second cross-sectional image to be independently set through the display.

[0016] The above setting interface may include a first setting interface that enables setting the first playback speed and a second setting interface that enables setting the second playback speed.

[0017] The first setting interface may include a first interface element for changing the first playback speed and a first indicator for indicating information about a first cross-section corresponding to the first cross-section image, and the second setting interface may include a second interface element for changing the second playback speed and a second indicator for indicating information about a second cross-section corresponding to the second cross-section image.

[0018] The method may further include changing the first playback speed based on a playback speed input through the first interface element during a period in which the first cross-sectional image is played through the display, and changing the second playback speed based on a playback speed input through the second interface element during a period in which the second cross-sectional image is played through the display.

[0019] It may further include providing an indicator that indicates the first playback speed during a period in which the first cross-sectional image is played through the display, and that indicates the second playback speed during a period in which the second cross-sectional image is played through the display.

[0020] It may further include playing back the second cross-sectional image based on the fact that the playback speed input through the first interface element is greater than or equal to the reference playback speed during the period in which the first cross-sectional image is played back through the display.

[0021] The above memory may store a playback speed preset corresponding to a cross-sectional image, and sequentially play back the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image through the display in response to receiving a playback command of the ultrasound image; the above memory may include: sequentially playing back the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image based on a playback speed preset corresponding to the cross-sectional image when a playback command of the ultrasound image is received.

[0022] The method further includes inputting the first cross-sectional image into a learned machine learning model to acquire structural features of an object in the first cross-sectional image, and changing the first playback speed based on the structural features of the object; wherein the structural features of the object may include information about the size of the object.

[0023] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is an effect in which a user can efficiently view a cross-sectional image of interest by adjusting the playback speed of each of a plurality of cross-sectional images of a target object.

[0024] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is an effect in which a user can efficiently view a cross-sectional image of interest by skipping cross-sectional images of which the user is not interested among a plurality of cross-sectional images of an object.

[0025] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a user can effectively inspect an abnormal area of ​​an object by adjusting the playback speed according to the structural characteristics of the object included in a plurality of cross-sectional images of the object.

[0026] 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.

[0027] The present invention can be readily understood by the following detailed description and its accompanying drawings, wherein reference numerals refer to structural elements.

[0028] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are block diagrams illustrating the configuration of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIGS. 3, 4, 5, and 6 are drawings showing an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method for reproducing an ultrasound image of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining a method for reproducing an ultrasound image of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIGS. 9A, 9B, 9C, and 9D illustrate examples of interfaces provided by an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D illustrate examples of interfaces provided by an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0039] 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).

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] Hereinafter, embodiments are described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0049] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are block diagrams illustrating the configuration of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0050] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, an ultrasound imaging system (100) may include a probe (20) and an ultrasound imaging device (40).

[0051] 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, a smart phone, laptop computer, PDA, tablet PC, etc., which include a probe and an application.

[0052] 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).

[0053] According to various embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the ultrasonic imaging device (40) may include an ultrasonic transceiver module (110), and as illustrated in FIG. 2, the probe (20) may include an ultrasonic transceiver module (110). 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).

[0054] According to various embodiments, the probe (20) may further include an image processor (130), a display (140), and / or an input interface (170).

[0055] 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).

[0056] Figure 1 illustrates a control block diagram of an ultrasound imaging system (100) when the probe (20) is a wired probe or a hybrid probe.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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).

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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).

[0063] 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 while taking into account the positions and focus points of a plurality of transducers.

[0064] 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.

[0065] The image processor (130) uses the generated ultrasound data to create an ultrasound image.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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).

[0068] 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).

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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).

[0072] For example, the external device can process data from the external device according to control signals from the processor received through the communication module.

[0073] 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).

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] FIG. 2 illustrates a control block diagram of an ultrasound imaging system (100) when the probe (20) is a wireless probe or a hybrid probe.

[0078] According to various embodiments, the ultrasonic imaging device (40) illustrated in FIG. 2 may be replaced with the ultrasonic imaging device (40) described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0079] According to various embodiments, the probe (20) illustrated in FIG. 1 may of course be replaced with the probe (20) to be described with reference to FIG. 2.

[0080] 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. 2, 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).

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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).

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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).

[0087] 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).

[0088] The ultrasonic imaging device (40) can receive ultrasonic data or ultrasonic images from the probe (20).

[0089] 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).

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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).

[0092] The image processor (130) generates an ultrasound image using ultrasound data received from the probe (20). The image processor (130) may be provided as a component of the processor (120). For example, the processor (120) may generate an ultrasound image based on an echo signal received from the probe (20).

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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).

[0095] 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).

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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).

[0100] 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).

[0101] 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).

[0102] 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).

[0103] 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).

[0104] 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).

[0105] 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).

[0106] 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).

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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).

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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).

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] An example of an ultrasound imaging system (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is described below with reference to FIGS. 3, 4, 5, and 6.

[0114] FIGS. 3, 4, 5, and 6 are drawings showing an ultrasonic imaging device according to one embodiment.

[0115] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, 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).

[0116] 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.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 4, 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, 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, laptop computer, PDA, tablet PC, etc., including a probe and an application.

[0120] The ultrasonic imaging device (40c) may include a main body (41). Referring to FIG. 5, 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).

[0121] Referring to Fig. 6, 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 ultrasonic images, various information processed by the ultrasonic imaging device, and a GUI, etc.

[0122] 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.

[0123] The ultrasonic imaging device (40c) can output a control panel displayed in GUI format through the input / output interface (145).

[0124] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for reproducing an ultrasound image of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a method for reproducing an ultrasound image of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0125] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the processor (120) can generate a first cross-sectional image (CS1) of the object and a second cross-sectional image (CS2) of the object (S1).

[0126] In one embodiment, the processor (120) can generate a first cross-sectional image (CS1), a second cross-sectional image (CS2), a third cross-sectional image (CS3), and / or a fourth cross-sectional image (CS4) of the object based on the echo signal.

[0127] The first cross-sectional image (CS1), the second cross-sectional image (CS2), the third cross-sectional image (CS3), and the fourth cross-sectional image (CS4) may include cross-sectional images of different regions of the object.

[0128] For example, if the subject is a pregnant woman, the first cross-sectional image (CS1) may include a cross-sectional image of the heart region of the fetus in the uterus of the subject, the second cross-sectional image (CS2) may include a cross-sectional image of the head region of the fetus in the uterus of the subject, the third cross-sectional image (CS3) may include a cross-sectional image of the abdomen region of the fetus in the uterus of the subject, and the fourth cross-sectional image (CS4) may include a cross-sectional image of the extremity region of the fetus in the uterus of the subject.

[0129] For another example, the plurality of cross-sectional images may include cross-sectional images of different regions of the heart of the subject. A first cross-sectional image (CS1) may include a first heart cross-sectional image (HCS1, see FIG. 10a) which is a four-chamber view (4CV) of the heart of the subject, a second cross-sectional image (CS2) may include a second heart cross-sectional image (HCS2, see FIG. 10b) which is a two-chamber view (2CV) of the heart of the subject, a third cross-sectional image (CS3) may include a third heart cross-sectional image (HCS3, see FIG. 10c) which is a three-chamber view (3CV) of the heart of the subject, and a fourth cross-sectional image (CS4) may include a fourth heart cross-sectional image (HCS4, see FIG. 10d) which is a cross-sectional image of the inferior vena cava region that transports blood to the heart of the subject.

[0130] The first cross-sectional image (CS1), the second cross-sectional image (CS2), the third cross-sectional image (CS3), and the fourth cross-sectional image (CS4) are not limited to the above embodiment and may include cross-sectional images corresponding to various regions of the object.

[0131] In one embodiment, the memory (150) can store an ultrasound image including multiple cross-sectional images. For example, the memory (150) can store a first cross-sectional image (CS1), a second cross-sectional image (CS2), a third cross-sectional image (CS3), and / or a fourth cross-sectional image (CS4) generated by the processor (120).

[0132] In one embodiment, the processor (120) can store an ultrasound image including a plurality of generated cross-sectional images in a memory (150).

[0133] Referring to FIG. 8, in one embodiment, the processor (120) can sequentially reproduce multiple cross-sectional images.

[0134] For example, the processor (120) can reproduce a plurality of cross-sectional images in the order of a first cross-sectional image (CS1), a second cross-sectional image (CS2), a third cross-sectional image (CS3), and a fourth cross-sectional image (CS4). However, the terms first, second, third, and fourth are merely terms for referring to cross-sectional images and are not limited to the above order.

[0135] In one embodiment, the processor (120) can sequentially reproduce cross-sectional images excluding some cross-sectional images among a plurality of cross-sectional images.

[0136] For example, the processor (120) can reproduce the third cross-sectional image (CS3) after reproducing the first cross-sectional image (CS1).

[0137] In one embodiment, the processor (120) can sequentially reproduce a plurality of cross-sectional images through the display (140) in response to receiving a command to reproduce an ultrasound image.

[0138] For example, the processor (120) may reproduce a first cross-sectional image (CS1) and then reproduce a second cross-sectional image (CS2) in response to receiving a command to reproduce an ultrasound image.

[0139] The playback command of the ultrasound image may include an execution command for sequentially playing back multiple cross-sectional images through an external device and input interface (170), etc.

[0140] Referring again to FIG. 7, in one embodiment, the processor (120) can reproduce the first cross-sectional image (CS1) at a first reproduction speed (S2).

[0141] The memory (150) can store a playback speed preset corresponding to a cross-sectional image. The playback speed preset corresponding to the cross-sectional image may be a playback speed of each of a plurality of cross-sectional images that is preset before the plurality of cross-sectional images are played back. For example, the playback speed preset corresponding to the cross-sectional images may include a first playback speed of a first cross-sectional image (CS1), a second playback speed of a second cross-sectional image (CS2), a third playback speed of a third cross-sectional image (CS3), and / or a fourth playback speed of a fourth cross-sectional image (CS4).

[0142] According to one embodiment, when the processor (120) receives a command to play back an ultrasound image, the processor (120) may sequentially play back a plurality of cross-sectional images based on a playback speed preset corresponding to the cross-sectional images. For example, the processor (120) may play back a first cross-sectional image (CS1) at a first playback speed, then play back a second cross-sectional image (CS2) at a second playback speed, then play back a third cross-sectional image (CS3) at the third playback speed, and then play back a fourth cross-sectional image (CS4) at the fourth playback speed.

[0143] However, the first playback speed, the second playback speed, the third playback speed, and the fourth playback speed are only for distinguishing the playback speeds of multiple cross-sectional images, and may have different values ​​or the same values.

[0144] The processor (120) can change the playback speed preset corresponding to the cross-sectional image. For example, the processor (120) can change the playback speed preset corresponding to the cross-sectional image based on the user changing the playback speed preset.

[0145] FIGS. 9A, 9B, 9C, and 9D illustrate examples of interfaces provided by an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0146] Referring to FIGS. 9a, 9b, 9c and 9d, the processor (120) can provide setting interfaces (U1, U2, U3 and U4) related to setting the playback speed of each of the plurality of cross-sectional images through the display (140).

[0147] In one embodiment, the processor (120) may include setting interfaces (U1, U2, U3, and U4) that can independently set the playback speed of each of the plurality of cross-sectional images through the display (140).

[0148] For example, the processor (120) may include setting interfaces (U1, U2, U3, and U4) that can independently set a first playback speed, a second playback speed, a third playback speed, and / or a fourth playback speed through the display (140).

[0149] The ability to set the playback speed of each of the plurality of cross-sectional images independently may include being able to set the playback speed of each of the plurality of cross-sectional images to a different playback speed.

[0150] In addition, the fact that the playback speed of each of the plurality of cross-sectional images can be set independently may include that the playback speed of the cross-sectional images, except for the cross-sectional images whose playback speed has been changed among the plurality of cross-sectional images, is not changed.

[0151] The setting interface may include a first setting interface (U1) that allows setting a first playback speed, a second setting interface (U2) that allows setting a second playback speed, a third setting interface (U3) that allows setting a third playback speed, and / or a fourth setting interface (U4) that allows setting a fourth playback speed.

[0152] The first setting interface (U1) may include a first indicator (U11) indicating information about a first cross-section corresponding to the first cross-section image (CS1) and / or a first interface element (U12) for changing a first playback speed.

[0153] Information about a cross-section corresponding to a cross-sectional image may include information about a region of the object. For example, a first cross-section corresponding to a first cross-sectional image (CS1) may include a cross-section of a heart region of an intrauterine fetus of the object, and information about the first cross-section may include information indicating that it is a heart region of an intrauterine fetus of the object (e.g., Heart).

[0154] The first interface element (U12) may include an indicator indicating a first playback speed and / or an indicator for changing the first playback speed. For example, the first interface element (U12) may include an indicator indicating a first playback speed (e.g., 30%) and / or a drag-and-drop GUI for changing the first playback speed. If a touch screen is provided on the display (140), the user may change the first playback speed by a signal generated by pressing the drag-and-drop GUI. If the first playback speed is changed, the indicator indicating the first playback speed may indicate the changed first playback speed.

[0155] The second setting interface (U2) may include a second indicator (U21) indicating information about a second cross-section corresponding to the second cross-section image (CS2) and / or a second interface element (U22) for changing a second playback speed.

[0156] Information about the second cross-section corresponding to the second cross-section image (CS2) may include information (e.g., Head) to indicate that the subject is a head region of a fetus in the uterus.

[0157] The second interface element (U22) may include an indicator indicating a second playback speed and / or an indicator for changing the second playback speed. For example, the second interface element (U22) may include an indicator indicating a second playback speed (e.g., 10%) and / or a drag-and-drop GUI for changing the second playback speed.

[0158] The third setting interface (U3) may include a third indicator (U31) indicating information about a third cross-section corresponding to a third cross-section image (CS3) and / or a third interface element (U32) for changing a third playback speed.

[0159] Information about the third cross-section corresponding to the third cross-section image (CS3) may include information indicating that it is the abdominal region of the fetus in the uterus of the subject (e.g., Abdomen).

[0160] The third interface element (U32) may include an indicator indicating a third playback speed and / or an indicator for changing the third playback speed. For example, the third interface element (U32) may include an indicator indicating a third playback speed (e.g., 90%) and / or a drag-and-drop GUI for changing the third playback speed.

[0161] The fourth setting interface (U4) may include a fourth indicator (U41) indicating information about a fourth cross-section corresponding to a fourth cross-section image (CS4) and / or a fourth interface element (U42) for changing a fourth playback speed.

[0162] Information about the fourth cross-section corresponding to the fourth cross-section image (CS4) may include information (e.g., Extremiteis) to indicate that the fourth cross-section is a limb region of the fetus in the uterus of the subject.

[0163] The fourth interface element (U42) may include an indicator indicating a fourth playback speed and / or an indicator for changing the fourth playback speed. For example, the fourth interface element (U42) may include an indicator indicating a fourth playback speed (e.g., 70%) and / or a drag-and-drop GUI for changing the fourth playback speed.

[0164] The playback speed of each of the multiple cross-sectional images may include a playback speed that is a constant percentage of the standard playback speed. The standard playback speed may typically include a playback speed required to examine an area of ​​the object. For example, the playback speed of a cross-sectional image may be set to a playback speed that is a constant percentage of the standard playback speed, such as a playback speed that is 30% of the standard playback speed.

[0165] In one embodiment, the processor (120) may provide an indicator (U5) indicating the playback speed of a cross-sectional image being played back through the display (140).

[0166] For example, referring to FIG. 9A, the processor (120) may provide an indicator (U5) indicating a first playback speed (e.g., 30%) during a period in which the first cross-sectional image (CS1) is played back through the display (140).

[0167] Referring to FIG. 9b, the processor (120) may provide an indicator (U5) indicating a second playback speed (e.g., 10%) during a period in which the second cross-sectional image (CS2) is played through the display (140).

[0168] Referring to FIG. 9c, the processor (120) may provide an indicator (U5) indicating a third playback speed (e.g., 90%) during a period in which the third cross-sectional image (CS3) is played through the display (140).

[0169] Referring to FIG. 9d, the processor (120) may provide an indicator (U5) indicating a fourth playback speed (e.g., 70%) during a period in which the fourth cross-sectional image (CS4) is played through the display (140).

[0170] Referring again to FIG. 7, the processor (120) can change the first playback speed (S4) based on the playback speed input (example of S3) through the first interface element (U12).

[0171] In one embodiment, the processor (120) can change the first playback speed based on the playback speed input through the first interface element (U12) during the period in which the first cross-sectional image (CS1) is played.

[0172] For example, the processor (120) can play the first cross-sectional image (CS1) faster if the playback speed input through the first interface element (U12) is faster than the preset first playback speed during the playback period of the first cross-sectional image (CS1).

[0173] As another example, the processor (120) may play back the first cross-sectional image (CS1) more slowly if the playback speed input through the first interface element (U12) is slower than the preset first playback speed during the playback period of the first cross-sectional image (CS1).

[0174] The preset first playback speed may include a first playback speed included in the playback speed preset corresponding to the cross-sectional image described above.

[0175] The period during which a cross-sectional image is played may include the period from the time when the cross-sectional image starts playing to the time when the cross-sectional image ends.

[0176] As described above, the processor (120) can sequentially reproduce multiple cross-sectional images.

[0177] For example, the processor (120) can play back the second cross-sectional image (CS2) at a second playback speed based on the termination of the first cross-sectional image (CS1) (example of S5).

[0178] The processor (120) can change the second playback speed based on the playback speed input (example of S7) through the second interface element (U22) (S8).

[0179] In one embodiment, the processor (120) can change the second playback speed based on the playback speed input through the second interface element (U22) during the period in which the second cross-sectional image (CS2) is played.

[0180] For example, the processor (120) can play the second cross-sectional image (CS2) faster if the playback speed input through the second interface element (U22) is faster than the preset second playback speed during the playback period of the second cross-sectional image (CS2).

[0181] As another example, the processor (120) may play back the second cross-sectional image (CS2) more slowly if the playback speed input through the second interface element (U22) is slower than the preset second playback speed during the playback period of the second cross-sectional image (CS2).

[0182] The preset second playback speed may include a second playback speed included in the playback speed preset corresponding to the cross-sectional image described above.

[0183] Although Fig. 7 only illustrates the reproduction of the first cross-sectional image (CS1) and the second cross-sectional image (CS2), the reproduction speed of the third cross-sectional image (CS3) and the fourth cross-sectional image (CS4) can also be changed through the same process as described above.

[0184] According to the present disclosure, when multiple cross-sectional images are sequentially played back, a cross-sectional image of interest to the user can be played back at a slower speed, and a cross-sectional image of interest to the user can be played back at a faster speed, thereby providing a better effect of efficiently playing back multiple cross-sectional images.

[0185] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) can reproduce the second cross-sectional image (CS2) based on the fact that the reproduction speed input through the first interface element (U12) is greater than or equal to the reference reproduction speed during the period in which the first cross-sectional image (CS1) is reproduced through the display (140).

[0186] For example, referring to FIG. 9a, the processor (120) may reproduce the second cross-sectional image (CS2) without reproducing the remaining first cross-sectional image (CS1) based on the fact that the playback speed input through the first interface element (U12) is greater than or equal to the reference playback speed (e.g., 200%) during the period in which the first cross-sectional image (CS1) is reproduced through the display (140).

[0187] According to the present disclosure, the user can skip unnecessary cross-sectional images and play the next cross-sectional image, thereby providing a better effect of efficiently playing multiple cross-sectional images.

[0188] In one embodiment, the processor (120) can input a cross-sectional image into a learned machine learning model to obtain structural features of an object in the cross-sectional image, and change the playback speed of the cross-sectional image based on the structural features of the object.

[0189] For example, the processor (120) can input a cross-sectional image into a learned machine learning model to obtain information about the size of an object in the cross-sectional image, and change the playback speed of the cross-sectional image based on the information about the size of the object in the cross-sectional image.

[0190] A machine learning model is characterized by being created through learning. Here, being created through learning means that a basic machine learning model is trained using a learning algorithm using a large amount of learning data, thereby creating a predefined set of operating rules or a machine learning model set to perform a desired characteristic (or purpose). This learning may be performed on the device itself on which the machine learning according to the present disclosure is performed, or may be performed through a separate server and / or system. Examples of learning algorithms include, but are not limited to, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning.

[0191] A machine learning model may be composed of multiple neural network layers. Each of the multiple neural network layers has multiple weight values, and performs neural network operations through operations between the operation results of the previous layer and the multiple weights. The multiple weights of the multiple neural network layers may be optimized based on the learning results of the machine learning model. For example, the multiple weights may be updated so that the loss value or cost value obtained from the machine learning model is reduced or minimized during the learning process. The artificial neural network may include a deep neural network (DNN), and examples thereof include, but are not limited to, a convolutional neural network (CNN), a deep neural network (DNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), or deep Q-networks.

[0192] The machine learning model can learn ultrasound data as training data. The machine learning model can be stored in memory (150).

[0193] Referring to FIG. 9a, for example, the processor (120) can input the first cross-sectional image (CS1) into a learned machine learning model to obtain information about the size of the first object (O1) in the first cross-sectional image (CS1).

[0194] The first object (O1) may include the heart of a fetus within the uterus of the subject. Information regarding the size of the first object (O1) may include the size of the heart of the fetus within the uterus of the subject (e.g., horizontal length: W1, vertical length L1).

[0195] The processor (120) can change the first playback speed based on information about the size of the first object (O1) in the first cross-sectional image (CS1).

[0196] For example, the processor (120) may lower the first playback speed if the heart size of the fetus in the uterus of the subject is below the normal size according to the gestational age.

[0197] Referring to FIG. 9b, for example, the processor (120) can input the second cross-sectional image (CS2) into a learned machine learning model to obtain information about the size of the second object (O2) in the second cross-sectional image (CS2).

[0198] The second object (O2) may include the head of a fetus within the uterus of the subject. Information regarding the size of the second object (O2) may include the size of the head of the fetus within the uterus of the subject (e.g., horizontal length: W2, vertical length L2).

[0199] The processor (120) can change the second playback speed based on information about the size of the second object (O2) in the second cross-sectional image (CS2).

[0200] For example, the processor (120) may lower the second playback speed if the head size of the fetus in the uterus of the subject is larger than the normal size according to the gestational age.

[0201] Information regarding the size of an object in a cross-sectional image according to the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, it may include the size of a lesion in a cross-sectional image, the size of an organ, etc.

[0202] Below, the following is a description of cardiac cross-sectional images, excluding any content that overlaps with the above.

[0203] FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D illustrate examples of interfaces provided by an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment.

[0204] The first setting interface (U1) may include a first indicator (U11) indicating information about a first cardiac section corresponding to the first cardiac section image (HCS1) and / or a first interface element (U12) for changing a first playback speed.

[0205] Information about the first cross-section may include information (e.g., 4CV) to indicate that it is a four-chamber view (4CV) region of the subject's heart.

[0206] The second setting interface (U2) may include a second indicator (U21) indicating information about a second cardiac section corresponding to the second cardiac section image (HCS2) and / or a second interface element (U22) for changing a second playback speed.

[0207] Information about the second cross-section may include information (e.g., 2CV) to indicate that it is a 2-Chamber view (2CV) region of the subject's heart.

[0208] The third setting interface (U3) may include a third indicator (U31) indicating information about a third cardiac section corresponding to a third cardiac section image (HCS3) and / or a third interface element (U32) for changing a third playback speed.

[0209] Information about the third cross-section may include information (e.g., 3CV) to indicate that it is a 3-Chamber view (3CV) region of the subject's heart.

[0210] The fourth setting interface (U4) may include a fourth indicator (U41) indicating information about a fourth cardiac section corresponding to the fourth cardiac section image (HCS4) and / or a fourth interface element (U42) for changing the fourth playback speed.

[0211] Information about the fourth section may include information to indicate that it is the inferior vena cava region of the subject (e.g., IVC).

[0212] The processor (120) can reproduce the fourth cardiac cross-sectional image (HCS4) at a fourth reproduction speed that is greater than the first reproduction speed, the second reproduction speed, and the third reproduction speed.

[0213] 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.

[0214] 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.

[0215] 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. Display; A probe that irradiates an ultrasonic signal to a target object and receives a reflected echo signal; memory; and A processor that generates a first cross-sectional image of the object and a second cross-sectional image of the object based on the echo signal, stores an ultrasound image including the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image in the memory, and sequentially reproduces the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image through the display in response to receiving a command to reproduce the ultrasound image; The above processor, An ultrasound imaging system providing a setting interface that enables the first playback speed of the first cross-sectional image and the second playback speed of the second cross-sectional image to be independently set through the display.

2. In paragraph 1, The above settings interface is, An ultrasound imaging system comprising a first setting interface that enables setting the first playback speed and a second setting interface that enables setting the second playback speed.

3. In paragraph 2, The above first setting interface is, A first interface element for changing the first playback speed and a first indicator for indicating information about a first cross-section corresponding to the first cross-section image are included. The above second setting interface is, An ultrasound imaging system comprising a second interface element for changing the second playback speed and a second indicator for indicating information about a second cross-section corresponding to the second cross-sectional image.

4. In paragraph 3, The above processor, Change the first playback speed based on the playback speed input through the first interface element during the period in which the first cross-sectional image is played through the display, An ultrasound imaging system that changes the second playback speed based on the playback speed input through the second interface element during a period in which the second cross-sectional image is played through the display.

5. In paragraph 4, The above processor, Indicate the first playback speed during the period in which the first cross-sectional image is played through the display, An ultrasound imaging system that provides an indicator indicating the second playback speed during a period in which the second cross-sectional image is played back through the display.

6. In paragraph 4, The above processor, An ultrasound imaging system that reproduces the second cross-sectional image based on the fact that the playback speed input through the first interface element is greater than or equal to a reference playback speed during the period in which the first cross-sectional image is reproduced through the display.

7. In paragraph 1, The above memory is, Save playback speed presets corresponding to cross-sectional images, The above processor, An ultrasound imaging system that, when receiving a command to play back the ultrasound image, sequentially plays back the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image based on a playback speed preset corresponding to the cross-sectional image.

8. In paragraph 1, The above processor, Inputting the first cross-sectional image into a learned machine learning model to obtain structural features of an object in the first cross-sectional image, and changing the first playback speed based on the structural features of the object. An ultrasound imaging system wherein the structural features of the object include information about the size of the object.

9. A method for controlling an ultrasonic imaging system including a display and a memory, Irradiate an ultrasonic signal to a target object and receive a reflected echo signal; Generating a first cross-sectional image of the object and a second cross-sectional image of the object based on the echo signal; Store an ultrasound image including the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image in the memory; In response to receiving a command to play back the ultrasound image, sequentially play back the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image through the display; A control method for an ultrasound imaging system, comprising: providing a setting interface that enables the first playback speed of the first cross-sectional image and the second playback speed of the second cross-sectional image to be independently set through the display; 10. In paragraph 9, The above settings interface is, A control method for an ultrasound imaging system comprising a first setting interface that enables setting the first playback speed and a second setting interface that enables setting the second playback speed.

11. In paragraph 10, The above first setting interface is, A first interface element for changing the first playback speed and a first indicator for indicating information about a first cross-section corresponding to the first cross-section image are included. The above second setting interface is, A control method for an ultrasound imaging system comprising a second interface element for changing the second playback speed and a second indicator for indicating information about a second cross-section corresponding to the second cross-sectional image.

12. In paragraph 11, Change the first playback speed based on the playback speed input through the first interface element during the period in which the first cross-sectional image is played through the display, A control method for an ultrasound imaging system, further comprising: changing the second playback speed based on a playback speed input through the second interface element during a period in which the second cross-sectional image is played through the display; 13. In paragraph 12, Indicate the first playback speed during the period in which the first cross-sectional image is played through the display, A control method for an ultrasound imaging system, further comprising: providing an indicator indicating the second playback speed during a period in which the second cross-sectional image is played back through the display; 14. In paragraph 12, An ultrasound imaging system further comprising: reproducing the second cross-sectional image based on the fact that the playback speed input through the first interface element is greater than or equal to a reference playback speed during a period in which the first cross-sectional image is reproduced through the display.

15. In paragraph 9, The above memory is, Save playback speed presets corresponding to cross-sectional images, In response to receiving a command to play back the ultrasound image, sequentially playing back the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image through the display; A control method for an ultrasound imaging system, comprising: when a command to play back the ultrasound image is received, sequentially playing back the first cross-sectional image and the second cross-sectional image based on a playback speed preset corresponding to the cross-sectional image.

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