2D Array Probe EFOV Imaging Motion Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultrasound systems face limitations in extended field of view imaging due to geometric distortion and inaccurate measurements when probe motion is not aligned with the imaging plane, and existing motion tracking methods are unreliable, especially with 1D array probes, which can lead to image quality loss and require additional inconvenient equipment.
Innovation Solution
The use of a 2D array probe with electronic beam steering to acquire multiple planar images and track probe motion in multiple directions, allowing for the creation of calibrated 3D panoramic images with real-time user feedback, enabling geometrically accurate volume reconstruction and improved image quality by computing registration between consecutive images and displaying partial volumes during scanning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a 1D array probe is used for extended field of view imaging, then the imaging setup is simpler, but geometric distortion occurs when probe motion is not aligned with the imaging plane
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a 1D array probe to a 2D array probe, adding an elevational dimension to the transducer elements. This dimensional change enables the probe to capture motion in multiple directions (azimuth and elevation) simultaneously, eliminating geometric distortion caused by misaligned probe motion while maintaining imaging capability without requiring complex external tracking devices
2Reliability
If external positioning sensors are attached to track probe motion, then motion tracking reliability improves, but device complexity and inconvenience increase
Solution Approach 1:
The 2D array probe performs motion tracking autonomously using its own transducer elements to capture speckle patterns from tissue. The probe self-monitors its motion in both azimuth and elevation directions by analyzing the decorrelation of speckle patterns across multiple beam lines, eliminating the need for external positioning sensors and making the system self-sufficient
Solution Approach 2:
The 2D array probe serves multiple functions simultaneously: it performs both imaging and motion tracking using the same transducer elements. The probe can electronically steer beams in multiple directions to capture speckle patterns for motion estimation while also acquiring diagnostic images, consolidating multiple functions into a single device
3Device complexity
If mechanical sweeping of a 1D probe is used to acquire panoramic images, then the system is simpler, but motion tracking accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical sweeping of a 1D probe with electronic beam steering using a 2D array probe. Instead of physically moving the probe mechanically to track motion, the system uses electronic phasing to steer ultrasound beams in multiple directions, capturing speckle patterns that enable accurate motion tracking in both azimuth and elevation without mechanical complexity
4Measurement precision
If a 2D array probe with electronic beam steering is used, then motion tracking in multiple directions improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The 2D array probe uses electronic beam steering with dynamic phasing to steer ultrasound beams in multiple directions without mechanical moving parts. The electronic control dynamically adjusts the timing and phase of excitation signals to each element, enabling flexible beam steering in azimuth and elevation while maintaining a fixed probe structure that reduces mechanical complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables the generation of accurate and reliable 3D panoramic images with real-time feedback, minimizing geometric distortion and image quality loss, while eliminating the need for external tracking devices, thus providing a more efficient and precise method for extended field of view imaging.
Implementation Method 1
A two-dimensional array transducer can electronically scan a volumetric region over three dimensions by phased steering of the beams
Implementation Method 2
probe motion is tracked by evaluating the rate of decorrelation of speckle patterns in sequentially-acquired images from different elevational planes
Implementation Method 3
an ultrasound probe is manually scanned in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the image to acquire a series of images
Data Source
AI summary
An ultrasonic diagnostic imaging system produces an extended field of view (EFOV) image. A 3D imaging probe is moved along the skin of a patient above the anatomy which is to be included in the EFOV image. As the probe is moved, images are acquired from a plurality of differently oriented image planes such as a sagittal plane and a transverse plane. As the probe is moved the image data of successive planes of one of the orientations is compared to estimate the motion of the probe. These motion estimates are used to position a succession of images acquired in one of the orientations accurately with respect to each other in an EFOV display format. The display format may be either a 2D EFOV image or a 3D EFOV image.