Ultrasound Colorflow Scan Sequencing Interleave Factor Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In ultrasound colorflow imaging systems, the interleaving of scan sequences to maintain frame rate results in some colorflow imaging vectors being beyond the region of interest, leading to wasted time and information, as the total number of vectors may not evenly divide into interleave groups, causing the last group to be shorter and extra vectors to be outside the ROI.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for determining an interleave factor based on pulse repetition interval (PRI) to divide colorflow imaging vectors into groups, and modifying scan sequencing parameters to ensure all vectors are included within the ROI by adjusting positions, size, or interleave group size, thereby utilizing all vectors in image formation and reducing spatial distance between them.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If colorflow imaging vectors are interleaved to maintain frame rate, then frame rate is maintained, but some vectors fall outside the region of interest causing wasted time and information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the interleave factor based on the relationship between the number of colorflow vectors and interleave groups. By making the interleave factor variable rather than fixed, the system adapts to different imaging conditions to ensure all vectors fall within the ROI, eliminating wasted transmissions while maintaining frame rate.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the interleave factor parameter to optimize the distribution of colorflow vectors across interleave groups. By adjusting this parameter, the system ensures that the number of vectors evenly divides by the number of interleave groups, preventing vectors from falling outside the ROI and reducing wasted time and information.
2Productivity
If the number of colorflow vectors does not evenly divide into interleave groups, then the last group is shorter, but extra vectors are added beyond the ROI edge
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calculation to determine the optimal interleave factor before transmitting colorflow vectors. By pre-calculating the interleave factor based on the total number of vectors and desired groups, the system ensures even distribution and proper positioning of all vectors within the ROI, avoiding the need for extra vectors beyond the ROI edge.
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 ensures all colorflow imaging vectors are used in forming the ultrasound image, reduces wastage of acquired information, and increases the frame rate by positioning all vectors within the ROI and optimizing vector distribution.
Implementation Method 1
a transducer probe generates and transmits acoustic waves and receives the echoes that are reflected, for example, by a body or a portion thereof
Implementation Method 2
Doppler ultrasound, which is based upon the Doppler effect, is used to measuring the rate of blood-flow through the human body
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for scan sequencing in an ultrasound imaging system are provided. The method includes determining an interleave factor based at least partially on a pulse repletion interval (PRI). The method further includes dividing a total number of colorflow imaging vectors into interleave groups based on the interleave factor. Further, the method includes modifying at least one scan sequencing parameter such that all colorflow imaging vectors are included in a colorflow region of interest (ROI).