Convex-Linear Bi-Plane Probe for Accurate Prostate Volume Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasound methods for prostate volume calculation suffer from human error, high costs, user skill demands, and patient discomfort due to probe design, particularly in three-dimensional reconstruction and image acquisition.
Innovation Solution
A convex-linear bi-plane probe with integrated linear and convex elements that simultaneously acquire orthogonal ultrasound images, reducing probe volume and discomfort while enhancing accuracy through differential scanning frequencies and neural network-assisted motion tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional intracavity probes are used to calculate prostate volume, then the measurement can be obtained through empirical formulas, but human error occurs in manually determining the position of the largest section leading to deviation in calculation results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement with automated image processing algorithms. The system automatically identifies the largest prostate section and calculates volume using computational methods rather than manual empirical formulas, eliminating human error in determining section positions and improving measurement consistency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a three-dimensional digital model (copy) of the prostate based on two orthogonal ultrasound images. This virtual model allows automated calculation of volume and identification of maximum sections without manual intervention, improving both accuracy and reliability
2Measurement precision
If two-dimensional matrix probe is used for direct scanning and reconstruction, then prostate volume can be calculated through 3D reconstruction, but the cost is expensive and high requirements are imposed on both the probe and the main unit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential two orthogonal views needed for prostate volume calculation from the complex 3D scanning process. By using a biplane probe that captures maximum sagittal and cross-sectional images simultaneously, it eliminates the need for expensive matrix probes and complex 3D reconstruction hardware while maintaining adequate measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simpler, more cost-effective biplane probe design compared to expensive matrix probes. The system achieves acceptable 3D reconstruction capability through targeted 2D imaging rather than requiring high-end expensive equipment, making the solution more accessible
3Measurement precision
If freehand three-dimensional reconstruction based on convex-linear biplane probe is used, then prostate volume can be calculated, but the probe rotation speed has strict requirements and image clarity must be maintained, which is more demanding for the user
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual freehand manipulation with automated tracking systems that use sensors to monitor probe position and orientation. This automated tracking eliminates the need for users to manually maintain precise rotation speeds and image clarity, as the system automatically compensates for probe movement and reconstructs the 3D model accordingly
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-tracking and self-correction of probe position through integrated sensors and algorithms. The automated tracking mechanism continuously adjusts for probe movement without requiring user intervention to maintain image quality or rotation speed, significantly reducing operational difficulty
4Measurement precision
If motor-driven one-dimensional probe is used for two-dimensional image sequence sampling, then prostate volume can be calculated through three-dimensional reconstruction, but a larger probe than conventional probe is used which brings more discomfort to the patient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two ultrasound imaging planes (sagittal and cross-sectional) into a single biplane probe that captures both views simultaneously. This integrated design eliminates the need for motor-driven sequential scanning with larger probes, achieving 3D reconstruction capability while using a smaller, more comfortable probe for the patient
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the imaging function into two orthogonal planes captured simultaneously by separate transducer arrays within the same probe housing. This segmentation allows each plane to be optimized independently while maintaining overall probe compactness, reducing patient discomfort compared to single large motor-driven probes
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a convex-linear bi-plane probe and its application method in prostate volume calculation. The present invention adopts the following technical solution: comprising a probe housing and a probe assembly contained in the probe housing, the probe assembly comprising a linear probe and a convex probe contained at the end of the linear probe, with the linear element inside the linear probe and the convex element inside the convex probe connected as one piece. The benefits of the present invention are that: by setting a convex probe at the end of the linear probe, and by connecting the linear element and the convex element as one, the volume of the probe can be significantly reduced. Furthermore, the use of convex-linear biplane probe and its integrated design collect two orthogonal ultrasound images of the prostate, which improves the accuracy of prostate volume calculation.