Matrix Array Probe Virtual Apex Steering for Obstructed Ultrasound Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultrasound probes have a symmetric field of view with a static apex, which can be obstructed by anatomical structures, requiring clinicians to adjust the probe position or use additional probes to acquire clear ultrasound images.
Innovation Solution
A matrix array probe with a controller circuit that allows for steerable sector field of view adjustments, shifting a virtual apex to include obstructed regions, enabling keyhole scanning and asymmetrical beam-steering to acquire ultrasound data from a sector field of view with a subset of transducer elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional ultrasound probe with a symmetric field of view and static apex is used, then the probe structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the field of view is obstructed by anatomical structures requiring probe repositioning or additional probes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by shifting the virtual apex of the sector field of view from a symmetric position to an asymmetric position that avoids obstructed regions. The controller circuit enables the virtual apex to be positioned at any location within the sector FOV, allowing asymmetric beam-steering to direct ultrasound energy around anatomical obstructions such as bones and air pockets, thereby improving adaptability without requiring physical probe repositioning
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by transitioning from a static apex to a steerable virtual apex that can be dynamically repositioned by the controller circuit. The system allows real-time adjustment of the field of view orientation and position through electronic control of the matrix array probe elements, enabling the ultrasound beam to adapt to different anatomical configurations during scanning
2Reliability
If the field of view is shifted to encompass obstructed regions, then image quality improves, but the data acquisition complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical probe repositioning with electronic field of view steering. Instead of physically moving the probe to avoid obstructions, the controller circuit electronically shifts the virtual apex and steers the ultrasound beam using phase manipulation of the matrix array elements. This substitution maintains image quality by accessing previously obstructed regions while eliminating the need for complex mechanical adjustments
3Adaptability or versatility
If a matrix array probe with steerable field of view is used, then the ability to acquire clear images improves, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing the matrix array probe with a controller circuit that can perform multiple functions: standard symmetric scanning, asymmetric field of view steering, and dynamic virtual apex positioning. The same hardware infrastructure supports both conventional and advanced scanning modes, allowing the system to adapt to different clinical requirements without requiring separate specialized probes for each function
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
Enables clear ultrasound imaging by adjusting the field of view to encompass obstructed regions, improving data acquisition and image quality without the need for probe repositioning or additional probes.
Implementation Method 1
ultrasound imaging systems usually include ultrasound scanning devices, such as ultrasound probes having transducers that are connected to an ultrasound system
Implementation Method 2
transducers that are connected to an ultrasound system to control the acquisition of ultrasound data
Implementation Method 3
asymmetrical beam-steering to adjust a virtual apex of a sector FOV
Implementation Method 4
controller circuit that is configured to control the matrix array probe to acquire ultrasound data from a sector field of view (FOV) with a subset of the plurality of transducer elements
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for adjusting a field of view of a medical imaging system, such as for an ultrasound imaging system. A system (e.g., an ultrasound imaging system) is provided herein that includes a matrix array probe. The matrix array probe includes a plurality of transducer elements arranged in an array with an elevation direction and an azimuth direction. The system includes a controller circuit that is configured to control the matrix array probe to acquire ultrasound data from a sector field of view (FOV) with a subset of the plurality of transducer elements. The sector FOV having a virtual apex. The controller circuit is further configured to shift the virtual apex and the corresponding sector FOV from a first sector FOV that has at least one ultrasound obstructed region to a second sector FOV that encompasses the ultrasound obstructed region.