Ultrasound Probe Cable Mounting Signal Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ultrasound diagnostic systems face challenges with probe management, including increased costs and compatibility issues due to additional equipment needed for probe control, and the complexity of upgrading probes.
Innovation Solution
A probe control apparatus that includes a signal detector to identify probes via a cable, a sensor to sense mounting status changes, and a controller to activate or deactivate probes based on these changes, using a mounting signal with a predetermined pattern, minimizing interference with ultrasound imaging frequencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If additional equipment is mounted on a probe to control activation, then probe activation control is improved, but device complexity and management cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the probe activation control function with the existing cable structure. The cable, which already connects the probe to the ultrasound device, is used to transmit both ultrasound signals and mounting status detection signals. This merging eliminates the need for separate control equipment while maintaining automated probe activation control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable is given multiple functions: it serves as both the ultrasound signal transmission medium and the mounting status detection channel. By making the cable universal, the system avoids adding dedicated control hardware, thereby reducing device complexity while achieving automated probe control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If probes are manufactured based on different standards, then probe compatibility is improved, but compatibility problems occur between various probes
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a feedback mechanism where the cable transmits mounting status information back to the ultrasound device. This feedback loop allows the device to automatically detect whether a probe is properly mounted and adjust its operation accordingly, ensuring reliable compatibility across different probe types without requiring manual intervention or complex compatibility management.
3Reliability
If probe upgrading is performed, then system performance is improved, but additional manufacturing and management costs are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic probe activation system where probes can be automatically activated or deactivated based on real-time mounting status detection. This dynamic control allows the system to adapt to different probe configurations without requiring physical modifications or additional equipment, thereby reducing the cost of upgrading to new probe types while maintaining optimal system performance.
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 solution allows for automatic and efficient activation/deactivation of probes without additional equipment, reducing management costs and compatibility issues, enhancing system performance and simplifying upgrades.
Implementation Method 1
The mounting signal may be an induced current that is generated by electromagnetic induction and flows through the cable.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a probe control method and apparatus and an ultrasound system which apply a mounting signal used to sense a mounting status of a probe, detect the mounting signal transferred through a cable, and automatically activate/deactivate the probe according to a change in a sensed mounting status.