Ultrasound Transducer Array Segmentation for Simultaneous Imaging and Elasticity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultrasound imaging devices lack the capability for simultaneous elasticity measurement and ultrasound imaging, requiring tissue boundary conditions and providing only average elasticity values, while existing techniques for measuring tissue elasticity distribution are limited in accuracy and applicability.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize high frame rate ultrasound signals to form transient M-mode images, enhance shear wave propagation traces, and calculate tissue elasticity, allowing for simultaneous display of B-mode ultrasound images and transient M-mode measurement results using a selected group of ultrasound transducers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional ultrasound imaging devices are used for elasticity measurement, then tissue boundary conditions are required and only average elasticity values can be obtained, but simultaneous elasticity measurement and ultrasound imaging cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the ultrasound transducer array into multiple independent groups that can be controlled separately. One group transmits conventional B-mode imaging signals while another group transmits high frame rate signals for shear wave detection. This segmentation allows simultaneous imaging and elasticity measurement without requiring complex coordination between different devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines B-mode ultrasound imaging and transient M-mode elasticity measurement into a single integrated system. By using multiple transducer groups within the same ultrasound device, the system simultaneously performs structural imaging and elasticity assessment, eliminating the need for separate devices and complex tissue boundary conditions.
2Measurement precision
If high frame rate ultrasound signals are transmitted by selected transducer groups, then detailed tissue elasticity distribution can be measured, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the transducer array into functionally independent groups, where selected groups transmit high frame rate signals for elasticity measurement while other groups handle imaging. This segmentation simplifies the control system by allowing independent optimization of each group's function without requiring complex coordination across the entire array.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies high frame rate transmission only to selected transducer groups rather than the entire array. This partial action approach achieves detailed elasticity distribution measurement in regions of interest while reducing overall system complexity and computational burden compared to full-array high frame rate operation.
3Measurement precision
If transient M-mode images are formed from high frame rate signals, then shear wave propagation traces can be enhanced, but the processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts shear wave propagation information from the high frame rate ultrasound signals by forming transient M-mode images. This extraction process isolates the elasticity-related signals from the complex high frame rate data, enhancing shear wave propagation traces while using dedicated processing algorithms that simplify the overall computational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary signal processing by forming transient M-mode images before final elasticity calculation. This preliminary action organizes the high frame rate data into a format that facilitates easier shear wave detection and propagation trace enhancement, reducing the complexity of subsequent processing steps.
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 accurate and detailed measurement of tissue elasticity by visualizing and calculating Young's modulus through enhanced shear wave propagation traces, overcoming limitations of existing techniques by providing a comprehensive and precise assessment of tissue stiffness.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting a high frame rate ultrasound signal, by a selected group of ultrasound transducers, at the selected A-mode signal location, forming a transient M-mode image based on the high frame rate ultrasound signal, enhancing propagation trace of shear wave
Implementation Method 2
calculating elasticity of the object based on the propagation trace and displaying result
Data Source
AI summary
A method for performing ultrasound imaging and elasticity measurement, the method includes scanning an object to obtain a B-mode ultrasound image, selecting an A-mode signal from the B-mode ultrasound image, transmitting a high frame rate ultrasound signal, by a selected group of ultrasound transducers, at the selected A-mode signal location, forming a transient M-mode image based on the high frame rate ultrasound signal, enhancing propagation trace of shear wave based on the transient M-mode image, calculating elasticity of the object based on the propagation trace and displaying result, and displaying, simultaneously, the B-mode ultrasound image and the transient M-mode measurement result.