Ultrasonic Inspection Display Integrating Real-Time Site-of-Interest Mapping
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultrasonic inspection methods separate the inspection process from the creation of inspection reports, preventing real-time input of site information and reference to records during the inspection, which hampers efficiency and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and display method that integrates an ultrasonic image formation unit, inspection record generation unit, and display unit to create an electronic inspection record with a site-of-interest map and list, allowing real-time updating and display of site information during the inspection, enabling simultaneous input and reference to records.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the inspection process and report creation are performed separately, then the inspection process can be completed, but the efficiency and accuracy are hampered due to inability to input site information in real-time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the inspection process and report creation into a single integrated workflow. The inspection record generation unit creates the inspection report simultaneously with the inspection process by automatically generating the site-of-interest map and list during ultrasound scanning, eliminating the need for separate post-inspection report creation and allowing real-time information input.
2Ease of manufacture
If manual setting of probe mark position and angle is performed, then the inspection report can be created, but the burden on the inspector increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically generating the site-of-interest map and list based on inspection data without requiring manual intervention. The inspection record generation unit automatically processes ultrasound images, identifies sites of interest, and creates the inspection report, reducing the inspector's burden to merely perform the ultrasound scanning while the system handles the cumbersome report generation tasks.
3Loss of information
If inspection results are not displayed during inspection, then the inspection process can proceed, but the inspector cannot refer to records or lists of identified sites during the inspection
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by displaying the generated inspection record, including the site-of-interest map and list, during the inspection process. This allows the inspector to see previously identified sites of interest and refer to them while continuing the inspection, creating a feedback loop that improves information access and inspection quality without requiring separate post-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
This approach enhances the accuracy and efficiency of ultrasonic inspections by allowing real-time display and input of inspection results, reducing the burden on inspectors and facilitating prompt creation of inspection reports.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic image formation unit that forms an ultrasonic image representing a target tissue in accordance with a reception signal obtained by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves to and from the target tissue
Data Source
AI summary
A main image includes a tomographic image and a reference image as ultrasonic images. A sub-image includes a site-of-interest map and a site-of-interest list. During execution of ultrasonic inspection, each time a new site of interest is identified, a site-of-interest symbol is added to the site-of-interest map and a site-of-interest record is added to the site-of-interest list. The position of the site-of-interest symbol is determined according to the position of a probe mark.