Ultrasonic Envelope Detection via Peak Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting ultrasonic signal envelopes are complex and time-consuming, often requiring costly computations and inaccurate filtering, which hinder efficient ultrasonic data processing in ultrasound diagnosis.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that detect peaks in ultrasonic signals by calculating differences in absolute values over time, generating an envelope by connecting these peaks with straight or curved lines, eliminating the need for filtering and significantly reducing computation time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If Hilbert Transform is used for envelope detection, then detection accuracy is improved, but computation time and implementation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential feature (peak points) from the ultrasonic signal to represent the envelope, rather than performing complete Hilbert Transform computation. By detecting peak points through simple amplitude threshold comparison and connecting them, the method achieves adequate envelope detection with minimal computation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the expensive, complex Hilbert Transform computation with a simple, inexpensive peak detection algorithm that uses basic amplitude comparison and linear interpolation. This 'cheap' method consumes minimal computational resources while providing sufficient accuracy for clinical applications.
2Measurement precision
If in-phase quadrature demodulation is used for envelope detection, then detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity and computation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the peak amplitude points from the ultrasonic signal to define the envelope, eliminating the need for complex in-phase quadrature demodulation systems. This simplifies the detection apparatus while maintaining functional accuracy for imaging purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electronic complex demodulation system with a computational algorithm that simply compares signal amplitudes against thresholds and connects peak points. This substitution dramatically reduces hardware complexity while achieving the same functional goal.
3Measurement precision
If filtering is applied in envelope detection, then high-frequency components are removed, but computation time increases and accuracy may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts peak points directly from the signal without applying filters. By identifying local maxima through simple amplitude comparison and connecting them, the method removes high-frequency components effectively while avoiding the computational overhead and potential accuracy losses associated with filtering operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for envelope detection are disclosed. An envelope detection method according to an embodiment of the invention can include: receiving ultrasonic signals reflected off a target object; detecting peaks by using differences in pulses in the received signals; and generating an envelope by connecting the detected peaks with straight or curved lines.