Ultrasonic Probe Data Conversion for Diagnostic Consistency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultrasonic diagnostic apparatuses are highly dependent on user examination skills, making it difficult for inexperienced users to perform accurate diagnoses due to variations in image quality caused by different ultrasonic probes and settings.
Innovation Solution
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that uses a learned model to convert ultrasonic image data from one probe type to another, allowing for the generation of images with similar qualities, enabling inexperienced users to make appropriate diagnoses by displaying both original and converted images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If ultrasonic images are displayed with various image qualities in accordance with different ultrasonic probes and settings, then the apparatus can accommodate diverse imaging needs and probe types, but inexperienced users find it difficult to interpret the images and perform accurate diagnoses
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a reference image by copying the imaging conditions and characteristics from a second ultrasonic probe with known, standardized image quality. This reference image serves as a template that helps inexperienced users interpret images from different probe types by providing a familiar quality standard for comparison.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adjusts image processing parameters based on the type of ultrasonic probe used. By changing parameters such as gain, dynamic range, and processing algorithms according to the specific probe characteristics, the system standardizes the output image quality across different probe types, making interpretation easier for inexperienced users.
2Ease of operation
If a single ultrasonic probe type is used to ensure consistent image quality, then inexperienced users can more easily interpret images, but the apparatus loses flexibility in accommodating different imaging scenarios and probe types
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to work with multiple types of ultrasonic probes while maintaining consistent image interpretability. By incorporating probe-type recognition and adaptive processing, the single apparatus can universally handle different probe types without requiring users to learn multiple interpretation methods, thus achieving both versatility and ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If image processing is simplified for inexperienced users, then diagnosis becomes more accessible, but the system cannot adequately handle the variations in image quality from different probes and settings
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a reference image as a feedback mechanism to evaluate and adjust the processing of images from different probes. By comparing the actual image characteristics against the reference standard, the system automatically adjusts processing parameters to maintain consistent image quality, ensuring reliability while keeping the interface simple for inexperienced users.
Data Source
AI summary
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes: a first ultrasonic probe that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves to and from a subject; and a hardware processor that uses a learned model machine-learned by using learning data including first data based on a reception signal for image generation received by a second ultrasonic probe of the same type as that of the first ultrasonic probe, and second data captured under a predetermined condition so as to convert third data based on a reception signal for image generation received by the first ultrasonic probe into fourth data similar to the second data, and output the converted data.