Ultrasonic Image Resolution via Multiscale PSF Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultrasonic imaging technologies face limitations in improving image resolution due to errors in phase estimation and the complexity of two-dimensional point spread function (PSF) estimation, leading to suboptimal image quality.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that utilize a PSF estimator to update the PSF at each multiscale level by applying different bases to the axial and lateral directions, performing deconvolution to enhance image resolution, and selecting appropriate bases based on the scale level to accurately estimate the PSF.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional PSF estimation methods are used, then the estimation process is simple, but the phase estimation error increases and image resolution improvement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the PSF estimation process into multiple scales, estimating PSF at different resolution levels separately. This segmentation allows accurate phase estimation at each scale without the complexity of simultaneous multi-scale optimization, resolving the contradiction between precision and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the PSF estimation from a single two-dimensional problem into a multi-scale hierarchical structure. By adding the scale dimension, the estimation process achieves higher accuracy through sequential refinement while maintaining computational feasibility through the structured approach.
2Measurement precision
If two-dimensional PSF estimation is performed, then comprehensive directional information is captured, but the computational complexity and phase estimation error increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the two-dimensional PSF estimation into multiple one-dimensional estimations at different scales. This division reduces the complexity of simultaneous two-dimensional optimization while maintaining comprehensive directional information through the hierarchical structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs PSF estimation partially at each scale rather than simultaneously across all scales. This partial action approach reduces computational complexity at each step while achieving comprehensive results through sequential refinement, avoiding the excessive complexity of full two-dimensional optimization.
3Manufacturing precision
If higher resolution imaging is achieved through deconvolution, then image quality improves, but the sensitivity to phase estimation errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary PSF estimation at multiple scales before the final deconvolution process. This preliminary action establishes accurate phase information at each scale, reducing the sensitivity of the final high-resolution image to phase estimation errors through the hierarchical refinement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the PSF estimated at each scale is used to refine the image data, and the refined image data is used to improve the PSF estimation at lower scales. This feedback loop continuously corrects phase estimation errors, maintaining reliability while achieving high resolution.
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 effectively improves the resolution of ultrasonic images by accurately estimating the PSF, reducing errors in phase estimation and enhancing image quality across various directions, resulting in higher resolution images.
Implementation Method 1
transmit an ultrasonic wave to the object using a transducer configured to transmit and receive an ultrasonic wave
Implementation Method 2
receive information reflected from the object
Implementation Method 3
perform a beamforming process, also referred to as a focusing process
Implementation Method 4
a quality of an ultrasonic image greatly affected by a scatter reflection due to a tissue in the object
Implementation Method 5
generate the ultrasonic image including an increased resolution based on deconvolution of the updated PSF from the image data
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for generating an ultrasonic image are provided. The apparatus includes a transceiver configured to transmit an ultrasonic signal to an object, and receive an echo signal. The apparatus further includes a beam former configured to perform beamforming on the received echo signal to generate image data. The apparatus further includes a point spread function (PSF) estimator configured to update a PSF of the ultrasonic signal at each multiscale level to update the image data.