Ultrasonic Imaging Signal Compounding for Depth Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasound imaging devices face challenges in obtaining high-quality images due to difficulties in distinguishing anatomical features with sufficient clarity, particularly at varying depths and image angles.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves an ultrasonic imaging device that uses algorithms to compound signals from different received ultrasonic frequencies, employing techniques such as simple averaging, weighted averaging, alpha blending with depth adaptive compounding, and predictive compounding to generate improved ultrasonic images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If higher frequency ultrasonic signals are used, then image resolution at shallower depths is improved, but penetration depth and resolution at deeper locations deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple ultrasonic signals of different frequencies into a single compounded image. Lower frequency signals provide penetration and deeper structure information, while higher frequency signals provide superior resolution for shallower structures. By merging these complementary signals through compounding techniques (simple averaging, weighted averaging, alpha blending), the system achieves both deep penetration and high resolution across all depths simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies depth adaptive compounding where different frequency components are weighted differently based on depth. For shallow regions, higher frequency components are emphasized to maximize resolution. For deeper regions, lower frequency components are emphasized to maintain signal quality and penetration. This local optimization of frequency weighting resolves the contradiction by allowing each depth zone to utilize the most appropriate frequency characteristics.
2Device complexity
If single frequency ultrasonic signals are used, then device complexity is reduced, but image quality and ability to distinguish anatomical features deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the ultrasonic imaging process into multiple frequency channels, processing reflections at different frequencies separately before compounding. This segmentation allows the system to capture different tissue interaction characteristics at various frequencies, improving anatomical feature distinction. The segmented signals are then recombined through compounding algorithms that optimize the contribution of each frequency band.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite image by combining information from multiple frequency signals, analogous to using composite materials. Each frequency component contributes unique information about tissue properties and anatomical structures. The compounding process synthesizes these diverse inputs into a unified image that leverages the complementary strengths of each frequency band, achieving superior diagnostic quality.
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 allows for the generation of ultrasound images with enhanced image resolution at various depths, effectively blending the benefits of better resolution at deeper locations associated with lower frequencies and shallower penetration associated with higher frequencies.
Implementation Method 1
receive a reflected signal from the body part being imaged
Implementation Method 2
A reflected waveform is received by a transducer (for example, a micro-machined ultrasonic transducer), converted to an electrical signal
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus, a method, and computer-implemented media. The apparatus is to receive, simultaneously, electrical signals based on respective reflected frequencies of a reflected ultrasonic waveform reflected from a target object as a result of a transmitted ultrasonic waveform; compound information from the electrical signals to generate compounded electrical signals; and cause generation of an output image on a display based on the compounded electrical signals.