Ultrasound Imaging Motion Compensation via Adaptive Sampling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Ultrasound imaging apparatuses face challenges in accurately capturing images of moving targets due to distortion caused by varying motion levels, as existing systems do not effectively adjust sampling rates based on motion vectors.
Innovation Solution
The ultrasound imaging apparatus includes a motion detection unit that divides the target area into groups, calculates motion vectors, and adjusts the sampling period and time of beamforming signals accordingly, using linear interpolation to synthesize signals and reduce distortion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the sampling rate is increased to capture motion details, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to more extensive sampling required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by dividing the imaging region into multiple regions of interest (ROIs) and assigning different sampling rates to each ROI based on its specific motion characteristics. High-motion regions receive higher sampling rates while low-motion regions use lower sampling rates, optimizing the balance between measurement precision and time efficiency for each local area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by dynamically adjusting the sampling rate for each ROI based on detected motion vectors. The system continuously monitors motion magnitude and adapts the sampling frequency in real-time, increasing sampling for regions with large motion vectors and decreasing it for regions with small motion vectors, thereby resolving the contradiction between precision and time loss.
2Measurement precision
If uniform high sampling is applied to all regions, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity decreases due to excessive processing of low-motion areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing region-specific sampling strategies where each ROI is sampled according to its individual motion characteristics rather than using a uniform sampling rate across the entire image. This ensures high measurement precision for motion-critical regions while avoiding unnecessary sampling in static regions, thereby maintaining image quality without sacrificing productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by performing high-rate sampling only on portions of the image (ROIs) that contain significant motion, while using lower or no sampling in regions with minimal motion. This selective approach maintains measurement precision where needed while significantly improving overall imaging efficiency by eliminating redundant sampling operations.
3Measurement precision
If the number of ROIs is increased to improve motion detection precision, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the imaging field into multiple discrete regions of interest, each independently analyzed for motion characteristics. This segmentation enables precise motion detection in each region while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular processing of individual ROIs rather than attempting to analyze the entire image as a single unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the number and configuration of ROIs adaptable based on the imaging scenario and motion detection needs. The system can dynamically create, merge, or adjust ROIs to match the actual motion patterns in the scene, optimizing measurement precision while avoiding the fixed complexity overhead of a static multi-ROI system.
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 reduces image distortion by dynamically adjusting sampling rates based on motion vectors, resulting in clearer ultrasound images of regions with different motion levels.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic probe for transmitting ultrasonic waves to a target object and receiving ultrasonic waves reflected from the object
Implementation Method 2
a beamforming unit for beamforming the received ultrasonic wave and outputting a beamforming signal
Implementation Method 3
the acoustic module includes a transducer for converting an electric signal and an acoustic signal into each other while the piezoelectric material vibrates
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, an ultrasound imaging apparatus comprising: an ultrasonic probe for transmitting ultrasonic waves to a target object and receiving ultrasonic waves reflected from the object; a beamforming unit for beamforming the received ultrasonic wave and outputting a beamforming signal; a sampling unit for adjusting the number of sampling times of the beamforming signal according to the amount of motion of the object; and an image processing unit for matching and synthesizing the sampled signals.