Ultrasound Image Generation Using Model Correlation Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasound imaging methods require offline processing for scan conversion, leading to delayed image display, especially with mechanical scanning, which increases hardware complexity and limits real-time image updating.
Innovation Solution
A method for generating ultrasound images in real-time by recording data packages at regularly spaced locations and using a model correlation function to assess and load data packages into image columns as they are received, allowing for continuous image updating and display during manual or mechanical scanning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If offline processing is used for scan conversion, then processing accuracy is improved, but image display delay increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-calculates and stores a model correlation function that represents the expected correlation between data packages at different locations. This preliminary preparation allows real-time image display by simply comparing received data with the pre-computed model, eliminating the need for complex offline processing while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical offline processing system with a computational approach using correlation functions. Instead of performing heavy scan conversion calculations after data acquisition, the system uses real-time correlation evaluation with pre-computed models to achieve both speed and accuracy.
2Area of stationary object
If mechanical scanning is used, then image coverage is improved, but hardware complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the imaging system self-sufficient by using the correlation between received data packages and the model correlation function to automatically determine transducer position and perform scan conversion. This eliminates the need for complex external position sensors and control systems, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining full image coverage capability.
3Productivity
If real-time data processing is implemented, then image updating speed is improved, but processing accuracy may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The model correlation function is pre-computed based on the known transducer geometry and scanning pattern. This preliminary calculation allows real-time processing to use simple correlation evaluation instead of complex scan conversion, maintaining both speed and accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a model correlation function as an intermediary between the raw data packages and the final image. This model acts as a reference that simplifies real-time processing while preserving the accuracy needed for proper scan conversion, bridging the gap between speed and precision requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention is a method for generating ultrasound image, comprising the steps of: - determining a plurality of recording locations (L1, L2, L3, Lk, Ln-1, Ln) separated from each other by a recording spacing (Δy), - recording a first data package (F1) placing the ultrasound transducer on a first recording location (L1) being on the investigation surface and assigning the first data package (F1) to a first image column (I1) of the ultrasound image corresponding to the first recording location (L1), - repeating the following steps until loading at least one forthcoming image column: recording a subsequent data package (F2, Fi, Fa, Fa+1, Fb, Fb+1) by moving the ultrasound transducer essentially along an image recording line being in an image recording direction, towards a forthcoming recording location, and evaluating a data package acceptance criterion based on comparing one or more actual image correlation value and corresponding correlation function value, investigating fulfilment of the acceptance criterion; and if the acceptance criterion is fulfilled, assigning, for the forthcoming recording location, the subsequent data package to a forthcoming image column (l2, l3, lk, ln-1, In) of the ultrasound image loading the forthcoming image column (l2, l3, Ik, ln-1, In).