Ultrasound Probe Marker Generation for Hidden Objects
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ultrasound diagnosis apparatuses lack the ability to effectively mark and highlight objects of interest not visible within the ultrasound image, making it difficult for users to identify and locate specific anatomical features or abnormalities in real-time imaging.
Innovation Solution
An ultrasound diagnosis apparatus and method that includes a data acquirer, image processor, and display, which generate and mark 3D ultrasound images with markers representing objects of interest not initially visible, using text, images, or moving images, with color and size determination based on object position and distance from the image region, allowing for real-time marking on the image or map representation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If ultrasound imaging displays only visible regions, then image clarity is maintained, but objects outside the image region cannot be identified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D ultrasound image display to 3D spatial representation by generating markers that indicate positions of objects outside the current image region. The image processor creates three-dimensional marker information based on spatial coordinates, allowing users to perceive objects beyond the visible image boundaries through a different dimensional perspective.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces markers as intermediary elements that mediate between the ultrasound data and the user. These markers serve as visual indicators that represent objects not directly visible in the image, acting as a bridge to convey information about hidden objects without requiring the user to mentally reconstruct their positions.
2Ease of operation
If markers are added for all objects, then object identification is improved, but image clutter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating marker display based on object characteristics and positions. The image processor selectively generates and displays markers for specific objects of interest rather than all detected objects, and adjusts marker properties such as size, color, and position based on the object's spatial location and clinical significance, thereby reducing unnecessary visual clutter.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial action by displaying markers only for objects that meet specific criteria, such as being outside the current image region or having high clinical relevance. Rather than marking all detected objects, the system selectively applies marker generation to a subset of objects that would benefit most from visual indication, optimizing the balance between information provision and visual simplicity.
3Productivity
If real-time marker display is implemented, then diagnostic speed is improved, but processing load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing three-dimensional position information and marker generation data during the ultrasound data acquisition phase. The image processor prepares marker information in advance based on the spatial coordinates of detected objects, so that when real-time display is required, the markers can be quickly rendered without intensive on-the-fly processing, thereby reducing real-time computational load.
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
Enhances user recognition and efficiency by clearly marking objects of interest outside the initial image view, facilitating easier identification and navigation within the ultrasound image, thereby improving diagnostic accuracy and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
transmit ultrasound signals generated by transducers of a probe to an object and receive echo signals reflected from the object
Implementation Method 2
the ultrasound image may be a 3D ultrasound image which is generated by volume-rendering the 3D volume data
Implementation Method 3
a Doppler mode image in which an image of a moving object (particularly, blood flow) is shown by using the Doppler effect
Data Source
AI summary
An ultrasound diagnosis apparatus includes: an ultrasound probe; a display; an image processor; and a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the image processor, perform operations. The operations includes acquiring ultrasound data about an object; generating an ultrasound image, based on the acquired ultrasound data; generating a first marker for a first object of interest (OOI) which is not included in the generated ultrasound image; displaying the generated ultrasound image and a map image representing a viewing point corresponding to the ultrasound image, a viewing direction, a region that a virtual ray reaches, and a position of the first OOI; and marking the first marker to correspond to the position of the first OOI on the ultrasound image and the map image.