Ultrasound Probe Angle Display Using Acceleration Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ultrasound diagnostic apparatuses require large-scale equipment, such as magnetic sensors and generators, to accurately measure and display the angle of the ultrasound probe, which is not necessary for all diagnostic procedures, especially when the operator can intuitively understand the positional relation between the probe and the subject.
Innovation Solution
An ultrasound diagnostic apparatus equipped with a sensor, such as an acceleration sensor, on the probe to output angle information relative to the gravity direction, which is converted and displayed on a screen, allowing for the visualization of the probe's angle without the need for large-scale apparatuses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If magnetic sensors and generators are used to measure probe position and posture, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts only the essential function needed for angle measurement by removing the complex magnetic field generation system. Instead of using magnetic sensors and generators, the patent uses simple acceleration sensors mounted on the probe to detect angle information directly, eliminating unnecessary components while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical/magnetic measurement system with an electronic sensor-based system. Acceleration sensors are used to detect the probe's angular position relative to gravity, substituting the complex magnetic field-based measurement system with a simpler electronic sensing approach
2Measurement precision
If large-scale apparatuses are placed for angle measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The probe becomes self-sufficient for angle measurement by having acceleration sensors directly mounted on it. The probe automatically detects its own angular position relative to gravity without requiring external magnetic generators or complex positioning systems, making the system easier to operate
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the measurement parameter reference from an external magnetic field system to the gravity direction. By measuring angle relative to gravity (a universal reference) rather than requiring external magnetic generators, the system becomes simpler to operate while maintaining precision
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
Enables the acquisition and display of the ultrasound probe's angle during diagnosis without the necessity of large-scale equipment, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and usability by providing essential angle information directly on the display.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor provided on the ultrasound probe for outputting sensor information for use in obtaining an angle of the ultrasound probe relative to a gravity direction
Data Source
AI summary
An ultrasound probe (3) of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus (1) includes an acceleration sensor (5) provided for outputting acceleration information for use in obtaining an angle of the ultrasound probe at the time of diagnosing a subject. The acceleration information is converted into angle information of the ultrasound probe by an angle conversion section (11). The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus (1) includes a monitor (4) for displaying a diagnosing image of the subject obtained with the ultrasound probe (3), and a body mark (16) corresponding to the diagnostic mode selected at the time of diagnosing and a probe icon (15) placed at an angle corresponding to the angle information with respect to the body mark (16) are displayed on the monitor (4). This makes it possible to provide an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus which can display an angle of the ultrasound probe at the time of diagnosing the subject.