Ultrasound Probe Array Recognition for Accurate Position Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasound diagnostic apparatuses struggle to accurately recognize the use state of probes with multiple transducer arrays, leading to inefficiencies in identifying the correct position and orientation of the probe during examinations.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a sensor to detect motion and angle information, combined with used array information, to automatically identify and adjust the position and orientation of the probe, enhancing examination efficiency by displaying appropriate templates and guiding the user for optimal image acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a probe with multiple transducer arrays is used to enhance examination versatility, then adaptability is improved, but difficulty of detecting and measuring the probe state worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs sensors (acceleration sensors, angular velocity sensors, contact sensors) to continuously monitor probe state and provides feedback to the control unit. This feedback mechanism enables automatic identification of the correct transducer array and examination mode, resolving the difficulty of detecting probe state while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The probe incorporates self-diagnostic capabilities through integrated sensors that automatically detect its own state (orientation, contact status, selected array). This self-service approach eliminates the need for manual configuration and enables the system to automatically adapt to different examination requirements
2Device complexity
If manual identification of probe state is used to simplify device complexity, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe automatically identifies its own state through integrated sensors and communicates this information to the control unit. This self-service mechanism eliminates manual intervention, maintaining simple operation while significantly improving examination efficiency and productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical identification methods with electronic sensing mechanisms (acceleration sensors, angular velocity sensors). This substitution maintains device simplicity from the user perspective while dramatically improving productivity through automated state recognition
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
Accurate determination of probe position and motion improves examination efficiency by automating the identification of probe states, allowing for enhanced image guidance and three-dimensional data generation.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor 16 that outputs information for acquiring motion information or angle information of the ultrasound probe 2
Implementation Method 2
The sensor 16 outputs information for acquiring motion information or angle information of the ultrasound probe 2
Data Source
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AI summary
An ultrasound diagnostic apparatus includes an ultrasound probe including a housing in which a first transducer array is disposed at one end and a second transducer array is disposed at the other end, a sensor that is provided in the housing and outputs information for acquiring motion information of the ultrasound probe or angle information of the ultrasound probe, and a processor that acquires used array information indicating which of the first transducer array and the second transducer array is used. The processor is configured to acquire the motion information or the angle information based on the output of the sensor and determine a motion or a position of the ultrasound probe with respect to a subject based on the acquired motion information or angle information and the used array information.