Ultrasound Probe Self-Inspection via Channel-Selected Capacitance Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ultrasound devices face challenges in efficiently and conveniently inspecting for abnormalities in ultrasonic probes due to their complex structure and multiple resonance phenomena, making it difficult to determine signal reference values and manage frequency settings, and requiring separate inspection devices.
Innovation Solution
The ultrasound device incorporates a transceiver, relay unit, signal output unit, and controller to perform self-inspection by generating test signals, selecting target channels, and calculating capacitance based on test output signals to detect probe abnormalities, with resistance elements to attenuate signals and ensure normal image output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate inspection devices are used to inspect ultrasonic probes, then inspection accuracy can be improved, but device complexity and operational convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the inspection function with the existing ultrasonic device by integrating a test signal generator, signal distributor, and analyzer into the main device. This allows the ultrasonic device to inspect its own probes using built-in test signals, eliminating the need for separate external inspection devices while maintaining inspection accuracy through controlled test signal injection and analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The ultrasonic device performs self-inspection of its own probes by generating test signals internally, distributing them to target probes, and analyzing the returned signals. This self-service capability allows the device to detect probe abnormalities without requiring external inspection equipment, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining diagnostic precision
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple ultrasonic probes with complex structures are inspected, then comprehensive detection capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the inspection process into distinct functional modules: a test signal generator that creates inspection signals, a signal distributor that routes signals to specific probe channels, and an analyzer that processes returned signals. This modular segmentation allows comprehensive inspection of multiple probes with different structures while simplifying operation through automated signal routing and analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The signal distributor is designed to universally handle multiple probe types and configurations by providing selectable connection paths to different probe channels. The system can accommodate various probe structures and resonance characteristics through a single multi-functional inspection apparatus, improving ease of operation while maintaining comprehensive detection capability across different probe types
3Productivity
If test signals are output to multiple channels simultaneously, then inspection efficiency is improved, but signal interference and measurement precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by sequentially selecting and inspecting different probe channels one at a time using the signal distributor. The controller systematically cycles through each channel, injecting test signals individually and analyzing responses before moving to the next channel. This sequential periodic inspection maintains signal clarity by avoiding simultaneous multi-channel interference while preserving inspection efficiency through automated systematic progression through all channels
4Measurement precision
If capacitance calculation method is used to detect probe defects, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex physical inspection methods with electrical capacitance measurement. By injecting test signals and measuring the electrical capacitance response of the probe, the system achieves precise defect detection through electrical properties rather than mechanical or physical inspection methods. This substitution simplifies the overall device complexity while maintaining high measurement precision for detecting probe abnormalities
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 convenient and efficient self-inspection of ultrasonic probes without the need for additional equipment, allowing for accurate detection of defects and ensuring reliable device operation.
Implementation Method 1
An ultrasound device is a device that irradiates an ultrasonic signal generated from a transducer of an ultrasonic probe from the body surface of an object toward a target part in the body, and obtains an image of an internal part of the object by receiving information of an ultrasound echo signal reflected from the object
Implementation Method 2
analog-to-digital converter configured to analog-to-digital convert a test output signal generated by reflection of the test input signal from the target ultrasonic probe
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is an ultrasound device comprsing, ultrasonic probes, a transceiver configured to deliver transmission signals to the ultrasonic probes and receive reception signals from the ultrasonic probes, channels configured to deliver the transmission signals and the reception signals, a relay unit configured to select a target ultrasonic probe connected to the channels among the ultrasonic probes, a controller configured to generate a test input signal and a selection signal, and a signal output unit configured to select a target channel among the channels based on the selection signal and output the test input signal to the target channel.