Ultrasound Probe Sensor Motion Tracking for 3D to 2D Image Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in obtaining a desired 2-dimensional ultrasound image using ultrasound diagnosis apparatuses due to the need to manually adjust the probe's location and angle, making it challenging to replicate specific image orientations.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a sensor-equipped probe to detect motion information, allowing for real-time adjustment of a cut line or cut surface on a 3D ultrasound image, enabling easy conversion to a 2D image mode and displaying the corresponding image.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a user manually adjusts the probe location and angle to obtain a desired 2D ultrasound image, then the image acquisition process becomes complex and time-consuming, but the user can obtain the desired image orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment of the probe with an automated sensor-based system. Sensors detect probe position and orientation automatically, and a processor calculates the corresponding cut line location and angle on the 3D ultrasound image, eliminating the need for manual mechanical adjustment and track ball manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-measurement by using sensors embedded in the probe to automatically detect its own position and orientation. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external manual measurement and calculation, allowing the system to automatically determine the cut line parameters based on sensor data.
2Ease of operation
If a user manipulates the control panel and track ball to rotate the displayed ultrasound image, then the user can adjust image orientation, but the operation becomes complex and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical control panel manipulation with an automated computational system. Sensors detect probe orientation, and a processor automatically calculates and applies the corresponding rotation to the displayed image, eliminating the need for manual track ball and button operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sensors and a processor as intermediaries between the probe and the displayed image. These intermediaries automatically translate probe position and orientation into corresponding image cut line parameters, serving as a mediator that eliminates the need for direct manual control panel manipulation.
3Loss of information
If a user places the probe on the subject to obtain a new ultrasound image, then a new image can be acquired, but it is difficult to remember the previous probe location and angle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces human memory with an automated sensor-based recording system. Sensors continuously detect and record probe position and orientation data, and the system stores this information for later retrieval, eliminating the need for human memory and manual relocation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the probe's position and orientation information through sensors. This copied data is stored and can be retrieved to automatically restore the previous probe configuration, replacing the need for human memory with an accurate digital record.
4Adaptability or versatility
If various 2D ultrasound images are obtained according to probe location and angle, then different cross-sections can be viewed, but it is difficult to obtain the specific 2D image the user wants at once
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual trial-and-error image acquisition with an automated sensor-based positioning system. Sensors detect probe position and orientation, and the system automatically calculates the corresponding cut line on the 3D image, allowing direct acquisition of the desired cross-section without manual searching.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides real-time feedback by displaying the calculated cut line location on the 3D ultrasound image based on sensor-detected probe position. This feedback mechanism allows users to verify the correct cross-section is being displayed and make minor adjustments if needed, eliminating the need to search through multiple images.
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 users to easily obtain and view desired 2D ultrasound images by controlling the probe's motion, improving user experience and reducing the complexity of image acquisition.
Implementation Method 1
detecting motion information about the probe by using a sensor included in the probe
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4(a)~4(b)
AI summary
A method of providing an ultrasound image, the method including: marking a cut line or a cut surface on a 3-dimensional (3D) ultrasound image of an object which is obtained by using a probe, wherein the cut line and the cut surface are used to view a cross section of the 3D ultrasound image; detecting motion information about the probe by using a sensor included in the probe; and changing a location of the cut line or the cut surface based on the detected motion information about the probe.