Ultrasound Scan Parameter Control via Imaging Effect Inputs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users, especially new users, face challenges in effectively adjusting multiple scan parameters to achieve desired imaging effects in ultrasound imaging systems, as the intuitive determination of these parameters is not straightforward.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allow users to input values for desired imaging effects such as image resolution, image penetration, and frame rate through user controls, with a computer processor determining and displaying corresponding scan parameters like line density, number of focal zones, frequency, and pulse repetition frequency, while constraining other controls to only allow values within optimal ranges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If users directly adjust multiple scan parameters to achieve desired imaging effects, then imaging quality can be optimized, but the complexity of operation increases significantly for users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing system between the user and the multiple scan parameters. The user interface accepts simple imaging effect specifications from users, and the system automatically determines the appropriate combination of scan parameters through computer processing. This intermediary layer shields users from the complexity of multiple parameters while maintaining optimal imaging quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transforms the parameter adjustment paradigm by changing from direct scan parameter modification to indirect control through imaging effect specification. The computer processor dynamically calculates and adjusts multiple scan parameters based on the desired imaging effects, converting a complex multi-parameter control problem into a simple effect-based control interface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If users are provided with control over all scan parameters, then imaging flexibility is improved, but the difficulty of determining optimal parameter combinations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by enabling the computer processor to automatically determine optimal scan parameter combinations based on desired imaging effects. The system serves itself by internally calculating the appropriate parameter settings without requiring user expertise in parameter interrelationships, thus maintaining imaging flexibility while eliminating determination difficulty.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the computer processor continuously evaluates the desired imaging effects and adjusts scan parameters accordingly. This feedback loop ensures that the system automatically adapts parameter combinations to achieve optimal imaging results, reducing the cognitive burden on users while maintaining versatility.
3Measurement precision
If multiple scan parameters are adjusted independently by users, then control precision is improved, but the time required for parameter setup increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-calculating and automatically determining the optimal combination of scan parameters based on the desired imaging effects. This preliminary computation is done automatically by the computer processor before the actual imaging process begins, eliminating the time-consuming manual adjustment process while maintaining precise parameter control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the adjustment of multiple scan parameters into a single unified operation. Instead of requiring users to independently adjust multiple parameters sequentially, the system combines all parameter determinations into one automated process that simultaneously optimizes all parameters based on the desired imaging effects, significantly reducing setup time while preserving control precision.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for determining scan parameters to be used during image acquisition are provided. Values of imaging effects can be input using user controls accessible from a user interface. A processor can determine scan parameters to be used during image acquisition based on the input imaging effect values. The determined scan parameters can be displayed using the user interface. Values of imaging effects and potential ranges of values of imaging effects can be constrained based on selected values of other imaging effects. Imaging effects can include image resolution, image penetration, frame rate and/or color flow sensitivity. Scan parameters can include: line density, number of focal zones, frequency, dynamic range, pulse repetition frequency, and/or number of compounding angles. An ultrasound imaging system can be used to acquire images using the determined scan parameters.