Ultrasound Adaptive Scheduler for Real-Time Task Execution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasound systems have limited flexibility and cannot perform multiple simultaneous functions with adjustable timing, requiring sophisticated user control and fixed preprogrammed solutions that do not allow for reconfiguration of scheduled actions.
Innovation Solution
An adaptive scheduler is implemented in the ultrasound system to dynamically manage task lists, ensuring non-conflicting actions by prioritizing tasks and handling asynchronous events, allowing for real-time execution of multiple functions such as imaging and blood flow measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed preprogrammed solutions are used for multiple functions, then system reliability is improved, but system adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic scheduling system that allows real-time modification of task timing and configuration. The scheduler can dynamically adjust the timing of ultrasound beams and other tasks based on runtime conditions, transitioning from fixed preprogrammed solutions to flexible adaptive scheduling while maintaining system reliability through controlled modification of task parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables changing of scheduling parameters such as beam timing, task priorities, and configuration settings during operation. Users can modify task list parameters and timing characteristics without reprogramming the entire system, allowing adaptation to different clinical requirements while maintaining the structured reliability of scheduled operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple simultaneous functions are implemented, then system versatility is improved, but task scheduling complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the task scheduling into discrete, manageable task list entries with individual timing and priority parameters. Each function is segmented into independent tasks that can be scheduled, modified, and managed separately, reducing the overall scheduling complexity while supporting multiple simultaneous functions through structured task organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The adaptive scheduler acts as an intermediary layer between user requirements and hardware execution. It manages the complexity of coordinating multiple simultaneous functions by providing a centralized task management interface that handles timing conflicts, priority arbitration, and resource allocation, shielding users from the underlying scheduling complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If fixed timing schedules are used for ultrasound beams, then timing precision is improved, but system flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains precise timing control through dynamic adjustment capabilities. The adaptive scheduler can modify beam timing parameters in real-time based on clinical needs while preserving the precision of timing execution. This allows the system to transition from fixed timing schedules to flexible adaptive timing without sacrificing timing accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables modification of timing parameters such as beam delay, pulse repetition frequency, and task synchronization settings during operation. Users can adjust these timing parameters to optimize performance for different clinical applications while the system maintains precise timing control through the adaptive scheduling mechanism.
4Ease of operation
If preprogrammed combined functions are provided, then ease of operation is improved, but system adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides ease of operation through a user interface that allows simple modification of task configurations and timing parameters. The adaptive scheduler enables operators to adjust preprogrammed functions dynamically without requiring complex reprogramming, maintaining operational simplicity while enhancing adaptability to different clinical requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Users can modify parameters of preprogrammed combined functions such as beam timing, task priorities, and configuration settings through intuitive controls. This allows customization of standard functions to meet specific clinical needs while maintaining the ease of operation associated with preprogrammed solutions.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for real-time execution of ultrasound system actions includes processor and memory to store instructions. Execution of the instructions causes processor to receive a task list including task actions that include next task action in task list. Next task action includes task instructions. Processor determines whether next task instruction in next task action is a timed instruction that includes a timestamp field having a time value indicating a time at which next task action is to be executed, and a hardware-enable field indicating hardware elements required to be available before execution of timed instruction. If next task instruction is not a timed instruction, processor may execute next task instruction. If next task instruction is timed instruction, processor determines whether time value has expired. If time value has expired, processor signals an error has occurred, and if time value has not expired, processor waits for time value. Other embodiments are described.