Multi-Sensor Wireless Ultrasound Probe with Automatic Array Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ultrasonic diagnostic imaging systems are limited in their ability to provide comprehensive ultrasound technology at the point of care, particularly in emergency situations, where timely and effective communication among caregivers is crucial for patient outcomes.
Innovation Solution
A wireless ultrasound probe with multiple transducer arrays, including high and low frequency arrays, is designed to operate in different scanning modes, featuring a micro-beamformer and processor for simultaneous operation and automatic array selection, allowing for multi-faceted exams and seamless image data transmission to a display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple transducer arrays are integrated into a single probe, then the versatility and comprehensiveness of ultrasound imaging is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple transducer arrays (high-frequency linear array, low-frequency curved array, and sector array) into a single integrated probe housing. This merging allows the probe to perform multiple imaging functions and examine different anatomical regions without requiring separate probes, thereby improving versatility while managing complexity through unified design
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated probe is designed to perform multiple ultrasound imaging functions simultaneously - high-frequency imaging for superficial structures, low-frequency imaging for deeper organs, and sector imaging for cardiac applications. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace multiple specialized probes, enhancing adaptability across different clinical scenarios
2Adaptability or versatility
If high and low frequency transducer arrays are used, then the range of imaging depths and resolutions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe incorporates transducer arrays with different frequency characteristics optimized for specific imaging needs - high-frequency elements for superficial structures requiring fine detail, and low-frequency elements for deep organ imaging. Each array's frequency profile is locally optimized for its intended application, allowing the system to adapt to different imaging requirements without requiring separate specialized probes
3Productivity
If multiple transducer arrays operate simultaneously, then the efficiency and completeness of multi-faceted exams is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe enables continuous, uninterrupted imaging across multiple modalities by having all transducer arrays operational simultaneously. The system can switch between or combine high-frequency, low-frequency, and sector imaging modes without requiring physical probe changes or interruptions, maintaining continuous diagnostic workflow and improving exam efficiency
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 efficient and effective ultrasound imaging in various clinical settings, enhancing caregiver decision-making by providing high-quality images wherever care is needed, without the constraints of cables and with ergonomic design for comfortable use.
Implementation Method 1
a first transducer array and the second side includes a second transducer array. The first transducer array is a high frequency transducer array and the second transducer array is a low frequency transducer array
Implementation Method 2
The probe includes at least one micro-beamformer coupled to the first and second transducer arrays, wherein the at least one micro-beamformer includes a plurality of micro-beamformer channels which are configured to operate the first and second transducer arrays simultaneously
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
An ultrasound probe is provided for multi- faceted exams, such as for triage and emergency. The probe can include different transducer arrays, such as a linear, a curved linear, and a sector array that are combined into a single hand held unit with a wireless display. Related methods are provided, such as a method for automatically selecting the appropriate array for the user to scan with based on the intended exam and/or location of the probe on the body of a patient.