WO2014112242A1 - Ultrasonic diagnostic device - Google Patents

Abstract

Provided is an ultrasonic diagnostic device the operational convenience of which can be improved by identifying movement of a probe and executing a command that is associated with the movement of the probe. This ultrasonic diagnostic device comprises a probe which sends and receives ultrasonic waves to and from a subject, an identification part which identifies the movement of the probe, and a control part which executes a command that is associated with the movement of the probe.

Description

Ultrasonic diagnostic equipment

The present invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, and more particularly to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that executes a command associated with the movement of a probe.

A conventional ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus transmits an ultrasonic wave into a subject using a probe, receives an ultrasonic reflected echo signal corresponding to the structure of a living tissue from the inside of the subject, and obtains an ultrasonic image (for example, a tomographic image). Image) (for example, Patent Document 1).

Special table 2006-527055 gazette

In an echo test using a conventional ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, the examiner grasps the probe and screens the region of interest of the subject using the probe to confirm that there is no abnormality in the region of interest. . At that time, the device operation desired by the examiner, such as ON / OFF of the freeze of the ultrasonic image, gain adjustment, and transition to the color Doppler mode, is performed by an operation unit (button, The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is instructed via a rotary knob and a lever. Patent Document 1 discloses that an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is controlled by a button provided on a probe.

However, when the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is controlled by a button provided on the probe, there is a problem that the probe is shaken during button operation.

The present invention provides an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that executes a command associated with the movement of a probe.

The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention executes a probe that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves to and from a subject, a motion identification unit that identifies the movement of the probe, and a command associated with the movement of the probe. And a control unit.

According to this configuration, the convenience of operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus can be enhanced by identifying the movement of the probe and executing the command associated with the movement of the probe.

The present invention provides an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that executes a command associated with the movement of a probe.

1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to a first embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows an example of the motion identification part of 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of operation | movement of the command analysis part of 1st Embodiment. It is the figure which showed an example of the menu button displayed on an image display part. It is the figure which showed the command corresponding to the various motion of the probe in three-dimensional space. It is the figure which showed the case where a command is performed when it changes from a contact state to a non-contact state, or when it changes from a non-contact state to a contact state. It is a flowchart which shows that the freeze command which freezes an ultrasonic image after going into execution mode is performed. It is the block diagram which showed an example of the motion identification part which identifies the stationary of a probe using correlation coefficient frame data. It is the figure which showed that an ultrasonic image when a probe is still with respect to a subject is frozen. It is a block diagram which shows an example of the ultrasonic diagnosing device of other embodiment. It is the figure which showed that the sensor was mounted | worn with the probe.

(First embodiment)
Hereinafter, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 repeatedly transmits ultrasonic waves to a subject 10 through the probe 12 at predetermined time intervals, and a probe 12 that is used in contact with the subject 10. The transmission unit 14 that receives the ultrasonic wave reflected from the subject 10 as a reflected echo signal, the ultrasonic transmission / reception control unit 17 that controls the transmission unit 14 and the reception unit 16, and the reception unit 16. And a phasing addition unit 18 for phasing and adding the reflected echoes.

In addition, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 includes a tomographic image configuration unit 20 that configures a grayscale tomographic image (for example, a black and white tomographic image) of the subject 10 based on the RF signal frame data from the phasing addition unit 18, and a tomographic image configuration. And a scan converter (for example, a black and white scan converter) 22 that converts the output signal of the unit 20 to match the display of the image display unit 32.

Further, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 stores the RF signal frame data output from the phasing addition unit 18 and searches based on the RF signal frame data selection unit 28 for selecting at least two pieces of frame data based on the frame data. A motion calculation unit 29 that calculates the movement of the tactile element 12, a command unit 30 including a motion identification unit 33 and a device control unit (control unit) 34, a tomographic image generated by the scan converter 22, and a device control unit 34 An image configuration unit 31 that configures a control state image representing a control state of the controlled ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 and an image display unit 32 that displays a display configuration image configured by the image configuration unit 31 are provided.

The command unit 30 includes a motion identification unit 33 that identifies the movement of the probe 12 from the motion data of the probe 12 calculated by the motion calculation unit 29, and a device operation command signal identified by the motion identification unit 33. And an apparatus control unit (control unit) 34 for controlling the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus based on the above.

The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 also includes an operation unit 35 having an operation console for an examiner to control the apparatus, a cine memory unit 36 for temporarily storing moving image data, and data for storing data such as image data. A storage unit 37.

The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 will be described in detail. The probe (ultrasonic probe) 12 is formed by arranging a plurality of transducers, and has a function of transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves to and from the subject 10 via the transducers.

The transmission unit 14 has a function of generating a transmission pulse for generating an ultrasonic wave by driving the probe 12 and setting a convergence point of the transmitted ultrasonic wave to a predetermined depth. . The receiving unit 16 has a function of amplifying a reflected echo signal based on the ultrasonic wave received by the probe 12 with a predetermined gain to generate an RF signal (that is, a received signal). The phasing / adding unit 18 has a function of inputting the RF signal amplified by the receiving unit 16 to control the phase, and forming an ultrasonic beam at one or more convergence points to generate RF signal frame data. is doing.

The tomographic image construction unit 20 has a function of receiving the RF signal frame data from the phasing addition unit 18 and performing signal processing such as gain correction, log compression, detection, contour enhancement, and filter processing to obtain tomographic image data. Have. The scan converter 22 also includes an A / D converter that converts tomographic image data from the tomographic image construction unit 20 into a digital signal, a frame memory that stores a plurality of tomographic image data converted into digital signals in time series, and Including a controller.

The scan converter 22 has a function of acquiring tomographic frame data (frame data of tomographic images) in the subject 10 stored in the frame memory as one image and reading the acquired tomographic frame data in synchronization with the television. .

The RF signal frame data selection unit 28 stores a plurality of RF signal frame data from the phasing addition unit 18, and sets one set (that is, two) of RF signal frame data from the stored plurality of RF signal frame data. select. For example, the RF signal frame data selection unit 28 sequentially stores the RF signal frame data generated in time series from the phasing addition unit 18 (that is, based on the frame rate of the image), and arbitrary RF signal frame data ( N) is selected as the first RF signal frame data, and a plurality of RF signal frame data (N-1, N-2, N-3,..., NM) ) To select one RF signal frame data (X). N, M, and X are index numbers given to the RF signal frame data, and are natural numbers.

The motion calculation unit 29 detects the motion of the probe 12. The motion calculation unit 29 performs one-dimensional or two-dimensional correlation processing on the selected set of RF signal frame data (N) and RF signal frame data (X) to obtain each point of the tomographic image (ultrasound image). The motion frame data of the one-dimensional or two-dimensional displacement distribution relating to the displacement or displacement vector (that is, the direction and magnitude of the displacement) of the living tissue corresponding to (each measurement point) is obtained. That is, if RF signal frame data obtained from the subject 10 is used, the probe 12 is opposed to the subject 10 based on a change in a tomographic image (ultrasonic image) due to the probe 12 moving on the surface of the subject 10. The movement of the moving probe 12 can be obtained. Here, the block matching method may be used for the calculation of the displacement vector. The block matching method divides an image into blocks of N × N pixels, for example, pays attention to the block in the region of interest, searches for the block closest to the block of interest from the previous frame, and pays attention to it. This is a technique for obtaining a displacement vector at each point (each measurement point) with reference to the block and the approximate block. The calculation of the displacement vector is not limited to the block matching method, and a general image tracking technique can be used. If it is a 2D array probe, it is possible to calculate a three-dimensional displacement and a displacement vector.

The operation unit 35 includes a keyboard having various keys, a trackball, and the like, and has a function of giving commands from these interfaces to the device control unit 34 to control the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1.

The image construction unit 31 has a function of constructing an image to be displayed on the image display unit 32 based on the tomographic image data from the scan converter 22 and the command from the apparatus control unit 34. The image display unit 32 has a function of displaying at least one of a tomographic image, an elasticity image, and a composite image.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the motion identification unit 33 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the motion identification unit 33 includes a frame memory 330 and a command analysis unit 331. The frame memory (storage unit) 330 has a function of storing the motion frame data calculated by the motion calculation unit 29, and stores an ultrasonic image. The command analysis unit 331 has a function of analyzing the motion frame data stored in the frame memory (storage unit) 330 and performing processing for identifying a device operation command. That is, the command analysis unit 331 (motion identification unit 33) has a function of identifying the movement of the probe 12 based on the ultrasonic image. Note that the ultrasonic image may be RF signal frame data.

The frame memory 330 has a function of storing motion frame data for 10 frames, for example. As shown in FIG. 2, “t (0)” represents the time of the currently acquired motion frame data, and “t (−1)”, “t (−2)”,. 10) "represents the time of motion frame data acquired from the current motion frame data one frame before, two frames before, ..., 10 frames before.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the instruction analysis unit 331 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the command analysis unit 331 (motion identification unit 33) identifies a command (device operation command) associated with the movement of the probe 12, and the device control unit (control unit) 34 An instruction associated with the movement of the toucher 12 is executed. For example, the apparatus control unit (control unit) 34 executes a switching instruction to color Doppler, a switching instruction to elastography, or the like as a method for switching to each image mode according to the control setting of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1. .

FIG. 3A is a diagram showing a case where a switching instruction (instruction A) to color Doppler associated with the movement of the probe 12 is executed. FIG. 3B is a diagram showing a case where a switching command (command B) to elastography associated with the movement of the probe 12 is executed.

As shown in FIG. 3A, when the probe 12 is tapped once, a switching instruction (command A) to the color Doppler associated with the movement of the probe 12 (tap once) is executed. . As shown in FIG. 3B, when the probe 12 is tapped twice, an instruction to switch to elastography (command B) associated with the movement of the probe 12 (tap twice) is executed. . The tap is identified by the motion identification unit 33 based on the displacement or displacement vector (or movement or movement vector) of the living tissue in the ultrasonic image (tomographic image or the like) when the probe 12 moves. In FIG. 3, sample waveforms (sample waveforms with time) S1 and S2 of a displacement that serve as a reference for identification are set in advance.

Next, the operation of the command unit 30 when an ultrasonic image (B-mode image) is captured in real time will be described with reference to FIG.

When the probe 12 is tapped once on the subject 10 and the subject 10 is pressed once, the temporal waveform W1 of the displacement of the one-tap is used as motion frame data for 10 frames. Stored in the frame memory 330. As the magnitude of the displacement at each time “t (0) to t (−10)”, the average value of the displacement at all the measurement points of the motion frame data may be used. An average value of the displacement of the measurement points in the ROI may be used.

Based on the motion frame data for 10 frames stored in the frame memory 330, the command analysis unit 331 calculates the correlation between the waveform of the displacement time waveform W1 and the preset sample waveforms S1, S2 as a correlation coefficient. Use to evaluate. For example, the instruction analysis unit 331 sets “0.9” as the threshold value of the correlation coefficient. The correlation coefficient between the displacement waveform W1 and the preset sample waveform S1 is “0.95”, and the correlation coefficient between the displacement waveform W1 and the preset sample waveform S2 is “0.45”. Consider the case.

Correlation coefficient (obtained displacement waveform W1 and sample waveform S1) = 0.95
Correlation coefficient (obtained displacement waveform W1 and sample waveform S2) = 0.45

Since the correlation coefficient between the displacement waveform W1 and the sample waveform S1 exceeds the threshold value “0.9”, the command analysis unit 331 identifies the switching command to the color Doppler (command A), and the device control unit 34 Command A. The apparatus control unit 34 executes a switching instruction to color Doppler assigned to the instruction A.

When the probe 12 is tapped twice with respect to the subject 10 and the subject 10 is pressed twice, the temporal waveform W2 of the displacement of the two taps is used as motion frame data for 10 frames. Stored in the frame memory 330.

Based on the motion frame data for 10 frames stored in the frame memory 330, the command analysis unit 331 calculates the correlation between the waveform of the displacement waveform W2 and the sample waveforms S1 and S2 set in advance as a correlation coefficient. Use to evaluate. For example, the instruction analysis unit 331 sets “0.9” as the threshold value of the correlation coefficient. The correlation coefficient between the displacement waveform W2 and the preset sample waveform S1 is “0.45”, and the correlation coefficient between the displacement waveform W2 and the preset sample waveform S2 is “0.95”. Consider the case.

Correlation coefficient (obtained displacement waveform W2 and sample waveform S1) = 0.45
Correlation coefficient (obtained displacement waveform W2 and sample waveform S2) = 0.95

Since the correlation coefficient between the displacement waveform W2 and the sample waveform S2 exceeds the threshold value “0.9”, the command analysis unit 331 identifies the command to switch to elastography (command B), and the device control unit 34 Command B is output to The apparatus control unit 34 executes a command to switch to elastography assigned to the command B.

In order to increase the identification accuracy of the command analysis unit 331, for example, the command analysis unit 331 converts the displacement waveforms W1 and W2 into normalized waveforms based on the magnitude of the amplitude, and the displacement after the standardization Similarity (correlation) between the time-lapse waveforms W1, W2 and the sample waveforms S1, S2 may be evaluated. As described above, the identification accuracy of the instruction analysis unit 331 can be improved by using a recognition technique based on general signal processing.

In the above description, the identification method using the displacement information (displacement and displacement vector) of the living tissue corresponding to each point of the ultrasound image has been described. Identification can also be made using velocity information and acceleration information of biological tissue corresponding to each point or strain information of the tissue of interest. Further, the instruction analysis unit 331 can also identify using vector information obtained by adding direction information to each information. Further, based on the rotation operation of the probe 12, the information can be identified using information on the rotation angle, rotation speed, or rotation acceleration of the probe 12. In addition, the instruction analysis unit 331 can realize the same function using not only frame data but also line data, packet data, and the like.

In this way, the command unit 30 identifies the instantaneous movement of the probe 12, and commands associated with the movement of the probe 12 (for example, a switch command to color Doppler, a switch command to color Doppler, By executing a still image storage command and a print command, it is possible to execute a predetermined command.

The motion identification unit 33 is based on at least one of the position, movement trajectory, movement distance, speed, acceleration, rotation, vibration (including amplitude and frequency), direction, displacement, and posture of the probe 12 in the three-dimensional space. Thus, the movement of the probe 12 may be identified. For example, elastography is acquired when the probe 12 repeatedly compresses the target tissue for a predetermined time within a range of amplitude “0.5 to 1.0 mm” and frequency “1 to 2 Hz”. . Therefore, the motion identification unit 33 (command analysis unit 331) analyzes the temporal waveform of the displacement caused by the compression operation of the probe 12 by FFT to obtain the amplitude and frequency (movement of the probe 12), and the probe 12 Elastography acquisition command by identifying that the target tissue is repeatedly compressed within a range of amplitude “0.5 to 1.0 mm” and frequency “1 to 2 Hz” for a predetermined time (compression operation) (Command C) may be identified and the command C may be output to the device control unit 34. In this case, the apparatus control unit 34 executes an elastography acquisition command assigned to the command C. That is, the motion identification unit 33 identifies the compression operation of the probe 12 against the subject 10, and the device control unit (control unit) 34 determines that the movement identification unit 33 identifies the compression operation of the probe 12. Then, the instruction C for generating the elastic image is executed.

Similarly to the above, when the motion identification unit 33 (command analysis unit 331) identifies the compression operation of elastography, the command to switch to elastography (command B) is identified, and the command B is sent to the device control unit 34. May be output. In this case, the apparatus control unit 34 executes an instruction to switch to elastography assigned to the instruction B, and controls the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 so as to transition from a tomographic image (B mode image) to an elastography mode. Is possible.

(Second Embodiment)
Hereinafter, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Unless otherwise specified, other configurations are the same as those of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. In the present embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the motion identification unit 33 identifies the movement of the probe 12, and the device control unit (control unit) 34 has a command associated with the movement of the probe 12. Execute.

In the present embodiment, the movement identification unit 33 identifies the movement of the probe 12, and the device control unit (control unit) 34 follows an instruction associated with the movement of the probe 12 to obtain an ultrasonic image (tomographic image). Execute a freeze command to freeze the image). The apparatus control unit (control unit) 34 outputs a display command to display the frozen ultrasonic image after executing a freeze command to freeze the ultrasonic image (tomographic image or the like), and outputs a display command. Execute other instructions associated with the movement of the probe.

For example, the command analysis unit 331 (motion identification unit 33) identifies a freeze command (command D) of an ultrasonic image (tomographic image or the like) and outputs the command D to the device control unit 34. In this case, the apparatus control unit (control unit) 34 executes a freeze command (command D) for freezing an ultrasound image (such as a tomographic image) when the probe 12 is stationary with respect to the subject 10. . The device control unit (control unit) 34 executes the freeze command assigned to the command D.

When the freeze command is executed, the apparatus control unit 34 outputs a display command (command E) for displaying the frozen ultrasound image to the image construction unit 31, and the frozen ultrasound image is displayed on the image display unit 32. Display. After executing the command E, the device control unit 34 outputs a menu display command (command F) for displaying a menu to the image construction unit 31 and causes the image display unit 32 to display a menu button. Then, the command analysis unit 331 (motion identification unit 33) identifies a cursor movement command (command G) and a menu selection command (command H), which are other commands associated with the movement of the probe 12, respectively. The control unit 34 executes the instruction G and the instruction H. The device control unit (control unit) 34 executes a cursor movement command and a menu selection command assigned to the command G and the command H, respectively, moves the cursor, and selects a predetermined menu from the menu button.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of menu buttons displayed on the image display unit. As shown in FIG. 4, when the apparatus control unit (control unit) 34 executes a freeze command, a frozen ultrasonic image (B mode image) 40 is displayed on the image display unit 32. The device control unit 34 outputs a menu display command (command F) to the image construction unit 31, and the menu button 41 is displayed on the image display unit 32. When the probe 12 moves on the surface of the subject 10, the command analysis unit 331 (motion identification unit 33) causes a cursor movement command (command G), which is another command associated with the movement of the probe 12. And outputs a command G to the apparatus control unit 34. The apparatus control unit 34 executes a cursor movement command assigned to the command G, and moves the cursor 42 to a predetermined menu in accordance with the movement of the probe 12. When the probe 12 is tapped on the subject 10 once, the command analysis unit 331 (motion identification unit 33) causes the menu selection command (command H), which is another command associated with the movement of the probe 12. And outputs a command H to the apparatus control unit 34. The device control unit 34 executes a menu selection command assigned to the command H, and a predetermined menu is selected from the menu buttons (still image recording, moving image recording, printing, body mark setting, gain adjustment, and freeze release). The

As described above, when the RF signal frame data obtained from the subject 10 is used, the subject 10 is subjected to the change in the tomographic image (ultrasonic image) due to the probe 12 moving on the surface of the subject 10. The movement of the probe 12 that moves relative to each other can be obtained.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing commands corresponding to various movements of the probe 12 in the three-dimensional space. As shown in FIG. 5, the movement identification unit 33 identifies the vertical and horizontal directions and the rotational movement of the probe 12 as the movement of the probe 12, and the device control unit (control unit) 34 Various instructions associated with the movement of the probe 12 are executed. For example, as shown in FIG. 5A, as commands corresponding to the vertical movement of the probe 12, there are a button pressing / release command, a vertical movement command between buttons, a cursor movement command, and the like. . Further, as shown in FIG. 5B, as a command corresponding to the horizontal movement of the probe 12, a body corresponding to a trackball operation in addition to a horizontal movement command between buttons and a cursor movement command. There are a mark setting command, a moving image storage range setting command, a cine image selection command, a ROI movement command, and a ROI enlargement / reduction command. Further, as shown in FIG. 5C, as commands corresponding to the rotational movement of the probe 12, there are a gain adjustment command and a display depth adjustment command corresponding to the rotary operation of the rotary button.

By the movement of the probe 12, for example, the cursor 42 shown in FIG. 4 can be moved on the screen, and a desired button can be selected and pressed, and the pressed button is set. The command is output to the device control unit 34, and the device control unit 34 can execute the command to control a preset device. The selected button may be turned on or off on the screen to recognize that it has been selected or released. In addition, even if the button on the screen is turned on or off in accordance with a command input via the operation unit 35 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1, it can be recognized that the button has been selected or released. Good.

The motion identification unit 33 identifies the movement of the probe 12 when the probe 12 is in contact with the subject 10, and the apparatus control unit (control unit) 34 detects that the probe 12 is When in contact with the specimen 10, a command associated with the movement of the probe 12 may be executed. If the probe 12 is in contact with the subject 10, a tomographic image (ultrasonic wave) generated when the probe 12 moves on the surface of the subject 10 by using RF signal frame data obtained from the subject 10. The movement of the probe 12 that moves relative to the subject 10 can be obtained based on the change in the image.

The motion identification unit 33 identifies the contact state and non-contact state of the probe 12 with respect to the subject 10, and the device control unit (control unit) 34 changes when the contact state changes to the non-contact state or non-contact state The command may be executed when the state changes to the contact state.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a case where an instruction is executed when the contact state changes to the non-contact state or when the contact state changes to the contact state. As shown in FIG. 6, the motion identification unit 33 changes from a state in which the probe 12 is in contact with the subject 10 (contact state) to a state in which the probe 12 is away from the subject 10 (non-contact state). Recognizing this, the device control unit (control unit) 34 can also execute a command assigned to the operation. For example, when the motion identification unit 33 identifies a non-contact state, a freeze command (command D) for freezing an ultrasonic image (such as a tomographic image) is output, and the device control unit (control unit) 34 responds to the command D. The assigned freeze instruction may be executed. By analyzing the RF signal frame data, a contact state and a non-contact state can be identified.

Further, based on a physical quantity related to the energy of the movement of the probe 12, the movement identifying unit 33 recognizes the movement (vibration) of the probe 12, and the device control unit (control unit) 34 moves the movement (vibration) of the probe 12. It is also possible to execute the instruction associated with. For example, in the displacement time-lapse waveforms W1 and W2 shown in FIG. 3, the square sum of the amplitude of the displacement within a predetermined time is obtained as a physical quantity related to the energy of the vertical movement (vibration) of the probe 12.

(Physical quantity related to energy) = Σ (amplitude of displacement) ²

In the case of FIG. 3 (a), the sum of squares of the amplitudes of the displacements “t (−1) to t (−10)” within the predetermined time of the displacement waveform W1 is as follows.

Σ (amplitude of displacement) ² = 0 ² +1 ² +0 ² + (− 1) ² +0 ² +0 ² +0 ² +0 ² +0 ² +0 ² = 2

When the physical quantity related to energy exceeds a set threshold, the motion identification unit 33 outputs a freeze command (command D) for freezing the ultrasonic image (tomographic image or the like), and the device control unit (control unit) 34 The freeze instruction assigned to D may be executed. Thereby, the movement identifying unit 33 identifies the physical quantity related to the energy that is instantaneously given to the probe 12, whereby the identification time of the command analyzing unit 331 can be shortened, and the identification accuracy of the command analyzing unit 331 is increased. be able to.

In the present embodiment, the motion identification unit 33 identifies that the probe 12 is stationary with respect to the subject 10 for a predetermined time, and the device control unit (control unit) 34 When the stationary state of the probe 12 is identified, an execution mode for executing a freeze command for freezing an ultrasonic image (a tomographic image or the like) is entered, and after entering the execution mode, the movement is associated with the movement of the probe 12. According to the command, a freeze command for freezing the ultrasound image may be executed. That is, the apparatus control unit (control unit) 34 may have a function of setting a condition for executing (receiving) a command (freeze command).

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing that a freeze command for freezing an ultrasound image is executed after entering the execution mode. As shown in FIG. 7, when the movement identification unit 33 monitors the movement of the probe 12 and identifies that the movement of the probe 12 is stationary, the device control unit (control unit) 34 detects the movement. A freeze command based on the movement of the touch element 12 is executed (accepted).

First, in step S100, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 starts screening a B-mode image (ultrasound image). In step S101, the movement identification unit 33 identifies whether the movement of the probe 12 is stationary. Whether or not the probe 12 is stationary may be identified by using the correlation coefficient frame data.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the motion identification unit 33 that identifies the stationary state of the probe 12 using the correlation coefficient frame data. Here, a case will be described in which the motion calculation unit 29 calculates the displacement of each measurement point in a two-dimensional plane by using a one-dimensional array probe or the like.

The motion identification unit 33 includes a motion monitoring unit 332. The motion monitoring unit 332 identifies the stationary state of the probe 12 using the correlation coefficient frame data. When the probe 12 is stationary in the minor axis direction, each measurement point in the subject 10 measured based on a set of RF signal frame data acquired at that time is within the two-dimensional plane being observed. Therefore, the correlation coefficient obtained by the displacement calculation of each measurement point is a value close to “1”. On the other hand, when the probe 12 is not stationary in the minor axis direction, each measurement point in the subject 10 measured based on a set of RF signal frame data acquired at that time is a two-dimensional observation. Since it does not stay in the plane (out of plane), the correlation coefficient obtained by the displacement calculation of each measurement point is a value close to “0”.

The motion monitoring unit 332 receives the correlation coefficient frame data, identifies that the probe 12 is stationary when the correlation coefficient of one set of RF signal frame data is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, If the correlation coefficient of the set of RF signal frame data is less than a predetermined threshold, it is identified that the probe 12 is not stationary. That is, the motion monitoring unit 332 determines whether the probe 12 is stationary in the minor axis direction based on a correlation coefficient (similarity between frames) obtained from a set of RF signal frame data obtained at an arbitrary time. Can identify whether it is moving.

The motion monitoring unit 332 identifies the stationary state of the probe 12 using the correlation coefficient obtained by the displacement calculation of each measurement point, but between the one set of tomographic frame data obtained from one set of RF signal frame data. The stationary state of the probe 12 may be identified by the similarity (for example, by the correlation coefficient by the correlation calculation). In addition, the motion monitoring unit 332 performs a probe based on a difference in tomographic data values (such as luminance values) between frames at a predetermined measurement point of a pair of temporally adjacent tomographic frame data instead of the correlation coefficient. The stationary state of the child 12 may be identified. In this case, the motion monitoring unit 332 identifies that the probe 12 is stationary when the difference at the predetermined measurement point is less than the predetermined threshold, and the difference at the predetermined measurement point is greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold. In some cases, it is identified that the probe 12 is not stationary. The difference at the predetermined measurement point may be an average value of the differences at all measurement points.

Thus, in step S101, the motion monitoring unit 332 identifies whether the motion of the probe 12 is stationary. When the motion monitoring unit 332 identifies the stationary state of the probe 12, in step S102, the command analysis unit 331 (motion identifying unit 33) identifies a command (device operation command) associated with the motion of the probe 12. Then, the device control unit (control unit) 34 executes a command associated with the movement of the probe 12. That is, the apparatus control unit (control unit) 34 enters an execution mode in which a freeze command (command D) for freezing the ultrasonic image is executed when the motion identification unit 33 identifies the stationary state of the probe 12. In other words, when the motion identification unit 33 does not enter the execution mode because it does not identify the stationary state of the probe 12, the device control unit (control unit) 34 does not execute the freeze command (command D). Thereby, it is possible to prevent the apparatus control unit (control unit) 34 from executing the freeze command (command D) due to the malfunction of the probe 12.

When the execution mode is entered, the image display unit 32 may display that it is in the execution mode. For example, the image display unit 32 may display “Ready” characters on the display screen. The image display unit 32 may perform other displays indicating the motion control acceptance state (execution mode). Also, the motion control acceptance state (execution mode) may be recognized by the examiner by sound or voice.

Steps S103 to S111 are the same as described above. In step S103, after entering the execution mode, the movement identification unit 33 identifies the movement of the probe 12, and the device control unit (control unit) 34 follows the command associated with the movement of the probe 12. A freeze command (command D) for freezing an ultrasonic image (such as a tomographic image) is executed. In step S104, the apparatus control unit (control unit) 34 executes a freeze command (command D) for freezing the ultrasonic image (tomographic image or the like), and then displays a display command (command E for displaying the frozen ultrasonic image). ) To display the frozen ultrasonic image on the image display unit 32.

In step S105, after executing the command E, the device control unit 34 outputs a menu display command (command F) for displaying a menu to the image construction unit 31 and causes the image display unit 32 to display a menu button.

In steps S106 to S111, the command analysis unit 331 (motion identification unit 33) issues a cursor movement command (command G) and a menu selection command (command H), which are other commands associated with the movement of the probe 12. The device control unit 34 executes the command G and the command H, respectively. If the apparatus control unit 34 executes a freeze release selection command (command H) in step S106, the freeze of the ultrasound image (tomographic image or the like) is released in step S107. In step S108, when the apparatus control unit 34 executes a still image storage selection command (command H), a still image of a frozen ultrasonic image (such as a tomographic image) is stored in step S109. If the apparatus control unit 34 executes a body mark setting selection command (command H) in step S110, a body mark is set in the frozen ultrasonic image (tomographic image or the like) in step S111.

As described above, the freeze command for freezing the ultrasonic image is executed after entering the execution mode. During the examination by the probe 12 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1, the examiner freezes an ultrasonic image (such as a tomographic image) when storing a still image or a moving image of the region of interest or printing the region of interest. In order to image the region of interest to be frozen with high image quality, the probe 12 is generally stationary. Therefore, since the freeze command is not generally executed while the probe 12 is moving, the probe command is not executed while the probe 12 is moving. It is possible to prevent the freeze command from being output due to the unexpected movement of the child 12.

Further, since the ultrasonic image of the region of interest with high image quality can be taken when the probe 12 is stationary, the freeze command is executed when the stationary state of the probe 12 is identified. The motion identifying unit 33 can identify the freeze command with higher accuracy and sensitivity for the motion of the probe 12 based on the high-quality ultrasonic image of the region of interest.

In addition, since the region of interest can be imaged with high image quality when the probe 12 is stationary, a freeze command is executed when the stationary state of the probe 12 is identified. 33 can acquire a high-quality freeze image based on the high-quality ultrasound image of the region of interest.

7, after entering the execution mode, the motion identification unit 33 identifies the movement of the probe 12 and outputs a freeze command (command D) to the device control unit 34. In this case, since the probe 12 is moving, when the apparatus control unit 34 freezes an ultrasonic image (such as a tomographic image) when a freeze command (command D) is input, a frozen image (frozen image) is blurred. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the apparatus control unit (control unit) 34 executes a freeze command for freezing the ultrasound image when the probe 12 is stationary with respect to the subject 10, and the freeze command is Instead of the ultrasonic image when it is input, the ultrasonic image when the probe 12 is stationary with respect to the subject 10 is frozen and displayed on the image display unit 32.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing that the ultrasonic image when the probe 12 is stationary with respect to the subject 10 is frozen. FIG. 9A is a diagram showing a waveform over time showing the displacement of the living tissue according to the movement of the probe 12. FIG. 9B is a diagram showing correlation coefficients of a pair of frames that are temporally adjacent (on the time axis).

As shown in FIG. 9A, screening of a B-mode image (ultrasound image) is started at time “t (−10)”. At time “t (−10) to t (−7)”, the probe 12 moves on the surface of the subject 10, and screening of the B-mode image (ultrasound image) is continued. At time “t (−7) to t (−3)”, the motion identification unit 33 identifies that the probe 12 is stationary with respect to the subject 10 for a predetermined time, and the device control unit (control Part) 34 enters the execution mode. After entering the execution mode, the movement identifying unit 33 identifies the movement (one tap) of the probe 12 at the time “t (−3) to t (0)”. At the current time “t (0)”, the device control unit (control unit) 34 executes the freeze command according to the command associated with the movement (one tap) of the probe 12.

As shown in FIG. 9B, at time “t (−10) to t (−7)”, since the probe 12 is moving on the surface of the subject 10, it is temporally (on the time axis). The correlation coefficient of a set of adjacent frames becomes small. At the time “t (−7) to t (−3)”, the probe 12 is stationary with respect to the subject 10 for a predetermined time. The correlation coefficient of the frame increases. At time “t (−3) to t (0)”, since there is a movement of the probe 12 (one tap), the correlation coefficient of a pair of frames adjacent in time (on the time axis) is Get smaller.

In the process “t (−10) to t (−7)” in which the section to be observed is continuously changed and screened, the displacement (depth direction) value is small, and the adjacent frames of the tomographic frame group The correlation coefficient of becomes smaller. In the process “t (−7) to t (−3)” in which the probe 12 stops and the cross section to be observed becomes constant, the displacement (depth direction) value remains small, but the correlation coefficient Becomes a value close to “1.0”. When the probe 12 is tapped once in the depth direction, in this process “t (−3) to t (0)”, a waveform having a large amplitude is formed in the displacement (depth direction). The number gets smaller.

Based on the motion frame data stored in the frame memory 330, the command analysis unit 331 uses the correlation coefficient of a pair of frames adjacent in time (on the time axis) to move the probe 12 ( Identify quiesce). For example, the instruction analysis unit 331 sets “0.9” as the threshold value of the correlation coefficient. When the correlation coefficient of the frame at time “t (−7) to t (−3)” is “0.95”, the correlation coefficient has exceeded the threshold value “0.9”. The stationary state of the probe 12 is identified, and the device control unit (control unit) 34 enters the execution mode. After entering the execution mode, the movement identifying unit 33 identifies the movement (one tap) of the probe 12 at the time “t (−3) to t (0)”. At the current time “t (0)”, the device control unit (control unit) 34 executes the freeze command according to the command associated with the movement (one tap) of the probe 12.

The apparatus control unit (control unit) 34 freezes the ultrasonic image when the probe 12 is stationary with respect to the subject 10 (time “t (−7) to t (−3)”). The image is displayed on the image display unit 32. In this case, the apparatus control unit (control unit) 34 may freeze the ultrasonic image of the tomographic frame at the latest time “t (−3)” exceeding the threshold “0.9”. In addition, the device control unit (control unit) 34 analyzes the waveform of the displacement of the movement of the probe 12 associated with the freeze command, and “t (−) at the start of the movement of the probe 12 after the execution mode. 3) ”or“ t (−4) ”immediately before the start may be selected, and the ultrasonic image of the selected tomographic frame may be frozen. In addition, the apparatus control unit (control unit) 34 selects a set of tomographic frames having the largest correlation coefficient from time “t (−7) to t (−3)”, and selects the selected tomographic frame. One of the tomographic frames may be frozen.

The monitoring ROI may be set according to the focus depth (corresponding to the depth of the region of interest), and the movement of the region of interest may be monitored. In this case, the highest quality image of the region of interest is acquired when the correlation coefficient is maximum.

As described above, not the ultrasonic image when the freeze command is input but the ultrasonic image when the probe 12 is stationary with respect to the subject 10 is frozen. The tomographic image provided by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 is generally subjected to a time-axis smoothing process. For this reason, the probe 12 is stopped at a predetermined cross section including the region of interest, and a plurality of images of the same cross section are superimposed on the time axis, whereby a high-quality still image is acquired. Therefore, when a freeze command is given according to the movement of the probe 12, if the freeze command is executed while the probe 12 is moving, it is based on a tomographic frame group according to the movement of the probe 12. Smoothing processing is performed, and the freeze image is blurred and becomes an image with poor image quality. Therefore, as described above, the tomographic frame group obtained in a state where the probe 12 is stationary is identified from the tomographic frame groups immediately before the time when the freeze command is identified, and is displayed as a freeze image.

In FIG. 7, after entering the execution mode, a freeze command for freezing the ultrasound image is executed according to a command associated with the movement of the probe 12 (one tap), but the apparatus control unit (control unit) 34 is an execution mode for executing a freeze command for freezing the ultrasonic image when the motion identification unit 33 identifies the stationary state of the probe 12, and freezes for freezing the ultrasonic image after entering the execution mode. The instructions may be executed automatically. In this case, when the stationary state of the probe 12 is identified for a predetermined time or longer, a freeze command is automatically executed. For example, when 1 second is set as the predetermined time, the freeze command is executed when the stationary state of the probe 12 is identified for 1 second or longer. The predetermined time can be arbitrarily set.

As mentioned above, although embodiment concerning this invention was described, this invention is not limited to these, It is possible to change and change within the range described in the claim.

The ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 includes an operation unit 35 that outputs a freeze command for freezing the ultrasound image, and the device control unit (control unit) 34 associates the frozen ultrasound image with the movement of the probe 12. Executed instructions may be executed. The operation unit 35 may include a console for the examiner to control the apparatus, and the ultrasonic image may be frozen by the operation of the operation unit 35. In this case, the menu button 41 in FIG. 4 may be displayed simultaneously with the freeze or after the freeze. Then, the command analysis unit 331 (motion identification unit 33) identifies a cursor movement command (command G) and a menu selection command (command H), which are other commands associated with the movement of the probe 12, respectively. The control unit 34 may execute the instruction G and the instruction H, respectively.

In the first embodiment, the probe 12 continuously compresses the target tissue for a predetermined time within the range of amplitude “0.5 to 1.0 mm” and frequency “1 to 2 Hz”. Thus, elastography is acquired. In this case, during elastography acquisition, the device control unit (control unit) 34 may execute a freeze command for freezing the elastography (ultrasound image) according to the command associated with the movement of the probe 12. . For example, when it is identified that the vertical movement of the probe 12 that is the compression operation has been switched to the rotational movement of the probe 12, the apparatus control unit (control unit) 34 performs an elastography freeze command. May be executed. In addition, when it is identified that the upward / downward movement of the probe 12 that is a compression operation is completed, the device control unit (control unit) 34 may execute an elastography freeze command.

As shown in FIG. 10, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 includes a sensor 50 that detects the position of the probe 12 in a three-dimensional space, and the motion identification unit 33 is based on detection by the sensor. Twelve movements may be identified. If the sensor 50 is used, even when the probe 12 is not in contact with the subject 10, the motion identifying unit 33 can identify the motion of the probe 12, and the RF signal frame data selecting unit 28 is unnecessary. It becomes. As shown in FIG. 11, the sensor 50 is attached to the probe 12 and includes a position sensor and an acceleration sensor (magnetic, infrared, etc.). With the acceleration sensor, the motion identification unit 33 identifies the fall of the probe 12 based on the detection by the acceleration sensor, and the device control unit (control unit) 34 Transmission of sound waves may be stopped.

In addition, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 includes an imaging device that detects the position of the probe 12 in a three-dimensional space, and the motion identification unit 33 identifies the movement of the probe 12 based on detection by the imaging device. May be. For example, the position and movement of the probe 12 can be recognized using an RGB camera.

Further, the device control unit (control unit) 34 may execute a sleep command (command I) for putting the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 in a sleep state in accordance with a command associated with the movement of the probe 12. For example, the motion identification unit 33 identifies that the probe 12 is stationary for a predetermined time with the probe 12 facing upward, and the device control unit (control unit) 34 indicates that the motion identification unit 33 is not connected to the probe 12. A sleep command (command I) may be executed to put the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 1 in the sleep state when the upward and stationary directions are identified. The motion identification unit 33 identifies a state in which the probe 12 faces downward, and the device control unit (control unit) 34 determines that the motion identification unit 33 identifies the downward direction of the probe 12 when the motion identification unit 33 identifies the downward direction. A sleep cancel command (command J) for canceling the sleep state of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 may be executed.

The device control unit (control unit) 34 executes the sleep command (command I) according to the command associated with the movement of the probe 12, thereby entering the sleep state when the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 is not used. Thus, power saving of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 can be achieved.

Further, when the probe 12 is tapped once with the head of the probe 12 facing upward, the device control unit 34 outputs a menu display command (command F) for displaying the menu 41 to the image configuration unit 31 to display the image. Menu buttons may be displayed on the unit 32. When the locus of the letter “G” is written by the probe 12, the device control unit 34 may execute a gain adjustment selection command (command H). From the position information of the probe 12 by the sensor 50, the positions of the image display unit 32 (monitor, etc.) and the operation unit 35 (operation console, etc.) may be automatically adjusted. For example, in measurement of the liver and heart, the examiner takes a posture that covers the subject 10 and performs measurement. Therefore, the apparatus control unit 34 estimates the position of the examiner's head from the positional information of the probe 12 so as to correspond to the posture of the examiner, and monitors the position according to the position of the examiner's head. It may have a function of moving the direction and height of a console or the like.

The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention can improve the convenience of operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus by identifying the movement of the probe and executing a command associated with the movement of the probe. In biopsy, puncture, intravenous injection, and arterial injection during probe operation, the examiner cannot close the hands and operate the buttons of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. Also, even when using echo during surgery, the examiner cannot touch the buttons of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. Furthermore, even in an orthopedic echo test, the subject (subject) takes various postures, so the examiner leaves the button of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and the examiner cannot touch the button. According to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus can be operated by the movement of the probe without operating the buttons of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, and the convenience of operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. Can be increased.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 Subject 12 Probe 14 Transmission part 16 Reception part 17 Ultrasonic transmission / reception control part 18 Phased addition part 20 Tomographic image structure part 22 Scan converter 28 RF signal frame data selection part 29 Motion calculation part 30 Instruction Unit 31 Image composition unit 32 Image display unit 33 Motion identification unit 34 Device control unit 35 Operation unit 36 Cine memory unit 37 Data storage unit 41 Menu button 42 Cursor 50 Sensor 330 Frame memory 331 Command analysis unit 332 Motion monitoring unit

Claims (16)

A probe that transmits and receives ultrasound to and from the subject;
A movement identification unit for identifying the movement of the probe;
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising: a control unit that executes a command associated with the movement of the probe. The movement identifying unit identifies movement of the probe when the probe is in contact with the subject;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit executes a command associated with a movement of the probe when the probe is in contact with the subject. . The movement identification unit identifies a contact state and a non-contact state of the probe with respect to the subject,
The ultrasonic wave according to claim 1, wherein the control unit executes the command when the contact state changes from the contact state to the non-contact state or when the control unit changes from the non-contact state to the contact state. Diagnostic device. The motion identification unit is configured to detect the probe based on at least one of the position, movement locus, movement distance, speed, acceleration, rotation, vibration, direction, displacement, and attitude of the probe in a three-dimensional space. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein movement is identified. A storage unit for storing ultrasonic images;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the movement identification unit identifies the movement of the probe based on the ultrasonic image. A sensor for detecting the position of the probe in a three-dimensional space;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the movement identification unit identifies movement of the probe based on detection by the sensor. Comprising an imaging device for detecting the position of the probe in a three-dimensional space;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the movement identification unit identifies the movement of the probe based on detection by the imaging apparatus. The ultrasound diagnosis according to claim 1, wherein the control unit executes a freeze command for freezing the ultrasound image in accordance with a command associated with the movement of the probe. apparatus. The movement identification unit identifies that the probe is stationary for a predetermined time with respect to the subject,
The control unit is in an execution mode for executing a freeze command to freeze an ultrasonic image when the motion identification unit identifies the stationary state of the probe,
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a freeze command for freezing an ultrasonic image is executed after the execution mode is set. 10. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the control unit executes a freeze command for freezing the ultrasonic image when the probe is stationary with respect to the subject. The controller is
After executing a freeze command to freeze the ultrasound image, output a display command to display the frozen ultrasound image;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 9, wherein another command associated with the movement of the probe is executed after outputting the display command. It has an operation unit that outputs a freeze command to freeze the ultrasound image,
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit executes a command associated with the movement of the probe with respect to the frozen ultrasonic image. . The movement identifying unit identifies a pressing operation of the probe against the subject,
The said control part performs the command which produces | generates an elastic image, when the said movement identification part identifies the compression operation of the said probe, The one of Claim 1 thru | or 7 characterized by the above-mentioned. Ultrasonic diagnostic equipment. The said control part performs the sleep command which makes the said ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus a sleep state according to the command linked | related with the movement of the said probe, The one of Claim 1 thru | or 7 characterized by the above-mentioned. Ultrasound diagnostic equipment. The movement identifying unit identifies that the probe is stationary for a predetermined time with the probe facing upward,
The said control part performs the said sleep command which makes the said ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus a sleep state, when the said motion identification part identifies the upward and stationary state of the said probe. Ultrasound diagnostic equipment. The movement identification unit identifies a state in which the probe is facing down,
The said control part performs the sleep cancellation | release command which cancels | releases the said sleep state of the said ultrasonic diagnosing device, when the said movement identification part identifies the downward direction of the said probe. Ultrasound diagnostic equipment.

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