JP2015100663A - Ultrasonic probe and ultrasonic imaging device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ultrasonic probe having a structure that can receive ultrasonic waves with good quality even if application quantity of a medium is reduced.SOLUTION: An ultrasonic probe 2 comprises: a first ultrasonic element 15 and a second ultrasonic element 16 that transmit and receive ultrasonic waves; a rotatable sound adjusting part 12 that adjusts acoustic impedances of the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16; and a suction part 18 that changes a force for causing the first ultrasonic element 15, the second ultrasonic element 16, and the sound adjusting part 12 to press each other.

Description

  The present invention relates to an ultrasonic probe and an ultrasonic imaging apparatus.

  2. Description of the Related Art Ultrasonic measuring apparatuses that inject ultrasonic waves onto a subject and analyze the ultrasonic waves reflected inside the subject to inspect the inside of the subject are widely used. The ultrasonic measurement device transmits ultrasonic waves from an ultrasonic probe and receives reflected ultrasonic waves. An ultrasonic element that transmits ultrasonic waves and receives reflected waves is installed in the ultrasonic probe. The ultrasonic element transmits an ultrasonic wave to the subject via the acoustic adjustment unit and the medium and receives a reflected wave.

  An ultrasonic probe in which an acoustic adjustment unit rotates when the ultrasonic probe is moved along a subject is disclosed in Patent Document 1. According to this, the acoustic adjustment section is cylindrical, and an ultrasonic element is installed inside the acoustic adjustment section. A liquid medium such as glycerin or oil is applied to the surface of the acoustic adjustment unit. This medium adjusts the acoustic impedance between the acoustic adjustment unit and the subject.

  Since the acoustic adjustment unit hardly rubs against the subject by the rotation of the acoustic adjustment unit, it is possible to suppress the abrasion of the acoustic adjustment unit. Furthermore, since the medium enters between the acoustic adjustment unit and the subject when the acoustic adjustment unit rotates, the amount of the medium applied to the subject can be reduced. When the subject is a human body, the subject feels uncomfortable when a large amount of medium is applied. The acoustic adjustment unit in Patent Document 1 can reduce the amount of the medium applied to the subject, thereby reducing the unpleasant feeling experienced by the subject.

JP-A-6-102261

  When the acoustic adjustment unit rotates like the ultrasonic probe of Patent Document 1, the surface of the acoustic adjustment unit and the ultrasonic element move relatively. At this time, air bubbles easily enter between the acoustic adjustment unit and the ultrasonic element. When a bubble enters between the acoustic adjustment unit and the ultrasonic element, the ultrasonic wave is reflected by the bubble and the traveling direction changes. Further, the traveling direction of the reflected wave reflected by the subject is also changed by the bubble. Therefore, since the ultrasonic wave received by the ultrasonic element is reduced, the inspection becomes unstable. Therefore, there has been a demand for an ultrasonic probe having a structure capable of receiving ultrasonic waves with high quality even if the amount of medium applied is reduced.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and can be realized as the following forms or application examples.

[Application Example 1]
An ultrasonic probe according to this application example, an ultrasonic element that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves, a rotatable acoustic adjustment unit that adjusts an acoustic impedance of the ultrasonic element, the ultrasonic element, and the ultrasonic element And a pressing unit that changes a force for pressing the acoustic adjustment unit with each other.

  According to this application example, the ultrasonic probe includes an ultrasonic element and an acoustic adjustment unit. The ultrasonic element emits ultrasonic waves toward the acoustic adjustment unit. The ultrasonic wave passes through the acoustic adjustment unit and is emitted to the subject. The acoustic adjustment unit is rotatable, and when the operator moves the ultrasonic probe along the subject, the acoustic adjustment unit can be rotated and moved, so that the ultrasonic probe can be moved smoothly.

  And a press part changes the force which presses an ultrasonic element and an acoustic adjustment part mutually. When the ultrasonic element does not transmit and receive ultrasonic waves, the pressing unit reduces the force applied between the ultrasonic element and the acoustic adjustment unit. Thereby, since the friction which acts between an ultrasonic element and an acoustic adjustment part reduces, an acoustic adjustment part becomes easy to rotate, and it can make it easy for an operator to move an ultrasonic probe. A medium that propagates ultrasonic waves is interposed between the acoustic adjustment unit and the subject. Since the acoustic adjustment unit rotates when the ultrasonic probe is moved, a medium located on the surface of the acoustic adjustment unit is supplied between the subject and the acoustic adjustment unit. Therefore, ultrasonic waves can be propagated with a small amount of medium.

  When the ultrasonic element performs transmission and reception of ultrasonic waves, the pressing unit presses the ultrasonic element and the acoustic adjustment unit together. Thereby, the acoustic adjustment unit is in close contact with the ultrasonic element, and the acoustic adjustment unit is fixed to the ultrasonic element. Therefore, since it is difficult for air bubbles to intervene between the ultrasonic element and the acoustic adjustment unit, the ultrasonic probe emits ultrasonic waves transmitted from the ultrasonic element with high quality to the subject via the acoustic adjustment unit and the medium, The ultrasonic wave reflected by the subject can be propagated to the ultrasonic element with high quality. As a result, the ultrasonic probe can transmit ultrasonic waves with high quality and receive reflected waves.

[Application Example 2]
In the ultrasonic probe according to the application example, the pressing unit includes a suction unit that sucks the acoustic adjustment unit and presses the acoustic adjustment unit against the ultrasonic element.

  According to this application example, the pressing unit includes the suction unit. When the acoustic adjustment unit is pressed by the ultrasonic element, the suction unit sucks the acoustic adjustment unit. Thereby, the pressing unit can surely press the acoustic adjustment unit against the ultrasonic element.

[Application Example 3]
The ultrasonic probe according to the application example includes a supply unit that supplies a liquid medium that propagates ultrasonic waves to the surface of the acoustic adjustment unit.

  According to this application example, the supply unit supplies the medium to the surface of the acoustic adjustment unit. Thereby, a medium can be reliably arrange | positioned on the surface of an acoustic adjustment part.

[Application Example 4]
An ultrasonic probe according to this application example, an ultrasonic element that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves, a rotatable acoustic adjustment unit that adjusts an acoustic impedance of the ultrasonic element, and an ultrasonic transducer A supply unit that supplies a liquid medium that propagates sound waves and incorporates the ultrasonic element, and a pressing unit that changes a force that presses the supply unit and the acoustic adjustment unit are provided.

  According to this application example, the ultrasonic probe includes an ultrasonic element, a supply unit, and an acoustic adjustment unit, and the ultrasonic element is built in the supply unit. The ultrasonic element emits ultrasonic waves from the supply unit toward the acoustic adjustment unit. The ultrasonic wave passes through the acoustic adjustment unit and is emitted to the subject. The supply unit supplies a medium to the surface of the acoustic adjustment unit. The acoustic adjustment unit is rotatable, and when the operator moves the ultrasonic probe along the subject, the acoustic adjustment unit can be rotated and moved, so that the ultrasonic probe can be moved smoothly.

  And a press part changes the force which presses a supply part and an acoustic adjustment part mutually. When the ultrasonic element does not transmit or receive ultrasonic waves, the pressing unit reduces the force applied between the supply unit and the acoustic adjustment unit. As a result, the acoustic adjustment unit can be easily rotated, so that the operator can easily move the ultrasonic probe. A medium that propagates ultrasonic waves is interposed between the acoustic adjustment unit and the subject. Since the acoustic adjustment unit rotates when the ultrasonic probe is moved, a medium located on the surface of the acoustic adjustment unit is supplied between the subject and the acoustic adjustment unit. Therefore, ultrasonic waves can be propagated with a small amount of medium.

  When the ultrasonic element performs transmission and reception of ultrasonic waves, the pressing unit presses the supply unit and the acoustic adjustment unit together. Thereby, the acoustic adjustment unit is in close contact with the supply unit, and the acoustic adjustment unit is fixed to the supply unit. The acoustic adjustment unit is installed in contact with the supply unit. This makes it difficult for air bubbles to intervene between the supply unit and the acoustic adjustment unit. Therefore, the ultrasonic probe can emit the ultrasonic wave transmitted from the ultrasonic element with high quality to the subject through the medium from the supply unit, and can propagate the reflected wave reflected by the subject to the ultrasonic element with high quality. . As a result, the ultrasonic probe can transmit ultrasonic waves with high quality and receive reflected waves.

[Application Example 5]
In the ultrasonic probe according to the application example described above, a groove portion that holds the medium is provided on a surface of the acoustic adjustment portion.

  According to this application example, the groove is provided on the surface of the acoustic adjustment unit. In the groove part, capillary action is likely to occur and surface tension is likely to act, so that the acoustic adjustment part can hold the medium. Therefore, when the acoustic adjustment unit rolls in contact with the subject, a medium can be interposed between the acoustic adjustment unit and the subject.

[Application Example 6]
In the ultrasonic probe according to the application example, the acoustic adjustment unit is porous.

  According to this application example, the acoustic adjustment unit is porous. Many holes provided in the acoustic adjustment unit are likely to soak into the medium due to capillary action. And since a medium oozes from many holes, the acoustic adjustment part can supply a medium. Therefore, when the acoustic adjustment unit rolls in contact with the subject, a medium can be interposed between the acoustic adjustment unit and the subject.

[Application Example 7]
The ultrasonic probe according to the application example includes a medium temperature adjusting unit that adjusts the temperature of the medium.

  According to this application example, the ultrasonic probe includes the medium temperature adjustment unit, and the medium temperature adjustment unit adjusts the temperature of the medium. The medium temperature adjustment unit can bring the temperature of the medium close to the surface temperature of the subject. Therefore, even when the subject is a human body, the stimulation received by the human body due to the temperature of the medium can be reduced.

[Application Example 8]
An ultrasound imaging apparatus according to this application example, an ultrasound probe that transmits and receives ultrasound, and an analysis unit that analyzes the ultrasound received by the ultrasound probe and outputs a cross-sectional image of a subject And a display unit for displaying the cross-sectional image, wherein the ultrasonic probe is an ultrasonic element that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves, and a rotatable acoustic adjustment that adjusts an acoustic impedance of the ultrasonic element. And a pressing unit that changes a force for pressing the ultrasonic element and the acoustic adjustment unit with each other.

  According to this application example, in the ultrasonic imaging apparatus, the ultrasonic probe transmits and receives ultrasonic waves. The analysis unit analyzes the ultrasound and outputs cross-sectional image data of the subject. And a display part inputs data and displays a cross-sectional image. The ultrasonic probe includes an ultrasonic element and an acoustic adjustment unit. The ultrasonic element emits ultrasonic waves toward the acoustic adjustment unit. The ultrasonic wave passes through the acoustic adjustment unit and is emitted to the subject. The acoustic adjustment unit is rotatable, and when the operator moves the ultrasonic probe along the subject, the acoustic adjustment unit can be rotated and moved, so that the ultrasonic probe can be moved smoothly.

  A medium that propagates ultrasonic waves is interposed between the acoustic adjustment unit and the subject. Since the acoustic adjustment unit rotates when the ultrasonic probe is moved, a medium located on the surface of the acoustic adjustment unit is supplied between the subject and the acoustic adjustment unit. Therefore, ultrasonic waves can be propagated with a small amount of medium.

  When the ultrasonic element performs transmission and reception of ultrasonic waves, the pressing unit presses the ultrasonic element and the acoustic adjustment unit together. Thereby, the acoustic adjustment unit is in close contact with the ultrasonic element, and the acoustic adjustment unit is fixed to the ultrasonic element. Therefore, since it is difficult for air bubbles to intervene between the ultrasonic element and the acoustic adjustment unit, the ultrasonic probe emits ultrasonic waves transmitted from the ultrasonic element with high quality to the subject via the acoustic adjustment unit and the medium, and The reflected wave reflected by the specimen can be propagated to the ultrasonic element with high quality. As a result, the ultrasonic probe can transmit ultrasonic waves with high quality and receive reflected waves.

1 is a schematic perspective view showing a configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to a first embodiment. The schematic perspective view which shows the structure of an ultrasonic probe. (A) And (b) is a schematic side view which shows the structure of an acoustic adjustment part, (c) is a schematic cross section which shows the structure of an acoustic adjustment part. FIG. 3 is a schematic side sectional view showing the structure of an ultrasonic probe. The schematic diagram for demonstrating operation | movement of an acoustic adjustment part. The schematic diagram for demonstrating operation | movement of an acoustic adjustment part. The flowchart which shows the procedure which operates an ultrasonic probe and acquires ultrasonic data. FIG. 5 is a schematic side cross-sectional view for explaining the structure and operation of an ultrasonic probe according to a second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a schematic side cross-sectional view for explaining the structure and operation of an ultrasonic probe according to a third embodiment.

In this embodiment, a characteristic example of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus as an ultrasonic imaging apparatus and an ultrasonic probe used in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus will be described with reference to the drawings. Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, each member in each drawing is illustrated with a different scale for each member in order to make the size recognizable on each drawing.
(First embodiment)
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. As shown in FIG. 1, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 as an ultrasonic imaging apparatus includes an ultrasonic probe 2 and an analysis unit 3, and the ultrasonic probe 2 and the analysis unit 3 are electrically connected by a cord 4. Yes. The analysis unit 3 controls the ultrasonic probe 2. Further, the analysis unit 3 analyzes the ultrasonic wave received by the ultrasonic probe 2 and outputs a cross-sectional image of the subject.

  The ultrasonic probe 2 includes an ultrasonic oscillation element that transmits ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic probe 2 is disposed in contact with the object to be measured 5 as a subject, and ultrasonic waves are transmitted from the ultrasonic probe 2 toward the object to be measured 5. Then, the ultrasonic probe 2 receives the reflected wave reflected inside the DUT 5. The ultrasonic probe 2 includes a sensor element that detects ultrasonic waves inside, and the sensor element detects ultrasonic waves. The types of the ultrasonic oscillation element and the sensor element are not particularly limited, but a piezoelectric element such as a PZT (lead zirconate titanate) element or a PDVF (polyvinylidene fluoride) element can be used. In this embodiment, a PZT element that is one of piezoelectric elements is used. The sensor element can be the same element as the ultrasonic oscillation element, and the ultrasonic oscillation element may also serve as the sensor element. The object to be measured 5 is not particularly limited as long as it can propagate ultrasonic waves. In the present embodiment, a human body is applied to the object to be measured 5.

  The analysis unit 3 controls the operation of the ultrasonic probe 2. Further, the analysis unit 3 analyzes the signal that has received the ultrasonic wave, and forms cross-sectional image data of the DUT 5. The analysis unit 3 includes a storage unit, such as company information of the ultrasonic probe 2, type information of the ultrasonic probe 2, usage time information, failure element information, element pitch information, aperture information, channel number information, and the like. Various information is stored. The analysis unit 3 uses these pieces of information to form cross-sectional image data. A wireless LAN router 7 (Local Area Network) is installed in the analysis unit 3 via a code 6. Then, the analysis unit 3 outputs various data such as the formed cross-sectional image to the wireless LAN router 7. The wireless LAN router 7 is electrically connected to the terminal 9 via a LAN cable 8. The terminal 9 communicates with the analysis unit 3 via the wireless LAN router 7.

  The wireless LAN router 7 includes an antenna 7a, and the terminal 9 also includes an antenna 9a. Some of the terminals 9 communicate with the wireless LAN router 7 using radio waves as a medium. The terminal 9 communicates with the analysis unit 3 via the wireless LAN router 7. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 includes a plurality of terminals 9, and the plurality of terminals 9 can receive data from the analysis unit 3 via the wireless LAN router 7.

  Each terminal 9 includes an input unit 9b and a display unit 9c. The display unit 9c displays a cross-sectional image and character information of the measurement object 5 output from the analysis unit 3. The operator confirms the image and character information displayed on the display unit 9c. Next, the operator can operate the input unit 9b to input characters or operate marks such as icons that can be moved on the image.

  The type of the display unit 9c is not particularly limited, and a liquid crystal display device, a plasma display device, an organic light emitting diode, or the like can be used. The input unit 9b is not particularly limited, and a keyboard, a mouse pad, a touch panel, or the like can be used.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing the structure of the ultrasonic probe. As shown in FIG. 2, the ultrasonic probe 2 includes a cylindrical gripping portion 10, and a cord 4 is connected to the end of the gripping portion 10. When the operator grips the ultrasonic probe 2, the grip portion 10 is a portion that is gripped by the operator. The direction in which the grip portion 10 extends is defined as the Z direction. The cord 4 is installed in the Z direction of the grip portion 10. Two directions orthogonal to the Z direction are defined as an X direction and a Y direction.

  A support portion 11 is installed on the −Z direction side of the grip portion 10. The support part 11 has a prismatic horizontal beam part 11a extending in the Y direction, and one end of the grip part 10 is connected to the center of the horizontal beam part 11a. A first vertical beam 11b is installed at the end in the −Y direction of the horizontal beam portion 11a, and a second vertical beam 11c is installed at the end in the Y direction of the horizontal beam portion 11a. The first vertical beam 11b and the second vertical beam 11c are arranged in parallel. A shaft hole 11d is provided on the −Z direction side of the first vertical beam 11b and the second vertical beam 11c.

  An acoustic adjustment unit 12 is installed between the first vertical beam 11b and the second vertical beam 11c. The acoustic adjustment unit 12 has a cylindrical shape that is long in the Y direction. When viewed from the Y direction, a shaft 13 extending in the Y direction is provided at the center of the acoustic adjustment unit 12. The shaft portion 13 is inserted into the shaft hole 11d of the first vertical beam 11b and the second vertical beam 11c. With this structure, the acoustic adjustment unit 12 can rotate about the shaft portion 13 as a rotation axis.

  A supply unit 14 for supplying a medium to the surface of the acoustic adjustment unit 12 is installed between the horizontal beam portion 11 a and the acoustic adjustment unit 12. This medium adjusts the acoustic impedance between the DUT 5 and the acoustic adjustment unit 12. The medium is a liquid that efficiently propagates ultrasonic waves without reflecting them. Water, glycerin, oil, gel or the like is used as the medium. In the present embodiment, for example, water is used as the medium.

  A first ultrasonic element 15 as an ultrasonic element is installed on the X direction side of the supply unit 14, and a second ultrasonic element 16 as an ultrasonic element is installed on the −X direction side of the supply unit 14. . The first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16 are fixed to the supply unit 14 by a support unit 17. The first ultrasonic element 15 emits ultrasonic waves toward the object to be measured 5 and corresponds to the above-described ultrasonic oscillation element. The second ultrasonic element 16 receives the ultrasonic wave reflected inside the DUT 5 and corresponds to the sensor element described above.

  An acoustic adjustment unit 12 is disposed between the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16 and the DUT 5. The acoustic adjustment unit 12 has a function of adjusting the acoustic impedance in order to make it difficult for the ultrasonic wave transmitted from the first ultrasonic element 15 to be reflected from the surface of the object to be measured 5. Further, the acoustic adjustment unit 12 has a function of adjusting the acoustic impedance so that the reflected wave reflected by the object to be measured 5 is not easily reflected by the surface of the second ultrasonic element 16.

  A suction unit 18 is installed between the supply unit 14 and the first vertical beam 11b, and a suction unit 18 is installed between the supply unit 14 and the second vertical beam 11c. The suction part 18 is located between the cross beam part 11a and the acoustic adjustment part 12 in the Z direction. The suction unit 18 sucks the acoustic adjustment unit 12 and moves the acoustic adjustment unit 12 toward the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16. Then, the suction unit 18 makes it difficult for the acoustic adjustment unit 12 to rotate.

  3A and 3B are schematic side views showing the structure of the acoustic adjustment unit. FIG. 3A is a schematic side view seen from the X direction, and FIG. 3B is a schematic side view seen from the Y direction. FIG.3 (c) is a schematic cross section which shows the structure of an acoustic adjustment part, and is sectional drawing which follows the AA line of Fig.3 (a). As shown in FIG. 3, a disk-like support plate 21 is installed on the Y direction side and the −Y direction side of the acoustic adjustment unit 12, and a shaft portion 13 is installed at the center of the support plate 21. A column portion 22 is installed between the pair of support plates 21.

  The cylindrical portion 22 is formed of a porous resin. For example, the cylindrical part 22 is formed by heating in a state where spherical particles are put in a mold and pressurized. In addition, the cylindrical portion 22 may be formed by heating and compressing a fibrous resin to form a sponge. Also at this time, the cylindrical portion 22 becomes porous. The inside of the cylindrical portion 22 is impregnated with a medium. The medium is easy to penetrate into many holes provided in the cylindrical portion 22 by capillary action. Since the medium is blotted from many holes, the cylindrical portion 22 can hold and supply the medium. Therefore, when the cylindrical portion 22 rolls in contact with the object 5 to be measured, a medium can be interposed between the cylindrical portion 22 and the object 5 to be measured.

  A plurality of groove portions 22 a are provided on the surface of the cylindrical portion 22. The pattern of the groove portion 22a is not particularly limited. In the present embodiment, for example, the groove portions 22a extending linearly in the axial direction are provided at equal intervals. Furthermore, the groove part 22a arrange | positioned in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical part 22 is arrange | positioned at equal intervals in the Y direction. By disposing the groove portions 22a in the two intersecting directions, the medium can be spread over the entire surface of the cylindrical portion 22 in the axial direction and the circumferential direction. The pattern of the groove 22a may be arranged in a spiral shape or may be arranged randomly. Since the capillarity and the surface tension easily act on the medium in the groove 22a, the cylindrical part 22 can hold the medium. Therefore, when the cylindrical portion 22 rolls in contact with the object 5 to be measured, a medium can be interposed between the cylindrical portion 22 and the object 5 to be measured.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic side sectional view showing the structure of the ultrasonic probe. As shown in FIG. 4, a control circuit 23, a motor 24, and a pump 25 are built in the grip portion 10. The control circuit 23 is connected to the cord 4 and receives a signal from the analysis unit 3. The control circuit 23 controls the motor 24, the first ultrasonic element 15, and the second ultrasonic element 16. The motor 24 is connected to the pump 25 and drives the pump 25. The pump 25 is a device that creates negative pressure by flowing air. An intake pipe 26 is installed inside the horizontal beam portion 11 a and the suction portion 18, and the intake pipe 26 is connected to the pump 25. The intake pipe 26 is installed up to a place facing the side surface of the support plate 21. When the motor 24 is driven, the pump 25 reduces the air pressure in the intake pipe 26. Thereby, the suction unit 18 can suck and suck the support plate 21.

  The shaft holes 11 d of the first vertical beam 11 b and the second vertical beam 11 c are long holes whose length in the Z direction is longer than the diameter of the shaft portion 13. Therefore, the shaft portion 13 can move in the Z direction in the shaft hole 11d. Inside the first vertical beam 11b and the second vertical beam 11c, a hole 27 that is connected to the shaft hole 11d and extends in the Z direction is installed. In the hole 27, a spring 28 and a movable piece 29 are installed. The movable piece 29 is movable in the Z direction along the hole 27, and the spring 28 biases the movable piece 29 toward the shaft portion 13. Thereby, the shaft portion 13 is pressed in the −Z direction. The intake pipe 26 and the hole 27 are connected by a pipe 26a.

  A medium 30 is stored in the supply unit 14, and the supply unit 14 has an opening 14 a on the side facing the cylindrical part 22. The medium 30 is supplied to the surface of the cylindrical portion 22 through the opening 14a. Gravity acts on the medium 30 and flows toward the cylindrical portion 22.

  FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the acoustic adjustment unit. FIG. 5A shows a state where the pump 25 is not operating, and FIG. 5B shows a state where the pump 25 is operating. As shown in FIG. 5A, when the pump 25 is not operating, the spring 28 and the movable piece 29 press the shaft portion 13 in the −Z direction, so that the support plate 21 is separated from the suction portion 18. Then, the operator can rotate the shaft portion 13 without resistance with respect to the support portion 11. As shown in FIG. 5B, when the pump 25 is operating, the inside of the hole 27 becomes negative pressure, and the movable piece 29 is sucked and raised. And since gravity acts on the support part 11 and it falls, the support part 11 and the axial part 13 approach. As a result, the suction unit 18 approaches the support plate 21. The suction unit 18 sucks the support plate 21 and sucks the acoustic adjustment unit 12 toward the suction unit 18 side. At this time, the suction portion 18 may be configured to adsorb the support plate 21.

  FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the acoustic adjustment unit. FIG. 6A shows a state where the pump 25 is not operating, and FIG. 6B shows a state where the pump 25 is operating. As shown in FIG. 6A, when the pump 25 is not operating, the cylindrical portion 22 is separated from the first ultrasonic element 15, the second ultrasonic element 16, and the supply portion 14. Since the acoustic adjustment unit 12 is only supported by the support unit 11 at the shaft unit 13, the operator can easily roll the acoustic adjustment unit 12 on the object to be measured 5.

  The opening 14a of the supply unit 14 has a narrow width in the X direction, and the interval between the opening 14a and the cylindrical portion 22 is also narrow. Accordingly, capillary action and surface tension act on the medium 30 between the opening 14 a and the cylindrical portion 22. For this reason, the medium 30 flows from the supply unit 14 to the surface of the cylindrical unit 22 at a low flow rate. Then, the medium 30 penetrates into the cylindrical portion 22 and into the groove portion 22a. Since the cylindrical portion 22 is in contact with the DUT 5, the medium 30 flows between the cylindrical portion 22 and the DUT 5. When viewed from the Y direction, the cylindrical portion 22 has an arc shape, and the surface of the DUT 5 is linear. The angle formed between the cylindrical portion 22 and the measured object 5 is an acute angle, and capillary action and surface tension act on the medium 30 located between the cylindrical portion 22 and the measured object 5. Thereby, even if the acoustic adjustment unit 12 moves on the object 5 to be measured, the medium 30 moves together with the cylindrical portion 22. Therefore, the medium 30 is always accumulated between the cylindrical portion 22 and the DUT 5. Therefore, the medium 30 can be interposed between the DUT 5 and the acoustic adjustment unit 12 even with a small amount of the medium 30.

  A heater 31 and a temperature sensor 32 are installed inside the supply unit 14. The heater 31 only needs to be able to heat the medium 30 by electricity, and a nichrome wire or a ceramic heater can be used. In addition, heating and cooling may be performed using a Peltier element. The type of the temperature sensor 32 is not particularly limited, and for example, a thermocouple, a resistance temperature detector, a sensor utilizing the temperature characteristics of the piezoelectric element, or the like can be used. The temperature sensor 32 detects the temperature of the medium 30 and outputs it to the control circuit 23. Then, the control circuit 23 controls the heater 31 so that the temperature of the medium 30 falls within a predetermined range. The control circuit 23, the heater 31, the temperature sensor 32, and the like constitute a medium temperature adjustment unit. As a result, the medium temperature adjustment unit can adjust the temperature of the medium 30 to approach the surface temperature of the DUT 5. Therefore, even when the DUT 5 is a human body, the stimulation due to the temperature of the medium 30 can be reduced.

  As shown in FIG. 6B, when the pump 25 is operating, the suction unit 18 sucks the support plate 21 of the acoustic adjustment unit 12. Thereby, the cross beam part 11a of the support part 11 and the acoustic adjustment part 12 approach. The cylindrical portion 22 is pressed by the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16, and the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16 are in close contact with the cylindrical portion 22. That is, the suction unit 18 sucks the support plate 21 of the acoustic adjustment unit 12, thereby pressing the cylindrical portion 22 of the acoustic adjustment unit 12, the first ultrasonic element 15, and the second ultrasonic element 16 together.

  The control circuit 23 controls the rotation of the motor 24 and controls the negative pressure that the pump 25 forms in the suction unit 18. And the control circuit 23 changes the force which presses the cylindrical part 22, the 1st ultrasonic element 15, and the 2nd ultrasonic element 16 mutually. A pressing portion 33 is constituted by the control circuit 23, the motor 24, the pump 25, the suction portion 18, and the like. That is, the pressing portion 33 changes the force that presses the cylindrical portion 22 and the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16 from 0 to a predetermined load.

  A medium 30 is accumulated inside and on the surface of the cylindrical portion 22. The cylindrical portion 22 and the first ultrasonic element 15 are pressed with the medium 30 interposed therebetween. Thereby, since it becomes difficult for air bubbles to enter between the cylindrical portion 22 and the first ultrasonic element 15, the ultrasonic wave 34 can be allowed to travel without being reflected between the cylindrical portion 22 and the first ultrasonic element 15. it can. The structure between the cylindrical portion 22 and the second ultrasonic element 16 is similar to the structure between the cylindrical portion 22 and the first ultrasonic element 15. Thereby, since it becomes difficult for air bubbles to enter between the cylindrical portion 22 and the second ultrasonic element 16, the ultrasonic wave 34 can be allowed to proceed without being reflected between the cylindrical portion 22 and the second ultrasonic element 16. it can.

  A medium 30 is accumulated inside and on the surface of the cylindrical portion 22. The medium 30 also accumulates between the cylindrical portion 22 and the DUT 5. Thereby, since it becomes difficult for a bubble to enter between the cylindrical part 22 and the to-be-measured object 5, between the cylindrical part 22 and the to-be-measured object 5, the ultrasonic wave 34 can be advanced without reflecting.

  When the suction unit 18 sucks the support plate 21, the acoustic adjustment unit 12 is difficult to rotate due to friction. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the bubbles from entering between the cylindrical portion 22 and the first ultrasonic element 15 with the rotation. Similarly, bubbles can be prevented from entering between the cylindrical portion 22 and the second ultrasonic element 16. Furthermore, bubbles can be prevented from entering between the cylindrical portion 22 and the DUT 5.

  The ultrasonic wave 34 transmitted from the first ultrasonic element 15 passes through the cylindrical portion 22 of the acoustic adjustment unit 12 and is transmitted into the object to be measured 5. A part of the ultrasonic wave 34 that has reached the inside of the DUT 5 is reflected at the interface of the tissue. The reflected ultrasonic wave 34 is emitted from the object to be measured 5 to the second ultrasonic element 16 through the cylindrical part 22 of the acoustic adjustment unit 12. The second ultrasonic element 16 receives the reflected wave of the ultrasonic wave 34. Since the medium 30 is accumulated in the place where the ultrasonic wave 34 passes and it is difficult for bubbles to enter, reflection by the air layer is less likely to occur. Therefore, the ultrasonic probe 2 can receive and transmit the ultrasonic wave 34 with high quality.

  When the pump 25 is operating, the opening 14 a may be separated from the cylindrical portion 22. The medium 30 can be supplied to the cylindrical portion 22 during the search using the ultrasonic wave 34. Note that when the medium 30 is sufficiently supplied to the cylindrical portion 22 because the fluidity of the medium 30 is high, the opening 14 a may be in close contact with the cylindrical portion 22.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure for operating the ultrasonic probe to acquire ultrasonic data. Next, a procedure for operating the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIG. Step S1 corresponds to a medium heating step. The operator instructs to start measurement by operating the input unit 9b. The analysis unit 3 inputs an instruction signal for starting measurement, and outputs an instruction signal for measurement preparation to the control circuit 23.

  The supply unit 14 is provided with a heater 31 and a temperature sensor 32 and filled with a medium 30. The control circuit 23 inputs the output of the temperature sensor 32 and measures the temperature of the medium 30. Next, the control circuit 23 compares the temperature of the medium 30 with the determination value. When the temperature of the medium 30 is lower than the determination value, the control circuit 23 drives the heater 31 to increase the temperature of the medium 30. When the temperature of the medium 30 reaches the determination value, the control circuit 23 transmits a signal indicating that the temperature of the medium 30 has reached an appropriate temperature to the analysis unit 3. This moderate temperature is a temperature at which the human body feels comfortable when the human body touches the medium 30 when the DUT 5 is a human body. Specifically, it is set with reference to the surface temperature of the part to be measured. The analysis unit 3 transmits a message signal indicating that preparation for ultrasonic measurement is completed to the terminal 9 via the wireless LAN router 7. The terminal 9 receives the message signal and displays a message on the display unit 9c indicating that preparation for measurement is completed. Even while the medium 30 is heated, the medium 30 flows from the supply unit 14 to the acoustic adjustment unit 12. Then, the heat of the medium 30 of the supply unit 14 is transferred to the medium 30 of the acoustic adjustment unit 12. Next, the process proceeds to step S2.

  Step S2 corresponds to a medium application process. In this step, the operator grips the grip portion 10 of the ultrasonic probe 2 and rolls the acoustic adjustment portion 12 on the object to be measured 5. Since the opening 14 a of the supply unit 14 and the cylindrical portion 22 of the acoustic adjustment unit 12 are separated from each other, the medium 30 is supplied from the supply unit 14 to the cylindrical portion 22. The medium 30 is applied to the surface of the cylindrical portion 22 by the operator rolling the acoustic adjustment portion 12. Then, the medium 30 penetrates into the groove portion 22 a and the inside of the cylindrical portion 22. Furthermore, the medium 30 also accumulates between the cylindrical portion 22 and the DUT 5. When the medium 30 reaches the cylindrical portion 22, the operator moves to a place where the ultrasonic probe 2 is measured. Then, the input unit 9b is operated to input that the application of the medium 30 to the cylindrical unit 22 is completed. Next, the process proceeds to step S3.

  Step S3 corresponds to a suction start process. In this step, the control circuit 23 drives the motor 24 to cause the suction unit 18 to suck the acoustic adjustment unit 12. Thereby, the acoustic adjustment unit 12, the first ultrasonic element 15, and the second ultrasonic element 16 are pressed against each other. And the acoustic adjustment part 12 becomes difficult to rotate. A medium 30 is interposed between the acoustic adjustment unit 12 and the first ultrasonic element 15 and between the acoustic adjustment unit 12 and the second ultrasonic element 16, so that bubbles are difficult to enter. Next, the process proceeds to step S4.

  Step S4 corresponds to an ultrasonic search process. In this step, the control circuit 23 drives the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16. The first ultrasonic element 15 transmits an ultrasonic wave 34. The ultrasonic wave 34 is transmitted toward the object to be measured 5 through the acoustic adjustment unit 12. The ultrasonic wave 34 travels inside the object to be measured 5 and is partially reflected to become a reflected wave. The reflected wave travels inside the object to be measured 5 and enters the sound adjustment unit 12. Further, the reflected wave passes through the acoustic adjustment unit 12 and is received by the second ultrasonic element 16. The second ultrasonic element 16 converts the reflected wave into an electric signal and transmits it to the control circuit 23.

  The control circuit 23 converts the electric signal of the reflected wave into digital data and transmits it to the analysis unit 3. The analysis unit 3 includes a storage unit. The analysis unit 3 inputs digital data and stores it in the storage unit. Next, the process proceeds to step S5.

  Step S5 corresponds to a suction release process. In this step, the control circuit 23 stops driving the motor 24 and cancels the suction of the acoustic adjustment unit 12 by the suction unit 18. As a result, the acoustic adjustment unit 12 moves away from the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16. And the acoustic adjustment part 12 becomes easy to rotate. Next, the process proceeds to step S6.

  Step S6 corresponds to a moving process. In this step, the operator moves the ultrasonic probe 2 on the object to be measured 5 to the next measurement position. At this time, the medium 30 is supplied from the supply unit 14 to the cylindrical portion 22 of the acoustic adjustment unit 12. Next, the process proceeds to step S7.

  Step S7 corresponds to an end determination step. In this step, it is determined whether the operator has measured all the range to be measured. When the measurement is to be completed because all the ranges to be measured have been measured, the operator inputs an instruction signal to the terminal 9 by operating the input unit 9b. When continuing without finishing the measurement, the operator operates the input unit 9b to input an instruction signal to continue to the terminal 9. When continuing without finishing the measurement, the process proceeds to step S3. When the measurement is finished, the process proceeds to step S8.

  Step S8 corresponds to an image analysis process. In this step, the analysis unit 3 calculates a tomographic image using the reflected wave digital data accumulated in the storage unit. When the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16 are element arrays and output digital data of a planar image in one search, the analysis unit 3 uses a plurality of planar image data to measure the object to be measured. 5 three-dimensional images can be formed. The analysis unit 3 calculates and forms various other images and stores them in the storage unit.

  Step S9 corresponds to an image display process. In this step, the image calculated by the analysis unit 3 is displayed on the display unit 9c. The operator operates the input unit 9b to select an image to be displayed. The analysis unit 3 transmits the selected image data from the storage unit to the terminal 9. The terminal 9 receives the image data and displays it on the display unit 9c. The procedure for operating the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 is completed through the above steps.

As described above, this embodiment has the following effects.
(1) According to this embodiment, the acoustic adjustment unit 12 is rotatable, and when the operator moves the ultrasonic probe 2 along the object to be measured 5, the acoustic adjustment unit 12 can be rotated and moved. The ultrasonic probe 2 can be moved smoothly.

  (2) According to this embodiment, the control circuit 23 changes the force that presses the acoustic adjustment unit 12, the first ultrasonic element 15, and the second ultrasonic element 16 together. When the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16 do not transmit and receive the ultrasonic wave 34, the control circuit 23 performs the acoustic adjustment unit 12, the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16, and Reduce the force applied between the two. Thereby, since the acoustic adjustment unit 12 is easily rotated, the operator can easily move the ultrasonic probe 2.

  (3) According to the present embodiment, the medium 30 that propagates the ultrasonic wave 34 is interposed between the acoustic adjustment unit 12 and the DUT 5. Since the acoustic adjustment unit 12 rotates when the ultrasonic probe 2 is moved, the medium 30 positioned on the surface of the acoustic adjustment unit 12 is supplied to the gap between the DUT 5 and the acoustic adjustment unit 12. Therefore, the ultrasonic wave 34 can be propagated with a small amount of the medium 30.

  (4) According to the present embodiment, when the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16 perform transmission and reception of the ultrasonic wave 34, the suction unit 18 is connected to the acoustic adjustment unit 12 and the first ultrasonic element. 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16 are pressed against each other. Thereby, the acoustic adjustment unit 12 is in close contact with the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16, and the acoustic adjustment unit 12 is fixed to the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16. Accordingly, since no bubbles intervene between the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16 and the acoustic adjustment unit 12, the ultrasonic probe 2 acoustically adjusts the ultrasonic wave 34 transmitted from the first ultrasonic element 15. The ultrasonic wave 34 that is emitted to the measurement object 5 through the unit 12 and the medium 30 with high quality and reflected by the measurement object 5 can be propagated to the second ultrasonic element 16 with high quality. As a result, the ultrasonic probe 2 can transmit and receive the ultrasonic wave 34 with high quality.

  (5) According to the present embodiment, the pressing portion 33 includes the suction portion 18. When the acoustic adjustment unit 12 is pressed by the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16, the suction unit 18 sucks the acoustic adjustment unit 12. Accordingly, the pressing unit 33 can surely press the acoustic adjustment unit 12 against the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16.

  (6) According to the present embodiment, the supply unit 14 supplies the medium 30 to the surface of the acoustic adjustment unit 12. Thereby, the medium 30 can be reliably arranged on the surface of the acoustic adjustment unit 12.

  (7) According to the present embodiment, the groove 22 a is installed on the surface of the acoustic adjustment unit 12. Since the capillarity and the surface tension easily act on the groove 22a, the acoustic adjustment unit 12 can hold the medium 30. Therefore, when the acoustic adjustment unit 12 rolls in contact with the device under test 5, the medium 30 can be interposed between the sound adjustment unit 12 and the device under measurement 5.

  (8) According to the present embodiment, the acoustic adjustment unit 12 is formed of a porous material. Since the medium 30 is likely to penetrate into many holes provided in the acoustic adjustment unit 12, the acoustic adjustment unit 12 can hold the medium 30. Since the medium 30 oozes from many holes, the acoustic adjustment unit 12 can supply the medium 30. Therefore, the medium 30 can be interposed between the acoustic adjustment unit 12 and the DUT 5 when the acoustic adjustment unit 12 rolls in contact with the DUT 5.

  (9) According to the present embodiment, the ultrasonic probe 2 includes the medium temperature adjustment unit including the heater 31, the temperature sensor 32, and the control circuit 23, and the medium temperature adjustment unit adjusts the temperature of the medium. Then, the medium temperature adjustment unit can bring the temperature of the medium close to the surface temperature of the DUT 5. Therefore, even when the DUT 5 is a human body, the stimulation due to the temperature of the medium 30 can be reduced.

  (10) According to the present embodiment, the ultrasonic probe 2 includes the first ultrasonic element 15 and the second ultrasonic element 16. The ultrasonic probe 2 includes an element that transmits the ultrasonic wave 34 and an element that receives the ultrasonic wave 34, so that a shallow place of the DUT 5 can be searched.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, an embodiment of the ultrasonic probe will be described with reference to schematic side sectional views for explaining the structure and operation of the ultrasonic probe in FIG. FIG. 8A shows a state where the pump 25 is not operating, and FIG. 8B shows a state where the pump 25 is operating. This embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that one ultrasonic element performs transmission and reception. Note that description of the same points as in the first embodiment is omitted.

  That is, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8A, in the ultrasonic probe 36, the supply unit 37 is installed on the −Z direction side of the cross beam portion 11 a of the support unit 11, and the −Z direction side of the supply unit 37. The acoustic adjustment unit 12 is arranged in the. The supply unit 37 has a cylindrical shape extending in the Y direction and having polygonal cross sections in the X direction and the Z direction, and has an arc shape with a concave surface facing the acoustic adjustment unit 12. The supply unit 37 has a heater 31 and a temperature sensor 32 installed therein. Two openings 37 a are provided on the surface of the supply unit 37 facing the acoustic adjustment unit 12. The medium 30 is accommodated in the supply unit 37, and the medium 30 is supplied to the cylindrical unit 22 through the opening 37a.

  A third ultrasonic element 38 as an ultrasonic element is installed between the cross beam portion 11 a and the shaft portion 13 on the surface of the supply unit 37 facing the acoustic adjustment unit 12. The third ultrasonic element 38 transmits and receives the ultrasonic wave 34 with one element. When the motor 24 is not driven, the cylindrical portion 22 is separated from the supply portion 37 and the third ultrasonic element 38, and a gap is formed. The medium 30 flows into this gap by capillary action. When the operator rolls the acoustic adjustment unit 12 along the object to be measured 5, the operator can easily roll the acoustic adjustment unit 12.

  As shown in FIG. 8B, the ultrasonic probe 36 includes a pressing portion 33. When the motor 24 is driven, the acoustic adjustment unit 12 is sucked by the suction unit 18. The cylindrical portion 22 and the third ultrasonic element 38 are pressed against and in contact with each other. A medium 30 is accumulated on the surface of the cylindrical portion 22. The cylindrical portion 22 and the third ultrasonic element 38 are pressed with the medium 30 interposed therebetween. Thereby, since it becomes difficult for bubbles to enter between the cylindrical portion 22 and the third ultrasonic element 38, the ultrasonic wave 34 can be allowed to proceed without being reflected between the cylindrical portion 22 and the third ultrasonic element 38. it can. When the suction unit 18 sucks the support plate 21, the acoustic adjustment unit 12 becomes difficult to rotate due to friction. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the bubbles from entering between the cylindrical portion 22 and the third ultrasonic element 38 with the rotation.

  The third ultrasonic element 38 transmits an ultrasonic wave 34. The transmitted ultrasonic wave 34 passes through the medium 30 and enters the cylindrical portion 22. Next, the ultrasonic wave 34 passes through the medium 30 from the cylindrical portion 22 and enters the object to be measured 5. Then, the ultrasonic wave 34 is transmitted to the inside of the measurement object 5. A part of the ultrasonic wave 34 that has reached the inside of the DUT 5 is reflected at the interface of the tissue. The reflected ultrasonic wave 34 is emitted from the object to be measured 5 to the third ultrasonic element 38 through the cylindrical part 22 of the acoustic adjustment unit 12. The third ultrasonic element 38 receives the reflected wave of the ultrasonic wave 34. Since the medium 30 is accumulated in the place where the ultrasonic wave 34 passes and it is difficult for bubbles to enter, reflection by the air layer is less likely to occur. Therefore, the ultrasonic probe 36 can receive and transmit the ultrasonic wave 34 with high quality.

  While the suction unit 18 is sucking the acoustic adjustment unit 12, the third ultrasonic element 38 performs transmission to reception of the ultrasonic wave 34. Accordingly, since there are few elements that cause noise in the reception and transmission of the ultrasonic wave 34, the ultrasonic probe 36 can perform a search with high quality.

(Third embodiment)
Next, an embodiment of the ultrasonic probe will be described with reference to a schematic side sectional view for explaining the structure and operation of the ultrasonic probe of FIG. FIG. 9A shows a state where the pump 25 is not operating, and FIG. 9B shows a state where the pump 25 is operating. This embodiment is different from the second embodiment in that an ultrasonic element is built in the supply unit. Note that the description of the same points as in the second embodiment will be omitted.

  That is, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9A, in the ultrasonic probe 41, the supply unit 42 is installed on the −Z direction side of the cross beam portion 11 a of the support unit 11, and the −Z direction side of the supply unit 42. The acoustic adjustment unit 12 is arranged in the. The supply unit 42 extends in the Y direction, has a cylindrical shape with cross sections in the X direction and the Z direction, and has a circular arc shape with a concave surface facing the acoustic adjustment unit 12. The supply unit 42 includes a heater 31 inside. A temperature sensor 32 and a third ultrasonic element 38 are installed. Two openings 42 a are provided on the surface of the supply unit 42 facing the acoustic adjustment unit 12. The medium 30 is accommodated inside the supply unit 42, and the medium 30 is supplied to the cylindrical unit 22 through the opening 42a.

  When the motor 24 is not driven, the cylindrical portion 22 is separated from the supply portion 42 and a gap is formed. The medium 30 flows into this gap by capillary action. When the operator rolls the acoustic adjustment unit 12 along the object to be measured 5, the operator can easily roll the acoustic adjustment unit 12.

  As shown in FIG. 9B, the ultrasonic probe 41 is provided with a pressing portion 33. When the motor 24 is driven, the acoustic adjustment unit 12 is sucked by the suction unit 18. And the cylindrical part 22 and the supply part 42 mutually press and contact. The control circuit 23 controls the driving of the pump 25 to change the force with which the cylindrical portion 22 and the supply portion 42 press each other. A medium 30 is accumulated on the surface of the cylindrical portion 22. The cylindrical portion 22 and the supply portion 42 are pressed with the medium 30 interposed therebetween. Thereby, since it becomes difficult for air bubbles to enter between the cylindrical part 22 and the supply part 42, the ultrasonic wave 34 can be advanced without being reflected between the cylindrical part 22 and the supply part 42. When the suction unit 18 sucks the support plate 21, the acoustic adjustment unit 12 becomes difficult to rotate due to friction. Therefore, it is possible to suppress bubbles from entering between the cylindrical portion 22 and the supply portion 42 with the rotation.

  The third ultrasonic element 38 transmits an ultrasonic wave 34. In the supply unit 42, the medium 30 exists on the acoustic adjustment unit 12 side of the third ultrasonic element 38. The transmitted ultrasonic wave 34 passes through the medium 30 in the supply part 42, the wall surface of the supply part 42, and the medium 30 between the supply part 42 and the cylindrical part 22 in this order and enters the cylindrical part 22. Next, the ultrasonic wave 34 passes through the medium 30 from the cylindrical portion 22 and enters the object to be measured 5. Then, the ultrasonic wave 34 is transmitted to the inside of the measurement object 5. A part of the ultrasonic wave 34 that has reached the inside of the DUT 5 is reflected at the interface of the tissue. The reflected ultrasonic wave 34 passes through the medium 30, the cylindrical part 22, the medium 30, the wall surface of the supply part 42 and the medium 30 in this order from the object to be measured 5 and is emitted to the third ultrasonic element 38. The third ultrasonic element 38 receives the reflected wave of the ultrasonic wave 34. Since the medium 30 is accumulated in the place where the ultrasonic wave 34 passes and it is difficult for bubbles to enter, reflection by the air layer is less likely to occur. Therefore, the ultrasonic probe 41 can receive and transmit the ultrasonic wave 34 with high quality.

  While the suction unit 18 is sucking the acoustic adjustment unit 12, the third ultrasonic element 38 performs transmission to reception of the ultrasonic wave 34. Accordingly, since there are few elements that cause noise in the reception and transmission of the ultrasonic wave 34, the ultrasonic probe 41 can perform a search with high quality.

Note that the present embodiment is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various changes and improvements can be added by those having ordinary knowledge in the art within the technical idea of the present invention. A modification will be described below.
(Modification 1)
In the first embodiment, the ultrasonic wave 34 is transmitted inside the object to be measured 5. For example, when there is a blood vessel in the measurement object 5 and blood flows, the wavelength of the reflected wave may be analyzed to detect Doppler. The speed of a fluid such as blood can be detected in the object to be measured 5.

(Modification 2)
In the first embodiment, a negative pressure is generated using the pump 25, and the suction unit 18 sucks the acoustic adjustment unit 12. Thereby, the acoustic adjustment part 12, the 1st ultrasonic element 15, and the 2nd ultrasonic element 16 were mutually pressed. The acoustic adjustment unit 12, the first ultrasonic element 15, and the second ultrasonic element 16 may be pressed against each other using other methods. For example, it may be pressed using a spring or air pressure, or may be pressed using electromagnetic force or electrostatic force. In addition, you may make it press using the force in which an operator grasps the holding part 10. FIG.

(Modification 3)
In the first embodiment, the motor 24 and the pump 25 are installed in the ultrasonic probe 2. The motor 24 and the pump 25 may be disposed in the analysis unit 3. Since the ultrasonic probe 2 becomes light, the ultrasonic probe 2 can be easily operated.

(Modification 4)
In the first embodiment, in the supply unit 14, the medium 30 is caused to flow through the acoustic adjustment unit 12 due to the weight of the medium 30. The supply amount of the medium 30 may be controlled by controlling the internal pressure of the supply unit 14. Thereby, an appropriate amount of the medium 30 can be supplied to the acoustic adjustment unit 12.

(Modification 5)
In the first embodiment, the shaft portion 13 is pressed using the spring 28 and the movable piece 29. The spring 28 and the movable piece 29 may be omitted when the acoustic adjustment unit 12 can be easily rotated without the spring 28 and the movable piece 29. Since the structure can be simplified, the ultrasonic probe 2 can be easily manufactured.

(Modification 6)
In the first embodiment, the image analysis process in step S8 and the image display process in step S9 are performed after the end determination process in step S7. Steps S8 and S9 may be performed in parallel with the suction release process of step S5 and the movement process of step S6. Since the operator can operate the ultrasonic probe 2 while looking at the cross-sectional image, it is possible to easily adjust the search location.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus, 2, 36, 41 ... Ultrasonic probe, 3 ... Analysis part, 5 ... Measuring object as a test object, 9c ... Display part, 12 ... Acoustic adjustment part, 14 ... Supply part, 15 ... 1st ultrasonic element as ultrasonic element, 16 ... 2nd ultrasonic element as ultrasonic element, 18 ... Suction part as pressing part, 22a ... Groove part, 23 ... Control circuit as pressing part and medium temperature adjusting part , 24 ... motor as pressing unit, 25 ... pump as pressing unit, 30 ... medium, 31 ... heater as medium temperature adjusting unit, 32 ... temperature sensor as medium temperature adjusting unit, 33 ... pressing unit, 34 ... super Sonic.

Claims (8)

An ultrasonic element for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves;
A rotatable acoustic adjustment unit for adjusting the acoustic impedance of the ultrasonic element;
An ultrasonic probe comprising: a pressing unit that changes a force for pressing the ultrasonic element and the acoustic adjustment unit with each other. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1,
The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1, wherein the pressing unit includes a suction unit that sucks the acoustic adjustment unit and presses the acoustic adjustment unit against the ultrasonic element. The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1 or 2,
An ultrasonic probe comprising: a supply unit that supplies a liquid medium that propagates ultrasonic waves to the surface of the acoustic adjustment unit. An ultrasonic element for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves;
A rotatable acoustic adjustment unit for adjusting the acoustic impedance of the ultrasonic element;
A supply unit that supplies a liquid medium that propagates ultrasonic waves to the acoustic adjustment unit and incorporates the ultrasonic element;
An ultrasonic probe comprising: a pressing unit that changes a force for pressing the supply unit and the acoustic adjustment unit with each other. The ultrasonic probe according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
An ultrasonic probe comprising a groove for holding the medium on a surface of the acoustic adjustment unit. The ultrasonic probe according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1, wherein the acoustic adjustment unit is porous. The ultrasonic probe according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
An ultrasonic probe comprising a medium temperature adjusting unit for adjusting the temperature of the medium. An ultrasonic probe for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves;
An analysis unit that analyzes the ultrasonic waves received by the ultrasonic probe and outputs a cross-sectional image of the subject;
A display unit for displaying the cross-sectional image,
The ultrasonic probe includes an ultrasonic element that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves,
A rotatable acoustic adjustment unit for adjusting the acoustic impedance of the ultrasonic element;
An ultrasonic imaging apparatus comprising: a pressing unit that changes a force for pressing the ultrasonic element and the acoustic adjustment unit with each other.

Images