JP4690358B2 - Diagnostic information generating apparatus and ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a diagnostic information generating apparatus and an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, and more particularly to an apparatus for generating diagnostic information based on ultrasonic waves and an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus scans the inside of a diagnosis target with an ultrasonic beam (beam), receives an echo, obtains image data (data) corresponding to the intensity of the echo, and thereby a so-called B mode (mode). ) Generate an image. This is also called B-mode shooting.

  Also, a Doppler shift of echo is obtained, and a color image representing a flow velocity distribution such as a blood flow, that is, a so-called color Doppler image is generated based on the Doppler shift. Alternatively, a color image representing the power of the Doppler signal, that is, a so-called power Doppler image is generated. This is also called color Doppler photography. Further, the frequency of the Doppler signal is analyzed to display a spectrum and output as an acoustic (Doppler sound) signal. This is also called Doppler diagnosis.

  Conventional ultrasonic diagnostic equipment is basically equipment of medical facilities such as hospitals and clinics, and is used by those concerned within those facilities. It is not assumed to be used under the above, and is not configured to allow such use.

  However, as seen in the spread of mobile phones and personal digital assistants, it is becoming increasingly common for consumers to carry advanced information devices personally and use them in any place, time, and situation. If such a thing becomes possible also about medical equipments, such as a sound wave diagnostic apparatus, it is expected that convenience for consumers will improve.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to realize a diagnostic information generating apparatus and an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that can be carried by a consumer personally.

  (1) In one aspect of the invention for solving the above-described problem, an ultrasonic probe and a drive signal are transmitted to the ultrasonic probe to transmit an ultrasonic wave, and an echo reception signal is transmitted from the ultrasonic probe. A diagnostic information generating apparatus comprising: a portable ultrasonic device that captures and generates diagnostic information that can be handled by a portable information terminal based on the echo reception signal.

  In the invention in this aspect, an ultrasonic probe, a drive signal is given to the ultrasonic probe to transmit an ultrasonic wave, an echo reception signal is captured from the ultrasonic probe, and a portable information terminal is based on the echo reception signal And a portable ultrasound device that generates diagnostic information that can be handled by a consumer, so that a diagnostic information generation device that can be used by a consumer in combination with a personal digital assistant can do.

  (2) In another aspect of the invention for solving the above-described problem, an ultrasonic probe having an ultrasonic transducer array, a switching device for switching an ultrasonic transmission / reception aperture in the ultrasonic transducer array, and the ultrasonic wave A drive signal is applied to the probe to transmit an ultrasonic wave, and an echo reception signal is captured from the ultrasonic probe while the aperture is sequentially moved, and can be handled by a portable information terminal based on the echo reception signal. A diagnostic information generating apparatus comprising: a portable ultrasonic device that generates diagnostic information.

  In the invention in this aspect, an ultrasonic probe having an ultrasonic transducer array and a switching device for switching an ultrasonic transmission / reception aperture in the ultrasonic transducer array, and a driving signal is sent to the ultrasonic probe to transmit ultrasonic waves. A portable ultrasonic device that captures an echo reception signal from the ultrasonic probe while sequentially moving the aperture, and generates diagnostic information that can be handled by a portable information terminal based on the echo reception signal; Therefore, it is possible to realize a diagnostic information generating apparatus that can be carried by a consumer and used in combination with a portable information terminal.

  (3) According to another aspect of the invention for solving the above problems, an ultrasonic transducer array and a switching device for switching an ultrasonic transmission / reception aperture in the ultrasonic transducer array are incorporated in the case and are used for external connection. An ultrasonic probe having a signal cable, and a drive signal is sent to the ultrasonic probe via the signal cable to transmit an ultrasonic wave, and an echo reception signal is captured from the ultrasonic probe, and the aperture is sequentially moved. And a portable ultrasonic device that generates diagnostic information that can be handled by a portable information terminal based on an echo reception signal.

  According to the invention in this aspect, an ultrasonic probe having an ultrasonic transducer array and a switching device for switching an ultrasonic transmission / reception aperture in the ultrasonic transducer array in a case and having a signal cable for external connection, and the signal cable An ultrasonic wave is transmitted by giving a drive signal to the ultrasonic probe via the ultrasonic probe and an echo reception signal is captured from the ultrasonic probe while sequentially moving the aperture, and portable information is obtained based on the echo reception signal. A diagnostic apparatus for generating diagnostic information that can be handled by a terminal, and a diagnostic information generating apparatus that can be used by a consumer in combination with a portable information terminal Can be realized.

  (4) According to another aspect of the invention for solving the above-described problem, an ultrasonic probe, a driving signal is transmitted to the ultrasonic probe to transmit an ultrasonic wave, and an echo reception signal is transmitted from the ultrasonic probe. An ultrasonic device that captures and generates diagnostic information that can be handled by the portable information terminal based on the echo reception signal, and can be integrated with the portable information terminal in a separable manner. This is a diagnostic information generation device.

  In the invention in this aspect, an ultrasonic probe, a drive signal is given to the ultrasonic probe to transmit an ultrasonic wave, an echo reception signal is captured from the ultrasonic probe, and a portable information terminal is based on the echo reception signal It generates diagnostic information that can be handled by the device, and has an ultrasonic device that can be separated from the portable information terminal, so that the consumer can carry it personally and integrate with the portable information terminal It is possible to realize a diagnostic information generation apparatus that can be used in a converted form.

  (5) In another aspect of the invention for solving the above-described problem, an ultrasonic probe having an ultrasonic transducer array, a switching device for switching an ultrasonic transmission / reception aperture in the ultrasonic transducer array, and the ultrasonic wave A drive signal is applied to the probe to transmit an ultrasonic wave, and an echo reception signal is captured from the ultrasonic probe while the aperture is sequentially moved, and can be handled by a portable information terminal based on the echo reception signal. A diagnostic information generating apparatus comprising: an ultrasonic device that generates diagnostic information and is separable and integrated with a portable information terminal.

  In the invention in this aspect, an ultrasonic probe having an ultrasonic transducer array and a switching device for switching an ultrasonic transmission / reception aperture in the ultrasonic transducer array, and a driving signal is sent to the ultrasonic probe to transmit ultrasonic waves. And capturing the echo reception signal from the ultrasonic probe while sequentially moving the aperture, generating diagnostic information that can be handled by the portable information terminal based on the echo reception signal, and separated from the portable information terminal And an ultrasonic device that can be integrated with each other, so that it is possible to realize a diagnostic information generation device that can be carried by a consumer and integrated with a portable information terminal. it can.

  (6) According to another aspect of the invention for solving the above problems, an ultrasonic transducer array and a switching device for switching an ultrasonic transmission / reception aperture in the ultrasonic transducer array are incorporated in the case and are used for external connection. An ultrasonic probe having a signal cable, and a drive signal is sent to the ultrasonic probe via the signal cable to transmit an ultrasonic wave, and an echo reception signal is captured from the ultrasonic probe, and the aperture is sequentially moved. And generating ultrasonic diagnostic information that can be handled by the portable information terminal based on the echo reception signal, and an ultrasonic device that can be separated and integrated with the portable information terminal. Is a diagnostic information generating device.

  According to the invention in this aspect, an ultrasonic probe having an ultrasonic transducer array and a switching device for switching an ultrasonic transmission / reception aperture in the ultrasonic transducer array in a case and having a signal cable for external connection, and the signal cable An ultrasonic wave is transmitted by giving a drive signal to the ultrasonic probe via the ultrasonic probe and an echo reception signal is captured from the ultrasonic probe while sequentially moving the aperture, and portable information is obtained based on the echo reception signal. An ultrasonic device that generates diagnostic information that can be handled by the terminal and can be integrated with the portable information terminal in a separable manner. A diagnostic information generating apparatus that can be used in an integrated manner can be realized.

  (7) In another aspect of the invention for solving the above-described problem, an ultrasonic probe, a driving signal is sent to the ultrasonic probe to transmit an ultrasonic wave, and an echo reception signal is transmitted from the ultrasonic probe. A portable ultrasonic device that captures and generates diagnostic information based on the echo reception signal; an information processing unit that performs information processing related to the ultrasonic device; a display unit that displays the diagnostic information as a visible image; and An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising: a portable information device having an input unit that enables a user to input information to an information processing unit.

  In the invention in this aspect, an ultrasonic probe and a drive signal are sent to the ultrasonic probe to transmit an ultrasonic wave, and an echo reception signal is captured from the ultrasonic probe, and diagnostic information is obtained based on the echo reception signal. A portable ultrasonic device to be generated, an information processing unit that performs information processing related to the ultrasonic device, a display unit that displays the diagnostic information as a visible image, and a user can input information to the information processing unit Therefore, it is possible to realize an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that can be carried by a consumer personally.

  (8) In another aspect of the invention for solving the above problems, an ultrasonic probe having an ultrasonic transducer array, a switching device for switching an ultrasonic transmission / reception aperture in the ultrasonic transducer array, and the ultrasonic wave A portable signal for generating diagnostic information based on the echo reception signal is provided while transmitting the ultrasonic wave by supplying a drive signal to the probe and capturing the echo reception signal from the ultrasonic probe while sequentially moving the aperture. An ultrasonic device, an information processing unit that performs information processing related to the ultrasonic device, a display unit that displays the diagnostic information as a visible image, and an input unit that enables a user to input information to the information processing unit An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising a portable information device.

  In the invention in this aspect, an ultrasonic probe having an ultrasonic transducer array and a switching device for switching an ultrasonic transmission / reception aperture in the ultrasonic transducer array, and a driving signal is sent to the ultrasonic probe to transmit ultrasonic waves. And receiving the echo reception signal from the ultrasonic probe while sequentially moving the aperture and generating diagnostic information based on the echo reception signal, and information relating to the ultrasonic device Since it comprises an information processing unit that performs processing, a display unit that displays the diagnostic information as a visible image, and a portable information device that has an input unit that allows a user to input information to the information processing unit, An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that can be carried by a consumer personally can be realized.

  (9) According to another aspect of the invention for solving the above problems, an ultrasonic transducer array and a switching device for switching an ultrasonic transmission / reception aperture in the ultrasonic transducer array are incorporated in the case and are used for external connection. An ultrasonic probe having a signal cable, and a drive signal is sent to the ultrasonic probe via the signal cable to transmit an ultrasonic wave, and an echo reception signal is captured from the ultrasonic probe, and the aperture is sequentially moved. A portable ultrasonic device that generates diagnostic information based on an echo reception signal, an information processing unit that performs information processing related to the ultrasonic device, a display unit that displays the diagnostic information as a visible image, and Portable information having an input unit that enables a user to input information to the information processing unit. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized by comprising a device, a.

  According to the invention in this aspect, an ultrasonic probe having an ultrasonic transducer array and a switching device for switching an ultrasonic transmission / reception aperture in the ultrasonic transducer array in a case and having a signal cable for external connection, and the signal cable The ultrasonic probe transmits the ultrasonic wave by applying a drive signal to the ultrasonic probe and captures the echo reception signal from the ultrasonic probe while sequentially moving the aperture, and diagnostic information based on the echo reception signal A portable ultrasonic device that generates information, an information processing unit that performs information processing related to the ultrasonic device, a display unit that displays the diagnostic information as a visible image, and information input by the user to the information processing unit Portable information device having an input unit to be consumed There can be realized an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus capable of personally portable.

  (10) In another aspect of the invention for solving the above-described problem, an ultrasonic probe, a driving signal is applied to the ultrasonic probe to transmit an ultrasonic wave, and an echo reception signal is transmitted from the ultrasonic probe. A portable ultrasonic device that captures and generates diagnostic information based on the echo reception signal, and the ultrasonic device can be integrated in a separable manner and performs information processing related to the ultrasonic device And a portable information device having a display unit that displays the diagnostic information as a visible image and an input unit that allows a user to input information to the information processing unit. It is a diagnostic device.

  In the invention in this aspect, an ultrasonic probe and a drive signal are sent to the ultrasonic probe to transmit an ultrasonic wave, and an echo reception signal is captured from the ultrasonic probe, and diagnostic information is obtained based on the echo reception signal. The portable ultrasonic device to be generated and the ultrasonic device can be integrated in a separable manner, an information processing unit that performs information processing related to the ultrasonic device, and displays the diagnostic information as a visible image And a portable information device having a display unit and an input unit that allows a user to input information to the information processing unit. Can be realized.

  (11) In another aspect of the invention for solving the above-described problem, an ultrasonic probe having an ultrasonic transducer array, a switching device for switching an ultrasonic transmission / reception aperture in the ultrasonic transducer array, and the ultrasonic wave A portable signal for generating diagnostic information based on the echo reception signal is provided while transmitting the ultrasonic wave by supplying a drive signal to the probe and capturing the echo reception signal from the ultrasonic probe while sequentially moving the aperture. An ultrasonic device and the ultrasonic device can be integrated in a separable manner, an information processing unit that performs information processing related to the ultrasonic device, a display unit that displays the diagnostic information as a visible image, and the information A portable information device having an input unit that allows a user to input information to the processing unit. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim.

  In the invention in this aspect, an ultrasonic probe having an ultrasonic transducer array and a switching device for switching an ultrasonic transmission / reception aperture in the ultrasonic transducer array, and a driving signal is sent to the ultrasonic probe to transmit ultrasonic waves. And taking the echo reception signal from the ultrasonic probe while sequentially moving the aperture and generating the diagnostic information based on the echo reception signal and the ultrasonic device are separated from each other An information processing unit that performs information processing related to the ultrasonic device, a display unit that displays the diagnostic information as a visible image, and allows a user to input information to the information processing unit A portable information device having an input unit, so that the consumer can carry it personally It is possible to realize an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus capable.

  (12) According to another aspect of the invention for solving the above-described problems, an ultrasonic transducer array and a switching device for switching an ultrasonic transmission / reception aperture in the ultrasonic transducer array are incorporated in the case and are used for external connection. An ultrasonic probe having a signal cable, and a drive signal is sent to the ultrasonic probe via the signal cable to transmit an ultrasonic wave, and an echo reception signal is captured from the ultrasonic probe, and the aperture is sequentially moved. The portable ultrasonic device that generates diagnostic information based on the echo reception signal and the ultrasonic device can be integrated in a separable manner and performs information processing related to the ultrasonic device A processing unit, a display unit that displays the diagnostic information as a visible image, and a user for the information processing unit An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized by comprising a portable information apparatus having an input unit that enables information input by the.

  According to the invention in this aspect, an ultrasonic probe having an ultrasonic transducer array and a switching device for switching an ultrasonic transmission / reception aperture in the ultrasonic transducer array in a case and having a signal cable for external connection, and the signal cable The ultrasonic probe transmits the ultrasonic wave by applying a drive signal to the ultrasonic probe and captures the echo reception signal from the ultrasonic probe while sequentially moving the aperture, and diagnostic information based on the echo reception signal A portable ultrasonic device that generates a signal and the ultrasonic device can be integrated in a separable manner, an information processing unit that performs information processing related to the ultrasonic device, and displays the diagnostic information as a visible image Display unit and an input unit that enables a user to input information to the information processing unit And portable information devices with, so includes a consumers can realize an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that can be personally portable.

  In the ultrasonic device, transmitting a control signal for sequentially moving the aperture to the ultrasonic probe through serial communication reduces the number of signal lines in the signal cable of the ultrasonic probe and makes the cable thinner. preferable.

  It is preferable that the ultrasonic probe has a winding mechanism for winding the signal cable in the case so that the signal cable is not obstructed. It is preferable that the ultrasonic device has a storage unit that stores the ultrasonic probe in a state where the signal cable is wound, in order to facilitate carrying of the ultrasonic probe.

  It is preferable that the information device is integrated on the ultrasonic device in a two-tiered state in order to make the apparatus compact. The ultrasonic device preferably has a dedicated battery as a power source in terms of increasing the degree of freedom of use.

  It is preferable that the battery protrudes on the side opposite to the information device side in that a finger can be applied when it is held in the hand. The battery is preferably detachable from the ultrasonic device from the viewpoint of easy replacement.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the diagnostic information generation apparatus and ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus which a consumer can carry personally are realizable.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The present invention is not limited to the embodiment. FIG. 1 shows an external view of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus by a four-view drawing. 1, (a) is a top view, (b) is a front view, (c) is a rear view, and (d) is a right side view. The left side view (not shown) corresponds to the mirror image of the right side view. This apparatus is an example of an embodiment of the present invention. An example of an embodiment relating to the apparatus of the present invention is shown by the configuration of the apparatus.

  As shown in the figure, the apparatus includes an ultrasonic device 100 and an information device 300. The ultrasonic device 100 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped box-shaped outer shape. The information device 300 has a generally flat rectangular parallelepiped plate shape. This apparatus has a two-layer structure in which the information device 300 is stacked on the ultrasonic device 100. The ultrasonic device 100 is an example of an embodiment of an ultrasonic device in the present invention. The information device 300 is an example of an embodiment of an information device in the present invention.

  The ultrasonic device 100 has a receiving portion 101 for receiving the information device 300 on the upper surface thereof. The receiving part 101 has a generally sheath-like structure that matches the shape of the cross section of the information device 300. This sheath-like structure has a large opening on the upper surface so that most of the upper surface of the information device 300 is exposed. The ultrasonic device 100 and the information device 300 are integrated with the information device 300 inserted into the receiving unit 101.

  The ultrasonic device 100 also has a connector 103 at the end on the back side. The connector 103 is coupled to a corresponding connector at the end of the information device 300, whereby the ultrasonic device 100 and the information device 300 are electrically connected. In this way, the ultrasonic device 100 and the information device 300 are mechanically and electrically integrated by the receiving portion 101 and the connector 103.

  The ultrasonic device 100 further has a connector 105 for connecting an ultrasonic probe (probe), which will be described later, at the end on the back side, and a battery pack at a position closer to the front side on the bottom surface. 107 is attached. The battery pack 107 contains a secondary battery serving as a power source for the ultrasonic device 100. The secondary battery is a dedicated battery for the ultrasonic device 100. The battery pack 107 can be removed for replacement or charging. When attached to the ultrasonic device 100, the battery pack 107 projects outward from the bottom surface of the ultrasonic device 100. The battery pack 107 is an example of an embodiment of a battery according to the present invention.

  This device is a device having a size and weight enough to be placed on the palm of one hand. The information device 300 in this apparatus is a small information processing apparatus equivalent to, for example, a palm computer. A personal data assistant (PDA) available on the market has a general-purpose operating system (OS) and an application program (application program) that operates under the OS is installed ( Since there is something that can be installed, it can be used as the information device 300. This type of PDA is also called a Pocket PC (Pocket Personal Computer). The information device 300 incorporates a dedicated battery independent of the battery pack 107 of the ultrasonic device 100 and operates using the power as a power source.

  The information device 300 includes a flat panel-shaped graphic display 301 on an upper surface. Such a graphic display 301 is composed of, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display). The graphic display 301 is an example of an embodiment of a display unit in the present invention.

  The graphic display 301 is provided with a transparent touch sensor 303 that covers the surface of the graphic display 301. A GUI (Graphical User Interface) displayed on the screen of the graphic display 301 is displayed by a stylus provided by the user. By touching, desired information can be input to the information device 300. The touch sensor 303 is an example of an embodiment of an input unit in the present invention.

  The information device 300 also has several operation keys 305 on the upper surface. Each operation key 305 is assigned predetermined functions such as power on / off, activation of a specific application, movement of a cursor, input of a determination command, and the like. Each operation key 305 is also an example of an embodiment of the input unit in the present invention.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the present apparatus. Since the battery pack 107 protrudes from the bottom surface, when this apparatus is held in one hand, a finger is naturally applied to this portion, and the battery pack 107 can be held in a good balance. Further, when used on a table, the overhanging portion becomes a so-called pillow, and the whole is inclined, so that the screen of the graphic display 301 can be easily observed.

  By pulling out the information device 300 from the receiving portion 101 in the front direction of the ultrasonic device 100, the apparatus can separate the ultrasonic device 100 and the information device 300 as shown in FIG. Yes.

  The ultrasonic device 100 can accommodate the ultrasonic probe 500 as shown in FIG. That is, the ultrasonic device 100 has the probe storage unit 109 on the upper surface. The probe storage unit 109 is a hole with a bottom having an inner circumference adapted to the outer shape of the ultrasonic probe 500, and the depth of the hole is such that it slightly exceeds the thickness of the ultrasonic probe 500.

  Therefore, the information device 300 can be inserted into the receiving unit 101 in a state where the ultrasonic probe 500 is stored in the probe storage unit 109. As a result, the ultrasonic device 100 and the information device 300 can be integrated, and it is easy to carry the entire apparatus. The ultrasonic probe 500 is an example of an embodiment of an ultrasonic probe in the present invention. The probe storage unit 109 is an example of an embodiment of a storage unit in the present invention.

  Since the present apparatus is configured in this way, the user can carry it anywhere and can carry out ultrasonic diagnosis at any destination. Therefore, the device can be owned by a general consumer as well as a medical person, and can be used in any place, time and situation.

  In addition, since the ultrasonic device 100 and the information device 300 can be separately separated, a plurality of types having different performance and functions are prepared as the ultrasonic device 100, and one information device 300 is shared for them. Is possible. Alternatively, not only an ultrasonic device but also a device that collects or generates blood pressure, pulse, body temperature, or other various diagnostic information may be prepared, and the information device 300 may be used in combination therewith.

  FIG. 4 shows an external view of the ultrasonic probe 500 by a three-view drawing. In the same figure, (a) is a top view, (b) is a front view, and (c) is a right side view. The left side view (not shown) corresponds to the mirror image of the right side view.

  As shown in the figure, the ultrasonic probe 500 has a generally flat and elongated rectangular parallelepiped plate-like outer shape. The ultrasonic probe 500 has an ultrasonic radiation surface 501 on the front. A signal cable 503 is pulled out from the end of the ultrasonic probe 500 opposite to the front side. The signal cable 503 has a connector 505 at the other end. The signal cable 503 is an example of an embodiment of the signal cable in the present invention.

  The ultrasonic probe 500 has a built-in cable winding mechanism 507, and the signal cable 503 can be wound by turning a circular winding handle provided on the upper surface. The cable winding mechanism 507 is an example of an embodiment of the winding mechanism in the present invention.

  FIG. 5 shows a usage state of the present apparatus. As shown in the figure, the signal cable 503 is pulled out from the ultrasonic probe 500, the connector 505 is connected to the connector 105 of the ultrasonic device 100, and the front surface of the ultrasonic probe 500 is used in contact with the diagnostic object. Depending on the environment of use, the ultrasonic device 100 and the information device 300 may not be integrated, and may be used by connecting the connectors with appropriate signal lines while being mechanically separated.

  The part composed of the ultrasonic probe 500 and the ultrasonic device 100 is an example of the embodiment of the diagnostic information generating apparatus of the present invention. An example of an embodiment of the present invention is shown by the configuration of the apparatus.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the present apparatus. As shown in the figure, the ultrasonic probe 500 has an ultrasonic transducer array 600. The ultrasonic transducer array 600 is a one-dimensional array and includes, for example, 64 ultrasonic transducers 602. The ultrasonic vibrator 602 is made of, for example, a piezoelectric material such as PZT (titanium (Ti) zirconate (Zr) acid) ceramics.

  The ultrasonic transducer array 600 is, for example, an array projecting in an arc shape in the ultrasonic radiation direction, that is, a so-called convex array. The ultrasonic transducer array 600 is an example of an embodiment of the ultrasonic transducer array in the present invention.

  The ultrasonic probe 500 also has a switch 604. All the ultrasonic transducers 602 in the ultrasonic transducer array 600 are individually connected to the switch 604. The switcher 604 selects a predetermined number of ultrasonic transducers 602 related to transmission / reception of ultrasonic waves in the ultrasonic transducer array 600. The number of ultrasonic transducers 602 selected is, for example, 16, but is not limited thereto, and may be an appropriate plural number.

  For example, the selected 16 ultrasonic transducers 602 constitute an aperture for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves. The combination of 16 ultrasonic transducers constituting the aperture is sequentially changed. Accordingly, the aperture sequentially moves from one end side to the other end side of the ultrasonic transducer array 600. Such an operation of the switch 604 is performed under the control of the control unit 212 described later. The switch 604 is an example of an embodiment of the switch in the present invention.

  The ultrasonic device 100 includes a transmission / reception switching unit 202. The transmission / reception switching unit 202 is connected to a driving unit 204 and a receiving unit 206 in the ultrasonic device 100. The switch 604 of the ultrasonic probe 500 is also connected to the transmission / reception switching unit 202 by the signal cable 503 described above.

  The transmission / reception switching unit 202 inputs a drive signal output from the drive unit 204 during transmission to the switch 604. The drive signal is a plurality (for example, 16) of drive signals corresponding to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 602 constituting the aperture. Each drive signal is given a phase difference for beam forming of transmitted ultrasonic waves. The plurality of drive signals input to the switch 604 are respectively applied to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 602 constituting the aperture to transmit an ultrasonic beam.

  The ultrasonic echoes are respectively received by the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 602 constituting the aperture. The transmission / reception switching unit 202 inputs a plurality of (for example, 16) echo reception signals output through the switch 604 to the reception unit 206 at the time of reception. The receiving unit 206 adds a phase difference for performing the beam forming of the echo to the echo reception signals and performs total addition to generate an echo reception signal for one sound ray.

  Such transmission / reception is performed while the aperture is sequentially moved by the switch 604. Since the switch 604 is provided on the ultrasonic probe 500 side, the number of signal lines in the signal cable 503 may be as many as the number of ultrasonic transducers 602 constituting the aperture (for example, 16). As a result, the diameter of the signal cable 503 can be avoided from being increased, and the signal cable 503 can be wound into the ultrasonic probe 500.

  Since the ultrasonic transducer array 600 is a convex array, as shown in FIG. 7, the radiation point 800 of the ultrasonic beam, that is, the sound ray 802 moves along an arcuate locus 804, and a fan-shaped two-dimensional region 806 is obtained. Is scanned in the θ direction to perform a so-called convex scan.

  The echo reception signal generated by the reception unit 206 is input to the diagnostic information generation unit 210. The diagnostic information generation unit 210 generates predetermined diagnostic information based on the echo reception signal. The diagnostic information is, for example, a B mode image. The diagnostic information is not limited to the B-mode image, and may be a color Doppler image based on the Doppler shift of the echo reception signal, or the spectrum of the Doppler signal, Doppler sound, or the like.

  The ultrasonic device 100 includes a control unit 212. The control unit 212 gives predetermined control signals to the drive unit 204 or the diagnostic information generation unit 210 to control their operations. From each part to be controlled, a status signal or the like is returned to the control part 212. Note that the transmission / reception switching unit 202 is generally composed of only passive elements and transmission / reception switching is performed automatically, so that it is not necessary to supply control signals. However, if it is composed of active elements, it is necessary to supply control signals. Needless to say.

  The control unit 212 also gives a control signal to the switch 604 of the ultrasonic probe 500 to control its operation. The control signal is supplied to the switch 604 through the signal cable 503. It is preferable to transmit this control signal as a serial signal in order to avoid an increase in the diameter of the signal cable 503 due to an increase in the number of signal lines.

  The ultrasonic device 100 further includes a power supply unit 214. The power supply unit 214 supplies the power of the battery pack 107 to each unit in the ultrasonic device 100 as a power source. Supply of electric power to each unit is performed after conversion into a form suitable for each part. The conversion of the power form is performed by DDC / DC conversion (conversion) or the like. The power supply unit 214 is also under the control of the control unit 212.

  The information device 300 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 402. The CPU 402 is connected to the diagnostic information generation unit 210 and the control unit 212 of the ultrasonic device 100. These connections are made through the connector 103. The diagnostic information generated by the diagnostic information generation unit 210 is input to the CPU 402. The CPU 402 exchanges control signals with the control unit 212.

  In the information device 300, a memory 404 is connected to the CPU 402. The diagnostic information input from the diagnostic information generation unit 210 is stored in the memory 404. The memory 404 stores a required program (program) for operating the CPU 402. The stored program is, for example, a general-purpose OS, and various application programs that operate under the OS. Among these application programs, an application program for ultrasonic diagnosis is included.

  A graphic display 301 is connected to the CPU 402. The graphic display 301 displays image information output from the CPU 402. The main body of the image information is diagnostic information, that is, for example, a B-mode image as shown in FIG. Of course, the diagnostic information is not limited to the B-mode image. A GUI is also displayed on the screen of the graphic display 301.

  The graphic display 301 has a touch sensor 303 on the front surface thereof. The touch sensor 303 is connected to the CPU 402. An output signal from the touch sensor 303 is input to the CPU 301. The user can input a desired operation command to the CPU 402 such as changing the scan mode or switching the screen by touching the GUI displayed on the graphic display 301 with a stylus or the like.

  The information device 300 has a unique power supply unit 406. The power supply unit 406 supplies the power of the dedicated battery 408 to each unit in the information device 300. It goes without saying that the power supply unit 406 is also constituted by a DC / DC converter or the like.

  An appropriate screen is prepared for display on the graphic display 301 as required. For example, a screen as shown in FIG. 9 is prepared for registering patient information and storing diagnostic information, and a screen as shown in FIG. 10 is prepared for setting scan conditions. All of these screens are mainly GUIs.

  The diagnostic information is stored in the memory 404. The stored image can be recalled as necessary and displayed on the graphic display 301 for observation. In addition, the data communication function provided in the information device 300 may be used to send diagnostic information to a medical institution that is fully equipped with specialists and facilities through a network such as the Internet.

It is a 4th view which shows the external appearance of the apparatus of an example of embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the external appearance of the apparatus of an example of embodiment of this invention. It is the schematic which shows the state isolate | separated into the ultrasonic equipment and the information equipment. It is a trihedral view showing the appearance of the ultrasonic probe. It is the schematic which shows the use condition of the apparatus of an example of embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical constitution of the apparatus of an example of embodiment of this invention. It is a conceptual diagram of sound ray scanning. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a display screen. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a display screen. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a display screen.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Ultrasonic apparatus 300 Information apparatus 500 Ultrasonic probe 600 Ultrasonic transducer array 604 Switcher 202 Transmission / reception switching part 204 Drive part 206 Receiving part 210 Diagnostic information generation part 212 Control part 214 Power supply part 402 CPU
404 Memory 406 Power supply unit 301 Graphic display 303 Touch sensor

Claims (8)

An ultrasonic probe;
Providing a drive signal to the ultrasonic probe to transmit an ultrasonic wave and capturing an echo reception signal from the ultrasonic probe, generating diagnostic information that can be handled by a portable information terminal based on the echo reception signal, It can be integrated with a portable information terminal so as to be separable , and comprises an ultrasonic device having a probe storage section that can store the ultrasonic probe ,
The ultrasonic device has a receiving part into which the portable information terminal can be inserted on the upper surface,
The receiving part has a sheath-like structure with an open top surface,
Diagnostic information characterized in that the ultrasonic device can be integrated in a two-tiered state with the portable information terminal up by inserting the portable information terminal into the receiving portion. Generator.   The diagnostic information generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic device has a dedicated battery as a power source.   The diagnostic information generation apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the battery projects to a side opposite to a side to which a portable information terminal of the ultrasonic device is coupled.   The diagnostic information generation apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the battery is detachable from the ultrasonic device. An ultrasonic probe;
A probe capable of transmitting an ultrasonic wave by applying a drive signal to the ultrasonic probe, capturing an echo reception signal from the ultrasonic probe, generating diagnostic information based on the echo reception signal, and storing the ultrasonic probe and portable ultrasound equipment that have a housing unit,
An information processing unit that can be detachably integrated with the ultrasonic device and performs information processing related to the ultrasonic device, a display unit that displays the diagnostic information as a visible image, and a user for the information processing unit A portable information device having an input unit that enables information input by
The ultrasonic device has a receiving part into which the information device can be inserted on the upper surface,
The receiving part has a sheath-like structure with an open top surface,
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, wherein the ultrasonic device can be integrated in a two-layered state with the information device facing up by inserting the information device into the receiving portion. .   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the ultrasonic device has a dedicated battery as a power source.   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the battery projects to a side opposite to the information device side.   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the battery is detachable from the ultrasonic device.

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