JP6188393B2 - Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and control program - Google Patents

Description

  Embodiments of the present invention provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and control capable of collecting image data with excellent time resolution by efficiently supplying various control parameters necessary for ultrasonic transmission / reception to each unit of the transmission / reception unit. Regarding the program.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus radiates an ultrasonic pulse generated from a vibration element built in an ultrasonic probe into a subject, and converts a reflected wave caused by a difference in acoustic impedance of the subject tissue into an electric signal by the vibration element. Is displayed on the monitor. This diagnostic method is widely used for organ function diagnosis and morphological diagnosis because various moving image data and real-time image data can be easily collected with a simple operation by simply bringing an ultrasonic probe into contact with the body surface. ing.

  Ultrasound diagnostic methods for obtaining biological information from reflected waves from tissues or blood cells in a living body have made rapid progress due to technological development of the ultrasonic pulse reflection method and the ultrasonic Doppler method, and are obtained using these technologies. Mode image data and color Doppler image data are indispensable in today's ultrasound diagnosis.

  A recent ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus capable of generating such image data usually includes an ultrasonic probe having a plurality of vibration elements that perform ultrasonic transmission and reception in a predetermined direction within a subject, and the vibration element. A transmission / reception unit having a plurality of channel transmission units and reception units (transmission / reception channels), an image data generation unit for generating the above-described image data based on a reception signal output from the reception unit, and an obtained image By providing a display unit for displaying data and supplying control parameters (hereinafter referred to as transmission / reception control parameters) necessary for ultrasonic transmission / reception set in advance in transmission / reception direction units and transmission / reception channel units to the transmission / reception channels described above. Control of the transmission / reception direction and selection of the vibration element used in each ultrasonic transmission / reception have been performed.

  Furthermore, in recent years, three-dimensional information (hereinafter referred to as volume data) in a subject is collected by mechanically reciprocatingly swinging an ultrasonic probe in which vibration elements are one-dimensionally arranged, and these volumes are collected. By performing predetermined processing on data, 3D image data such as volume rendering image data, 2D image such as MPR (Multi Planar Reconstruction) image data or Maximum Intensity Projection (MIP) image data Data is being generated.

JP 2011-188956 A

  The transmission / reception control parameters corresponding to the ultrasonic examination set in advance in the transmission / reception direction unit and transmission / reception channel unit and stored in the parameter storage unit etc. are read in time series and sequentially supplied to the plurality of transmission / reception channels provided in the transmission unit and reception unit. According to the conventional transmission / reception control parameter supply method, the time required to supply the transmission / reception control parameter (parameter supply period) increases with the increase in the number of transmission / reception channels, so the repetition period (rate period) of ultrasonic transmission / reception also increases. To do.

  In particular, the above-described transmission / reception control parameter supply method is used in a recent ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that generates real-time three-dimensional image data using volume data in a subject collected by an ultrasonic probe in which vibration elements are two-dimensionally arranged. When applied, transmission / reception control parameters must be sequentially supplied to a large number of transmission / reception channels corresponding to vibration elements, so even if parallel simultaneous reception technology is introduced, the repetition period of ultrasonic transmission / reception increases significantly. However, there is a problem that image data having excellent time resolution cannot be obtained.

  On the other hand, in the method of collecting volume data by swinging the ultrasonic probe with respect to the first direction and the second direction (for example, clockwise direction and counterclockwise trend), it is formed by swinging with respect to the first direction. In order to make the position and direction of the scanning cross section formed by the swing in the second direction coincide with the position and direction of the scan cross section, the order of the transmission / reception directions must be switched as the swing direction is reversed. In such a case, according to the conventional method of reading transmission / reception control parameters stored in advance in the parameter storage unit or the like in time series and sequentially supplying them to the transmission / reception channel of the transmission / reception unit, it takes a lot of time to supply the transmission / reception control parameters. For this reason, when it is impossible to grasp the inversion timing in the swing direction in advance, it is difficult to perform ultrasonic transmission / reception in the transmission / reception direction immediately after inversion without delay.

  The present disclosure has been made in view of the above-described problems. The purpose of the present disclosure is preset in units of ultrasonic transmission / reception directions when ultrasonic transmission / reception with respect to a subject is performed to collect time-series image data. Another object of the present invention is to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and a control program capable of collecting image data with excellent time resolution by efficiently supplying various transmission / reception control parameters to a plurality of transmission / reception channels included in a transmission / reception unit.

  In order to solve the above problems, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present disclosure includes an ultrasonic probe having a plurality of vibration elements that perform ultrasonic transmission / reception with respect to a subject, supply of a drive signal to the vibration elements, A transmission / reception unit having a plurality of transmission / reception channels for performing phasing addition of a reception signal obtained from a vibration element, an image data generation unit for generating image data based on the reception signal, and control of the ultrasonic transmission / reception Parameter storage means for storing various transmission / reception control parameters preset in transmission / reception direction units and transmission / reception channel units, and a predetermined direction selected in transmission / reception channel units from the transmission / reception control parameters stored by the parameter storage means Parameter storage means for storing transmission / reception control parameters necessary for ultrasonic transmission / reception of It said reception control parameters stored by the storing means is characterized by comprising a parallel supply reception control means to the plurality of receiving channels provided in the transceiver unit.

1 is a block diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. The block diagram which shows the specific structure of the transmission / reception part with which the ultrasound diagnosing device of 1st Embodiment is provided. The block diagram which shows the specific structure of the received signal processing part with which the ultrasound diagnosing device of 1st Embodiment is provided. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating specific configurations of an image data generation unit and a display data generation unit included in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment. The figure which shows the specific example of the transmission / reception control parameter preset in the transmission / reception direction unit and transmission / reception channel unit in 1st Embodiment. The time chart for demonstrating the supply method of the transmission / reception control parameter in 1st Embodiment. The time chart for demonstrating the supply method of the transmission / reception control parameter in the conventional ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. The block diagram which shows the whole structure of the conventional ultrasonic diagnosing device. 5 is a flowchart showing a procedure for generating / displaying image data according to the first embodiment. The time chart for demonstrating the supply method of the transmission / reception control parameter in the modification of 1st Embodiment. The block diagram which shows the whole structure of the ultrasonic diagnosing device in 2nd Embodiment of this indication. The figure for demonstrating the specific structure of the probe moving mechanism part with which the ultrasonic diagnosing device of 2nd Embodiment is provided. The figure for demonstrating the scanning cross section formed by rocking | fluctuation of the ultrasonic probe in 2nd Embodiment. The block diagram which shows the specific structure of the image data generation part with which the ultrasonic diagnosing device of 2nd Embodiment is provided. The figure which shows the specific example of the transmission / reception control parameter preset in the transmission / reception direction unit and transmission / reception channel unit in 2nd Embodiment. The figure which shows the some scanning cross section formed in the three-dimensional area | region in a subject by the rocking | fluctuation of the ultrasonic probe in 2nd Embodiment. The time chart for demonstrating the acquisition method of the transmission / reception control parameter in 2nd Embodiment, and the supply method of the transmission / reception control parameter with respect to a transmission / reception part. The time chart for demonstrating in more detail the acquisition method of the transmission / reception control parameter in 2nd Embodiment, and the supply method of the transmission / reception control parameter with respect to a transmission / reception part. 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure for generating / displaying image data according to the second embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

(First embodiment)
In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure to be described below, transmission / reception control corresponding to the ultrasonic transmission / reception set in advance in the transmission / reception direction unit of the ultrasonic wave and the channel unit of the transmission / reception unit and stored in the parameter storage unit When the parameters are supplied to each channel of the transmitter / receiver provided in the transmitter / receiver to sequentially perform ultrasonic transmission / reception in different transmission / reception directions within the subject, the above parameter storage is performed in parallel with the preceding ultrasonic transmission / reception. The transmission / reception control parameters necessary for subsequent ultrasonic transmission / reception read out from the unit are temporarily stored (acquired) in the parameter storage unit, and then stored in the parameter storage unit during the subsequent ultrasonic transmission / reception parameter supply period. Ultrasonic transmission / reception by supplying the above transmission / reception control parameters to each channel of the transmitter / receiver in parallel To reduce the repetition period.

  In the first embodiment described below, for the sake of simplicity, ultrasonic transmission / reception with respect to a three-dimensional region in the subject is performed using a transmission / reception unit having four transmission / reception channels (transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4). Although the case where it performs is described, the number of transmission / reception channels is not limited to the above.

(Device configuration)
The configuration and function of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIGS. 2 to 4 show a transmission / reception unit, a received signal processing unit, and an image data generation unit included in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a specific configuration of a display data generation unit. FIG.

  In the following embodiments, a sector scanning ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus using N (N = 4) vibrating elements as transmitting vibrating elements and receiving vibrating elements will be described. However, a convex scanning method or a linear scanning method is described. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus to which other scanning methods are applied may be used, and the numbers and arrangement positions of the transmitting vibration elements and the receiving vibration elements may be different.

  An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1 emits an ultrasonic pulse (transmission ultrasonic wave) into the body of a subject, and an ultrasonic reflected wave (reception ultrasonic wave) obtained from the body by the transmission ultrasonic wave is an electrical signal. An ultrasonic probe 2 in which a plurality of vibration elements to be converted into (reception signals) are arranged, and a drive signal for radiating transmission ultrasonic waves in a predetermined direction in the body are supplied to the above-described vibration elements. Transmitter / receiver 3 for phasing and adding received signals of a plurality of channels obtained from the elements, and processing the received signals after phasing and adding obtained in each of the B mode, color Doppler mode and spectrum Doppler mode imaging modes. Received signal processor 4 for generating B-mode data, color Doppler data and Doppler spectrum data in time series, and B-mode data and color Doppler data supplied from received signal processor 4 The image data generation unit 5 that generates B-mode image data, color Doppler image data, and spectrum image data based on the Doppler spectrum data and the above-described image data generated by the image data generation unit 5 are clinically combined or combined. It includes a display data generation unit 6 that generates display data suitable for diagnosis and a display unit 7 that displays the obtained display data, and is further preset in units of imaging mode, ultrasonic probe, transmission / reception direction, and transmission / reception channel. A parameter storage unit 8 storing various transmission / reception control parameters, and a transmission / reception unit that transmits / receives transmission / reception control parameters read from the parameter storage unit 8 based on selection information of an imaging mode, an ultrasonic probe, a transmission / reception direction, and a transmission / reception channel. A plurality of transmission units 31 and reception units 32 A transmission / reception control unit 9 that controls ultrasonic transmission / reception with respect to the subject by supplying in parallel to the transmission / reception channel, and an input unit 10 that inputs subject information, selects an imaging mode and an ultrasound probe, inputs various instruction signals, and the like. And a system control unit 11 for comprehensively controlling the above-described units.

  The ultrasonic probe 2 has N vibrating elements (not shown) arranged one-dimensionally or two-dimensionally at its tip, and performs ultrasonic transmission / reception by bringing the tip into contact with the body surface of the subject. The vibration element is an electroacoustic conversion element, and has a function of converting an electric drive signal into a transmission ultrasonic wave at the time of transmission and converting a reception ultrasonic wave into an electric reception signal at the time of reception. Each of these vibration elements is connected to the transmission / reception unit 3 via an N-channel multi-core cable (not shown).

  Next, the transmission / reception unit 3 shown in FIG. 2 includes a transmission unit 31 that supplies a drive signal for radiating transmission ultrasonic waves in a predetermined direction in the subject to the vibration element of the ultrasonic probe 2, and vibrations thereof. A receiving unit 32 that performs phasing addition of reception signals of a plurality of channels obtained from the elements is provided, and the transmitting unit 31 includes a rate pulse generator 311, a transmission delay circuit 312, and a drive circuit 313.

  The rate pulse generator 311 is a frame rate or maximum field of view supplied as a transmission / reception control parameter from a parameter storage unit 91 (to be described later) provided in the transmission / reception control unit 9 with a rate pulse for determining a repetition period of transmission ultrasonic waves radiated into the subject. A rate pulse generated based on information such as depth is supplied to the transmission delay circuit 312.

  The transmission delay circuit 312 includes, for example, the same number of independent delay circuits as the N transmission vibration elements incorporated in the ultrasonic probe 2. Based on the transmission delay time information supplied from the parameter storage unit 91 as a transmission / reception control parameter, a focusing delay time for focusing the transmission ultrasonic wave to a predetermined depth in order to obtain a narrow beam width in transmission. A deflection delay time for radiating the transmission ultrasonic wave in a predetermined direction is given to the above-described rate pulse supplied from the rate pulse generator 311.

  The drive circuit 313 uses Nt transmission elements selected from the N transmission vibration elements built in the ultrasonic probe 2 based on the transmission aperture information supplied from the parameter storage unit 91 as transmission / reception control parameters. A driving pulse for driving the vibration element is generated based on the above-described rate pulse supplied from the transmission delay circuit 312.

  On the other hand, the reception unit 32 includes a preamplifier 321, an A / D converter 322, a reception delay circuit 323, and an adder 324 corresponding to N reception vibration elements incorporated in the ultrasonic probe 2. The preamplifier 321 receives Nr reception elements selected from the N reception vibration elements built in the ultrasonic probe 2 based on the information of the reception aperture supplied as the transmission / reception control parameter from the parameter storage unit 91. The A / D converter 322 amplifies the reception signal supplied from the vibration element for use to a predetermined size, and analog / digital converts the reception signal output from the preamplifier 321.

  On the other hand, the reception delay circuit 323 has a delay time for focusing and a predetermined delay time for focusing the received ultrasonic wave from a predetermined depth in reception based on the information of the reception delay time supplied as the transmission / reception control parameter from the parameter storage unit 91. A deflection delay time for setting a strong reception directivity with respect to the direction is given to the Nr channel reception signal output from the A / D converter 322, and the adder 324 outputs the Nr output from the reception delay circuit 323. Add and combine the received signals of the channels. That is, the reception delay circuit 323 and the adder 324 perform phasing addition on the reception signal corresponding to the reception ultrasonic wave from the predetermined direction.

  Next, the reception signal processing unit 4 shown in FIG. 3 includes a B mode data generation unit 41 that processes the B mode reception signal output from the adder 324 of the reception unit 32 and generates B mode data, and a color Doppler. The Doppler signal detector 42 for detecting Doppler signals mixed in these received signals by performing quadrature detection on the received signals in the mode and the spectrum Doppler mode, and color Doppler data based on the Doppler signals detected in the color Doppler mode A color Doppler data generation unit 43 that generates the Doppler spectrum data based on the Doppler signal detected in the spectrum Doppler mode.

  The B-mode data generation unit 41 includes an envelope detector 411 and a logarithmic converter 412. The envelope detector 411 envelope-detects the received signal after the phasing addition supplied from the adder 324 of the reception unit 32. To do. On the other hand, the logarithmic converter 412 generates B-mode data by logarithmically converting the amplitude of the reception signal subjected to envelope detection.

  The Doppler signal detection unit 42 includes a π / 2 phase shifter 421, mixers 422-1 and 422-2, and LPFs (low-pass filters) 423-1 and 423-2, which are supplied from the adder 324 of the reception unit 32. The received signal is orthogonally detected to detect a complex Doppler signal composed of a real component (I component) and an imaginary component (Q component).

  On the other hand, the color Doppler data generation unit 43 includes a Doppler signal storage circuit 431, an MTI filter 432, and an autocorrelation calculator 433, and the LPF 423-1 and LPF 423 of the Doppler signal detection unit 42 in ultrasonic transmission / reception for a plurality of times in the same direction. The real component and imaginary component of the Doppler signal output from 2 are stored in the Doppler signal storage unit 431.

  The MTI filter 432 that is a digital filter for removing low-frequency components sequentially reads time-series Doppler signals collected at the same site of the subject from the Doppler signal storage unit 431. Then, a component (blood flow component) caused by blood flow contained in these Doppler signals is extracted, and a component (clutter component) caused by respiratory movement or pulsatile movement of the organ is removed. Specifically, the blood flow component and the clutter component having a frequency lower than the blood flow component are separated by setting the cutoff frequency of the MTI filter 432 to a suitable value.

  The autocorrelation calculator 433 performs autocorrelation calculation on the blood flow component of the Doppler signal extracted by the MTI filter 432, and calculates an average blood flow velocity value and a velocity dispersion value indicating disturbance in the blood flow velocity, A power value indicating the size of the blood flow component is calculated as color Doppler data.

  The spectrum data generation unit 44 includes an SH (sample hold circuit) 441, a BPF (band pass filter) 442, and an FFT (Fast-Fourier-Transform) analyzer 443, and the spectrum Doppler mode supplied from the Doppler signal detection unit 42. It has a function of frequency analysis of the Doppler signal to generate Doppler spectrum data.

  That is, the SH 441 displays the real and imaginary components of the Doppler signal output from the LPFs 423-1 and 423-2 of the Doppler signal detection unit 42 and the position information of the region of interest (range gate) supplied from the system control unit 11. Receive. Then, a Doppler signal corresponding to the region of interest is extracted (sampled) from Doppler signals collected in time series by a plurality of ultrasonic transmissions / receptions in a predetermined direction.

  The BPF 442 performs filtering processing on the Doppler signal in the region of interest output from the SH 441 so that low-frequency clutter components and high-frequency components caused by respiratory movement and pulsatile movement of the organ included in the Doppler signal are output. Remove sampling noise.

  The FFT analyzer 443 includes an arithmetic circuit and a storage circuit (not shown), and the Doppler signal of the region of interest output from the HPF 442 is temporarily stored in the storage circuit. On the other hand, the arithmetic circuit generates Doppler spectrum data by frequency analysis of the Doppler signal stored in the storage circuit for a predetermined period. A specific method for generating Doppler spectrum data is described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-81081 and the like, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  Next, specific configurations of the image data generation unit 5 and the display data generation unit 6 shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG.

  The image data generation unit 5 has a function of generating various image data based on the B-mode data, color Doppler data, and Doppler spectrum data generated by the reception signal processing unit 4, and includes a B-mode image data generation unit 51, A color Doppler image data generation unit 52 and a spectrum image data generation unit 53 are provided.

  The B-mode image data generation unit 51 uses the logarithmically converted reception signal (B-mode data) supplied in time series in the transmission / reception direction unit from the B-mode data generation unit 41 of the reception signal processing unit 4 as its own ultrasonic data. B-mode image data is generated by sequentially storing in the storage circuit.

  The color Doppler image data generation unit 52 generates color Doppler image data by sequentially storing the color Doppler data supplied from the color Doppler data generation unit 43 of the reception signal processing unit 4 in its own ultrasonic data storage circuit. For example, color Doppler image data capable of simultaneously observing the average flow velocity value and the velocity dispersion value by setting brightness information corresponding to the average blood flow velocity value and hue information corresponding to the velocity dispersion value as the respective pixel values. Generate.

  The spectrum image data generator 53 generates time-series Doppler spectrum data generated based on a Doppler signal obtained from a region of interest (range gate) (not shown) by the spectrum data generator 44 of the received signal processor 4. Spectrum image data is generated by arranging in the time axis direction in the data storage circuit.

  On the other hand, the display data generation unit 6 includes a data processing unit 61, which converts B-mode image data, color Doppler image data, and spectrum image data supplied from the image data generation unit 5 into a predetermined display format and is suitable for clinical diagnosis. Display image data (hereinafter referred to as display data) is generated.

  The display unit 7 includes a conversion processing unit (not shown) and a monitor, and the conversion processing unit performs conversion processing such as D / A conversion and television format conversion on the display data generated by the display data generation unit 6 and displays it on the monitor. To do.

  Next, the parameter storage unit 8 in FIG. 1 stores, for example, various transmission / reception control parameters set in advance by using the imaging mode and the ultrasound probe name as parameters, and the transmission / reception direction and transmission / reception channel as a unit.

  FIG. 5 shows a specific example of transmission / reception control parameters when “B mode” is selected as the imaging mode and “sector scanning probe” is selected as the ultrasonic probe. The parameters are normally stored as supplementary information about the imaging mode, ultrasonic probe, transmission / reception direction, and transmission / reception channel.

  In the following description, N (N = 4) vibration elements included in the ultrasonic probe 2 are used as transmission / reception vibration elements, and ultrasonic transmission / reception is performed in the transmission / reception directions C (1) to C (M). At this time, transmission apertures set for the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3 connected to the above-described vibration element (the number or width of transmission vibration elements driven substantially simultaneously in ultrasonic transmission), transmission delay Time (delay time for focusing and delay time for deflection set in ultrasonic transmission), reception aperture (number or width of receiving vibration elements used almost simultaneously in ultrasonic reception), reception delay time (in ultrasonic reception) Transmission / reception control parameters such as set delay time and deflection delay time) are stored together with transmission / reception control parameters corresponding to other imaging modes and ultrasonic probes. Although described case, transmission and reception direction, number of transmit and receive channels, type of transmission and reception control parameter is not limited to the above.

  On the other hand, the transmission / reception control unit 9 of FIG. 1 includes a parameter storage unit 91 and a parameter R / W control unit 92.

  The parameter storage unit 91 includes a first readout control signal supplied from the parameter R / W control unit 92 (that is, imaging mode and ultrasonic probe selection information supplied from the input unit 10 via the system control unit 11). For example, “B mode”, “sector scanning probe”, and “transmission / reception directions C (1) to C (1) through” are read out from the parameter storage unit 8 in accordance with the read control signal generated by the parameter R / W control unit 92 based on Transmission / reception control parameters of the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 having “C (M)” as supplementary information are stored (acquired) in a transmission / reception period described later.

  The above transmission / reception control parameters once stored in the parameter storage unit 91 are read according to the second read control signal supplied from the parameter R / W control unit 92 and transmitted to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3. Provided in parallel.

  In this case, the “transmission aperture” information read from the parameter storage unit 91 is supplied to the drive circuit 313 of the transmission unit 31, and the “transmission delay time” information is supplied to the transmission delay circuit 312 of the transmission unit 31. Is done. The information on “reception aperture” is supplied to the preamplifier 321 of the reception unit 32, and the information on “reception delay time” is supplied to the reception delay circuit 323 of the reception unit 32.

  On the other hand, the parameter R / W control unit 92 has a function of controlling writing and reading of transmission / reception control parameters in the parameter storage unit 91. For example, when “B mode” as an imaging mode and “sector scanning probe” as an ultrasonic probe are selected in the input unit 10, various transmission / reception control parameters are stored in advance from the parameter storage unit 8. Control is performed to save (acquire) transmission / reception control parameters of the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 corresponding to the selection information described above in the read parameter storage unit 91 in a transmission / reception period described later.

  Further, the parameter R / W control unit 92 reads the transmission / reception control parameters of the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 once stored in the parameter storage unit 91 in the parameter supply period described later, and supplies them in parallel to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3. Control to do.

  Next, the input unit 10 of FIG. 1 includes an input device such as a display panel, a keyboard, a trackball, a mouse, and a selection button on the operation panel, and inputs subject information, an imaging mode, and an ultrasound probe. The reception signal processing conditions are set, the image data generation conditions and the display data generation conditions are set, and various instruction signals are input using the above-described display panel and input device.

  The above-described imaging modes include a B mode, a color Doppler mode, a spectrum Doppler mode, and the like, and the ultrasonic probe has different numbers of vibration elements, vibration element arrangement intervals, and one-dimensional / two-dimensional arrangement of vibration elements. There are a sector scanning ultrasonic probe, a convex scanning ultrasonic probe, a linear scanning ultrasonic probe, and the like.

  The system control unit 11 includes a CPU and an input information storage unit (not shown), and various information input / selected / set by the input unit 10 is stored in the input information storage unit. The CPU performs generation and display of various image data in the B mode, the color Doppler mode, and the spectrum Doppler mode by comprehensively controlling each unit of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 based on these pieces of information.

  In particular, the CPU controls the transmission / reception control unit 9 to supply transmission / reception control parameters to the transmission unit 31 and the reception unit 32 of the transmission / reception unit 3 in a short time, thereby generating and displaying image data with excellent time resolution. Enable.

  Next, a method for supplying transmission / reception control parameters performed by the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 of this embodiment and a method for supplying transmission / reception control parameters performed by a conventional ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus will be described with reference to FIGS. .

  FIG. 6 shows a case where transmission / reception control parameters necessary for ultrasonic transmission / reception in a predetermined direction read out in time series from the parameter storage unit 8 are temporarily stored in its own parameter storage unit 91, and then these transmission / reception control parameters are stored in the transmission / reception unit 3. It is a time chart for demonstrating the supply method of the transmission / reception control parameter by the transmission / reception control part 9 which can be supplied to transmission / reception channel CH1 thru | or CH4 in parallel.

  As shown in FIG. 6, transmission / reception required periods T11 [t01 to t21] to T1M [t0M to t2M] necessary for ultrasonic transmission / reception in the transmission / reception directions C (1) to C (M) are temporarily stored in the parameter storage unit 91. Based on the transmission / reception control parameters supplied during the parameter supply periods T21 [t01 to t11] to T2M [t0M to t1M] in which the received transmission / reception control parameters in the transmission / reception direction are supplied in parallel to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3. It is divided into transmission / reception periods T31 [t11 to t21] to T3M [t1M to t2M] for performing ultrasonic transmission / reception with respect to the subject.

  In this case, in the parameter writing period T41 [t31 to t41] preceding the parameter supply period T21, the parameter storage unit 91 of the transmission / reception control unit 9 corresponds to the transmission / reception direction C (1) read from the parameter storage unit 8. Transmission / reception control parameters (for example, transmission aperture D11 (1), transmission delay time D12 (1), reception aperture D13 (1), and reception delay time D14 (1) shown in FIG. 5) of the transmission / reception channel CH1 are stored in its own parameters. Similarly, the transmission / reception control parameters of the transmission / reception channels CH2 to CH4 read from the parameter storage unit 8 are sequentially stored in the parameter storage circuit.

  Next, the parameter storage unit 91 supplies the transmission / reception control parameters of the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 read from the parameter storage circuit in the parameter supply period T21 of the C (1) direction transmission / reception required period T11 in parallel to each channel of the transmission / reception unit 3. To do.

  When the parallel supply of the transmission / reception control parameters corresponding to the transmission / reception direction C (1) to the transmission / reception unit 3 is completed at time t11, the transmission / reception unit 3 in the transmission / reception period T31 of the C / (1) direction transmission / reception required period T11 Then, ultrasonic transmission / reception is performed in the transmission / reception direction C (1) based on the transmission / reception control parameter supplied from the parameter storage unit 91, and the reception signal processing unit 4 is based on the reception signal obtained from the reception unit 32 at this time. Thus, ultrasonic data (B-mode data, color Doppler data, and spectrum data) in the transmission / reception direction C (1) is generated. The obtained ultrasonic data is stored in the ultrasonic data storage circuit of the image data generation unit 5.

  On the other hand, in the parameter writing period T42 [t32 to t42] included in the transmission / reception period T31 of the C (1) direction transmission / reception required period T11, the parameter storage unit 91 of the transmission / reception control unit 9 transmits / receives data read from the parameter storage unit 8 Transmission / reception control parameters (for example, transmission aperture D11 (2), transmission delay time D12 (2), reception aperture D13 (2), and reception delay time D14 (2) in FIG. 5) corresponding to the direction C (2). In the same manner, the transmission / reception control parameters of the transmission / reception channels CH2 to CH4 read from the parameter storage unit 8 are sequentially stored in the parameter storage circuit.

  Thereafter, the parameter storage unit 91 performs the same procedure from the parameter storage circuit in the parameter supply period T22 of the C (2) direction transmission / reception required period T12 to the parameter supply period T2M of the C (M) direction transmission / reception required period T1M (not shown). The transmission / reception control parameters of the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 corresponding to the read transmission / reception directions C (2) to C (M) are supplied in parallel to each channel of the transmission / reception unit 3.

  Next, in the transmission / reception period T32 of the transmission / reception required period T12 to the transmission / reception period T3M of the transmission / reception required period T1M (not shown), the transmission / reception unit 3 performs the transmission / reception direction C (2) based on the transmission / reception control parameters supplied from the parameter storage unit 91. The ultrasonic wave transmission / reception is sequentially performed with respect to C (M), and the reception signal processing unit 4 generates ultrasonic data based on the reception signal obtained from the reception unit 32 at this time. The obtained ultrasonic data in the transmission / reception directions C (2) to C (M) is stored in the ultrasonic data storage circuit of the image data generation unit 5 together with the ultrasonic data in the transmission / reception direction C (1) already obtained. Various image data are generated.

  On the other hand, in the parameter writing period T43 included in the transmission / reception period T32 to the parameter writing period T4M included in the transmission / reception period T3M (not shown), the parameter storage unit 91 transmits and receives the transmission / reception directions C (3) to C (C) read from the parameter storage unit 8. The transmission / reception control parameters of the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 corresponding to (M) are stored in its own parameter storage circuit.

  As described above, the transmission / reception control unit 9 in the present embodiment sets the transmission / reception control parameters in the transmission / reception direction C (m) read in time series from the parameter storage unit 8 in the parameter writing period T4m (m = 1 to M). After being temporarily stored in its own parameter storage unit 91, these transmission / reception control parameters are supplied in parallel to the transmission / reception channels CH 1 to CH 4 of the transmission / reception unit 3. The parameter supply period T2m (m = 1 to M) necessary for this parallel supply is determined based on the longest supply period among the transmission / reception control parameter supply periods for the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4.

  7 shows a conventional transmission / reception control parameter supply method for supplying transmission / reception control parameters necessary for ultrasonic transmission / reception in a predetermined direction read from the parameter storage unit 8 to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3 in time series. FIG. 8 is a time chart for explanation, and FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a specific configuration of a conventional ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that supplies such transmission / reception control parameters.

  However, the difference between the conventional ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 300 shown in FIG. 8 and the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 of the present embodiment is that transmission / reception control parameters of the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 read out from the parameter storage unit 8 in time series. The parameter storage unit 91 that temporarily stores and supplies these transmission / reception control parameters in parallel to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3 does not exist in the transmission / reception control unit 9x of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 300. The configuration and functions of the units other than the transmission / reception control unit 9x shown in FIG. 8 are the same as those of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 shown in FIG.

  That is, the transmission / reception control unit 9x included in the conventional ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 300 illustrated in FIG. 8 firstly has a parameter supply period T21x [t01x to t41x] that forms the C (1) direction transmission / reception required period T11x in FIG. In [t01x to t11x], the transmission / reception control parameter of the transmission / reception channel CH1 corresponding to the transmission / reception direction C (1) read from the parameter storage unit 8 is supplied to the transmission / reception channel CH1 of the transmission / reception unit 3.

  Further, the transmission / reception unit 3 transmits / receives the transmission / reception control parameters of the transmission / reception channels CH2 to CH4 read from the parameter storage unit 8 during the period [t11x to t21x], the period [t21x to t31x], and the period [t31x to t41x] of the parameter supply period T21x. Supply sequentially to channels CH2 to CH4.

  If the transmission / reception control parameter corresponding to the transmission / reception direction C (1) has been supplied to the transmission / reception unit 3 at time t41x, the transmission / reception unit 3 starts from the parameter storage unit 8 in the transmission / reception period T31x [t41x to t51x]. Based on the above-mentioned transmission / reception control parameters supplied in time series, ultrasonic transmission / reception is performed in the transmission / reception direction C (1). The reception signal processing unit 4 performs super-transmission based on the reception signal obtained from the reception unit 32 at this time. Generate sound wave data. The obtained ultrasonic data is stored in the ultrasonic data storage circuit of the image data generation unit 5.

  Thereafter, the transmission / reception control unit 9x reads out from the parameter storage unit 8 in the parameter supply period T22x of the C (2) direction transmission / reception required period T12x to the parameter supply period T2Mx of the C (M) direction transmission / reception required period T1Mx by a similar procedure. The transmission / reception control parameters of the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 corresponding to the transmission / reception directions C (2) to C (M) are supplied to each channel of the transmission / reception unit 3.

  In the transmission / reception period T32x of the C (2) direction transmission / reception required period T12x to the transmission / reception period T3M of the C (M) direction transmission / reception required period T1Mx, the transmission / reception unit 3 is supplied from the parameter storage unit 8 in time series. Based on the transmission / reception control parameter, ultrasonic transmission / reception is performed in the transmission / reception directions C (2) to C (M), and the reception signal processing unit 4 generates ultrasonic data based on the reception signal obtained from the reception unit 32 at this time. To do. The ultrasonic data obtained in the transmission / reception directions C (2) to C (M) is stored in the ultrasonic data storage circuit of the image data generation unit 5 together with the ultrasonic data obtained in the transmission / reception direction C (1). Image data such as mode image data and color Doppler image data is generated.

  As described above, in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 of the present embodiment, the transmission / reception control parameters necessary for the subsequent ultrasonic transmission / reception read from the parameter storage unit 8 in the transmission / reception period of the preceding ultrasonic transmission / reception are transmitted to the transmission / reception control unit 9. A conventional transmission / reception control that does not have a parallel supply function during a period required for ultrasonic transmission / reception in a predetermined direction (transmission / reception required period) by temporarily storing in the parameter storage unit 91 and then supplying the transmission / reception channel of the transmission / reception unit 3 in parallel. Compared with the parameter supply method, it is greatly shortened. For example, when the number of transmission / reception channels is N, the parameter supply period in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 of this embodiment is shortened to 1 / N compared to the parameter supply period in the conventional ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus.

  6 and 7 show the case where ultrasonic waves are transmitted / received in the transmission / reception directions C (1) to C (M). Image data is generated. As shown in FIG. 6, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first embodiment can shorten the supply period of the transmission / reception control parameter by supplying the transmission / reception control parameter to the transmission / reception channel included in the transmission / reception unit 3 in parallel. According to 100, real-time image data with excellent time resolution can be easily generated.

(Image data generation / display procedure)
Next, image data generation / display procedures in the first embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 9 and the time chart of FIG. However, in the following, when performing ultrasonic transmission / reception in the transmission / reception direction C (m) (m = 1 to M) using the N-channel transmission / reception vibration element included in the ultrasonic probe 2, the above-described vibration element is used. A case will be described in which transmission / reception control parameters such as transmission aperture, transmission delay time, reception aperture, and reception delay time are supplied to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3 connected to.

  Prior to the generation of image data, a medical worker who operates the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 (hereinafter referred to as an operator) uses various ultrasonic probes that can be connected to the transmission / reception unit 3 of the diagnostic apparatus main body at the input unit 10. After selecting the ultrasonic probe 2 for sector scanning having the transmitting / receiving vibration element of N (N = 4) channel suitable for the ultrasonic inspection, the B mode is selected as the imaging mode, Input of object information and setting or updating of reception signal processing conditions / image data generation conditions / display data generation conditions are performed as necessary. These input / selection / setting information is stored in the input information storage unit of the system control unit 11 (step S1 in FIG. 9).

  When the above initial setting is completed, the operator places the distal end portion of the ultrasonic probe 2 at a predetermined position of the subject, and then inputs an image data generation start instruction signal at the input unit 10 (FIG. 9). Step S2).

  On the other hand, the parameter R / W control unit 92 of the transmission / reception control unit 9 that has received the image data generation start instruction signal from the input unit 10 via the system control unit 11 reads out from the input information storage unit of the system control unit 11. A first readout control signal is generated based on the selected imaging mode and ultrasonic probe selection information, and the parameter storage unit 91 of the transmission / reception control unit 9 follows the first readout control signal of the parameter R / W control unit 92. The transmission / reception control parameters of the transmission / reception channel CH1 having the above-described selection information read from the parameter storage unit 8 and the first transmission / reception direction C (1) as supplementary information are stored (obtained) in its own parameter storage circuit (FIG. 9). Step S3). Further, following the storage of the transmission / reception control parameters of the transmission / reception channel CH1, the transmission / reception control parameters of the transmission / reception channels CH2 to CH4 are stored by the same procedure.

  When the storage of the transmission / reception control parameters of the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 in the parameter storage unit 91 is completed in the parameter writing period T41 [t31 to t41] shown in the time chart of FIG. The above transmission / reception control parameters are read according to the second read control signal supplied from the parameter R / W control unit 92 in the parameter supply period T21 [t01 to t11] in FIG. To CH4 in parallel (step S4 in FIG. 9).

  Next, in the transmission / reception period T31 [t11 to t21] of FIG. 6, the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3 are based on the transmission / reception control parameters supplied from the parameter storage unit 91 and the transmission / reception direction C ( 1) performs ultrasonic transmission / reception (step S5 in FIG. 9), and the reception signal processing unit 4 performs predetermined processing on the reception signal obtained by the ultrasonic transmission / reception to generate B-mode data. The obtained B-mode data is stored in the ultrasonic data storage unit of the image data generation unit 5 with the transmission / reception direction C (1) as supplementary information (step S6 in FIG. 9).

  On the other hand, the parameter storage unit 91 of the transmission / reception control unit 9 is a transmission / reception channel that uses the transmission / reception direction C (2) read from the parameter storage unit 8 according to the first read control signal of the parameter R / W control unit 92 as supplementary information. The transmission / reception control parameters of CH1 to CH4 are stored in its own parameter storage circuit (step S7 in FIG. 9). Then, supply of transmission / reception control parameters corresponding to the transmission / reception direction C (1) to the transmission / reception unit 3, generation of ultrasonic data (B mode data) by ultrasonic transmission / reception in the transmission / reception direction C (1) based on the transmission / reception control parameters, and When the storage and further storage of the transmission / reception control parameters corresponding to the transmission / reception direction C (2) in the parameter storage unit 91 is completed, the transmission / reception control corresponding to the transmission / reception directions C (2) to C (M) is performed in the same procedure. Parameter transmission / reception unit 3 supply, generation and storage of ultrasonic data by ultrasonic transmission / reception based on these transmission / reception control parameters, transmission / reception control parameter parameter storage unit 91 corresponding to transmission / reception directions C (3) to C (M) Are sequentially stored (steps S4 to S7 in FIG. 9).

  Next, the image data generation unit 5 generates image data using the ultrasonic data in the transmission / reception directions C (1) to C (M) stored in its own ultrasonic data storage unit, and the display data generation unit 6 Converts the image data supplied from the image data generation unit 5 into a predetermined display format and generates display data suitable for clinical diagnosis. The obtained display data is displayed on the monitor of the display unit 7 (step S8 in FIG. 9).

  When the generation and display of the first image data is completed by the ultrasonic transmission / reception in the transmission / reception directions C (1) to C (M), the image data generation unit 5 repeats the above steps S3 to S7 to The sequential image data is sequentially generated, and the display unit 7 displays the display data generated based on these image data as moving image data on its own monitor (steps S3 to S8 in FIG. 9).

  According to the first embodiment described above, when ultrasonic transmission / reception is performed in a plurality of directions in a subject and time-series image data is collected, the ultrasonic transmission / reception direction unit and transmission / reception channel unit are set in advance. By efficiently supplying the various transmitted / received control parameters to a plurality of transmission / reception channels provided in the transmission / reception unit, it is possible to collect image data with excellent time resolution.

  That is, the transmission / reception control parameters necessary for the subsequent ultrasonic transmission / reception read out in time series from the parameter storage unit in parallel with the previous ultrasonic transmission / reception are temporarily stored in the parameter storage unit, and then the parameters for the subsequent ultrasonic transmission / reception are supplied. During the period, the above-mentioned transmission / reception control parameters stored in the parameter storage unit are supplied in parallel to the transmission / reception channel of the transmission / reception unit, so that the parameter supply period and the repetition cycle of ultrasonic transmission / reception are shortened, and the time resolution of image data is greatly Improved.

  In particular, in the case where real-time three-dimensional image data is generated based on volume data collected using a so-called two-dimensional array ultrasonic probe in which a large number of vibration elements are two-dimensionally arranged, Since the transmission / reception control parameters can be supplied to the transmission / reception channel corresponding to the vibration element in a short time, three-dimensional image data having excellent time resolution can be easily obtained.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

  In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present embodiment, transmission / reception control parameters stored in the parameter storage unit and stored in the parameter storage unit in advance in units of ultrasonic transmission / reception directions and channel units of the transmission / reception unit correspond to each of the vibration elements arranged one-dimensionally The ultrasonic probe having the vibration element is reciprocally swung in the clockwise direction (CW direction) and the counterclockwise direction (CCW direction) substantially orthogonal to the scanning section. For collecting volume data in the three-dimensional region of the ultrasonic probe, when the direction of the oscillation is reversed from the CW direction to the CCW direction based on the oscillation angle information of the ultrasonic probe, for example, the ultrasonic probe is moved in the CW direction. The transmission / reception control corresponding to the first transmission / reception direction in the CCW direction is performed in parallel with the ultrasonic transmission / reception in the scanning section performed while swinging to the CCW direction. Obtained in advance the parameters from the parameter storage unit of the above. When the swing direction is reversed from the CW direction to the CCW direction based on the swing angle information of the ultrasonic probe, the CCW direction is calculated using the above-described transmission / reception control parameters acquired in advance during the swing in the CW direction. Perform ultrasonic transmission / reception in the first transmission / reception direction.

  In the second embodiment described below, 3 in the subject is used by using a transmission / reception unit having transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 corresponding to N (N = 4) vibration elements for the sake of simplicity. Although the case of performing ultrasonic transmission / reception with respect to a dimension area will be described, the number of transmission / reception channels is not limited to the above. In addition, a case where volume data in a three-dimensional region in a subject is generated based on a received signal obtained by swinging the ultrasonic probe in the CW direction and swinging in the CCW direction will be described. Data and volume data corresponding to the CCW direction may be generated independently.

(Device configuration)
Next, the configuration and function of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 18. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to this embodiment. In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 200 shown in FIG. 11, the unit of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 shown in FIG. Units having substantially the same configuration and function are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  However, in the following embodiments, a sector scanning ultrasonic probe using N (N = 4) vibration elements as a transmission vibration element and a reception vibration element is clockwise (CW direction) substantially orthogonal to the scanning section. ) And an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus capable of collecting volume data in a three-dimensional region in the subject by reciprocally swinging counterclockwise (CCW direction). An ultrasonic probe corresponding to another scanning method may be swung in the above-described direction.

  An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 200 shown in FIG. 11 emits an ultrasonic pulse (transmitted ultrasonic wave) into the body of a subject, and an ultrasonic reflected wave (received ultrasonic wave) obtained from the body by the transmitted ultrasonic wave is an electrical signal. An ultrasonic probe 2a having a plurality (N) of vibration elements to be converted into (received signal), and probe movement for reciprocally swinging the ultrasonic probe 2a in the CW direction and CCW direction substantially orthogonal to the scanning section thereof In order to radiate transmission ultrasonic waves in a predetermined direction in the subject, a mechanism position 23, a probe position information detection section 24 that detects position information (swing angle information) of the ultrasound probe 2a that swings in the above-described direction. The transmission signal is supplied to the above-described vibration elements, and the transmission / reception unit 3 that performs phasing addition of the reception signals of a plurality of channels obtained from these vibration elements; B mode data Reception signal processing unit 4a generated as ultrasonic data, image data generation unit 5a that generates image data based on B-mode data supplied from reception signal processing unit 4a, and image generated in image data generation unit 5a A display data generation unit 6 that generates display data suitable for clinical diagnosis based on the data and a display unit 7 that displays the obtained display data are provided.

  Furthermore, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 200 includes a parameter storage unit 8a that stores various transmission / reception control parameters set in advance in units of an imaging mode, an ultrasonic probe, a transmission / reception direction, and a transmission / reception channel, an imaging mode, and an ultrasonic probe. Based on the transmission / reception direction and transmission / reception channel selection information, the transmission / reception control parameters acquired from the parameter storage unit 8a are supplied in parallel to a plurality of transmission / reception channels included in the transmission / reception unit 3 to control ultrasonic transmission / reception with respect to the subject. A transmission / reception control unit 9a, an input unit 10a for inputting subject information, selecting an imaging mode and an ultrasonic probe, setting an inversion angle, inputting various instruction signals, and the like, and a system for comprehensively controlling the above-described units And a control unit 11a.

  The ultrasonic probe 2a is for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves to and from a three-dimensional region in the subject with the front surface approaching the body surface of the subject. N (N = 4) vibration elements (not shown) are arranged. The tip portion thus accommodated is housed in a probe case filled with a coupling solution. This vibration element is an electroacoustic transducer, and has a function of converting an electrical drive signal into a transmission ultrasonic wave during transmission and converting an ultrasonic reflected wave (received ultrasonic wave) into an electric signal (reception signal) during reception. doing.

  Next, a specific configuration of the probe moving mechanism unit 23 shown in FIG. 11 will be described. As shown in FIG. 12, the probe moving mechanism unit 23 is configured so that the ultrasonic probe 2a provided in the vicinity of the distal end portion of the probe case 21 filled with the coupling liquid 22 is substantially orthogonal to the scanning section of sector scanning. For example, one end is fixed to the back surface of the ultrasonic probe 2a and the other end is fixed to the vicinity of the center of the rotating disk 232; A motor 233 that rotates in a predetermined CW direction or CCW direction based on a swing control signal supplied from a moving mechanism control unit (not shown) of the system control unit 11a, and a rotating motion of the motor 233 to the above-described rotating disk 232. A belt 234 for transmission is provided. Then, the ultrasonic probe 2 a fixed to the tip of the arm 231 is moved in the CW direction and the CCW direction in the yz plane perpendicular to the rotation axis (x axis) of the rotating plate 232 as the motor 233 rotates. Oscillates against.

  Next, a plurality of scanning cross sections formed by the probe moving mechanism 23 swinging the ultrasonic probe 2a will be described with reference to FIG.

  S (1) to S (M2) in FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B are the transmission delay time and the reception delay time of the transmission / reception control parameter supplied from the transmission / reception control unit 9a, and the ultrasonic waves generated by the probe moving mechanism 23. The scanning cross section formed in the subject by the rocking motion of the probe 2a is shown.

  Further, C (1, 1) to C (M1, 1) in FIG. 13A indicate the transmission / reception directions of ultrasonic waves in the scanning section S (1), and similarly, the scanning section S (m2). , (M2 = 2 to M2), radial C (1, m2) to C (M1, m2) are set. The above-mentioned M1 is the number of transmission / reception directions in the scanning sections S (1) to S (M2), and M2 is the number of scanning sections formed in the subject by the swinging motion of the ultrasonic probe 2a. These values can be arbitrarily set in the initial setting of the apparatus or the like.

  The ultrasonic probe 2a is oscillated at a predetermined speed in the CW direction or the CCW direction within the oscillating range Δφ defined by the first inversion angle φ1 and the second inversion angle φ2, and the above-described transmission / reception direction C (m1 , M2), (m1 = 1 to M1, m2 = 1 to M2) by repeating ultrasonic transmission / reception, the subject is subjected to three-dimensional scanning, and image data is generated based on the volume data obtained at this time. Done. In this embodiment, the case where the scanning section S (1) is formed at the first inversion angle φ1 and the scanning section S (M2) is formed at the second inversion angle φ2 is described, but the present invention is not limited to this. .

  Returning to FIG. 11, the probe position information detection unit 24 includes, for example, an encoder (not shown) and detects position information (swing angle) of the ultrasonic probe 2 a swung by the probe moving mechanism unit 23. For example, there is a method in which the above-described encoder is mounted on the rotation shaft of the motor 233 provided in the probe moving mechanism unit 23, and the swing angle of the ultrasonic probe 2a is detected based on the rotation angle of the rotation shaft detected by the encoder. Although suitable, other detection methods may be applied. Then, the detected swing angle information is supplied to the transmission / reception control unit 9a via the system control unit 11a.

  Next, a specific configuration of the image data generation unit 5a shown in FIG. 11 will be described with reference to FIG. The image data generation unit 5a includes, for example, a volume data generation unit 54 and a volume data processing unit 55 as shown in FIG.

  The volume data generation unit 54 includes an ultrasonic data storage unit 541, an interpolation processing unit 542, and a volume data storage unit 543. The ultrasonic data storage unit 541 has the same function as the B-mode data generation unit 41 in FIG. The B-mode data generated in the received signal processing unit 4a is sequentially stored with the transmission / reception direction C (m1, m2) (m1 = 1 to M1, m2 = 1 to M2) as supplementary information.

  The interpolation processing unit 542 forms three-dimensional B-mode data by arranging the B-mode data read from the ultrasonic data storage unit 541 in the CW direction swing and the CCW direction swing in correspondence with the transmission / reception direction, Further, volume data composed of isotropic voxels is generated by interpolating the unequally spaced voxels constituting the three-dimensional B-mode data. The obtained volume data is temporarily stored in the volume data storage unit 543.

  On the other hand, for example, the volume data processing unit 55 renders volume data read from the volume data storage unit 543 of the volume data generation unit 54 to generate three-dimensional image data such as volume rendering image data and surface rendering image data. And a opacity / color tone setting unit 551, a rendering processing unit 552, and a program storage unit 553. The opacity / color tone setting unit 551 sets the opacity and color tone (brightness) of each voxel based on the voxel value of the volume data supplied from the volume data generation unit 54, and the rendering processing unit 552 The volume data having the opacity and color tone (luminance) information set by the setting unit 551 is rendered using a predetermined processing program read from the program storage unit 553, thereby generating the above-described three-dimensional image data.

  Next, in the parameter storage unit 8a of FIG. 11, for example, various transmission / reception control parameters set in advance with the imaging mode and the ultrasound probe name as parameters and the transmission / reception direction and transmission / reception channel as units are stored.

  FIG. 15 shows a specific example of transmission / reception control parameters when “B mode” is selected as the imaging mode and “sector scanning probe” is selected as the ultrasound probe 2a. The transmission / reception direction C (m1, m2) (m1 = 1 to m2) of the scanning section S (m2) is performed in parallel by driving the oscillation of 2a and driving the N (N = 4) vibration elements included in the ultrasonic probe 2a. When performing ultrasonic transmission / reception with respect to M1), transmission / reception of transmission aperture, transmission delay time, reception aperture, reception delay time, etc. set for the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3 corresponding to the above-described vibration element Control parameters are stored together with transmission / reception control parameters corresponding to other imaging modes and ultrasonic probes. Since the transmission / reception control parameters in this case do not normally depend on the swinging motion of the ultrasonic probe 2a, the same transmission / reception is performed for different scanning sections S (m2) (m2 = 1 to M2) as shown in FIG. Although it is possible to set control parameters, independent transmission / reception control parameters may be set for each of the transmission / reception directions C (m1, m2) (m1 = 1 to M1, m2 = 1 to M2). .

  On the other hand, the transmission / reception control unit 9a of FIG. 11 includes a parameter storage unit 91a and a parameter R / W control unit 92a.

  The parameter storage unit 91a includes, for example, two buffer memories (a buffer memory 93a and a buffer memory 93b), and the transmission / reception direction from the parameter storage unit 8a according to the first read control signal supplied from the parameter R / W control unit 92a. The transmission / reception control parameters read out in time series in units and transmission / reception channel units are stored (obtained) in the buffer memory.

  The transmission / reception control parameters stored in the parameter storage unit 91a are read according to the second read control signal supplied from the parameter R / W control unit 92a and supplied in parallel to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3. The In this case, information on “transmission aperture” and “transmission delay time” read from the parameter storage unit 91 a is supplied to the transmission unit 31, and information on “reception aperture” and “reception delay time” is supplied to the reception unit 32. Is done.

  On the other hand, the parameter R / W control unit 92a has a function of controlling acquisition of transmission / reception control parameters for the parameter storage unit 8a and parallel supply of the transmission / reception control parameters to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3.

  That is, the parameter R / W control unit 92a stores the transmission / reception control parameters of the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 read from the parameter storage unit 8a in the later-described ultrasonic transmission / reception period in the buffer memory 93a or the buffer memory 93b of the parameter storage unit 91a. And transmission / reception control parameters read from the buffer memory in the parameter supply period described later based on the swing angle information of the ultrasonic probe 2a supplied from the probe position information detection unit 24. Control for parallel supply to the three transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 is performed.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an ultrasound performed on a three-dimensional region in a subject by ultrasonic transmission / reception based on a transmission / reception control parameter supplied from the transmission / reception control unit 9a and a reciprocating swing motion of the ultrasonic probe 2a by the probe moving mechanism 23. The directions of the sound wave transmission / reception and the scanning sections S (1) to S (M2) formed by the ultrasonic wave transmission / reception are shown.

  That is, the vertical axis in FIG. 16A is the elapsed time, and the horizontal axis is the ultrasonic transmission / reception direction determined only by the transmission / reception control parameter (that is, the transmission / reception direction when the ultrasonic probe 2a does not swing) C (1) to C (M1) is shown. In addition, the circles at times t1, t2, t3,... On the vertical axis indicate the transmission / reception directions at the oscillation start time in the CW direction or CCW direction, and the circles indicate the transmission / reception directions at the oscillation end time. ing.

  For example, the oscillation of the ultrasonic probe 2a in the CW direction is performed in the period [t1-t2], the period [t3-t4]..., And the oscillation in the CCW direction is performed in the period [t2-t3] and the period [t4- t5]..., the ultrasonic probe 2a initially arranged at the first inversion angle φ1 is swung in the CW direction so that ultrasonic transmission / reception starting from the mark “t” at time t1 is performed in the scanning section S. Scanning sections S (2) to S (2) to S (1) are performed in the transmission / reception directions C (1, 1) to C (M1, 1) of (1), and are repeated in the period [t1-t2]. The transmission / reception directions C (1, m2) to C (M1, m2) and (m2 = 2 to M2) in (M2) are performed.

  When the swing angle of the ultrasonic probe 2a swinging in the CW direction at time t2 reaches the second inversion angle φ2, the probe moving mechanism 23 changes the swing direction of the ultrasonic probe 2a to CW. From the direction to the CCW direction. At this time, the transmission / reception control unit 9a supplies the transmission / reception control parameters corresponding to the oscillation in the CCW direction to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3, so that the ultrasonic transmission / reception starting from the time mark t2 is performed. This is performed in the transmission / reception directions C (M1, M2) to C (1, M2) of the scanning section Sa (M2), and further, the ultrasonic probe 2a is swung in the CCW direction during the period [t2-t3]. By repeating the same procedure, the transmission / reception directions C (M1, m2) to C (1, m2) and (m2 = M2-1 to 1) of the scanning sections Sa (M2-1) to Sa (1) are obtained. It is done.

  On the other hand, the vertical axis of FIG. 16B is the oscillation angle of the ultrasonic probe 2a, and the horizontal axis is the ultrasonic transmission / reception directions C (1) to C (1) determined only by the transmission / reception control parameters as in FIG. Corresponding to M1), the thick solid line in the figure shows the transition in the transmission / reception direction when the ultrasonic probe 2a swings in the CW direction, and the thin solid line shows the case where the ultrasonic probe 2a swings in the CCW direction The transmission / reception direction transitions are respectively shown.

  However, in FIG. 16, for easy understanding, the scanning section S (m2) (m2 = 1 to M2) formed when the ultrasonic probe 2a is swung in the CW direction and the CCW direction are swung. Although the scanning section Sa (m2) (m2 = 1 to M2) formed in this case is different, the last transmission / reception direction (●) and the CCW direction (at the time of swinging in the CW direction (or CCW direction)) ( Alternatively, the position of the scanning section S (m2) and the scanning section Sa are adjusted by adjusting the swing range Δφ, the transmission / reception control parameter, and the like so that the first transmission / reception direction (）) at the time of swinging in the CW direction) becomes equal. The position of (m2) can be matched.

  Details of acquisition of transmission / reception control parameters performed by the transmission / reception control unit 9a and supply of the transmission / reception control parameters to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3 will be described later.

  Next, the input unit 10a in FIG. 11 includes an input device such as a keyboard, a trackball, a mouse, a selection button, and an input button and a display panel on an operation panel (not shown), and inputs subject information, imaging modes, and ultrasonic waves. Selection of a probe, setting of a first inversion angle φ1 and a second inversion angle φ2, setting of volume data generation conditions, setting of image data generation conditions and image data display conditions, input of various instruction signals, and the like are performed.

  The system control unit 11a includes a CPU and an input information storage unit (not shown), and the above-described various information input / selected / set in the input unit 10a is stored in the input information storage unit. Then, the CPU comprehensively controls each unit of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 200 based on the above-described various information, thereby collecting volume data in a three-dimensional region in the subject and image data based on the volume data. Generation / display of.

  Further, when the swing angle φ of the ultrasonic probe 2a reaches the first inversion angle φ1 or the second inversion angle φ2, the system control unit 11a changes the swing direction of the ultrasonic probe 2a from the CW direction to the CCW direction. Or a moving mechanism control unit (not shown) that generates a swing control signal for reversing from the CCW direction to the CW direction and supplies the obtained swing control signal to the probe moving mechanism unit 23.

  For example, the moving mechanism control unit described above compares the swing angle φ of the ultrasonic probe 2a detected by the probe position information detection unit 24 with the first inversion angle φ1 and the second inversion angle φ2 set in advance. Thus, it is determined whether or not the oscillation angle of the ultrasonic probe 2a has reached the first inversion angle φ1 or the second inversion angle φ2, and the above-described oscillation control signal is generated based on the determination result. To do.

  Next, the transmission / reception control parameter acquisition method and the transmission / reception control parameter supply method for the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3 in this embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 17A shows a scanning start instruction signal input from the input unit 10a, and FIG. 17B shows that the swing angle φ of the ultrasonic probe 2a is the first inversion angle φ1 or the second inversion angle φ2. 17C is read from the parameter storage unit 8a and the parameter storage unit 91a of the transmission / reception control unit 9a is read from the parameter storage unit 8a. FIG. 17D shows image data collected by ultrasonic transmission / reception with respect to the three-dimensional area of the subject using the above-described transmission / reception control parameters.

  FIG. 17C-1 shows the transmission / reception control parameters acquired in the buffer memory 93a of the parameter storage unit 91a, and FIG. 17C-2 shows the acquisition of the buffer memory 93b in the parameter storage unit 91a. The transmission / reception control parameters to be performed are shown. Also, t0 in the figure is the time when the scanning start instruction signal is input at the input unit 10a, t1 is the time when the oscillation of the ultrasonic probe 2a in the CW direction is started according to this scanning start instruction signal, t2 , T4,... Are times when the swing direction of the ultrasonic probe 2a is reversed from the CW direction to the CCW direction based on the swing angle detection result of FIG. 17B, and t3, t5,. The time at which the swing direction of the ultrasonic probe 2a is reversed from the CCW direction to the CW direction based on the swing angle detection result is shown.

  Then, with respect to the ultrasonic probe 2a initially arranged at the first inversion angle φ1, the swing motion in the CW direction in the period [t1-t2], the swing motion in the CCW direction in the period [t2-t3], and the period The swing motion in the CW direction at [t3-t4],... Is repeatedly performed in a predetermined swing angle range Δφ (Δφ = φ2-φ1).

  That is, the parameter R / W control unit 92a of the transmission / reception control unit 9a that has received the scanning start instruction signal from the input unit 10a via the system control unit 11a at time t0 starts to swing the ultrasonic probe 2a in the CW direction. The transmission / reception control parameter P (1) corresponding to the first transmission / reception direction C (1, 1) in the CW direction read from the parameter storage unit 8a in the period [t0-t1] up to time t1 (transmission aperture D11 ( 1), transmission delay time D12 (1), reception aperture D13 (1), and reception delay time D14 (1)) are stored in the buffer memory 93a of the parameter storage unit 91a.

  Next, the parameter R / W control unit 92a receives the above-described transmission / reception control parameter P (1) stored in the buffer memory 93a in the period [t0-t1] and the parameter storage unit 8a in the parameter reading period of the period [t1-t2]. The transmission / reception control parameters P (2) to P (M1) corresponding to the transmission / reception directions C (2, 1) to C (M1, 1) newly temporarily stored in the read buffer memory 93a are transmitted to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3a. Transmission / reception control parameters P (1) to P (1) corresponding to the transmission / reception directions C (1, m2) to C (M1, m2) (m2 = 2 to M2) read from the parameter storage unit 8a in the same manner. M1) is supplied in parallel to the transmission and reception channels CH1 to CH4, so that in the period [t1-t2], the CW direction Collection volume data based on the oscillation of the ultrasonic probe 2a is performed against.

  Further, the parameter R / W control unit 92a transmits / receives the transmission / reception control parameter P (M1, M2) corresponding to the first transmission / reception direction C (M1, M2) in the CCW direction read from the parameter storage unit 8a in the parameter reading period of the period [t1-t2]. M1) is stored in the buffer memory 93b of the parameter storage unit 91a.

  If the swinging direction of the ultrasonic probe 2a reaches the second reversal angle φ2 at time t2 and the swinging direction is reversed from the CW direction to the CCW direction, the parameter R / W control unit 92a The above transmission / reception control parameter P (M1) stored in the buffer memory 93b at [t1-t2] and the transmission / reception temporarily stored in the buffer memory 93b newly read from the parameter storage unit 8a in the parameter reading period of the period [t2-t3] The transmission / reception control parameters P (M1-1) to P (1) corresponding to the directions C (M1-1, M2) to C (1, M2) are supplied in parallel to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3a. The transmission / reception directions C (M1, m2) to C (1, m2) (m2 = M2-1) read from the parameter storage unit 8a By transmitting the transmission / reception control parameters P (M1) to P (1) corresponding to 1) to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 in parallel, the period [t2-t3] is based on the oscillation of the ultrasonic probe 2a with respect to the CCW direction. Volume data is collected.

  Further, the parameter R / W control unit 92a transmits / receives the transmission / reception control parameter P corresponding to the first transmission / reception direction C (1, 1) in the CW direction read from the parameter storage unit 8a in the parameter reading period of the period [t2-t3]. (1) is stored in the buffer memory 93a of the parameter storage unit 91a.

  Thereafter, parallel transmission of transmission / reception control parameters to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3 is performed in accordance with the swing direction of the ultrasonic probe 2a after time t3.

  That is, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, the transmission / reception control parameter P (M1) corresponding to the first transmission / reception direction C (M1, M2) in the CCW direction during the oscillation period of the ultrasonic probe 2a with respect to the CW direction. If the oscillation direction of the ultrasonic probe 2a is reversed from the CW direction to the CCW direction, ultrasonic transmission / reception in the transmission / reception direction C (M1, M2) is performed using the previously acquired transmission / reception control parameter P (M1). Do. Similarly, during the oscillation period of the ultrasonic probe 2a with respect to the CCW direction, the transmission / reception control parameter P (1) corresponding to the first transmission / reception direction C (1, 1) in the CW direction is acquired, and the oscillation of the ultrasonic probe 2a is acquired. If the moving direction is reversed from the CCW direction to the CW direction, ultrasonic transmission / reception in the transmission / reception direction C (1, 1) is performed using the previously acquired transmission / reception control parameter P (1).

  By applying the transmission / reception control parameter supply method as described above to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 200 having the function of swinging the ultrasonic probe 2a, it is not possible to know in advance the reversal timing of the swing direction. Even when possible, ultrasonic transmission / reception in the first transmission / reception direction immediately after inversion can be performed without delay.

  On the other hand, FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining in more detail the acquisition of transmission / reception control parameters in the period [t0-t2] and the parallel supply of the transmission / reception control parameters to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3.

  That is, FIG. 18A shows the swing angle detection signal of the ultrasonic probe 2a supplied from the probe position information detection unit 24 as in FIG. 17B, and FIG. In the CW transmission / reception directions C (1, m2) to C (M1, m2) (m2 = 1 to M2) read in time series from the storage unit 8a and sequentially stored in the buffer memory 93a of the parameter storage unit 91a. Transmission / reception control parameters P (1) to P (M1) of the corresponding transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 (that is, transmission / reception control parameters P1 (1) to P1 (M1) corresponding to the transmission / reception channel CH1 and transmission / reception control corresponding to the transmission / reception channel CH2 Parameters P2 (1) to P2 (M1), transmission / reception control parameters P3 (1) to P3 (M1) corresponding to transmission / reception channel CH3, and transmission It shows a transmission and reception control parameter corresponding to the signal channel CH4 P4 (1) to P4 (M1)).

  On the other hand, FIG. 18C shows transmission / reception control supplied in parallel to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3 in the ultrasonic transmission / reception in the transmission / reception directions C (1, m2) to C (M1, m2). The parameter supply period and the period of ultrasonic transmission / reception performed based on these transmission / reception control parameters are shown.

  That is, the transmission / reception control parameter P (1) of the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 corresponding to the transmission / reception direction C (1, 1) stored in the parameter storage unit 8a in advance is set to the period [t0 as shown in FIG. -T1] and read out in the parameter reading period Tα and stored in the buffer memory 93a of the parameter storage unit 91a.

  Next, the transmission / reception control parameter P (1) stored in the buffer memory 93a is supplied in parallel to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3 in the first parameter supply period Tβ1 of the period [t1-t2]. Performs ultrasonic transmission / reception based on these transmission / reception control parameters in the transmission / reception direction C (1, 1) in the first ultrasonic transmission / reception period Tγ1 of the period [t1-t2].

  On the other hand, the transmission / reception control parameter P (2) of the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 corresponding to the transmission / reception direction C (2, 1) stored in the parameter storage unit 8a is set within the period of the first ultrasonic transmission / reception period Tγ1. In the parameter reading period Tα1, it is read and stored in the buffer memory 93a of the parameter storage unit 91a.

  In this way, the transmission / reception unit 3 sets the transmission / reception control parameters corresponding to the subsequent ultrasonic transmission / reception read from the parameter storage unit 8a in the transmission / reception period Tγ of the preceding ultrasonic transmission / reception in the parameter supply period set immediately before the ultrasonic transmission / reception. Are transmitted in parallel to the transmission / reception channels, ultrasonic transmission / reception in the transmission / reception directions C (1, 1) to C (M1, M2) is performed, and volume data is generated based on the received signals obtained at this time.

  In FIG. 18, the transmission / reception control parameters are acquired in the period [t0-t2] in which the ultrasonic probe 2a is swung with respect to the CW direction, and the transmission / reception control parameters are supplied in parallel to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3. However, during the period [t2-t3] in which the ultrasonic probe 2a is swung with respect to the CCW direction, acquisition of transmission / reception control parameters and parallel supply to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 are performed by the same procedure.

  As described above, the transmission / reception control parameter corresponding to the subsequent ultrasonic transmission / reception acquired in advance during the preceding ultrasonic transmission / reception period is transmitted to the transmission / reception channel included in the transmission / reception unit 3 in the parameter supply period set immediately before the ultrasonic transmission / reception. By supplying in parallel, the supply period of the transmission / reception control parameters can be shortened.

(Image data generation / display procedure)
Next, image data generation / display procedures in the second embodiment will be described with reference to the time charts shown in FIGS. 17 and 18 and the flowchart of FIG.

  Prior to ultrasonic transmission / reception with respect to the subject, an operator operating the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 200 can swing in a predetermined direction from various ultrasonic probes that can be connected to the transmission / reception unit 3 in the input unit 10a. After selecting the ultrasonic probe 2a having N (N = 4) vibrating elements, imaging is performed by ultrasonic transmission / reception in the transmission / reception direction C (m1, m2) (m1 = 1 to M1, m2 = 1 to M2). A mode (for example, B mode) is selected, and further input of subject information, setting of first inversion angle φ1 and second inversion angle φ2, setting of volume data generation conditions, image data generation conditions, and image data display Set conditions as necessary. The input / selection / setting information is stored in the input information storage unit of the system control unit 11a.

  If the above initial setting is completed, the operator places the ultrasonic probe 2a near the body surface of the subject, and then inputs a scanning start instruction signal at time t0 (step S11 in FIG. 19).

  On the other hand, the parameter R / W control unit 92a of the transmission / reception control unit 9a that has received the scan start instruction signal from the input unit 10a via the system control unit 11a is read from the input information storage unit of the system control unit 11a. A first readout control signal is generated based on the imaging mode and the selection information of the ultrasonic probe. Then, the parameter storage unit 91a of the transmission / reception control unit 9a transmits / receives data read out in time series from the parameter storage unit 8a in the parameter read period Tα of the period [t0-t1] based on the first read control signal. The transmission / reception control parameter P (1) of the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 corresponding to the direction C (1, 1) is stored (obtained) in its own buffer memory 93a (step S12 in FIG. 19).

  Next, at time t1 when a predetermined time has elapsed from time t0, the probe moving mechanism unit 23 is initially arranged at the first inversion angle φ1 based on the swing control signal supplied from the moving mechanism control unit of the system control unit 11a. Then, the oscillation of the ultrasonic probe 2a in the CW direction is started (step S13 in FIG. 19).

  On the other hand, the parameter R / W control unit 92a is set in a period [t1-t2] until time t2 when the swing angle of the ultrasonic probe 2a swinging in the CW direction reaches the second inversion angle φ2. In the first parameter supply period Tβ1, the transmission / reception control parameter P1 (1) read from the buffer memory 93a is supplied in parallel to the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 of the transmission / reception unit 3. Each of the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 performs ultrasonic transmission / reception based on the transmission / reception control parameter P1 (1) in the transmission / reception direction C (1) in the first ultrasonic transmission / reception period Tγ1 subsequent to the first parameter supply period Tβ1. 1).

  On the other hand, the parameter R / W control unit 92a sets the transmission / reception control parameter P (2) of the transmission / reception channels CH1 to CH4 corresponding to the transmission / reception direction C (2, 1) stored in the parameter storage unit 8a in advance to the first super-value. The data is read out in the parameter reading period Tα1 set within the period of the sound wave transmission / reception period Tγ1, and stored in the buffer memory 93a of the parameter storage unit 91a.

  Next, the parameter R / W control unit 92a repeats the same procedure as described above to acquire the transmission / reception control parameters in the second parameter reading period Tα2 to the M1th parameter reading period TαM1 in the period [t1-t2], The parallel transmission of the transmission / reception control parameters to the transmission / reception unit 3 in the second parameter supply period Tβ2 to the M1th parameter supply period TβM1, and further, the transmission / reception direction C (m1,1) (m1 = 2 to The B-mode data generated by the reception signal processing unit 4a based on the reception signal obtained at this time is subjected to ultrasonic transmission / reception with respect to M1), and the volume data generation unit of the image data generation unit 5a with the above transmission / reception direction as supplementary information. 54 is stored in the ultrasonic data storage unit 541 (see FIG. 19). Step S14).

  Further, in the period [t1-t2] until the swing angle of the ultrasonic probe 2a with respect to the CW direction reaches the second inversion angle φ2, the above-described step S14 is repeated while swinging the ultrasonic probe 2a. The B-mode data in the transmission / reception direction C (m1, m2) (m1 = 1 to M1, m2 = 2 to M2) obtained together with the B-mode data in the transmission / reception direction C (m1, 1) (m1 = 1 to M1) It is stored in the ultrasonic data storage unit 541.

  On the other hand, the parameter R / W control unit 92a sets the transmission / reception control parameter P (M1) corresponding to the first transmission / reception direction C (M1, M2) in the CCW direction read from the parameter storage unit 8a in the period [t1-t2]. The data is stored in the buffer memory 93b of the storage unit 91a (step S15 in FIG. 19).

  If the swing angle of the ultrasonic probe 2a that has swung with respect to the CW direction reaches the second reversal angle φ2, the movement mechanism control unit of the system control unit 11a generates a swing control signal. The probe moving mechanism unit 23 that has received this swing control signal reverses the swing direction of the ultrasonic probe 2a from the CW direction to the CCW direction (step S16 in FIG. 19).

  Next, the parameter R / W control unit 92a is the same as step S14 described above in the period [t2-t3] until time t3 when the swing angle of the ultrasonic probe 2a with respect to the CCW direction reaches the first inversion angle φ1. By repeating this procedure, the transmission / reception control parameters in the first parameter readout period Tα1 to the M1th parameter readout period TαM1 and the transmission / reception control parameters in the first parameter supply period Tβ1 to the M1th parameter supply period TβM1 are obtained. Parallel transmission to the transmission / reception unit 3 is performed, and ultrasonic transmission / reception in the transmission / reception direction C (m1, m2) (m1 = M1 to 1, m2 = M2 to 1) based on the transmission / reception control parameter is performed. It is performed in the period Tγ1 to the M1th ultrasonic transmission / reception period TγM1. The B-mode data generated by the reception signal processing unit 4a based on the reception signal obtained at this time is an ultrasonic data storage provided in the volume data generation unit 54 of the image data generation unit 5a with the above-described transmission / reception direction as supplementary information. The data is stored in the unit 541 (step S17 in FIG. 19).

  On the other hand, the parameter R / W control unit 92a sets the transmission / reception control parameter P (1) corresponding to the first transmission / reception direction C (1, 1) in the CW direction read from the parameter storage unit 8a in the period [t2-t3]. The data is stored in the buffer memory 93a of the storage unit 91a (step S18 in FIG. 19).

  Hereinafter, the ultrasonic waves in the CW direction and the CCW direction based on the comparison result between the swing angle of the ultrasonic probe 2a by the probe position information detection unit 24 and the first inversion angle φ1 or the second inversion angle φ2 set in advance. By repeating the swinging of the probe 2a, B-mode data in a three-dimensional region within the subject is collected (steps S13 to S18 in FIG. 19).

  On the other hand, the interpolation processing unit 542 included in the volume data generation unit 54 of the image data generation unit 5a transmits the B-mode data stored in the ultrasonic data storage unit 541 in the transmission / reception direction during the CW direction swing and the CCW direction swing. 3D B-mode data is formed by arranging them in correspondence with each other, and volume data composed of isotropic voxels is generated by interpolating the non-uniformly spaced voxels constituting the 3D B-mode data. (Step S19 in FIG. 19).

  Then, the volume data processing unit 55 of the image data generation unit 5a generates, for example, three-dimensional image data such as volume rendering image data and surface rendering image data by rendering the volume data supplied from the volume data generation unit 54. (Step S20 in FIG. 19).

  According to the second embodiment of the present disclosure described above, when transmitting / receiving ultrasonic waves to / from a subject and collecting time-series image data, various transmission / reception control parameters set in advance in units of ultrasonic transmission / reception directions. Is efficiently supplied to a plurality of transmission / reception channels included in the transmission / reception unit, so that image data with excellent time resolution can be collected.

  In particular, the transmission / reception control parameters set in advance in the transmission / reception direction unit of the ultrasonic wave and the channel unit of the transmission / reception unit and stored in the parameter storage unit are supplied in parallel to the transmission / reception channel of the transmission / reception unit corresponding to each of the plurality of vibration elements. When collecting volume data in a three-dimensional region in the subject by reciprocatingly swinging the ultrasonic probe having the vibration element in the first direction and the second direction, the ultrasonic probe is moved in the first direction. The transmission / reception control parameter corresponding to the first transmission / reception direction in the swing in the second direction is acquired in advance in parallel with the ultrasonic transmission / reception performed while swinging to the first direction, and the swing direction of the ultrasonic probe is changed from the first direction to the first direction. In the case of reversing in the direction of 2, using the above transmission / reception control parameter acquired during the swing in the first direction, the first in the swing in the second direction By performing ultrasonic transmission / reception in the transmission / reception direction, it is possible to perform ultrasonic transmission / reception in the first transmission / reception direction immediately after inversion without delay, even when it is impossible to know the inversion timing in the oscillation direction in advance. It becomes.

  In addition, the transmission / reception control parameters necessary for the subsequent ultrasonic transmission / reception read out in time series from the parameter storage unit in parallel with the previous ultrasonic transmission / reception are temporarily stored in the parameter storage unit, and then the parameters for the subsequent ultrasonic transmission / reception are supplied. During the period, the above transmission / reception control parameters stored in the parameter storage unit are supplied in parallel to the transmission / reception channel of the transmission / reception unit, so that the time required to supply the transmission / reception control parameters is greatly reduced, and image data excellent in time resolution is obtained. Can be collected.

  As mentioned above, although 1st Embodiment and 2nd Embodiment of this indication were described, this indication is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, It can change and implement. For example, in the first embodiment and the second embodiment described above, the sector-scanning ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 (N = N = 4) using N (N = 4) vibration elements as a transmission vibration element and a reception vibration element ( 200), an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus to which another scanning method such as a convex scanning method or a linear scanning method is applied may be used. However, in the ultrasonic scanning apparatus of the convex scanning method or the linear scanning method, information on the transmitting element position and the receiving element position for determining the positions of the transmitting vibration element and the receiving vibration element is added as new transmission / reception control parameters.

  In addition, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 (200) in which the transmission element position and the reception element position, the transmission aperture, the transmission delay time, the reception aperture, and the reception delay time described above are used as the transmission / reception control parameters has been described. For example, information such as transmission weighting and reception weighting (that is, sensitivity distribution of transmission and reception channels at the time of transmission and reception) may be included.

  Further, when transmission / reception control parameters necessary for subsequent ultrasonic transmission / reception are read out in time series from the parameter storage unit 8 (8a) and temporarily stored in the parameter storage unit 91 (91a) within the transmission / reception period of the preceding ultrasonic transmission / reception. However, the reading of transmission / reception control parameters in the parameter storage unit 8 (8a) is not limited to the transmission / reception period of the preceding ultrasonic transmission / reception. In particular, when it is possible to simultaneously read out the previous transmission / reception control parameter and save (acquire) the subsequent transmission / reception control parameter in the parameter storage unit 91 (91a), the transmission / reception control parameter in the parameter storage unit 8 (8a). May be read within the parameter supply period of the ultrasonic transmission / reception preceding.

  Moreover, although the transmission / reception control unit 9 (9a) including the parameter storage unit 91 (91a) has been described, the parameter storage unit 91 (91a) may be included in another unit, and exists as an independent unit. May be.

  Furthermore, in the first embodiment and the second embodiment described above, the case where the transmission / reception control parameters set in units of channels are supplied in parallel to the transmission / reception channels of the transmission / reception unit 3 has been described. However, as shown in FIG. The transmission / reception control parameters corresponding to the transmission / reception channels (for example, transmission / reception channel CH1 and transmission / reception channel CH2) may be collectively supplied.

  Moreover, although the case where the transmission / reception control parameters such as the frame rate and the maximum visual field depth are supplied to the transmission unit 31 via the parameter storage unit 91 (91a) has been described, these transmission / reception control parameters having no difference between the transmission / reception channels are as follows. Alternatively, other units such as the system control unit 11 (11a) may be used.

  Further, the transmission / reception control parameters may be packetized and supplied to the transmission / reception channel of the transmission / reception unit 3. By packetizing transmission / reception control parameters whose data size varies depending on the shooting mode, transmission / reception direction, etc., it is possible to grasp the minimum required data size in the transmission / reception direction, and the data size supplied to each transmission / reception channel It is possible to further shorten the parameter supply period by minimizing.

  Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the case where the B mode, the color Doppler mode, and the spectrum Doppler mode are set as the shooting mode is described. In the second embodiment, the case where the B mode is set as the shooting mode is described. May be one or a plurality of shooting modes selected from the above-described shooting modes.

  On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the transmission / reception control parameter corresponding to the first transmission / reception direction in the CCW direction is acquired during the oscillation period of the ultrasonic probe 2a in the CW direction, and the CW direction is acquired during the oscillation period in the CCW direction. Although the case where the transmission / reception control parameter corresponding to the first transmission / reception direction is acquired has been described, these transmission / reception acquired in advance, for example, in a period [t0-t1] until the reciprocating swing motion of the ultrasonic probe 2a is started. Control parameters may be used repeatedly.

  Further, in the second embodiment, a case has been described in which volume data in a three-dimensional region in a subject is generated based on a reception signal obtained by swinging the ultrasonic probe in the CW direction and swinging in the CCW direction. However, the volume data corresponding to the CW direction and the volume data corresponding to the CCW direction may be generated independently.

  Furthermore, the case where three-dimensional image data such as volume rendering image data and surface rendering image data is generated based on volume data obtained by swinging in the CW direction and the CCW direction has been described. It may be two-dimensional image data such as MPR image data or MIP image data in a desired slice section.

  Note that each unit included in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 (200) of the present embodiment is realized by using, for example, a computer including a CPU, a RAM, a magnetic storage device, an input device, a display device, and the like as hardware. can do. For example, the system control unit 11 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 or the system control unit 11a of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 200 realizes various functions by causing a processor such as a CPU mounted on the computer to execute a predetermined control program. can do. In this case, the above-described control program may be installed in advance in the computer, or may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or installed in the computer of the control program distributed via the network. .

  As mentioned above, although some embodiment of this indication was described, these embodiment was shown as an example and is not intending limiting the range of invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof.

2, 2a ... ultrasonic probe 23 ... probe moving mechanism 24 ... probe position information detection unit 3 ... transmission / reception unit 31 ... transmission unit 32 ... reception unit 4, 4a ... reception signal processing unit 41 ... B-mode data generation unit 42 ... Doppler signal Detection unit 43 ... color Doppler data generation unit 44 ... spectrum data generation unit 5, 5a ... image data generation unit 6 ... display data generation unit 7 ... display unit 8, 8a ... parameter storage unit 9, 9a ... transmission / reception control units 91, 91a ... parameter storage units 92, 92a ... parameter R / W control units 93a, 93b ... buffer memories 10, 10a ... input units 11, 11a ... system control units 100, 200 ... ultrasound diagnostic apparatus

Claims (9)

An ultrasonic probe having a plurality of vibration elements for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves to and from a subject;
Transmission / reception means having a plurality of transmission / reception channels for supplying a driving signal to the vibration element and performing phasing addition of a reception signal obtained from the vibration element;
Image data generating means for generating image data based on the received signal;
Parameter storage means for storing various transmission / reception control parameters set in advance in transmission / reception direction units and transmission / reception channel units for the purpose of controlling the ultrasonic transmission / reception;
Parameter storage means for storing transmission / reception control parameters necessary for ultrasonic transmission / reception in a predetermined direction selected from the transmission / reception control parameters stored in the parameter storage means in units of transmission / reception channels;
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising: transmission / reception control means for supplying in parallel the transmission / reception control parameters stored by the parameter storage means to the plurality of transmission / reception channels included in the transmission / reception means.   The parameter storage unit stores the transmission / reception control parameters necessary for subsequent ultrasonic transmission / reception read out in time series in a parameter supply period or ultrasonic transmission / reception period of the preceding ultrasonic transmission / reception. Item 2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to Item 1.   The transmission / reception control means is configured to transmit at least one of a transmission aperture, a reception aperture, a transmission delay time, a reception delay time, a transmission element position, a reception element position, transmission weighting, and reception weighting in parallel to the plurality of transmission / reception channels as the transmission / reception control parameter. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is supplied.   2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmission / reception control means includes means for packetizing the transmission / reception control parameters, and supplies the packetized transmission / reception control parameters to the plurality of transmission / reception channels in parallel.   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the parameter storage unit stores the transmission / reception control parameter having at least one of an imaging mode and an ultrasonic probe as incidental information in a transmission / reception direction unit and a transmission / reception channel unit. .   Probe moving means for reciprocally swinging the ultrasonic probe with respect to the first direction and the second direction is provided, and the swinging direction of the ultrasonic probe is reversed from the first direction to the second direction. In this case, the transmission / reception control unit supplies the transmission / reception control parameters corresponding to the first transmission / reception direction in the second direction acquired in advance from the parameter storage unit to the plurality of transmission / reception channels in parallel. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to 1.   The transmission / reception control means transmits a transmission / reception control parameter corresponding to an initial transmission / reception direction of the second direction acquired from the parameter storage means during the swing of the ultrasonic probe in the first direction to the plurality of transmission / reception channels. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is supplied in parallel.   Probe position information detection means for detecting a swing angle of the ultrasonic probe is provided, and the transmission / reception control means corresponds to the first transmission / reception direction of the second direction based on the detection result of the probe position information detection means. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 6, wherein transmission / reception control parameters to be transmitted are supplied in parallel to the plurality of transmission / reception channels. A control program for controlling an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that generates image data based on a reception signal obtained by ultrasonic transmission / reception with respect to a subject,
On the computer,
A transmission / reception function that has a plurality of transmission / reception channels and supplies a driving signal to the vibration element of the ultrasonic probe and performs phasing addition of the reception signal obtained from the vibration element;
An image data generation function for generating image data based on the received signal;
The transmission / reception control parameters necessary for ultrasonic transmission / reception in a predetermined direction selected from transmission / reception channel units among various transmission / reception control parameters set in advance for transmission / reception direction units and transmission / reception channel units for the purpose of the ultrasonic transmission / reception control are stored. Parameter storage function to
A transmission / reception control function for supplying the stored transmission / reception control parameters to the plurality of transmission / reception channels in parallel;
Control program for realizing .

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