JP5261033B2 - Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and image output processing apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and an image output processor in which an output operation can be reduced. <P>SOLUTION: An image data generating part 15 drives an ultrasonic probe 11 to generate image data, based on a reception signal from a transmitting/receiving part 12 for scanning a reagent P with ultrasonic wave. On the basis of information on print size set on a print processing condition setting picture 43, the division print data generating part 33 of an image output processing part 3 generates, from the image data generated by the image data generating part 15, division print data with a printable size in the partial or whole area of a print area 330a to which the above generated image data is output by printing. A print data allocating part 36 allocates the division print data to a print region 330 corresponding to the print area 330a to generate allocation print data. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and an image output processing apparatus that image and diagnose the inside of a subject with ultrasonic waves, and more particularly to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and an image processing apparatus that display and print imaged image data.

  An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus transmits an ultrasonic wave into a subject using an ultrasonic probe, and converts a reflected wave generated by a difference in acoustic impedance of a tissue in the subject into an electric signal. Then, by simply bringing the ultrasound probe into contact with the body surface of the subject, image data of the scanned region of the ultrasound scanned in the subject can be displayed in real time on the display unit, so that the heart, blood vessel, abdomen, Widely used for diagnosis and treatment of various organs such as urinary organs.

  In this ultrasonic inspection, various applications are executed, and when image data useful for diagnosis is displayed, the image data is printed out. For example, in the examination of the heart or the like, a plurality of two-dimensional or three-dimensional image data are printed in order to observe the change of the affected part over time. Recently, for efficient printing, it is possible to perform frame-by-frame printing that prints multiple frames of image data on a single print sheet, and frame-by-frame printing is performed when image data of a predetermined number of frames is obtained. It can be done.

By the way, an apparatus that can display a plurality of reduced image data side by side in a multi-view manner is known depending on an application (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2007-319540 A

  However, when image data displayed in multi-view is divided into frames and printed, the reduced image data included in the image data is too small to be diagnosed, and thus an operation for changing the print layout is required before printing. For this reason, there is a problem that the work becomes complicated and the inspection takes time.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and an image output processing apparatus that can reduce an output operation.

In order to solve the above problem, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention includes an ultrasonic probe that transmits / receives ultrasonic waves to / from a subject, and the subject by driving the ultrasonic probe. use in transmitting and receiving means for scanning the ultrasonic wave based on the received signal from said transmitting and receiving means, among the plurality of applications, an image data generation means for generating image data corresponding to at least one, the generation of the image data Output processing condition setting means for setting the output size of the image data based on the type of the application that has been generated, and generated by the image data generation means based on the output size information set by the output processing condition setting means Output data that generates output data of a size that can be output to a part or all of the output area that outputs the image data from the image data. A generation unit, characterized in that the output data generated by the output data generating means and an output data allocation means for generating allocation output data are allocated to the output area corresponding to the output area.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image output processing apparatus according to the present invention , wherein the image data input means inputs image data generated according to at least one of a plurality of applications, and is used to generate the image data. Output processing condition setting means for setting the output size of the image data based on the type of application, and the image generated by the image data generation means based on the output size information set by the output processing condition setting means Output data generating means for generating output data of a size that can be output to a part or all of the output area for outputting the image data from the data, and the output data generated by the output data generating means for the output area Output data allocating means for allocating to output areas corresponding to To.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to perform frame-by-frame output with a size capable of diagnosing the image data of each frame, the output operation for outputting the image data can be reduced, and the inspection can be performed quickly.

  Examples of the present invention will be described.

  Embodiments of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 is generated by the imaging unit 1 that generates image data by scanning the subject P with ultrasound, the biological signal measurement unit 2 that detects the biological signal of the subject P, and the imaging unit 1. Generation of frame layout print data that enables frame printing by the printing apparatus 105 and generation of frame layout display data that enables frame display by the display apparatus 110, generated by the imaging unit 1. And an image output processing unit 3 for generating print data for printing one image data and generating display data for display.

  The output unit 4 includes a printing unit 41 that prints print data generated by the image output processing unit 3, a display unit 42 that displays display data generated by the image output processing unit 3, and the image output processing unit 3. An interface 5 that transmits the generated frame print data and frame display data to the printing apparatus 105 and the display apparatus 110 via the network 120 is provided.

  Furthermore, setting of print processing conditions for generating the frame layout print data to be printed by the printing apparatus 105 by the image output processing unit 3, and generating the frame layout display data to be displayed by the display device 110 by the image output processing unit 3. An operation unit 8 that performs setting of display processing conditions, operation of an application for examining the subject P, and the like, and a system control unit 9 that performs overall control of each unit described above are provided.

  The imaging unit 1 includes an ultrasonic probe 11 that transmits / receives an ultrasonic wave to / from the subject P, a transmission / reception unit 12 that transmits an ultrasonic drive signal and a reflected signal to the ultrasonic probe 11, And an image data generation unit 15 that processes the reception signal obtained from the unit 12 to generate image data.

  The ultrasonic probe 11 is for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves by bringing its tip surface into contact with the body surface of the subject P, and has, for example, a plurality (N) of piezoelectric vibrators arranged two-dimensionally. doing. This piezoelectric vibrator converts an electric pulse (ultrasonic drive signal) into an ultrasonic pulse (transmitted ultrasonic wave) at the time of transmission, and electrically converts an ultrasonic reflected wave (received ultrasonic wave) from the subject P at the time of reception. It has a function of converting into a signal (ultrasound reception signal).

  The transmission / reception unit 12 generates a plurality of channels (N channels) obtained from a transmission unit 13 that generates an ultrasonic drive signal for scanning the subject P with ultrasonic waves in two-dimensional or three-dimensional directions, and a piezoelectric vibrator of the ultrasonic probe 11. And a receiving unit 14 for performing phasing addition on the ultrasonic reception signal.

  The transmission unit 13 generates a rate pulse that determines a repetition period (Tr) of the ultrasonic pulse emitted to the subject P, and a focusing delay time for focusing the ultrasonic wave transmitted to a predetermined depth; A deflection delay time for transmitting ultrasonic waves in a predetermined scanning direction is given to the rate pulse. Thereafter, the N piezoelectric vibrators built in the ultrasonic probe 11 are driven to generate an ultrasonic drive pulse for scanning the subject P with a transmission ultrasonic wave and output it to the ultrasonic probe 11.

  The receiving unit 14 amplifies a minute ultrasonic reception signal output from the ultrasonic probe 11 to ensure a sufficient S / N, and receives a reception ultrasonic wave from a predetermined depth with respect to the ultrasonic reception signal. A focusing delay time for obtaining a narrow received beam width by focusing and a deflection delay time for setting the reception directivity of the ultrasonic wave are given. Thereafter, the N-channel ultrasonic reception signals from the piezoelectric vibrator are phased and added, and are combined into one and output to the image data generation unit 15.

  The image data generation unit 15 includes a B-mode data generation unit 16 that generates B-mode data from the phasing-added signal output from the reception unit 14 of the transmission / reception unit 12, and Doppler data generation that generates Doppler data from the signal. Unit 17, data storage unit 18 that sequentially stores data such as B-mode data generated by B-mode data generation unit 16 and Doppler data generated by Doppler data generation unit 17, and each data from data storage unit 18 And a data processing unit 19 that generates image data such as B-mode image data and Doppler image data.

  The B-mode data generation unit 16 performs envelope detection on the phase-added signal output from the reception unit 14 and then performs logarithmic conversion. Then, the logarithmically converted signal is converted into a digital signal to generate B-mode data and output to the data storage unit 18.

  The Doppler data generation unit 17 detects the Doppler shift frequency from the phase-added signal output from the reception unit 14 and converts it to a digital signal, and then extracts only blood flow information, and the extracted Doppler signal Autocorrelation processing is performed on. Then, based on the autocorrelation processing result, an average blood flow velocity value, a variance value, and the like are calculated to generate Doppler data, which is output to the data storage unit 18.

  The data processing unit 19 reads data such as B-mode data and Doppler data stored in the data storage unit 18. Next, each read data of the two-dimensional scanning region is scan-converted to generate two-dimensional image data such as B-mode image data and Doppler image data. Further, the read three-dimensional scanning area data is scan-converted to generate three-dimensional image data. Further, analysis is performed based on analysis conditions such as velocity image analysis, velocity change inclination analysis, strain analysis, and displacement image analysis using each read data. Further, the generated 2D image data or 3D image data and the analysis data are combined to generate combined data.

  In addition, first reduced image data obtained by reducing the first image data such as the generated two-dimensional image data, three-dimensional image data, analysis data, and composite data is generated, and the generated at least one first reduced image data is generated. To generate second image data. Further, second reduced image data obtained by reducing the first image data to a size smaller than the first reduced image data is generated, and third image data including the generated second reduced image data is generated. Then, the generated first to third image data are output to the image output processing unit 3.

  The biological signal measuring unit 2 detects a biological signal such as an electrocardiographic waveform (ECG) of the subject P, converts the detection signal output from the sensor 21 into a digital signal, performs processing, and performs biological information. The signal processing unit 22 for generating the biometric information is output, and the generated biological information is output to the system control unit 9.

  The image output processing unit 3 is a divided print data generation unit that generates frame print data for printing each image data generated by the data processing unit 19 of the image data generation unit 15 in the imaging unit 1 by the printing apparatus 105. 33, a print data allocation unit 36 having a print memory 35, a display data allocation unit 38 having a divided display data generation unit 34 and a display memory 37 for generating frame layout display data to be displayed on the display device 110, and an output unit. 4 includes a print data generation unit 31 for generating print output data to be printed by the printing unit 41 and a display data generation unit 32 for generating display output data to be displayed by the display unit 42.

  FIG. 2 shows a print area for storing frame print data in the print memory 35, and a print area for print paper on which frame print data is printed by the printing unit 41 and the printing apparatus 105 of the output unit 4 corresponding to the print area. FIG. The print area 330 is equally divided into four in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction based on, for example, “16 divisions”, which is the number of print area divisions included in the print processing conditions set from the operation unit 8. 16 divided regions 331 to 346 divided into 16 parts. The print area 330 a is divided into divided areas 331 a to 346 a corresponding to the divided areas 331 to 346 of the print area 330.

  The divided print data generation unit 33 in FIG. 1 uses one frame of a size that can print this image data from a part of the print area 330a or all the divided areas from each image data output from the data processing unit 19. The divided print data is generated. Then, the generated divided print data is output to the print data assigning unit 36.

  The print data allocating unit 36 allocates the divided print data output from the divided print data generation unit 33 to a part of the print area 330 or all of the divided areas in the print memory 35 to divide and print one or more frames. Frame layout print data (allocation print data) composed of data is generated. Then, the generated layout print data is output to the interface 5.

  Here, the divided print data output from the divided print data generation unit 33 is allocated to a blank area in the print area 330 to which the divided print data is not allocated so as to reduce this blank area. The layout print data constituted by the divided print data assigned before is generated, or the layout print data constituted by the divided print data assigned to the print area 330 having no blank area is generated.

  FIG. 3 shows a display area for storing frame division display data in the display memory 37, and a screen on which the frame division display data of the display unit 42 of the output unit 4 and the display unit 110 corresponding to the display area is displayed. It is the figure which showed the display area. The display area 350 is equally divided into four in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction based on, for example, “16 divisions”, which is the display area division number included in the display processing conditions set from the operation unit 8. 16 divided regions 351 to 366 divided into 16 parts. The display area 350 a is divided into divided areas 351 a to 366 a corresponding to the divided areas 351 to 366 of the display area 350.

  The divided display data generation unit 34 in FIG. 1 uses one frame of a size that can display this image data in some or all of the divided areas of the display area 350a from each image data output from the data processing unit 19. Generate split display data. Then, the generated divided display data is output to the display data allocation unit 38.

  The display data allocating unit 38 allocates the divided display data output from the divided display data generating unit 34 to a part of the display area 350 or all of the divided areas in the display memory 37 to divide and display one frame or a plurality of frames. Frame layout display data (allocation display data) composed of data is generated. Then, the generated allocation display data is output to the interface 5.

  Here, the divided display data output from the divided display data generation unit 34 is allocated to a blank area of the display area 350 to which the divided display data is not allocated so as to reduce the blank area. Assigned display data constituted by divided display data assigned before is generated, or assigned display data constituted by divided display data assigned to the display area 350 having no blank area.

  The print data generation unit 31 generates print data having a size capable of printing the image data in all the divided areas of the print area 330a from each image data output from the data processing unit 19, and outputs the generated print data. The data is output to the printing unit 41 of the unit 4.

  Here, first print data is generated from the first image data output from the data processing unit 19. Also, second print data is generated from the second image data output from the data processing unit 19. Further, third print data is generated from the third image data output from the data processing unit 19.

  The display data generation unit 32 generates display data having a size capable of displaying the image data in all the divided areas of the display area 350a from each image data output from the data processing unit 19, and outputs the generated display data. The data is output to the display unit 42 of the unit 4.

  Here, first display data is generated from the first image data output from the data processing unit 19. Further, second display data is generated from the second image data output from the data processing unit 19. Further, third display data is generated from the third image data output from the data processing unit 19.

  The output unit 4 includes a printing unit 41 that prints out the first to third print data generated by the print data generation unit 31 of the image output processing unit 3, and a display data generation unit 32 of the image output processing unit 3. And a display unit 42 that displays and outputs each of the generated first to third display data. The printing unit 41 includes a printer or the like, and prints each of the first to third print data output from the print data generation unit 31 in all the divided areas of the print area 330a on the printing paper.

  The display unit 42 includes a CRT, a liquid crystal panel, etc., and displays the first to third display data output from the display data generation unit 32 in all the divided areas of the display area 350a. Also, a print processing condition setting screen for setting print processing conditions and a display processing condition setting screen for setting display processing conditions are displayed.

  The interface 5 transmits the layout print data output from the print data allocation unit 36 of the image output processing unit 3 to the printing apparatus 105 via the network 120. In addition, the allocation display data output from the display data allocation unit 38 of the image output processing unit 3 is transmitted to the display device 110 via the network 120.

  The printing apparatus 105 prints each layout print data received from the interface 5 received via the network 120 in all the divided areas of the print area 330a on one print sheet. Further, the display device 110 displays each assigned display data received from the interface 5 via the network 120 in all the divided areas of the display area 350a in the display unit.

  The operation unit 8 includes input devices such as various switches, a keyboard, a trackball, and a mouse on the operation panel. An operation for setting subject information such as an ID for identifying the subject P and a name, an application operation for generating various image data, an operation for setting print processing conditions, an operation for setting display processing conditions, etc. When performed, the information input by these setting operations is supplied to the system control unit 9.

  The system control unit 9 includes a CPU and a storage circuit, and stores input information such as subject information, application information, print processing condition information, and display processing condition information supplied from the operation unit 8. Based on the stored input information, each unit of the photographing unit 1, the image output processing unit 3, and the interface 5 is controlled and the entire system is controlled.

  Next, the divided print data generation unit 33 and the print data allocation unit 36 of the image output processing unit 3 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print processing condition setting screen displayed on the display unit 42. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of first image data generated by an application. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of second image data generated by an application. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of third image data generated by the application. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the ultrasonic probe 11 that scans ultrasonic waves in a three-dimensional direction.

  In FIG. 4, the print processing condition setting screen 43 includes a “division” column for setting the number of print area divisions for dividing the print area 330 of the print memory 35 in the print data allocation unit 36, and an application for performing inspection. , And a “size” column for setting a print size for generating divided print data from the image data generated by the image data generating unit 15 of the imaging unit 1 by this application, and printing the divided print data in the print memory 35. It is composed of an “allocation condition” field for setting a split print data allocation condition for allocation to the area 330.

  In addition, a dialog box 44 that displays the number of print area divisions set in the “division” column, dialog boxes 441 to 44N that display N applications set in the “size” column, and each dialog Dialog boxes 451 to 45N that display the print sizes set for the applications displayed in the boxes 441 to 44N, and dialog boxes that display the divided print data assignment conditions set in the “assignment conditions” field. 45.

  Input information such as the number of print area divisions set in each field, the application, the print size of the application, and the print data assignment condition by the print processing condition setting operation from the operation unit 8 is stored in the storage circuit of the system control unit 9. Saved in.

  In the “division” column, “16 divisions” is displayed in the dialog box 44 by an operation from the operation unit 8 for selecting and setting “16 divisions” for dividing the print area 330 into, for example, 16 areas. Note that the minimum unit of the print size of the divided print data generated by the divided print data generation unit 33 is determined by the number of print area divisions set here. Further, the maximum number of frames of divided print data that can be allocated to the print area 330 is determined.

  In the “size” column, for example, “first application layout pattern 1” is displayed in the dialog box 441 by selecting and setting “first application layout pattern 1” from various applications, and “second application layout pattern” is displayed. By the operation of selecting and setting “Pattern 1”, “Second application layout pattern 1” is displayed in the dialog box 442. Further, “third application layout pattern 1” is displayed in the dialog box 443 by the operation of selecting and setting “third application layout pattern 1”, and the dialog box 444 is selected by the operation of selecting and setting “third application layout pattern 2”. “Third application layout pattern 2” is displayed.

  The first application includes “first application layout pattern 1”, “first application layout pattern 2”, and the like classified according to the type of first image data generated by this application.

  The second application includes “second application layout pattern 1” and “second application layout” classified according to the number and type of first reduced image data included in the second image data generated by the application. Pattern 2 "and the like.

  Further, the third application includes “third application layout pattern 1” and “third application layout” classified according to the number and type of second reduced image data included in the third image data generated by the application. Pattern 2 "and the like.

  A print size for printing out each image data generated by each application set in the “size” column by the printing apparatus 105 is selected and set. The divided print data generation unit 33 generates divided print data based on the print size information of the print processing conditions supplied from the system control unit 9. When the print size is, for example, “1/16 division”, first divided print data having a size that can be printed in each of the divided areas 331a to 346a of the print area 330a is generated. When the print size is “¼ division”, the second divided print data having a size that can be printed in four divided areas adjacent in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction among the divided areas 331a to 346a. Generate. Further, when the print size is “1/1 division”, third divided print data having a size that can be printed in the 16 divided areas 331a to 346a is generated.

  Here, when each image data is printed by the printing apparatus 105, a print size that becomes, for example, the smallest size within a diagnosable range is selected. When the first image data generated by the “first application layout pattern 1” can be diagnosed by printing, for example, in one divided area of the print area 330a, “1/16 division” is selected and set. By this operation, “1/16 division” is displayed in each dialog box 451.

  When the second image data generated by the “second application layout pattern 1” is printed in one divided area of the print area 330a, the first reduced image data included in the second image data is reduced. When the print area 330a is printed in, for example, four divided areas adjacent to each other in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction, the diagnosis can be performed from the first reduced image data. In this case, “1/4 division” is displayed in each dialog box 452 by selecting and setting “1/4 division”.

  Furthermore, when the third image data generated by the “third application layout pattern 1” and the “third application layout pattern 2” is printed in a partial area of the print area 330a, the third image data is converted into the third image data. The included second reduced image data is small and cannot be diagnosed. When printing is performed in all the divided areas of the print area 330a, diagnosis can be performed from the printed second reduced image data. In this case, “1/1 division” is displayed in the dialog boxes 453 and 454 by the operation of selecting and setting “1/1 division”.

  Furthermore, for example, the dialog box 44N in which the application and the print size are not set and the dialog box 45N corresponding to the dialog box 44N are blank.

  The “generation order assignment” selected in the dialog box 45 is displayed in the “assignment condition” column by selecting and setting “generation order assignment” to be assigned to the print area 330 in the order in which each divided print data is generated. . By selecting and setting “valid assignment” for assigning the divided print data to the print area 330 in any order, the “valid assignment” is displayed, and the generated order and generation time are assigned to the divided print data. “Effective assignment with time” is displayed by selecting and setting “Effective assignment with time” assigned under the same assignment condition as “Valid assignment”.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of first image data generated by “first application layout pattern 1” set in the “size” column of the print processing condition setting screen 43 in FIG. The first image data 50 is generated based on the scanning of ultrasonic waves in the two-dimensional direction in the subject P by an application operation from the operation unit 8 that executes the “first application layout pattern 1”. 15 is formed by B-mode image data including, for example, the heart region of the subject P.

  When the layout print operation is performed from the operation unit 8 on the display data of the first image data 50 displayed on the display unit 42, the divided print data generation unit 33 prints supplied from the system control unit 9. Based on the “1/16 division” information set in the “size” column of the processing condition setting screen 43, first divided print data is generated from the first image data 50. The print data allocation unit 36 allocates the first divided print data generated by the divided print data generation unit 33 to one divided area of the blank area where the divided print data of the print area 330 is not allocated.

  As described above, when the first image data 50 that does not include the reduced image data is printed out by the printing apparatus 105, the print size is set to the minimum “1/16 division”, so that “other than 1/1 division” is set. The divided print data of a plurality of frames whose print size can be diagnosed can be assigned to the print area 330.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of second image data generated by “second application layout pattern 1” set in the “size” column of the print processing condition setting screen 43 in FIG. The second image data 51 is generated by the image data generation unit 15 in the imaging unit 1 by an application operation from the operation unit 8 that executes the “second application layout pattern 1”.

  The second image data 51 represents, for example, first reduced image data 511 obtained by reducing the first image data 50 in FIG. 5, and a two-dimensional distribution of tissue distortion in the scanning region of the first reduced image data 511. Distorted image data 512, a graph 513 representing the temporal change in the strain rate of the region of interest designated in the first image data 50, and an image representing the distortion for each region obtained by dividing the myocardial region extracted from the first image data 50 It is composed of data 514.

  When the layout print operation is performed from the operation unit 8 on the display data of the second image data 51 displayed on the display unit 42, the divided print data generation unit 33 prints supplied from the system control unit 9. Based on the “1/4 division” information set in the “size” column of the processing condition setting screen 43, second divided print data is generated from the second image data 51. The print data allocating unit 36 allocates the second divided print data generated by the divided print data generating unit 33 to four divided regions adjacent to each other in the vertical and horizontal directions of the blank region in the print region 330.

  As described above, when the printing apparatus 105 prints out the second image data 51 including a plurality of image data such as the first reduced image data 511 and the graph, the print size is set to “¼ division”. As a result, it is possible to allocate a plurality of pieces of divided print data having a print size other than “1/1 division” to the print area 330.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the third image data generated by the “third application layout pattern 1” set in the “size” column of the print processing condition setting screen 43. The third image data 52 is, for example, 16 pieces of B-mode image data generated by the image data generation unit 15 in the imaging unit 1 by an application operation from the operation unit 8 that executes the “third application layout pattern 1”. Are composed of second reduced image data 521 to 536 obtained by reducing.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the second reduced image data 521 to 536 are a multi-view by designating a two-dimensional scanning region for the three-dimensional image data generated by the ultrasonic scanning in the three-dimensional direction. It is generated by the operation to be displayed, and the state of, for example, the heart of the subject P is shown over time.

  Then, when the layout printing operation is performed from the operation unit 8 to the display data of the third image data 52 displayed on the display unit 42, the divided print data generation unit 33 of the image output processing unit 3 performs the system control unit. The third divided print data is generated from the third image data 52 on the basis of the “1/1 division” information set in the “size” column of the print processing condition setting screen 43 supplied from 9. The print data allocation unit 36 generates layout print data composed of one frame of the third split print data generated by the split print data generation unit 33.

  As described above, when the printing apparatus 105 prints out the third image data 52 including the plurality of second reduced image data 521 to 536 smaller than the first reduced image data in FIG. Is set to a print size of "", it is possible to generate allocated image data having a size that can be diagnosed.

Next, the divided display data generation unit 34 and the display data allocation unit 38 of the image output processing unit 3 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display processing condition setting screen displayed on the display unit 42. The display processing condition setting screen 46 includes a “division” field for setting the number of display area divisions for dividing the display area 350 of the display memory 37 in the display data allocating unit 38, an application for performing inspection, and this A “size” column for setting a display size for generating divided display data from each image data generated by the image data generation unit 15 of the imaging unit 1 by an application, and for assigning the divided display data to the display area 350 It is composed of an “allocation condition” column for setting a split display data allocation condition.

  In addition, a dialog box 47 that displays the number of display area divisions set in the “division” column, dialog boxes 471 to 47N that display N applications set in the “size” column, and each dialog Each dialog box 481 to 48N that displays the display size set for the application displayed in the boxes 471 to 47N, and a dialog box that displays the split display data allocation conditions set in the “allocation conditions” column. 48.

  Then, input information such as the number of display area divisions set in each column, the application, the display size of the application, and the display data allocation condition by the display processing condition setting operation from the operation unit 8 is stored in the storage circuit of the system control unit 9 Saved in.

  In the “division” column, “16 divisions” is displayed in the dialog box 47 by an operation from the operation unit 8 for selecting and setting “16 divisions” for dividing the display area 350 into, for example, 16 areas. The minimum unit of the display size of the divided display data generated by the divided display data generation unit 34 is determined by the display area division number set here. Further, the maximum number of frames of divided display data that can be allocated to the display area 350 is determined.

  In the “size” column, for example, “first application layout pattern 1” is displayed in the dialog box 471 by selecting and setting “first application layout pattern 1”, and “second application layout pattern 1” is selected and set. By this operation, “second application layout pattern 1” is displayed in the dialog box 472. Further, “third application layout pattern 1” is displayed in the dialog box 473 by the operation of selecting and setting “third application layout pattern 1”, and the dialog box 474 is selected by the operation of selecting and setting “third application layout pattern 2”. “Third application layout pattern 2” is displayed.

  A display size when each image data generated by each application set in the “size” field is displayed on the display device 110 is selected and set. The divided display data generation unit 34 generates divided display data based on the display size information of the display processing condition supplied from the system control unit 9. When the display size is “1/16 division”, for example, first divided display data having a size that can be displayed in one divided area of the display area 350a is generated. When the display size is “¼ division”, second divided display data having a size that can be displayed in four divided areas adjacent to each other in the vertical and horizontal directions of the display area 350a is generated. Further, when the display size is “1/1 division”, third divided display data having a size that can be displayed in all the divided areas of the display area 350a is generated.

  Here, when each image data is displayed and output on the display device 110, a display size that is, for example, the smallest size within a diagnosable range is selected. When the first image data generated by the “first application layout pattern 1” can be diagnosed by printing, for example, in one divided area 351a to 366a of the display area 350a, “1/16 division” By selecting and setting “”, “1/16 division” is displayed in each dialog box 451.

  Further, when the second image data generated by the “second application layout pattern 1” is displayed in one divided area of the display area 350a, the first reduced image data included in the second image data is reduced. Thus, when the display is made in four divided areas adjacent to each other in the vertical and horizontal directions of the display area 350a, the diagnosis can be made from the first reduced image data. In this case, “1/4 division” is displayed in each dialog box 482 by selecting and setting “1/4 division”.

  Further, when the third image data generated by the “third application layout pattern 1” and the “third application layout pattern 2” is displayed in a partial area of the display area 350a, the third image data is displayed. The included second reduced image data is too small to be diagnosed, and if it is displayed in all the divided areas of the display area 350a, the diagnosis can be made from the second reduced image data. In this case, “1/1 division” is displayed in the dialog boxes 483 and 484 by selecting and setting “1/1 division”.

  Furthermore, for example, the dialog box 44N in which the application and the output size are not set and the dialog box 48N corresponding to the dialog box 48N are blank.

  In the “assignment condition” field, the “generation order assignment” selected in the dialog box 48 is displayed by selecting and setting “generation order assignment” to be assigned to the display area 350 in the order in which each divided display data is generated. . By selecting and setting “Effective assignment” that assigns each divided display data to the generated random order, “Effective assignment” is displayed, and the generated order and generation time are assigned to the divided display data and “Effective assignment” “Effective allocation with time” is displayed by selecting and setting “Effective allocation with time” assigned under the same allocation conditions.

  Hereinafter, an example of the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 when printing is performed by the printing apparatus 105. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of divided print data generated according to the layout print operation. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of layout print data generated based on “generation order allocation” set in the “allocation condition” field of the print processing condition setting screen 43. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of layout print data generated based on “valid allocation” set in the “allocation condition” field of the print processing condition setting screen 43. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of layout print data generated based on “valid allocation with time” set in the “allocation condition” field of the print processing condition setting screen 43.

  In FIG. 10, in order to perform the examination of the subject P, the input information of the print processing conditions set in each column of the print processing condition setting screen 43 in FIG. 2 is stored in the storage circuit of the system control unit 9. Then, when an operation for starting the examination is performed after setting the subject information of the subject P from the operation unit 8, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 100 starts the examination (step S1).

  The system control unit 9 operates the imaging unit 1, the image output processing unit 3, and the interface 5. When an application operation for executing an application set in the “size” column of the print processing condition setting screen 43 is performed from the operation unit 8, the image data generation unit 15 of the imaging unit 1 performs, for example, each operation according to the application operation. First to third image data are generated, and the generated first to third image data are output to the image output processing unit 3.

  The display data generation unit 32 of the image output processing unit 3 generates the first to third display data from the first to third image data. Then, the generated first to third display data are displayed on the display unit 42 of the output unit 4.

  Then, when an allocation printing operation is performed from the operation unit 8 to each of the first to third display data displayed on the display unit 42 (Yes in step S2), the divided output data generation of the image output processing unit 3 is performed. The unit 33 generates divided print data from each of the first to third image data output by the image data generation unit 15 based on the print size information of each application supplied from the system control unit 9 (step S3). S3).

  The print data allocation unit 36 determines whether the divided print data generated by the divided print data generation unit 33 can be allocated to the print area 330 of the print memory 35. Here, if there is a blank area in the print area 330 to which the divided print data can be assigned, it is determined that the assignment is possible, and if the divided print data is assigned, it is determined that the assignment is impossible if the blank area is insufficient. .

  If the assignment is impossible (No in step S 4), the assigned print data is generated from the divided print data assigned to the print area 330 and output to the interface 5. The interface 5 transmits the layout print data output from the print data allocation unit 36 to the printing apparatus 105 via the network 120 (step S5). Moreover, when allocation is possible (Yes of step S4), it transfers to step S7.

  After step S5, the print data allocation unit 36 initializes the print area 330 by setting the divided areas 331 to 346 of the print area 330 as blank areas (step S6).

  After “Yes” in step S4 or after step S6, the print data allocation unit 36 divides the divided print data output from the divided print data generation unit 33 based on the divided print data allocation condition information supplied from the system control unit 9. Data is allocated (step S7).

  After the assignment, if the print area 330 does not include a blank area (No in step S8), the process returns to step S5. If the print area 330 includes a blank area (Yes in step S8), the process returns to step S2.

  If the operation end operation has not been performed from the operation unit 8 after “No” in Step S2 (No in Step S9), the process returns to Step S2. If the operation end operation has been performed from the operation unit 8 (Yes in step S9), the print data assigning unit 36 generates the assigned print data from the divided print data assigned to the print area 330 and outputs it to the interface 5. To do. The interface 5 transmits the layout print data output from the print data allocation unit 36 to the printing apparatus 105 via the network 120 (step S10).

  After the transmission, the print data assigning unit 36 initializes the print area 330 with the divided areas 331 to 346 of the print area 330 blank (step S11).

  After the initialization, the system control unit 9 stops the imaging unit 1, the image output processing unit 3, and the interface 5, whereby the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 ends the examination of the subject P (step S12). .

  By transmitting the layout print data from the interface 5 in step S5 or step S10, the printing apparatus 105 prints out the layout print data received via the network 120. Then, the layout print data printed on the printing paper by the printing apparatus 105 is observed in detail, and the subject P is diagnosed.

  Next, for example, after 16 layout printing operations are performed in step S2, the 16 divided print data generated by the divided print data generation unit 33 according to the layout printing operation in step S3, and in step S4 An example of the layout print data generated by the print data allocation unit 36 after “No” or “No” in Step S8 will be described.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the divided print data generated by the divided print data generation unit 33 in accordance with the layout print operation. The divided print data generation unit 33 generates, for example, first divided print data 61 from the first image data generated by the image data generation unit 15 according to the first operation, and according to the second operation. First divided print data 62 is generated. Also, the first divided print data 63 to 68 are generated in response to the third to eighth operations.

  In addition, the second divided print data 69 is generated from the second image data generated by the image data generation unit 15 in accordance with the ninth operation, and the second divided data is output in accordance with the twelfth and thirteenth operations. Print data 72 and 73 are generated. Also, the second divided print data 75 and 76 are generated in response to the 15th and 16th operations.

  Further, third divided print data 70, 71, and 74 are generated from the third image data generated by the image data generation unit 15 in accordance with the tenth, eleventh, and fourteenth operations.

  In this way, by setting the print size for each application, it is possible to generate divided print data having a size that can be diagnosed from each image data generated by the application.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of layout print data generated based on “generation order allocation” set in the “allocation condition” field of the print processing condition setting screen 43 in accordance with the layout printing operation.

  The print data allocation unit 36 uses the first divided print data 61 generated by the divided print data generation unit 33 in response to the first operation as the blank area among the divided areas 331 to 346 that are the blank areas of the print area 330. For example, the first divided print data 62 is allocated to the divided area 332 in response to the second operation. Further, the first divided print data 63 to 68 are allocated to the divided areas 333 to 338 according to the third to eighth operations, and the second divided print data 69 is allocated to the divided areas 339 and 340 according to the ninth operation. , 343, 344.

  When the third divided print data 70 is assigned to the print area 330 in response to the tenth operation, the divided areas 341, 342, 345, and 346, which are blank areas, are insufficient. First allocation print data 81 composed of nine frames of divided print data allocated according to the first to ninth operations up to the operation is generated and output to the interface 5. The printing apparatus 105 prints out the first layout print data 81, for example, in the print area 330a of the first print sheet.

  Next, after generating the second layout print data 82 composed of the third divided print data 70 for one frame in response to the tenth operation and outputting it to the interface 5, one frame for the eleventh operation. The third divided print data 83 composed of the third divided print data 71 is generated and output to the interface 5. The printing apparatus 105 prints out the second layout print data 82 in the print area 330a of the second print sheet, and then prints out the third layout print data 83 in the print area 330a of the third print sheet. To do.

  After the print area 330 is initialized, the second divided print data 72 is allocated to the divided areas 331, 332, 335, and 336 according to the twelfth operation, and the second divided print data 73 according to the thirteenth operation. Are assigned to the divided areas 333, 334, 337, and 338.

  When the third divided print data 74 is assigned to the print area 330 in response to the 14th operation, the divided areas 339 to 346 that are blank areas are insufficient, and thus the second divided second frame is displayed. Fourth allocated print data 84 composed of the print data 72 and 73 is generated and output to the interface 5. The printing apparatus 105 prints out the fourth layout print data 84 to the print area 330a of the fourth print sheet.

  Next, in response to the 14th operation, fifth layout print data 85 composed of the third divided print data 74 for one frame is generated and output to the interface 5. The printing apparatus 105 prints out the fifth layout print data 85 to the print area 330a of the fifth print sheet.

  After the print area 330 is initialized, the second divided print data 75 is allocated to the divided areas 331, 332, 335, and 336 in accordance with the 15th operation, and the second divided print data 76 in accordance with the 16th operation. Are assigned to the divided areas 333, 334, 337, and 338. Then, the sixth layout print data 86 composed of the second divided print data 75 and 76 of the two frames is generated and output to the interface 5 by the operation for finishing the inspection. The printing apparatus 105 prints out the sixth layout print data 86 in the print area 330a of the sixth print sheet.

  In this way, by assigning each divided print data during the inspection in the order of generation to the print area 330 so as to reduce the blank area, and generating the assignable print data that can be diagnosed, the assignment print data that can be diagnosed by the printing apparatus 105 is generated. Can be sent quickly.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of layout print data generated based on “valid allocation” set in the “allocation condition” field of the print processing condition setting screen 43 in accordance with the layout printing operation.

  The print data allocating unit 36 divides the first divided print data 61 generated by the divided print data generating unit 33 according to the first operation, for example, among the divided areas 331 to 346 that are blank areas of the print area 330. The first divided print data 62 is assigned to the divided area 332 in response to the second operation. Further, the first divided print data 63 to 68 are allocated to the divided areas 333 to 338 according to the third to eighth operations, and the second divided print data 69 is allocated to the divided areas 339 and 340 according to the ninth operation. , 343, 344.

  Further, in response to the tenth operation, seventh layout print data 87 composed of the third divided print data 70 for one frame is generated and output to the interface 5, and one frame in response to the eleventh operation. Eighth assigned print data 88 composed of the third divided print data 71 is generated and output to the interface 5. The printing apparatus 105 prints and outputs the seventh layout print data 87 to the print area 330a of the first print sheet, and then prints and outputs the eighth layout print data 88 to the print area 330a of the second print sheet. To do.

  Further, the second divided print data 72 is allocated to the divided areas 341, 342, 345, and 346 according to the 12th operation, and the 10th time from each divided print data generated according to the 1st to 12th operations. The ninth layout print data 89 composed of 10 frames of divided print data excluding the divided print data generated for the 11th time is generated and output to the interface 5. The printing apparatus 105 prints out the ninth layout print data 89 in the print area 330a of the third print sheet.

  After the print area 330 is initialized, the second divided print data 73 is allocated to the divided areas 331, 332, 335, and 336 according to the 13th operation, and then the third frame of one frame according to the 14th operation. The tenth layout print data 90 composed of the divided print data 74 is generated and output to the interface 5. The printing apparatus 105 prints out the tenth layout print data 90 in the print area 330a of the fourth print sheet.

  Further, the second divided print data 75 is allocated to the divided areas 333, 334, 337, and 338 according to the 15th operation, and the second divided print data 76 is allocated to the divided areas 339, 340, and 338 according to the 16th operation. Assign to 343,344. Then, an eleventh layout print data 91 composed of the second divided print data 73, 75, and 76 of the three frames is generated and output to the interface 5 by the operation for finishing the inspection. The printing apparatus 105 prints out the eleventh layout print data 91 to the print area 330a of the fifth print sheet.

  In this way, the divided print data generated during the inspection is assigned to the print area 330 in order to reduce the blank area in order, and the print data that can be diagnosed is generated. The amount used can be reduced.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of layout print data generated based on “valid allocation with time” set in the “allocation condition” field of the print processing condition setting screen 43 in accordance with the layout printing operation. .

  The divided print data generation unit 33 assigns the generation order and generation time of each divided print data. For example, “No. 10 2008/1/10 13:22:14”, which is the order and generation time of the third divided print data 70, is added to the seventh assigned print data 87 in FIG. The 7th layout print data 87a is output to the interface 5, and then the order and generation time of the third divided print data 71 are added to the 8th layout print data 88 as “No. 11 2008/1/10 13:25”. : 8 ”assigned print data 88 a is output to the interface 5.

  The ninth layout print data 89 includes “No. 1 2008/1/10 13:10:10” and “No. 2 2008/1 /” which are the order and generation time of the first divided print data 61 to 68. 10 13:10:20 ”,“ No. 3 2008/1/10 13:10:45 ”,“ No. 4 2008/1/10 13:11:45 ”,“ No. 5 2008/1/10 13 ” : 12:10 "," No. 6 2008/1/10 13:14:20 "," No. 7 2008/1/10 10:16:45 "," No. 8 2008/1/10 13:17 " : 45 ”, and the order and generation time of the second divided print data 69 and 72 are“ No. 9 2008/1/10 13:20:45 ”and“ No. 12 2008/1/10 13 ”. : 27: 56 " The 9th allocated print data 89a is output to the interface 5.

  Furthermore, the 10th layout print data 90a in which “No. 14 2008/1/10 13:33:22”, which is the order and generation time of the third segment print data 74, is added to the 10th layout print data 90. Output to interface 5.

  Furthermore, the order and generation time of the second divided print data 73, 75, 76 are added to the eleventh assigned print data 91, “No. 13 2008/1/10 13:28:31”, “No. 15 2008”. / 1/10 13:35:07 ”and“ No. 16 2008/1/10 13:36:59 ”to which the 11th layout print data 91a is output to the interface 5.

  In this way, the divided print data assigned with the order and generation time generated during the inspection are assigned in random order to the print area 330 in order to reduce the blank area, thereby generating the layout print data that can be diagnosed. The amount of printing paper used can be reduced as compared with the case of allocation. Further, when a plurality of divided print data similar to the printing paper is printed, the divided print data can be easily identified.

  Note that the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 100 that performs display output on the display device 110 operates in the same manner as the print output that is performed by the printing apparatus 105, and thus description of the operation is omitted. In this case, by setting a display size for each application, it is possible to generate divided display data having a size that can be diagnosed from each image data generated by the application.

  In addition, the divided display data generated during the inspection is allocated to the display area 350 in order of generation in order of generation to generate the allocation display data that can be diagnosed, thereby quickly transmitting the allocation display data to the display device 110. can do.

  Furthermore, the divided display data generated during the examination is assigned in random order to the display area 350 to reduce the blank area, and the assignment display data that can be diagnosed is generated, so that the screen of the display unit can be displayed more than the case of assignment in the order of generation. Switching operations can be reduced.

  Furthermore, the divided display data to which the order and the generation time given during the inspection are assigned is assigned in the order of generation by assigning them to the display area 350 in order to reduce the blank area and generating diagnostic display data. The screen switching operation of the display unit can be reduced more than the case. Further, when a plurality of divided display data similar to the screen is displayed, the divided display data can be easily identified.

  According to the embodiment of the present invention described above, by setting the print size for each application for performing inspection, it is possible to generate divided print data having a size that can be diagnosed from each image data generated by the application. Can do.

  By assigning each divided print data generated during the inspection to the print area 330 in the order of generation and generating the assigned print data, the assigned print data that can be diagnosed can be quickly transmitted to the printing apparatus 105.

  In addition, by using the divided print data generated during the inspection in random order and allocating print data 330 that can be diagnosed by assigning it to the print area 330 in order to reduce the blank area, the amount of print paper used is larger than when allocating in the order of generation. Can be reduced.

  Further, when the divided print data assigned with the order and generation time generated during the inspection are assigned in the order of generation by generating print data 330 that can be diagnosed by assigning them to the print area 330 in order to reduce the blank area. As a result, the amount of printing paper used can be reduced. Further, when a plurality of divided print data similar to the printing paper is printed, the divided print data can be easily identified.

  As described above, the output operation can be reduced and the inspection can be performed quickly.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and the layout print data generated by the layout print data generation unit 36 of the image output processing unit 3 may be printed by the printing unit 41.

1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a print area for storing frame print data in a print memory according to an embodiment of the present invention, and a print area of a print sheet on which frame print data is printed by a printing unit of an output unit and a printing apparatus corresponding to the print area. . A display area for storing frame display output data of a display memory according to an embodiment of the present invention, and a display area of a screen on which frame display data of the display unit of the output unit and the display unit corresponding to the display area are displayed FIG. The figure which shows an example of the printing process condition setting screen displayed on the display part which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the 1st image data produced | generated by the "1st application layout pattern 1" set to the column of the "size" of the printing process condition setting screen based on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the 2nd image data produced | generated by the "2nd application layout pattern 1" set to the column of the "size" of the printing process condition setting screen based on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the 3rd image data produced | generated by the "3rd application layout pattern 1" set to the column of the "size" of the printing process condition setting screen based on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows the ultrasonic probe which is scanning the ultrasonic wave which concerns on the Example of this invention to a three-dimensional direction. The figure which shows an example of the display process condition setting screen displayed on the display part which concerns on the Example of this invention. 6 is a flowchart showing an operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus when printing is performed by the printing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention. The figure which shows an example of the division | segmentation print data produced | generated according to the layout printing operation which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the layout printing data produced | generated based on the "generation order allocation" set to the column of the "allocation conditions" of a printing processing condition setting screen according to the allocation printing operation which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the layout print data produced | generated based on the "valid allocation" set to the column of the "allocation condition" of a print processing condition setting screen according to the layout printing operation which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the allocation print data produced | generated based on the "validation allocation with a time" set to the column of the "allocation condition" of a print processing condition setting screen according to the allocation printing operation which concerns on the Example of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

P Subject 1 Imaging unit 2 Biological signal measurement unit 3 Image output processing unit 4 Output unit 5 Interface 8 Operation unit 9 System control unit 11 Ultrasonic probe 12 Transmission / reception unit 13 Transmission unit 14 Reception unit 15 Image data generation unit 16 B mode data Generation unit 17 Doppler data generation unit 18 Data storage unit 19 Data processing unit 31 Print data generation unit 32 Display data generation unit 33 Division print data generation unit 34 Division display data generation unit 35 Print memory 36 Print data allocation unit 37 Display memory 38 Display Data allocation unit 41 Printing unit 42 Display unit 100 Ultrasound diagnostic device 105 Printing device 110 Display processing device 120 Network

Claims (6)

An ultrasonic probe for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves to and from a subject;
Transmitting / receiving means for driving the ultrasonic probe to scan the subject with ultrasonic waves;
Image data generation means for generating image data corresponding to at least one of a plurality of applications based on a received signal from the transmission / reception means;
Output processing condition setting means for setting the output size of the image data based on the type of application used to generate the image data ;
Based on the output size information set by the output processing condition setting unit, the image data generated by the image data generation unit can be output to a part or all of the output area for outputting the image data. Output data generating means for generating size output data;
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising: output data allocating means for allocating output data generated by the output data generating means to an output area corresponding to the output area and generating assigned output data. The output data allocating means is
If the output area is a blank area, when the blank area and the output data generated by the output data generating means to try to allocate the blank area is insufficient, outputs data to which the blank area is allocated before a shortage It generates constituted allocation output data by,
2. The ultrasonic diagnosis according to claim 1 , wherein when there is no blank area in the output area, the assigned output data including the output data assigned to the output area without the blank area is generated. apparatus. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the output data assigning unit assigns the output data generated by the output data generating unit in the order of generation . The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the output data assigning unit assigns the output data generated by the output data generating unit in any order. It has a transmission means which transmits the allocation output data produced | generated by the said output data allocation means to the printing apparatus which can output this allocation output data, or the display apparatus which can perform display output via a network. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1 . Image data input means for inputting image data generated according to at least one of a plurality of applications;
Output processing condition setting means for setting the output size of the image data based on the type of application used to generate the image data;
Based on the output size information set by the output processing condition setting unit, the image data generated by the image data generation unit can be output to a part or all of the output area for outputting the image data. Output data generating means for generating size output data;
Output data allocating means for allocating the output data generated by the output data generating means to an output area corresponding to the output area and generating assigned output data;
An image output processing apparatus comprising:

Images