JP7495332B2 - Ultrasound diagnostic system, ultrasound probe, and ultrasound diagnostic device - Google Patents

Description

The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to an ultrasound diagnostic system, an ultrasound probe, and an ultrasound diagnostic device.

In an ultrasound diagnostic device that uses a wireless ultrasound probe, the wireless ultrasound probe and the main body of the ultrasound diagnostic device are interconnected via a wireless network such as Wi-Fi. This allows control data related to the transmission and reception of ultrasound to be transmitted from the main body of the ultrasound diagnostic device to the ultrasound probe, and allows ultrasound echo data to be transmitted from the ultrasound probe to the main body. In an environment where multiple wireless ultrasound probes are used near the main body of one ultrasound diagnostic device, where one wireless ultrasound probe is used near the main bodies of multiple ultrasound diagnostic devices, or where multiple wireless ultrasound probes are used near the main bodies of multiple ultrasound diagnostic devices, it is desirable for the ultrasound probe that the user wishes to connect to be connected more reliably and easily to the main body of the ultrasound diagnostic device without interference with other ultrasound probes.

JP 2018-527054 A JP 2011-072583 A

The problem that the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings attempt to solve is to interconnect an ultrasound probe and an ultrasound diagnostic device more reliably and easily. However, the problem that the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings attempt to solve is not limited to the problem described above. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described below can also be positioned as other problems.

An ultrasound diagnostic system according to an embodiment includes an ultrasound probe that transmits ultrasound to a subject and receives an echo of the ultrasound, and an ultrasound diagnostic device that generates an ultrasound image of the subject based on the echo received by the ultrasound probe. The ultrasound probe transmits unique identification information of the ultrasound probe to the ultrasound diagnostic device via a first electromagnetic wave based on a user's operation. When the ultrasound diagnostic device receives the unique identification information from the ultrasound probe via the first electromagnetic wave, the ultrasound diagnostic device transmits a predetermined request to the ultrasound probe via a second electromagnetic wave having a lower directivity than the first electromagnetic wave. When the ultrasound probe receives the predetermined request from the ultrasound diagnostic device via the second electromagnetic wave, the ultrasound diagnostic device transmits the unique identification information to the ultrasound diagnostic device via the second electromagnetic wave as a response to the predetermined request. When the ultrasound diagnostic device receives the unique identification information from the ultrasound probe via the second electromagnetic wave, the ultrasound diagnostic device determines whether the first unique identification information, which is the unique identification information received via the first electromagnetic wave, and the second unique identification information, which is the unique identification information received via the second electromagnetic wave, match. Furthermore, when the first unique identification information and the second unique identification information match, the ultrasound diagnostic device initiates an interconnection between the ultrasound probe and the ultrasound diagnostic device via the second electromagnetic waves.

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an ultrasound diagnostic system 1 according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an ultrasonic probe 100 according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an ultrasonic probe 100 according to a first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of probe-specific information according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 200 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of a series of processes in the ultrasound diagnostic system 1 of the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of a series of processes of the ultrasound probe 100 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an infrared communication format according to the first embodiment. 4 is a flowchart (part 1) showing the flow of a series of processes of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 200 of the first embodiment. 6 is a flowchart (part 2) showing the flow of a series of processes of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 200 of the first embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a series of processes of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 200 according to a second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a series of processes of an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 200 according to a third embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a selection screen for the ultrasound probe 100. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a serial number input screen. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a simultaneous operation request screen.

The following describes an embodiment of an ultrasound diagnostic system, ultrasound probe, and ultrasound diagnostic device with reference to the drawings.

First Embodiment
[Configuration of Ultrasound Diagnostic System]
1 is a configuration diagram of an ultrasound diagnostic system 1 according to a first embodiment. As shown in the figure, the ultrasound diagnostic system 1 according to the first embodiment includes, for example, one or more ultrasound probes 100 and one or more ultrasound diagnostic devices 200. Since the ultrasound probe 100 can be regarded as an accessory of the ultrasound diagnostic device 200, the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 will be referred to as the "main body" in the following description. Moreover, the ultrasound probe 100 and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200, which is the main body of the ultrasound probe 100, may be regarded as an integrated unit, and the ultrasound diagnostic system 1 according to this embodiment may be read as the "ultrasound diagnostic device".

The ultrasound probe 100 is operated by a user, such as a doctor or nurse, and pressed against a part of the subject H (the area to be examined). The subject H is, for example, a human being, but is not limited to this. The ultrasound probe 100 transmits (irradiates) ultrasound to the subject H, for example, to obtain an image of the inside of the subject H. The ultrasound probe 100 receives echoes (reflected waves) of the transmitted ultrasound. The ultrasound probe 100 then generates signal data of the received echoes (hereinafter referred to as echo data) and transmits the echo data wirelessly to the ultrasound diagnostic device 200.

[Configuration of Ultrasonic Probe]
2 and 3 are configuration diagrams of the ultrasound probe 100 of the first embodiment. As shown in the figures, the ultrasound probe 100 of the first embodiment includes a transducer 110, an optical transmission circuit 120, a probe-side wireless circuit 130, a probe-side input interface 140, a probe-side processing circuit 150, and a probe-side memory 160. The optical transmission circuit 120 is an example of a "probe-side first transmission unit," and the probe-side processing circuit 150 is an example of a "probe-side processing unit."

The transducer 110 transmits ultrasonic waves and receives the echoes of those ultrasonic waves.

The optical transmission circuit 120 is an electronic circuit including, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) that emits infrared light, a transistor, and the like. The optical transmission circuit 120 transmits (irradiates) infrared light based on a user's operation on the probe side input interface 140 or a control command received from the probe side processing circuit 150. Note that the optical transmission circuit 120 is not limited to transmitting infrared light, and may transmit electromagnetic waves of other wavelengths. For example, the optical transmission circuit 120 may transmit electromagnetic waves of a wavelength that is more directional than the radio waves transmitted by the probe side wireless circuit 130, such as visible light. Infrared light and visible light are examples of the "first electromagnetic wave."

The probe-side wireless circuit 130 includes a radio wave transmitting circuit 132 and a radio wave receiving circuit 134. The radio wave transmitting circuit 132 is an example of a "probe-side second transmitting unit," and the radio wave receiving circuit 134 is an example of a "probe-side receiving unit."

The radio wave transmitting circuit 132 is, for example, a transmitter that transmits Wi-Fi radio waves, and the radio wave receiving circuit 134 is, for example, a receiver that receives Wi-Fi radio waves. Such a probe-side wireless circuit 130 functions as a wireless router with a built-in access point for a wireless LAN (Local Area Network). Therefore, in the ultrasound diagnostic system 1, the ultrasound probe 100 operates as a parent device, and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 operates as a child device. When there are multiple ultrasound probes 100, there are multiple access points as seen from the ultrasound diagnostic device 200. The Wi-Fi radio waves are an example of a "second electromagnetic wave."

The probe-side input interface 140 includes physical operating components such as switches, buttons, and a touch panel. When the probe-side input interface 140 is operated by a user, for example, it may output an electrical signal corresponding to the user operation to the optical transmission circuit 120 or to the probe-side processing circuit 150.

Typically, the probe-side input interface 140 is various switches such as a power switch 142 and a pairing switch 144. The power switch 142 is an operation component that switches between supplying (turning on) power from a battery (not shown) to various circuits of the ultrasound probe 100 and stopping (turning off) the power supply from the battery (not shown) in response to a user operation. The pairing switch 144 is an operation component for wirelessly connecting the ultrasound probe 100 to the ultrasound diagnostic device 200. For example, when the pairing switch 144 is operated by a user, it outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the user operation to the optical transmission circuit 120. This causes the optical transmission circuit 120 to transmit infrared rays.

The probe-side processing circuit 150 realizes various functions, such as controlling communication with the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 and controlling the transmission and reception of ultrasound, by, for example, a hardware processor executing a program stored in the probe-side memory 160 (storage circuit).

The hardware processor means a circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD) or a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), or a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)). Instead of storing a program in the probe side memory 160, the program may be directly embedded in the circuit of the hardware processor. In this case, the hardware processor realizes various functions by reading and executing the program embedded in the circuit. The hardware processor is not limited to being configured as a single circuit, but may be configured as a single hardware processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize each function. In addition, each function may be realized by a single hardware processor that integrates multiple components.

The probe-side memory 160 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a random access memory (RAM), a flash memory, or a non-transient storage medium such as a hard disk. The probe-side memory 160 may also include a non-transient storage medium such as a read-only memory (ROM) or a register. The probe-side memory 160 stores probe-specific information in addition to the program read by the probe-side processing circuit 150.

Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of probe-specific information in the first embodiment. As shown in the figure, the probe-specific information includes the manufacturer number of the ultrasound probe 100, the probe ID, the serial number, the date of manufacture, user information, etc.

The probe ID is identification information that identifies the type of ultrasonic probe 100. For example, the probe ID may represent the type of array shape of the transducer 110, such as one-dimensional array, 1.5-dimensional array, or two-dimensional array, or the type of ultrasonic beam scanning method, such as linear type, sector type, convex type, or radial type. The probe ID may also represent characteristics of the transducer 110, such as the center frequency or number of transducers.

For example, suppose that a probe ID of "AAA" indicates a "linear one-dimensional array probe" and a probe ID of "BBB" indicates a "convex two-dimensional array probe." In this case, among the multiple ultrasonic probes 100, all ultrasonic probes 100 that correspond to the type of "linear one-dimensional array probe" are assigned a common probe ID of "AAA," and all ultrasonic probes 100 that correspond to the type of "convex two-dimensional array probe" are assigned a common probe ID of "BBB." In this way, ultrasonic probes 100 of the same type are assigned a common probe ID. The probe ID is an example of "type identification information."

The serial number is an identification number that identifies the ultrasonic probe 100 itself, and is a unique number that is assigned to each ultrasonic probe 100. Therefore, even if ultrasonic probes 100 are of the same type (i.e., have the same probe ID), those ultrasonic probes 100 are assigned different serial numbers. The serial number is an example of "unique identification information."

[Configuration of Ultrasound Diagnostic Device (Main Unit)]
5 is a configuration diagram of an ultrasonic diagnostic device 200 according to the first embodiment. As shown in the figure, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 200 according to the first embodiment includes an optical receiving circuit 210, a body-side wireless circuit 220, a body-side input interface 230, a body-side output interface 240, a body-side processing circuit 250, and a body-side memory 260. The optical receiving circuit 210 is an example of a "body-side first receiving unit," and the body-side processing circuit 250 is an example of a "body-side processing unit."

For example, when infrared rays are transmitted by the optical transmission circuit 120, the optical receiving circuit 210 is an electronic circuit including a photodiode for receiving the infrared rays. In addition, for example, when visible light is transmitted by the optical transmission circuit 120, the optical receiving circuit 210 may be a camera for capturing an image of the visible light.

Like the ultrasound probe 100, the main body side wireless circuit 220 includes a radio wave transmitting circuit 222 and a radio wave receiving circuit 224. The radio wave transmitting circuit 222 is an example of a "main body side transmitting unit," and the radio wave receiving circuit 224 is an example of a "main body side second receiving unit."

The radio wave transmitting circuit 222 is, for example, a transmitter that transmits Wi-Fi radio waves, and the radio wave receiving circuit 224 is, for example, a receiver that receives Wi-Fi radio waves.

The main body side input interface 230 includes physical operating components such as a mouse, keyboard, trackball, switch, button, joystick, and touch panel. When operated by a user, the main body side input interface 230 outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the user operation to the main body side processing circuit 250. The main body side input interface 230 may be a user interface that accepts audio input from a microphone or the like.

In addition, in this specification, the main body side input interface 230 is not limited to an interface equipped with physical operation parts such as a mouse or keyboard. For example, an example of the main body side input interface 230 also includes an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the device and outputs this electrical signal to a control circuit.

The main body side output interface 240 includes, for example, a display 242 and a speaker 244. The display 242 displays various information. For example, the display 242 displays information output by the main body side processing circuit 250 as an image, or displays a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for receiving various input operations from the user. For example, the display 242 is an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. The speaker 244 outputs the information output by the main body side processing circuit 250 as sound. When the main body side input interface 230 is a touch panel, the display 242 may be a single operating component that also has the input function of the main body side input interface 230.

The main body side processing circuit 250, for example, controls communication with the ultrasound probe 100 and generates ultrasound images by a hardware processor executing a program stored in the main body side memory 260 (storage circuit).

The main body memory 260 is realized, for example, by semiconductor memory elements such as RAM and flash memory, a hard disk, or an optical disk. These non-transient storage media may be realized by other storage devices connected via the communication network NW, such as a NAS (Network Attached Storage) or an external storage server device. The communication network NW is, for example, a LAN or a WAN (Wide Area Network). The main body memory 260 may also include non-transient storage media such as a ROM or a register. The main body memory 260 stores, for example, programs that are read by the main body processing circuit 250.

[Processing sequence of ultrasonic diagnostic system]
A series of sequential processes in the ultrasound diagnostic system 1 of the first embodiment will be described below. Fig. 6 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of a series of processes in the ultrasound diagnostic system 1 of the first embodiment.

First, when the power switch 142 is operated and power is supplied from the battery to each circuit, that is, when the ultrasonic probe 100 is switched from the off state to the on state, the ultrasonic probe 100 transmits Wi-Fi radio waves (step S100).

Next, when the pairing switch 144 is operated, the ultrasound probe 100 transmits the serial number of the ultrasound probe 100 via infrared rays (step S102).

As described above, infrared rays are electromagnetic waves with high directionality (the electromagnetic wave intensity is high in only one direction). Therefore, for example, assume that a user operates the pairing switch 144 while pointing an ultrasound probe 100 to be used toward an ultrasound diagnostic device 200 to which the user wishes to wirelessly connect the ultrasound probe 100 to be used. Specifically, assume that the user operates the pairing switch 144 while pointing the infrared radiation port of the ultrasound probe 100 toward the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 to which the user wishes to connect.

In this case, even if multiple ultrasound diagnostic devices 200 are present near one ultrasound probe 100, only the one ultrasound diagnostic device 200 selected by the user as the connection target can receive infrared rays. In other words, the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 that is the connection target can easily receive infrared rays from the ultrasound probe 100 that is the target of use, or has a high probability of receiving infrared rays. On the other hand, the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 that is not the connection target cannot receive infrared rays from the ultrasound probe 100 that is the target of use, or has a low probability of receiving infrared rays.

In this way, by using highly directional electromagnetic waves such as infrared rays, it is possible to connect one ultrasound probe 100 used by a user to only one ultrasound diagnostic device 200 that the user desires among multiple ultrasound diagnostic devices 200.

Next, when the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 receives the serial number from the ultrasound probe 100 via infrared rays, it transmits a request for the serial number to the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S104). The serial number request is, for example, a request to the ultrasound probe 100 to return the serial number via Wi-Fi radio waves. The serial number request is an example of a "predetermined request."

Next, when the ultrasound probe 100 receives a serial number request from the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves, the ultrasound probe 100 transmits the serial number to the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves as a response to the serial number request (step S106).

Next, when the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 receives the serial number from the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves, it determines whether the serial number received via infrared rays in the process of S102 matches the serial number received via Wi-Fi radio waves in the process of S106 (step S108). The serial number received via infrared rays in the process of S102 is an example of "first unique identification information," and the serial number received via Wi-Fi radio waves in the process of S106 is an example of "second unique identification information."

When the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 determines that the serial number received via infrared rays matches the serial number received via Wi-Fi radio waves, it initiates a mutual connection (pairing) with the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S110). This establishes a Wi-Fi connection between the ultrasound probe 100 that transmitted the infrared rays and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 that received them.

[Ultrasonic probe processing flow]
The specific process flow of each of the ultrasound probe 100 and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 included in the ultrasound diagnostic system 1 of the first embodiment will be described below. First, a series of process flows of the ultrasound probe 100 will be described using a flowchart. Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing a series of process flows of the ultrasound probe 100 of the first embodiment. The process of this flowchart may be repeatedly executed at a predetermined cycle, for example, when the power switch 142 is operated and power is supplied to each circuit.

First, the probe-side processing circuit 150 of the ultrasound probe 100 waits until the pairing switch 144 is operated (step S200). When the pairing switch 144 is operated, the probe-side processing circuit 150 reads the serial number from the probe-side memory 160 and causes the optical transmission circuit 120 to transmit the serial number via infrared rays (step S202).

Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of an infrared communication format in the first embodiment. For example, the infrared communication format in the 900 nm band includes a reader code, a custom code, a data code, a parity, a stop bit, and the like. For example, the probe side processing circuit 150 causes the optical transmission circuit 120 to transmit an infrared ray in which a serial number is stored in a data code included in the communication format.

Returning to the explanation of the flowchart in FIG. 7, the probe-side processing circuit 150 next determines whether the probe-side wireless circuit 130 has received a serial number request from the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S204). If the probe-side wireless circuit 130 has not received a serial number request from the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 within a predetermined time period after the optical transmitting circuit 120 transmits infrared rays, i.e., if a timeout occurs, the probe-side processing circuit 150 may end the processing of this flowchart.

On the other hand, if the probe-side wireless circuit 130 receives a serial number request without timing out, the probe-side processing circuit 150 reads the serial number from the probe-side memory 160 and controls the probe-side wireless circuit 130 to transmit the read serial number to the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves as a response to the serial number request (step S206). This allows the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 to check the consistency between the infrared serial number and the Wi-Fi radio waves. If the infrared serial number and the Wi-Fi radio wave serial number match, a mutual connection (wireless connection) is initiated between the ultrasound probe 100 and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via the Wi-Fi radio waves.

Next, the probe-side processing circuit 150 determines whether the probe-side wireless circuit 130 has received a probe ID request from the interconnected ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S208). The probe ID request is, for example, a request to send a probe ID back to the ultrasound probe 100 with which interconnection has been initiated via Wi-Fi radio waves.

If the probe-side wireless circuit 130 does not receive a request for the probe ID from the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 within a predetermined period of time after the serial number is transmitted via Wi-Fi radio waves, i.e., if a timeout occurs, the probe-side processing circuit 150 may end the processing of this flowchart.

On the other hand, if the probe-side wireless circuit 130 receives a probe ID request without timing out, the probe-side processing circuit 150 reads the probe ID from the probe-side memory 160 and controls the probe-side wireless circuit 130 to transmit the read probe ID to the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves as a response to the probe ID request (step S210).

Next, the probe-side processing circuit 150 determines whether the probe-side wireless circuit 130 has received ultrasound transmission/reception control data from the interconnected ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S212). The ultrasound transmission/reception control data is data that defines the control parameters for causing the ultrasound probe 100 to transmit or receive ultrasound. The control parameters include, for example, the gain of the echo signal, STC (Sensitivity Time Control), focus of the ultrasound beam, and depth of field.

The probe-side processing circuit 150 may terminate the processing of this flowchart if the probe-side wireless circuit 130 does not receive ultrasound transmission/reception control data from the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 within a predetermined period of time after the probe ID is transmitted via Wi-Fi radio waves, i.e., if a timeout occurs.

On the other hand, if the probe-side wireless circuit 130 receives the ultrasound transmission/reception control data without timing out, the probe-side processing circuit 150 transmits ultrasound toward the subject H according to each control parameter of the ultrasound transmission/reception control data (step S214).

Next, when the transducer 110 receives an ultrasonic echo from the subject H, the probe-side processing circuit 150 controls the probe-side wireless circuit 130 to transmit the echo data to the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S216). This ends the processing of this flowchart.

[Processing flow of the ultrasonic diagnostic device (main unit)]
Hereinafter, a series of processing steps performed by the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 will be described with reference to a flowchart. Figures 9 and 10 are flowcharts showing a series of processing steps performed by the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 of the first embodiment. The processing steps of the flowcharts may be repeatedly executed at a predetermined interval, for example.

First, the main body processing circuit 250 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 waits until the serial number is received by the optical receiving circuit 210 via infrared rays (step S300).

When the serial number is received by the optical receiving circuit 210 via infrared rays, the main body processing circuit 250 stores the serial number in the main body memory 260, and further controls the main body wireless circuit 220 to transmit a request for the serial number to the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S302).

Next, the main body processing circuit 250 determines whether the main body wireless circuit 220 has received a serial number from the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S304).

If the main body wireless circuit 220 does not receive the serial number from the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves within a predetermined time period after the serial number request is sent via Wi-Fi radio waves, i.e., if a timeout occurs, the main body processing circuit 250 may return to S300.

On the other hand, if the main body wireless circuit 220 receives the serial number without timing out, the main body processing circuit 250 determines whether the serial number received from the ultrasound probe 100 via infrared rays (an example of "first unique identification information") matches the serial number received from the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves (an example of "second unique identification information") (step S306).

If the main body processing circuit 250 determines that the two serial numbers do not match, it may return to S300.

On the other hand, if the main body processing circuit 250 determines that the two serial numbers match, it initiates an interconnection between the ultrasound probe 100 and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S308).

Next, the main body processing circuit 250 controls the main body wireless circuit 220 to transmit a probe ID request to the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S310).

Next, the main body processing circuit 250 determines whether the main body wireless circuit 220 has received a probe ID from the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S312).

The main body processing circuit 250 may end the processing of this flowchart if the main body wireless circuit 220 does not receive the probe ID from the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves within a predetermined time period after a request for the probe ID is sent via Wi-Fi radio waves, i.e., if a timeout occurs.

On the other hand, if the main body wireless circuit 220 receives the probe ID without timing out, the main body processing circuit 250 determines whether the ultrasound probe 100 to which the probe ID is assigned is a supported accessory (step S314).

For example, the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 does not necessarily support all types of ultrasound probes 100. In addition, a user may use a third-party ultrasound probe 100 that is not anticipated or permitted by the manufacturer of the ultrasound diagnostic device 200. For this reason, the main body processing circuit 250 refers to the probe ID of the interconnected ultrasound probe 100 to determine whether or not the ultrasound probe 100 is a supported accessory.

If the main unit processing circuit 250 determines that the ultrasound probe 100 is not a supported accessory, it may disconnect the connection with the ultrasound probe 100 and terminate the processing of this flowchart.

On the other hand, if the main body side processing circuit 250 determines that the ultrasonic probe 100 is a supported accessory, it determines the control parameters related to the transmission and reception of ultrasonic waves based on the probe ID of the interconnected ultrasonic probe 100 (the probe ID received in the processing of S312) (step S316).

Next, the main body processing circuit 250 controls the main body wireless circuit 220 to transmit ultrasound transmission/reception control data including the determined control parameters to the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S318).

Next, the main body processing circuit 250 waits until the main body wireless circuit 220 receives echo data from the ultrasound probe 100 to which the ultrasound transmission/reception control data is sent (step S320).

When the body-side wireless circuit 220 receives the echo data, the body-side processing circuit 250 generates an ultrasound image of the subject H based on the echo data (step S322).

Next, the main body processing circuit 250 displays the ultrasound image on the display 242 of the main body output interface 240 (step S324). This ends the processing of this flowchart.

According to the first embodiment described above, when the pairing switch 144 is operated by the user, the ultrasound probe 100 transmits a serial number (an example of "unique identification information"), for example, via infrared rays (an example of a "first electromagnetic wave"). When the ultrasound diagnostic device 200, which is the main body from the perspective of the ultrasound probe 100, receives the serial number via infrared rays, it transmits a request for the serial number to the ultrasound probe 100, for example, via Wi-Fi radio waves (an example of a "second electromagnetic wave"). When the ultrasound probe 100 receives a request for the serial number, it transmits the serial number to the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves. When the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 receives the serial number via Wi-Fi radio waves, it determines whether the serial number received via infrared rays (an example of "first unique identification information") and the serial number received via Wi-Fi radio waves (an example of "second unique identification information") match. If the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 determines that the two serial numbers match, it initiates an interconnection between the ultrasound probe 100 and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves.

In this way, by checking the serial number of the ultrasound probe 100 using two types of electromagnetic waves, it is possible to more reliably and easily interconnect the ultrasound probe 100 desired by the user with the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 desired by the user in cases such as when multiple wireless ultrasound probes 100 are present near one ultrasound diagnostic device 200, when one wireless ultrasound probe 100 is present near multiple ultrasound diagnostic devices 200, or when multiple wireless ultrasound probes 100 are present near multiple ultrasound diagnostic devices 200.

For example, in Patent Document 1, when a wireless ultrasound probe is present within a predetermined distance range of an ultrasound diagnostic device (main body), a connection is established between the ultrasound diagnostic device and the wireless ultrasound probe, and the ultrasound diagnostic device and the wireless ultrasound probe are paired so that exclusive communication is performed between the ultrasound diagnostic device and the wireless ultrasound probe.

However, with the technology described in Patent Document 1, when multiple wireless ultrasound probes and multiple ultrasound diagnostic devices are present within a specified distance range, there is still a possibility of interference. For example, multiple ultrasound probes and ultrasound diagnostic devices are used in mass health checkups, emergency medical sites, first aid rooms, etc., and in order to prevent interference between these devices, it is necessary to use the wireless ultrasound probe and ultrasound diagnostic device at a distance greater than a specified distance from each other. In environments such as the above-mentioned mass health checkups, emergency medical sites, and first aid rooms, it is difficult and unrealistic to use the ultrasound probe and ultrasound diagnostic device at a distance greater than a specified distance from each other.

On the other hand, in Patent Document 2, the wireless ultrasound probe is equipped with a selection switch for selecting an ultrasound diagnostic device and a memory in which the ID of the ultrasound diagnostic device is stored in advance. When the selection switch of the ultrasound probe is operated to select an ultrasound diagnostic device, the ultrasound probe transmits the ID of the ultrasound diagnostic device, which is stored in advance in the memory, to the ultrasound diagnostic device. When the ultrasound diagnostic device receives its own ID, it establishes a connection with the ultrasound probe that transmitted the ID.

However, the technology described in Patent Document 2 requires that the ID of the ultrasound diagnostic device to be connected be stored in advance in the memory within the ultrasound probe. Therefore, when the number of ultrasound diagnostic devices connected to one ultrasound probe increases, the ID of the new ultrasound diagnostic device must be stored in the memory within the ultrasound probe each time, which is cumbersome. Even if the ID of an ultrasound diagnostic device is stored in the memory within the ultrasound probe each time it is added, it is not easy to accommodate a large number of ultrasound diagnostic devices with just a switch provided on the ultrasound probe. Therefore, even with the technology described in Patent Document 2, it is difficult to flexibly connect a wireless ultrasound probe and an ultrasound diagnostic device.

In contrast, in this embodiment, in order to ensure that the ultrasonic probe 100 desired by the user is connected to the ultrasonic diagnostic device 200 desired by the user, only one of the ultrasonic diagnostic devices 200 that receives infrared rays from the ultrasonic probe 100 is connected to the ultrasonic probe 100. This not only ensures reliability, but also makes it easy to switch one ultrasonic probe 100 from the ultrasonic diagnostic device 200 that has been connected to it to another ultrasonic diagnostic device 200. In particular, with the technology described in Patent Document 2, it was not easy to connect the ultrasonic probe when the number of ultrasonic diagnostic devices to be connected increased. According to this embodiment, even if the number of ultrasonic diagnostic devices 200 to be connected increases, no additional work is required, and the ultrasonic probe 100 can be easily wirelessly connected to the ultrasonic diagnostic device 200 by simply pointing the ultrasonic probe 100 at the ultrasonic diagnostic device 200 and transmitting the serial number via infrared rays.

Second Embodiment
The second embodiment will be described below. In the above-described first embodiment, infrared rays are transmitted from the ultrasound probe 100 when the pairing switch 144 is operated. In contrast, the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that visible light is transmitted from the ultrasound probe 100 when the pairing switch 144 is operated. The following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment, and will omit a description of the points in common with the first embodiment. In the description of the second embodiment, the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be described with the same reference numerals.

The optical transmission circuit 120 provided in the ultrasound probe 100 of the second embodiment transmits visible light. When the pairing switch 144 is operated, the probe-side processing circuit 150 provided in the ultrasound probe 100 of the second embodiment reads a serial number from the probe-side memory 160 and controls the optical transmission circuit 120 to blink visible light in a predetermined blinking pattern corresponding to the serial number. In addition, the optical reception circuit 210 provided in the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 of the second embodiment includes a camera capable of capturing visible light.

Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of a series of processes in the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 of the second embodiment. The processes in this flowchart are an alternative to the series of processes (S300 to S308) up until the start of the interconnection described above.

First, the main body processing circuit 250 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 waits until the blinking visible light is captured by the optical receiving circuit 210 (i.e., the camera) (step S400).

When the blinking visible light is captured by the optical receiving circuit 210, the main body processing circuit 250 analyzes the blinking pattern of the visible light to identify the serial number of the ultrasound probe 100 (step S402). For example, if the visible light blinks based on a Morse code, the main body processing circuit 250 may analyze the Morse code to identify the serial number.

Next, the main body processing circuit 250 stores the serial number identified from the blinking pattern of the visible light in the main body memory 260, and further controls the main body wireless circuit 220 to transmit a request for the serial number to the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S404).

Next, the main body processing circuit 250 determines whether the main body wireless circuit 220 has received a serial number from the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S406).

If the main body wireless circuit 220 does not receive the serial number from the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves within a predetermined time period after the serial number request is sent via Wi-Fi radio waves, i.e., if a timeout occurs, the main body processing circuit 250 may return to S400.

On the other hand, if the main body wireless circuit 220 receives the serial number without timing out, the main body processing circuit 250 determines whether the serial number identified from the blinking pattern of the visible light (another example of "first unique identification information") matches the serial number received from the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S408).

If the main body processing circuit 250 determines that the two serial numbers do not match, it may return to S400.

On the other hand, if the main body processing circuit 250 determines that the two serial numbers match, it starts a mutual connection between the ultrasound probe 100 and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S410). The subsequent processing is the same as the processing from S310 to S324 described above, so a description thereof will be omitted.

According to the second embodiment described above, when the pairing switch 144 is operated by the user, the ultrasound probe 100 transmits a visible light while blinking it. When the ultrasound diagnostic device 200, which is the main body from the viewpoint of the ultrasound probe 100, captures the blinking visible light, it identifies the serial number from the blinking pattern of the visible light and transmits a request for the serial number to the ultrasound probe 100, for example, via Wi-Fi radio waves. When the ultrasound probe 100 receives the request for the serial number, it transmits the serial number to the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves. When the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 receives the serial number via Wi-Fi radio waves, it determines whether the serial number identified from the blinking pattern of the visible light matches the serial number received via Wi-Fi radio waves. When the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 determines that the two serial numbers match, it starts a mutual connection between the ultrasound probe 100 and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves.

In this way, even when visible light is used instead of infrared light, the ultrasound probe 100 desired by the user can be reliably and easily interconnected with the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 also desired by the user.

Third Embodiment
The third embodiment will be described below. In the first or second embodiment described above, the ultrasonic diagnostic device 200 has been described as determining whether or not the serial number received via infrared rays (or the serial number identified from the blinking pattern of visible light) matches the serial number received via Wi-Fi radio waves. In contrast, the third embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments described above in that it determines whether or not these two serial numbers match the serial number input by the user to the main body side input interface 230. Hereinafter, the differences from the first and second embodiments will be mainly described, and the points in common with the first and second embodiments will be omitted. In the description of the third embodiment, the same parts as those in the first or second embodiment will be described with the same reference numerals.

Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of a series of processes in the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 of the third embodiment. The processes in this flowchart are an alternative to the series of processes (S300 to S308) up until the start of the interconnection described above.

First, the main body processing circuit 250 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 determines whether the main body wireless circuit 220 has received Wi-Fi radio waves from multiple ultrasound probes 100 (step S500).

For example, when multiple ultrasound probes 100 are powered on, Wi-Fi radio waves are transmitted from each of the multiple ultrasound probes 100. At this time, the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 receives Wi-Fi radio waves from each of the multiple ultrasound probes 100. In other words, there are multiple Wi-Fi access points as seen by the ultrasound diagnostic device 200.

If the main body wireless circuit 220 receives Wi-Fi radio waves from only one ultrasound probe 100, rather than multiple ultrasound probes 100, the main body processing circuit 250 proceeds to step S512, which will be described later.

On the other hand, when the main body wireless circuit 220 receives Wi-Fi radio waves from multiple ultrasonic probes 100, the main body processing circuit 250 causes the display 242 to display a selection screen for the ultrasonic probes 100 (step S502). The selection screen for the ultrasonic probes 100 is a screen that allows the user to select one ultrasonic probe 100 to be connected to from among the multiple ultrasonic probes 100 that are emitting Wi-Fi radio waves.

Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of a selection screen for the ultrasonic probe 100. For example, when Wi-Fi radio waves are being transmitted from each of four ultrasonic probes 100, the main body processing circuit 250 displays icons of the four ultrasonic probes 100 on the selection screen for the ultrasonic probe 100 as shown in the figure, and allows the user to select one of the ultrasonic probes 100.

Returning to the explanation of the flowchart in FIG. 12, the main body side processing circuit 250 waits until the user selects one of the ultrasonic probes 100 via the main body side input interface 230 (step S504). In other words, the main body side processing circuit 250 does not proceed with the process until the user selects one of the ultrasonic probes 100 via the main body side input interface 230.

When any one of the ultrasonic probes 100 is selected by the user, the main body processing circuit 250 displays a serial number input screen on the display 242 (step S506). The serial number input screen is a screen for allowing the user to input the serial number of the ultrasonic probe 100 selected by the user on the selection screen. The serial number that the user is prompted to input may be a part of the number (e.g., the last four digits of the number) or the entire number. Also, instead of the serial number, a predetermined password may be entered.

Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of a serial number input screen. For example, if the display 242 is a touch panel that also has the input function of the main body input interface 230, the main body processing circuit 250 may display a serial number input field, a keyboard, and the like on the input screen.

Returning to the explanation of the flowchart in FIG. 12, the main body processing circuit 250 waits until the user inputs the serial number via the main body input interface 230 (step S508).

When the user inputs the serial number, the main unit processing circuit 250 displays an infrared transmission request screen on the display 242 (step S510). The infrared transmission request screen is a screen for inducing (inducing) the user to transmit infrared rays from the ultrasound probe 100 selected by the user on the selection screen toward the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 (main unit). This causes infrared rays to be transmitted from the ultrasound probe 100 to the ultrasound diagnostic device 200.

Next, the main body processing circuit 250 waits until the serial number is received via infrared light by the optical receiving circuit 210 (step S512).

When the serial number is received by the optical receiving circuit 210 via infrared rays, the main body processing circuit 250 stores the serial number in the main body memory 260, and further controls the main body wireless circuit 220 to transmit a request for the serial number to the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S514).

Next, the main body processing circuit 250 determines whether the main body wireless circuit 220 has received a serial number from the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S516).

If the main body wireless circuit 220 does not receive the serial number from the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves within a predetermined time period from when the serial number request was sent via Wi-Fi radio waves, i.e., when a timeout occurs, the main body processing circuit 250 may return to S512.

On the other hand, if the main body wireless circuit 220 receives the serial number without timing out, the main body processing circuit 250 determines whether or not (i) the serial number received from the ultrasound probe 100 via infrared rays, (ii) the serial number received from the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves, and (iii) the serial number input via the main body input interface 230 (an example of "third unique identification information") match (step S518).

If the main body processing circuit 250 determines that the three serial numbers (i) to (iii) do not match, it may return to S512.

On the other hand, if the main body processing circuit 250 determines that the three serial numbers (i) to (iii) match, it starts a mutual connection between the ultrasound probe 100 and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves (step S520). The subsequent processing is the same as the processing from S310 to S324 described above, so a description thereof will be omitted.

According to the third embodiment described above, the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 determines whether (i) the serial number received from the ultrasound probe 100 via infrared rays, (ii) the serial number received from the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves, and (iii) the serial number input by the user via the main body side input interface 230 match, and if it determines that the three serial numbers match, it starts a mutual connection between the ultrasound probe 100 and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves. This can further increase the reliability of the mutual connection between the ultrasound probe 100 and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200.

Furthermore, according to the above-described third embodiment, the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 does not transmit a serial number request to the ultrasound probe 100 until the user selects one of the ultrasound probes 100 via the main body side input interface 230, and transmits a serial number request to the ultrasound probe 100 when the user selects one of the ultrasound probes 100 via the main body side input interface 230. In this way, by involving the user's operation of selecting the ultrasound probe 100, it is possible to start an interactive interconnection.

Fourth Embodiment
The fourth embodiment will be described below. The fourth embodiment differs from the first to third embodiments in that, in order to prevent the mutual connection from being started due to an erroneous operation, the mutual connection between the ultrasound probe 100 and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 is started when the pairing switch 144 of the ultrasound probe 100 is pressed for a predetermined time or a predetermined number of times. Hereinafter, the differences from the first to third embodiments will be mainly described, and the description of the points in common with the first to third embodiments will be omitted. In the description of the fourth embodiment, the same parts as those of the first to third embodiments will be described with the same reference numerals.

The main body processing circuit 250 of the fourth embodiment may control the main body wireless circuit 220 to send a serial number request to the ultrasound probe 100 via Wi-Fi radio waves when the optical receiving circuit 210 receives the same serial number via infrared rays continuously for a predetermined time (e.g., 3 seconds), or when the optical receiving circuit 210 receives the same serial number repeatedly via infrared rays a predetermined number of times (e.g., 3 times).

For example, if the user accidentally presses the pairing switch 144 once, the ultrasound probe 100 transmits infrared rays only once. In such a case, the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 determines that the same serial number has not been received a predetermined number of times via infrared rays, and stops transmitting a request for the serial number to the ultrasound probe 100. As a result, the interconnection is not initiated.

On the other hand, if the user presses the pairing switch 144 three times, infrared rays are transmitted from the ultrasound probe 100 three times. In such a case, the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 determines that the same serial number has been received repeatedly a predetermined number of times via infrared rays, assumes that the user has operated the pairing switch 144 with clear intention, and transmits a serial number request to the ultrasound probe 100. As a result, interconnection is initiated.

According to the fourth embodiment described above, if the same serial number is continuously received via infrared for a predetermined period of time, or if the same serial number is repeatedly received via infrared a predetermined number of times, it is assumed that the user operated the pairing switch 144 with a clear intention, and processing related to interconnection is performed; otherwise, it is assumed that the pairing switch 144 was operated by the user by mistake, and processing related to interconnection is stopped. This makes it possible to further increase the reliability of interconnection between the ultrasound probe 100 and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 while preventing the initiation of interconnection due to a user mistake.

Fifth Embodiment
The fifth embodiment will be described below. The fifth embodiment differs from the first to fourth embodiments in that, in order to prevent mutual connection from being started due to erroneous operation, mutual connection between the ultrasound probe 100 and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 is started when the pairing switch 144 of the ultrasound probe 100 and the main body side input interface 230 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 are operated simultaneously. Hereinafter, differences from the first to fourth embodiments will be mainly described, and explanations of points in common with the first to fourth embodiments will be omitted. In the description of the fifth embodiment, parts that are the same as those of the first to fourth embodiments will be described with the same reference numerals.

In the fifth embodiment, the main body processing circuit 250 displays the selection screen of the ultrasound probe 100 described above on the display 242 when the same serial number is continuously received by the optical receiving circuit 210 via infrared rays during a period in which the main body input interface 230 is continuously operated by the user for a predetermined time or during a period in which the main body input interface 230 is repeatedly operated by the user a predetermined number of times. In other words, when the user presses the pairing switch 144 of the ultrasound probe 100 and simultaneously operates the main body input interface 230 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 200, processing related to interconnection is executed.

For example, the main body processing circuit 250 may cause the display 242 to display a screen (hereinafter referred to as a simultaneous operation request screen) that allows the user to operate the pairing switch 144 and the main body input interface 230 simultaneously.

Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of a simultaneous operation request screen. For example, if the display 242 is a touch panel, the main body processing circuit 250 may display a search icon SR or the like that can be operated by the user on the simultaneous operation request screen. Suppose that the user touches the search icon SR, points the ultrasound probe 100 toward the ultrasound diagnostic device 200, and presses the pairing switch 144 for several seconds. In this case, while the main body input interface 230 is being operated by the user, the optical receiving circuit 210 continues to receive the same serial number via infrared rays for several seconds. Interconnection may be initiated on the condition that such double user operation is performed.

According to the fifth embodiment described above, the selection screen of the ultrasound probe 100 is displayed on the display 242 on the condition that the pairing switch 144 of the ultrasound probe 100 and the main body side input interface 230 of the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 are operated simultaneously. As a result, it is possible to further increase the reliability of the interconnection between the ultrasound probe 100 and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 while suppressing the initiation of interconnection due to an erroneous operation by the user.

According to at least one embodiment described above, when the pairing switch 144 is operated by the user, the ultrasound probe 100 transmits the serial number, for example, via infrared rays. When the ultrasound diagnostic device 200, which is the main body from the viewpoint of the ultrasound probe 100, receives the serial number via infrared rays, it transmits a request for the serial number to the ultrasound probe 100, for example, via Wi-Fi radio waves. When the ultrasound probe 100 receives the request for the serial number, it transmits the serial number to the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves. When the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 receives the serial number via Wi-Fi radio waves, it determines whether the serial number received via infrared rays matches the serial number received via Wi-Fi radio waves. When the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 determines that the two serial numbers match, it starts a mutual connection between the ultrasound probe 100 and the ultrasound diagnostic device 200 via Wi-Fi radio waves. This allows the ultrasound probe 100 to be more reliably and easily connected to the ultrasound diagnostic device 200.

Although several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are within the scope of the invention and its equivalents as set forth in the claims, as well as the scope and spirit of the invention.

The above-described embodiment can be expressed as follows.
an ultrasonic probe for transmitting ultrasonic waves to a subject and receiving echoes of the ultrasonic waves;
an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus for generating an ultrasonic image of the subject based on the echoes received by the ultrasonic probe;
The ultrasonic probe includes:
a probe-side first transmitter that transmits a first electromagnetic wave;
a probe-side second transmission unit that transmits a second electromagnetic wave having a lower directivity than the first electromagnetic wave;
a probe side receiving unit that receives the second electromagnetic wave;
A probe side input interface;
A probe side processing unit,
The probe side processing unit includes:
When the probe-side input interface is operated by a user, the probe-side first transmission unit is controlled to transmit unique identification information of the ultrasonic probe via the first electromagnetic wave;
when a predetermined request is received by the probe-side receiving unit via the second electromagnetic wave, controlling the probe-side second transmitting unit to transmit the unique identification information via the second electromagnetic wave as a response to the predetermined request;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes:
a main body side first receiving unit that receives the first electromagnetic wave;
a main body side transmitting unit that transmits the second electromagnetic wave;
a main body side second receiving unit that receives the second electromagnetic wave;
A main body side processing unit,
The main body side processing unit includes:
when the unique identification information is received by the main body first receiving unit via the first electromagnetic wave, controlling the main body side transmitting unit to transmit the predetermined request via the second electromagnetic wave;
when the unique identification information is received by the main body side second receiving unit via the second electromagnetic waves, determining whether or not a first unique identification information, which is the unique identification information received by the main body side first receiving unit via the first electromagnetic waves, matches a second unique identification information, which is the unique identification information received by the main body side second receiving unit via the second electromagnetic waves;
if the first unique identification information and the second unique identification information match, starting a mutual connection between the ultrasound probe and the ultrasound diagnostic device via the second electromagnetic wave.
Ultrasound diagnostic system.

1...ultrasound diagnostic system, 100...ultrasound probe, 110...transducer, 120...optical transmission circuit, 130...probe side wireless circuit, 132...radio wave transmission circuit, 134...radio wave reception circuit, 140...probe side input interface, 142...power switch, 144...pairing switch, 150...probe side processing circuit, 160...probe side memory, 200...ultrasound diagnostic device (main body), 210...optical reception circuit, 220...main body side wireless circuit, 222...radio wave transmission circuit, 224...radio wave reception circuit, 230...main body side input interface, 240...main body side output interface, 250...main body side processing circuit, 260...main body side memory

Claims (12)

an ultrasonic probe for transmitting ultrasonic waves to a subject and receiving echoes of the ultrasonic waves;
an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus for generating an ultrasonic image of the subject based on the echoes received by the ultrasonic probe;
the ultrasonic probe transmits unique identification information of the ultrasonic probe to the ultrasonic diagnostic device via a first electromagnetic wave based on a user's operation;
when the ultrasonic diagnostic device receives the unique identification information from the ultrasonic probe via the first electromagnetic wave, the ultrasonic diagnostic device transmits a predetermined request to the ultrasonic probe via a second electromagnetic wave having a lower directivity than the first electromagnetic wave;
when the ultrasound probe receives the predetermined request from the ultrasound diagnostic device via the second electromagnetic wave, the ultrasound probe transmits the unique identification information to the ultrasound diagnostic device via the second electromagnetic wave as a response to the predetermined request;
When the ultrasonic diagnostic device receives the unique identification information from the ultrasonic probe via the second electromagnetic waves, the ultrasonic diagnostic device determines whether or not a first unique identification information, which is the unique identification information received via the first electromagnetic waves, matches a second unique identification information, which is the unique identification information received via the second electromagnetic waves, and when the first unique identification information and the second unique identification information match, starts a mutual connection between the ultrasonic probe and the ultrasonic diagnostic device via the second electromagnetic waves.
Ultrasound diagnostic system. the first electromagnetic wave is infrared radiation,
The second electromagnetic wave is an electric wave.
The ultrasound diagnostic system of claim 1 . The ultrasonic probe includes:
a probe-side first transmitter that transmits the first electromagnetic wave;
a probe-side second transmission unit that transmits the second electromagnetic wave;
a probe side receiving unit that receives the second electromagnetic wave;
A probe side input interface;
A probe side processing unit,
The probe side processing unit includes:
When the probe-side input interface is operated by the user, the probe-side first transmission unit is controlled to transmit unique identification information of the ultrasonic probe via the first electromagnetic wave;
when the predetermined request is received by the probe-side receiving unit via the second electromagnetic wave, the probe-side second transmitting unit is controlled to transmit the unique identification information via the second electromagnetic wave as a response to the predetermined request.
3. The ultrasound diagnostic system according to claim 1 or 2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes:
a main body side first receiving unit that receives the first electromagnetic wave;
a main body side transmitting unit that transmits the second electromagnetic wave;
a main body side second receiving unit that receives the second electromagnetic wave;
A main body side processing unit,
The main body side processing unit includes:
when the unique identification information is received by the main body first receiving unit via the first electromagnetic wave, controlling the main body side transmitting unit to transmit the predetermined request via the second electromagnetic wave;
When the unique identification information is received by the main body side second receiving unit via the second electromagnetic wave, it is determined whether or not the first unique identification information and the second unique identification information match;
if the first unique identification information and the second unique identification information match, starting a mutual connection between the ultrasound probe and the ultrasound diagnostic device via the second electromagnetic wave.
The ultrasound diagnostic system of claim 3 . the first electromagnetic wave is visible light;
the second electromagnetic wave is an electric wave,
the main body side first receiving unit includes a camera capable of capturing an image of the visible light,
the probe-side processing unit controls the probe-side first transmission unit so as to blink the visible light in a blinking pattern corresponding to the unique identification information;
The main body side processing unit includes:
When the blinking visible light is captured by the camera, the first unique identification information is identified based on a blinking pattern of the visible light captured by the camera;
determining whether the first unique identification information identified from the blinking pattern of the visible light matches the second unique identification information;
when the first unique identification information identified from the blinking pattern of the visible light matches the second unique identification information, the interconnection is initiated.
The ultrasound diagnostic system of claim 4. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus further includes a main body input interface and a main body output interface,
The main body side processing unit includes:
when the second electromagnetic wave is received by the main body side second receiving unit from each of the plurality of ultrasonic probes, a selection screen is displayed on the main body side output interface to allow a user to select one of the ultrasonic probes to be connected to the other from among the plurality of ultrasonic probes;
When one of the ultrasonic probes displayed on the selection screen is selected by the user via the main body side input interface, an input screen for allowing the user to input unique identification information of the ultrasonic probe selected by the user is displayed on the main body side output interface;
when the user inputs unique identification information of the ultrasonic probe via the main body side input interface, it is determined whether or not the first unique identification information, the second unique identification information, and a third unique identification information which is the unique identification information input via the main body side input interface match each other;
if the first unique identification information, the second unique identification information, and the third unique identification information match, starting the interconnection;
6. The ultrasound diagnostic system according to claim 4 or 5. the main body side processing unit controls the main body side transmitting unit to transmit the predetermined request via the second electromagnetic wave when the same unique identification information is continuously received for a predetermined time by the main body side first receiving unit via the first electromagnetic wave, or when the same unique identification information is repeatedly received a predetermined number of times by the main body side first receiving unit via the first electromagnetic wave.
7. An ultrasound diagnostic system according to claim 4, wherein the ultrasound diagnostic system comprises: The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus further includes a main body input interface and a main body output interface,
The main body side processing unit includes:
When the second electromagnetic wave is received by the main body side second receiving unit from each of the plurality of ultrasonic probes, a selection screen is displayed on the main body side output interface to allow a user to select one of the ultrasonic probes to be connected to the other from among the plurality of ultrasonic probes,
controlling the body-side transmitting unit not to transmit the predetermined request via the second electromagnetic wave until one of the ultrasonic probes displayed on the selection screen is selected by the user via the body-side input interface;
when the user selects one of the ultrasonic probes displayed on the selection screen via the main body side input interface, the main body side transmitting unit is controlled to transmit the predetermined request via the second electromagnetic wave.
8. An ultrasound diagnostic system according to any one of claims 4 to 7. the main body side processing unit, when the first electromagnetic wave is continuously received by the main body side first receiving unit during a period in which the main body side input interface is continuously operated for a predetermined time, causes the main body side output interface to display the selection screen;
The ultrasound diagnostic system of claim 8. The probe side processing unit includes:
and controlling the probe-side second transmission unit to transmit type identification information capable of identifying a type of the ultrasonic probe via the second electromagnetic wave.
The main body side processing unit includes:
When the type identification information is received by the main body side second receiving unit via the second electromagnetic wave, it is determined whether or not the ultrasonic probe to which the type identification information is assigned is a supported accessory;
if the ultrasound probe is not one of the supported accessories, not initiating the interconnection;
8. An ultrasound diagnostic system according to any one of claims 4 to 7. An ultrasonic probe for transmitting ultrasonic waves to a subject and receiving echoes of the ultrasonic waves,
a probe-side first transmitter that transmits a first electromagnetic wave;
a probe-side second transmission unit that transmits a second electromagnetic wave having a lower directivity than the first electromagnetic wave;
a probe side receiving unit that receives the second electromagnetic wave;
A probe side input interface;
A probe side processing unit,
The probe side processing unit includes:
When the probe-side input interface is operated by a user, the probe-side first transmission unit is controlled to transmit unique identification information of the ultrasonic probe via the first electromagnetic wave;
an ultrasonic diagnostic device that generates an ultrasonic image of the subject based on the echo, wherein when a predetermined request is received by the probe-side receiving unit via the second electromagnetic wave from the ultrasonic diagnostic device that has received the unique identification information via the first electromagnetic wave, the probe-side second transmitting unit is controlled to transmit the unique identification information to the ultrasonic diagnostic device via the second electromagnetic wave as a response to the predetermined request;
the unique identification information is received by the ultrasonic diagnostic device via the first electromagnetic waves and the unique identification information is received via the second electromagnetic waves, and when it is determined by the ultrasonic diagnostic device that the first unique identification information received via the first electromagnetic waves and the second unique identification information received via the second electromagnetic waves match, starting an interconnection with the ultrasonic diagnostic device via the second electromagnetic waves.
Ultrasound probe. 1. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that generates an ultrasonic image of a subject based on echoes of ultrasonic waves transmitted from an ultrasonic probe to the subject,
a main body side first receiving unit that receives a first electromagnetic wave;
a main body side transmitting unit that transmits a second electromagnetic wave having a lower directivity than the first electromagnetic wave;
a main body side second receiving unit that receives the second electromagnetic wave;
A main body side processing unit,
The main body side processing unit includes:
when the unique identification information of the ultrasonic probe is received from the ultrasonic probe via the first electromagnetic wave by the main body side first receiving unit, the main body side transmitting unit is controlled to transmit a predetermined request to the ultrasonic probe via the second electromagnetic wave;
when the unique identification information, which is a response to the predetermined request, is received by the body-side second receiving unit via the second electromagnetic waves from the ultrasonic probe that has received the predetermined request, it is determined whether or not the first unique identification information, which is the unique identification information received by the body-side first receiving unit via the first electromagnetic waves, matches the second unique identification information, which is the unique identification information received by the body-side second receiving unit via the second electromagnetic waves;
When the first unique identification information and the second unique identification information match, an interconnection with the ultrasonic probe is initiated via the second electromagnetic wave.
Ultrasound diagnostic equipment.

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