CN113349818A

CN113349818A - Ultrasonic imaging system and storage device of wireless probe

Info

Publication number: CN113349818A
Application number: CN202010148770.6A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 谭泽伟; 张皖; 刘福生
Original assignee: Shenzhen Mindray Bio Medical Electronics Co Ltd
Current assignee: Shenzhen Mindray Bio Medical Electronics Co Ltd
Priority date: 2020-03-05
Filing date: 2020-03-05
Publication date: 2021-09-07

Abstract

The application provides a ultrasonic imaging system and storage device of wireless probe, this ultrasonic imaging system includes ultrasonic equipment, wireless probe and storage device, ultrasonic equipment includes at least one in supersound host computer and the platform truck, wireless probe is deposited when out of work in the storage device, storage device can dismantle or fixed connection to ultrasonic equipment, storage device includes energy storage module and discharge circuit, energy storage module via discharge circuit is for depositing in the storage device wireless probe charges. According to the ultrasonic imaging system and the storage device of the wireless probe that includes thereof of the embodiment of the application, wireless probe both can be placed, wireless probe can be charged again, both can the exclusive use, also can install and use as the probe glass holder on ultrasonic equipment and/or the platform truck, can compromise multiple use scene, reduce the not enough probability of wireless probe electric quantity, promote wireless probe's usability, and convenient to carry, simple to use.

Description

Ultrasonic imaging system and storage device of wireless probe

Technical Field

The present application relates to the field of ultrasound imaging technology, and more particularly, to an ultrasound imaging system and a storage device for a wireless probe.

Background

Ultrasound imaging systems generally require acquisition of target object data by an ultrasound probe, which may include a wired ultrasound probe and a wireless ultrasound probe (hereinafter simply referred to as a wireless probe), wherein the wireless probe is more portable and more convenient to operate.

In the use process of the wireless probe of the existing ultrasonic imaging system, the scenes of idle placement and use in an ultrasonic examination room need to be considered, and the scenes of use outside the ward and outside the hospital need to be considered. At present, a storage device which can be used for placing a wireless probe and charging the wireless probe and is convenient to use under various scenes does not exist.

Disclosure of Invention

The application provides an ultrasonic imaging system and storage device of wireless probe that includes thereof, and this storage device can place wireless probe, can charge for wireless probe again, both can the exclusive use, also can install as probe cup cover use on ultrasonic equipment and/or the platform truck, and it is all very convenient to use under wireless probe's multiple use scene. The embodiments set forth herein are briefly described as follows, and further details are described in the detailed description in conjunction with the drawings.

According to an aspect of the present application, there is provided an ultrasound imaging system comprising: the ultrasonic equipment comprises at least one of an ultrasonic host and a trolley, the wireless probe is stored in the storage device when the wireless probe does not work, the storage device is detachably or fixedly connected to the ultrasonic equipment, the storage device comprises an energy storage module and a discharge circuit, and the energy storage module charges the wireless probe stored in the storage device through the discharge circuit. It is thus clear that storage device among the ultrasonic imaging system both can place wireless probe, can charge for wireless probe again, has realized the compatibility of function, simultaneously, because this storage device can be with ultrasonic equipment detachable connection or fixed connection to according to wireless probe's use scene, select the connected mode to storage device, thereby can realize charging wireless probe anytime and anywhere, improved the portability that charges wireless probe.

According to another aspect of the present application, there is provided a storage device for a wireless probe, the device including an energy storage module and a discharge circuit, the energy storage module charging a wireless probe stored in the storage device via the discharge circuit. Therefore, the storage device of the wireless probe can be used as an independent body, and the wireless probe can be charged at any time and any place through the self energy storage module, so that the portability of charging the wireless probe is improved.

According to the ultrasonic imaging system and the storage device of the wireless probe that includes thereof of the embodiment of the application, wireless probe both can be placed, wireless probe can be charged again, both can the exclusive use, also can install and use as the probe glass holder on ultrasonic equipment and/or the platform truck, can compromise multiple use scene, reduce the not enough probability of wireless probe electric quantity, promote wireless probe's usability, and convenient to carry, simple to use.

Drawings

The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present application will become more apparent by describing in more detail embodiments of the present application with reference to the attached drawings. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of the application and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the application and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the application. In the drawings, like reference numbers generally represent like parts or steps.

FIG. 1 shows a schematic block diagram of an ultrasound imaging system according to one embodiment of the present application.

Figure 2 shows a schematic block diagram of an ultrasound imaging system according to another embodiment of the present application.

FIG. 3 shows a schematic block diagram of an ultrasound imaging system according to yet another embodiment of the present application.

FIG. 4 shows a schematic block diagram of a storage device for a wireless probe according to one embodiment of the present application.

FIG. 5 shows a schematic block diagram of a storage device for a wireless probe according to another embodiment of the present application.

FIG. 6 shows a schematic block diagram of a storage device for a wireless probe according to yet another embodiment of the present application.

Detailed Description

In order to make the objects, technical solutions and advantages of the present application more apparent, exemplary embodiments according to the present application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present application and not all embodiments of the present application, and that the present application is not limited by the example embodiments described herein. All other embodiments, which can be derived by a person skilled in the art from the embodiments of the application described in the application without inventive step, shall fall within the scope of protection of the application.

First, a schematic block diagram of an ultrasound imaging system 10 according to one embodiment of the present application is described with reference to fig. 1. As shown in fig. 1, the ultrasound imaging system 10 includes an ultrasound apparatus 101, a wireless probe 102, and a storage device 103. Wherein the ultrasound device 101 may be at least one of an ultrasound mainframe and a trolley. Wherein the wireless probe 102 is stored in the storage means 103 when not in operation, the storage means 103 is detachably or fixedly connected to the ultrasound apparatus 101, the storage means 103 comprises an energy storage module 1031 and a discharging circuit 1032, and the energy storage module 1031 charges the wireless probe 102 stored in the storage means 103 via the discharging circuit 1032.

In the embodiment of the present application, the storage device 103 included in the ultrasound imaging system 10 is used as both the storage device of the wireless probe 102 and the charging device of the wireless probe 102, so that the storage and charging are integrated, and not only is the problem of inconvenience in carrying when the storage device and the charging device of the wireless probe are independent devices solved, but also the problems of increased user operation complexity, poor management of adapter cables, and influence of connecting wires on inspection operations when a power socket is required to be found in a bedside environment to connect a wireless probe charger are solved.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage device 103 may include an energy storage module 1031 and a discharge circuit 1032, the energy storage module 1031 charging the wireless probe 102 stored in the storage device 103 via the discharge circuit 1032. Illustratively, the energy storage module 1031 may charge the wireless probe 102 stored in the storage device 103 by a contactless (wireless charging) manner or a contact (wired charging) manner.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage space provided by the storage device 103 is capable of storing one or more wireless probes. In an embodiment of the present application, the storage device 103 may include at least one energy storage module 1031, each energy storage module 1031 being used for charging one wireless probe 102. For example, in one example, the storage device 103 provides a storage space for storing a wireless probe 102, and the storage device 103 includes a power storage module 1031, and the power storage module 1031 charges the wireless probe 102. In another example, the storage device 103 provides a storage space capable of storing one wireless probe 102, and the storage device 103 includes a plurality of energy storage modules 1031 that are capable of charging the wireless probe 102 at the same time or at different times. In yet another example, the storage device 103 provides a storage space capable of storing more than one wireless probe 102, and the storage device 103 includes a power storage module 1031 that is capable of charging the wireless probes 102 at the same time or at different times. In yet another example, the storage space provided by the storage device 103 can store more than one wireless probe 102, and the storage device 103 includes more than one energy storage module 1031, each of the energy storage modules 1031 can charge one wireless probe 102, or each of the energy storage modules 1031 can charge more than one wireless probe 102, or more than one of the energy storage modules 1031 can charge one wireless probe 102; alternatively, more than one of the energy storage modules 1031 charges more than one wireless probe 102.

In one example, the energy storage module 1031 may be a non-rechargeable battery, such as a removable battery. In this example, the storage device 103 charges the wireless probe 102 stored therein through the detachable battery, which is not only simple in operation and easy to implement, but also can be replaced at any time, so that the application scenarios are wider, and the trouble that the wireless probe cannot be charged when the power of the energy storage module 1031 is low and the power of the wireless probe cannot be recovered is not needed.

In another example, the energy storage module 1031 of the storage device 103 may be a rechargeable battery. In this example, the energy storage module 1031 of the storage device 103 may restore power by charging it from an external power source to charge the wireless probe 102 stored in the storage device 103. By adopting the rechargeable battery as the energy storage module 1031 to charge the wireless probe 102, a more economical charging scheme can be realized, and the cost is reduced.

In one example, the energy storage module 1031 of the storage device 103 may be a removable rechargeable battery. In this example, the energy storage module 1031 may be directly detached from the storage device 103 and charged by an external power source, which is simple to operate and makes the structure of the storage device 103 simpler.

In another example, the energy storage module 1031 of the storage device 103 may be a non-removable rechargeable battery. In this example, the storage device 103 may further include a charging circuit (not shown in fig. 1, which will be further described later in connection with fig. 2) via which the energy storage module 1031 may receive charging of itself by an external power source. For example, the external power source may charge the energy storage module 1031 in a wired or wireless manner. In the case of wired charging, the external power source may be used to charge the energy storage module 1031 with dc input or ac input.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage device 103 may further include a detection module (not shown in fig. 1, which will be further described later in conjunction with fig. 2), which may be configured to detect a connection state of the storage device 103 with an external power source and detect a charge state of the energy storage module 1031, and determine whether to charge the energy storage module 1031 by the external power source based on a detection result. For the purpose of distinguishing from the detection module which will be described later, the detection module herein will be referred to as a first detection module.

In this embodiment, the first detecting module may further detect the state of charge of the energy storage module 1031 when detecting that the storage apparatus 103 is connected to the external power source, and determine that the energy storage module 1031 is charged by the external power source if the state of charge of the energy storage module 1031 is greater than a preset threshold; if the state of charge of the energy storage module 1031 is less than or equal to the preset threshold, it is determined that the energy storage module 1031 is not charged by the external power supply.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage device 103 may further include a detection module (not shown in fig. 1, which will be further described later in conjunction with fig. 2) that causes the external power source to charge the wireless probe 102 when it is detected that the wireless probe 102 is stored in the storage device 103 and when it is detected that the storage device 103 is connected to the external power source. For the purpose of distinguishing from the detection module described above, the detection module herein is referred to as a second detection module.

In this embodiment, the second detection module further detects whether the storage device 103 is connected to an external power supply when detecting that the wireless probe 102 is stored in the storage device 103, and if detecting that the storage device 103 is connected to the external power supply, enables the external power supply to charge the wireless probe 102; if it is detected that the storage apparatus 103 is not connected to the external power source, no operation is performed. It should be understood that the first detection module and the second detection module herein may be the same detection module or different detection modules.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage device 103 may further include a detection module (not shown in fig. 1, and described in further detail below in conjunction with fig. 3) that detects the amount of power stored in the wireless probe of the storage device 103 and determines whether to charge the wireless probe 102 based on the detection result. For the purpose of distinguishing from the detection modules described hereinabove, the detection module herein will be referred to as a third detection module.

In this embodiment, the third detection module detects the electric quantity of the wireless probe 102 stored in the storage device 103, and determines to charge the wireless probe 102 if the electric quantity of the wireless probe 102 is detected to be less than a predetermined threshold; if the amount of charge of the wireless probe 102 is detected to be greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, it is determined not to charge the wireless probe 102. It should be understood that the third detection module and the aforementioned first detection module may be the same detection module or different detection modules; similarly, the third detection module and the aforementioned second detection module may be the same detection module or different detection modules.

In embodiments of the present application, the storage device 103 may be connected to the ultrasound apparatus 101 by any suitable means, such as by electrical or physical connection. For example, the storage device 103 may be connected to the ultrasonic apparatus 101 by a lock screw or a quick release structure such as a snap. Further, the connection of the storage device 103 to the ultrasonic apparatus 101 may be detachable or non-detachable. The storage means 103 is movable when the connection of the storage means 103 to the ultrasound apparatus 101 is a detachable connection. Further, the storage device 103 may be connected to the ultrasonic apparatus 101 directly or indirectly. In general, the storage device 103 can be used alone or mounted to an ultrasound mainframe and/or cart for use as a probe cup. Further, the storage device 103 may also include a cover (not shown) that closes when the storage device 103 is moved and opens or removes when the storage device 103 is used as a probe sleeve.

Several scenarios are exemplarily described below to describe the benefits that can be brought about by an ultrasound imaging system according to embodiments of the present application.

Scene one: the wireless probe 102 is used in an ultrasonic examination room, and the storage device 103 is fixed on an ultrasonic main machine or a trolley through a mechanical interface and an electrical interface and used as a probe cup sleeve. In this scenario, if the wireless probe 102 is placed in the storage device 103, and if the wireless probe 102 is low in power, the storage device 103 charges the wireless probe 102; meanwhile, the storage device 103 itself may determine whether to charge the energy storage module 1031 inside the storage device 103 according to the electric quantity of the energy storage module 1031 inside the storage device 103 and the state of the external power supply. Even under the condition that the ultrasonic equipment 101 and the trolley are powered off, the electric energy stored in the energy storage module 1031 in the storage device 103 can be transferred to the wireless probe 102 through a strategy, when a user takes out the wireless probe 102 for use, the use method is the same as normal, but the probability of no electricity or low electric quantity of the wireless probe 102 is greatly reduced.

Scene two: the wireless probe 102 is used in an ultrasound examination room and the storage device 103 is a stand-alone device (not connected to an ultrasound mainframe and/or cart). In this scenario, if the storage device 103 is connected to an external power source, the wireless probe 102 is placed in the storage device 103, which corresponds to the situation where the wireless probe 102 is placed in a conventional bag with a charger. If the storage device 103 is not connected with an external power supply, when the wireless probe 102 is placed in the device, the electric energy stored in the energy storage module 1031 of the storage device 103 can be transferred to the wireless probe 102 through a strategy, and when a user takes out the wireless probe 102 for use, the use method is the same as normal, but the probability of no electricity or low electric quantity of the wireless probe 102 is greatly reduced.

Scene three: when a user receives a visit demand, the storage device 103 and the wireless probe 102 are detached from the ultrasonic main unit and/or the trolley in the first scene, or the wireless probe 102 and the storage device 103 are carried to a check point together in the second scene, in the moving process, if the power of the wireless probe 102 is not full, the wireless probe 102 is charged in the storage device 103, and the power of the wireless probe 102 is increased before the wireless probe 102 reaches a use place. The service time of the wireless probe 102 is prolonged, and the probability of power failure in the use process is reduced.

Scene four: during the use process of the home visit, after one patient is checked, the user carries the wireless probe 102 and the storage device 103 to move to the next check point, during the moving process, if the wireless probe 102 is not full of electricity, the storage device 103 charges the wireless probe 102, and before the wireless probe 102 reaches the use place, the electricity of the wireless probe 102 is increased. The service time of the wireless probe 102 is prolonged, and the probability of power failure in the use process is reduced.

Scene five: during the use of the hospital, the user finds that the wireless probe 102 (e.g., probe a) is low or is about to run out of power when using the probe, and can connect an external power source, such as an ac power source near the hospital bed, to the storage device 103 to charge the storage device 103 and the probe a, and in the case where the storage device 103 provides multiple wireless probe placement locations, the user can switch to another probe (e.g., probe B) for another examination, and the probe B will be charged after being placed back in the device.

Based on the above description, according to the ultrasonic imaging system of this application embodiment including the strorage device of wireless probe, this strorage device can place wireless probe, can charge for wireless probe again, both can the exclusive use, also can install and use as the probe glass cover on supersound host computer and/or the platform truck, can compromise multiple use scene, reduces the not enough probability of wireless probe electric quantity, promotes wireless probe's usability, and convenient to carry, simple to use.

An ultrasound imaging system according to another embodiment of the present application is described below in conjunction with figure 2. Fig. 2 shows a schematic block diagram of an ultrasound imaging system 20 according to another embodiment of the present application. As shown in fig. 2, the ultrasound imaging system 20 includes an ultrasound apparatus 201, a wireless probe 202, and a storage device 203. Wherein the wireless probe 202 is stored in the storage device 203 when not in operation, the storage device 203 is connected to the ultrasound apparatus 201, and the storage device 203 comprises an energy storage module 2031, a discharging circuit 2032, a charging circuit 2033, and a detecting module 2034. The energy storage module 2031 charges the wireless probe 202 stored in the storage device 203 via the discharge circuit 2032. The energy storage module 2031 receives charging of itself by an external power supply via the charging circuit 2033. The detecting module 2034 is configured to detect a connection status of the storage device 203 with an external power source, detect a power state of the energy storage module 203, and determine whether to charge the energy storage module 203 by the external power source based on the detection result. Further, the detection module 2034 causes the external power supply to charge the wireless probe 202 when detecting that the wireless probe 202 is stored in the storage device 203 and detecting that the storage device 203 is connected to the external power supply.

In the embodiment of the present application, the storage device 203 included in the ultrasound imaging system 20 is used as both the storage device of the wireless probe 202 and the charging device of the wireless probe 202, so that the storage and charging are integrated, which not only solves the problem that the storage device and the charging device of the wireless probe are independent devices, and the storage device and the charging device are inconvenient to carry when going out, but also solves the problems that the operation complexity of the user is increased, the adapter cable is not managed well, and the connection wire affects the inspection operation when the power socket is needed to be found in the bedside environment to connect the wireless probe charger.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage device 203 may include an energy storage module 2031 and a discharge circuit 2032, the energy storage module 2031 charging the wireless probe 202 stored in the storage device 203 via the discharge circuit 2032. Illustratively, the energy storage module 2031 may charge the wireless probe 202 stored in the storage device 203 by a contactless (wireless charging) manner or a contact (wired charging) manner.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage space provided by the storage device 203 is capable of storing one or more wireless probes. In embodiments of the present application, the storage device 203 may include at least one energy storage module 2031, each energy storage module 2031 being used to charge one wireless probe 202. For example, in one example, the storage device 203 provides storage space to store a wireless probe 202, and the storage device 203 includes a power storage module 2031, the power storage module 2031 charging the wireless probe 202. In another example, the storage device 203 provides a storage space that can store one wireless probe 202, and the storage device 203 includes a plurality of energy storage modules 2031 that can charge the wireless probe 202 at the same time or at different times. In yet another example, the storage device 203 provides storage space for more than one wireless probe 202, and the storage device 203 includes a power storage module 2031, which can charge the wireless probes 202 at the same time or at different times. In yet another example, the storage space provided by the storage device 203 can store more than one wireless probe 202, and the storage device 203 includes more than one energy storage module 2031, each of the energy storage modules 2031 can charge one wireless probe 202, or each of the energy storage modules 2031 can charge more than one wireless probe 202, or more than one energy storage module 2031 of the energy storage modules 2031 can charge one wireless probe 202; alternatively, more than one of the energy storage modules 2031 charges more than one wireless probe 202.

In the embodiment of the present application, the energy storage module 2031 is a rechargeable battery, and the energy storage module 2031 of the storage device 203 can recover the power by charging the battery with an external power source, so as to charge the wireless probe 202 stored in the storage device 203. By using a rechargeable battery as the energy storage module 2031 to charge the wireless probe 202, a more economical charging scheme can be implemented, and the cost is reduced.

In the embodiment of the present application, the energy storage module 2031 of the storage device 203 is a non-removable rechargeable battery. Based on this, the storage device 203 further includes a charging circuit 2033, and the energy storage module 2031 may receive charging of itself from an external power source via the charging circuit 2033. For example, the energy storage module 2031 may be charged by an external power source in a wired or wireless manner. In the case of wired charging, the external power source may be used to charge the energy storage module 2031 with dc or ac power.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage device 203 further includes a detection module 2034. The detecting module 2034 may further detect the electrical quantity state of the energy storage module 2031 when detecting that the storage apparatus 203 is connected to the external power source, and determine that the energy storage module 2031 is charged by the external power source if the electrical quantity state of the energy storage module 2031 is greater than a preset threshold; if the state of charge of the energy storage module 2031 is less than or equal to a preset threshold, it is determined that the energy storage module 2031 is not to be charged by an external power supply. The detecting module 2034 may further detect whether the storage device 203 is connected to an external power source when detecting that the wireless probe 202 is stored in the storage device 203, and enable the external power source to charge the wireless probe 202 if detecting that the storage device 203 is connected to the external power source; if it is detected that the storage device 203 is not connected to the external power source, no operation is performed.

In embodiments of the present application, the storage device 203 may be connected to the ultrasound apparatus 201 by any suitable means, such as by electrical or physical connection. For example, the storage device 203 may be connected to the ultrasonic apparatus 201 by a screw or a quick release structure such as a snap. Further, the connection of the storage device 203 to the ultrasound apparatus 201 may or may not be detachable. The storage 203 is movable when the storage 203 is detachably connected to the ultrasound device 201. Further, the storage device 203 may be connected to the ultrasound apparatus 201 either directly or indirectly. In general, the storage device 203 can be used alone or mounted to an ultrasound mainframe and/or cart for use as a probe cup. Further, the storage device 203 may further include a cover (not shown) that is closed when the storage device 203 is moved and opened or removed when the storage device 203 is used as a probe sleeve.

An ultrasound imaging system according to another embodiment of the present application is described below in conjunction with figure 3. Fig. 3 shows a schematic block diagram of an ultrasound imaging system 30 according to another embodiment of the present application. As shown in fig. 3, the ultrasound imaging system 30 includes an ultrasound apparatus 301, a wireless probe 302, and a storage device 303. Wherein the wireless probe 302 is stored in the storage device 303 when not in operation, the storage device 303 is connected to the ultrasonic equipment 301, and the storage device 303 comprises an energy storage module 3031, a discharge circuit 3032 and a detection module 3034. The energy storage module 3031 charges the wireless probe 302 stored in the storage device 303 via the discharge circuit 3032. The detection module 3034 detects the amount of power of the wireless probe stored in the storage device 303, and determines whether to charge the wireless probe 302 based on the detection result.

In the embodiment of the present application, the storage device 303 included in the ultrasound imaging system 30 is used as both the storage device of the wireless probe 302 and the charging device of the wireless probe 302, so that the storage and charging are integrated, which not only solves the problem that the storage device and the charging device of the wireless probe are not convenient to carry when they are independent devices, but also solves the problems that the operation complexity of the user is increased, the adapter cable is not managed well, and the connection wire affects the inspection operation when the power socket is needed to be found in the bedside environment to connect the wireless probe charger.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage device 303 may include a power storage module 3031 and a discharge circuit 3032, and the power storage module 3031 charges the wireless probe 302 stored in the storage device 303 via the discharge circuit 3032. Illustratively, the energy storage module 3031 may charge the wireless probe 302 stored in the storage device 303 in a contactless manner (wireless charging) or in a contact manner (wired charging).

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage space provided by the storage device 303 is capable of storing one or more wireless probes. In an embodiment of the present application, the storage device 303 may include at least one energy storage module 3031, each energy storage module 3031 being configured to charge one wireless probe 302. For example, in one example, the storage device 303 provides a storage space that can store a wireless probe 302, and the storage device 303 includes a power storage module 3031, and the power storage module 3031 charges the wireless probe 302. In another example, the storage device 303 provides a storage space that can store one wireless probe 302, and the storage device 303 includes a plurality of energy storage modules 3031, wherein the energy storage modules 3031 can charge the wireless probe 302 at the same time or at different times. In yet another example, the storage device 303 provides a storage space that can store more than one wireless probe 302, and the storage device 303 includes a power storage module 3031, wherein the power storage module 3031 can charge the wireless probes 302 at the same time or at different times. In yet another example, the storage device 303 provides a storage space that can store more than one wireless probe 302, and the storage device 303 includes more than one energy storage module 3031, each of the energy storage modules 3031 can charge more than one wireless probe 302, or more than one energy storage module 3031 of the energy storage modules 3031 can charge one wireless probe 302; alternatively, more than one of the energy storage modules 3031 charges more than one wireless probe 302.

In one example, the energy storage module 3031 may be a non-rechargeable battery, such as a removable battery. In this example, the storage device 303 charges the wireless probe 302 stored therein through the detachable battery, which is not only simple in operation and easy to implement, but also can replace the battery at any time, so that the application scene is wider, and the trouble that the wireless probe cannot be charged when the electric quantity of the energy storage module 6031 is low and the electric quantity of the wireless probe cannot be recovered is not needed.

In another example, the energy storage module 3031 of the storage device 303 may be a rechargeable battery. In this example, the energy storage module 3031 of the storage device 303 may restore power by charging it from an external power source to charge the wireless probe 302 stored in the storage device 303. By adopting the rechargeable battery as the energy storage module 3031 to charge the wireless probe 302, a more economical charging scheme can be realized, and the cost is reduced. In one example, the energy storage module 3031 of the storage device 303 may be a removable rechargeable battery. In this example, the energy storage module 3031 can be directly detached from the storage device 303 and charged by an external power source, which is simple to operate and makes the structure of the storage device 303 simpler.

In the embodiment of the present application, the detecting module 3034 further detects whether the storage device 303 is connected to an external power source when detecting that the wireless probe 302 is stored in the storage device 303, and if detecting that the storage device 303 is connected to the external power source, the external power source is enabled to charge the wireless probe 302; if it is detected that the storage apparatus 303 is not connected to the external power source, no operation is performed.

In embodiments of the present application, the storage means 303 may be removably or fixedly connected to the ultrasound device 301 by any suitable means, such as by electrical or physical connection. For example, the storage device 303 may be connected to the ultrasonic apparatus 301 by a screw or a quick release structure such as a snap. Further, the connection of the storage 303 to the ultrasound device 301 may or may not be detachable. The storage 303 is movable when the connection of the storage 303 to the ultrasound device 301 is a detachable connection. Further, the storage device 303 may be connected to the ultrasound apparatus 301 directly or indirectly. In general, the storage device 303 may be used alone or mounted to an ultrasound mainframe and/or cart for use as a probe cup. Further, the storage unit 303 may also include a cover (not shown) that closes when the storage unit 303 is moved and opens or removes when the storage unit 303 is used as a probe sleeve.

An ultrasound imaging system according to an embodiment of the present application is exemplarily described above. A storage device for a wireless probe provided in accordance with another aspect of the present application is described below.

Figure 4 shows a schematic block diagram of a storage device 403 for a wireless probe according to one embodiment of the present application. As shown in fig. 4, storage device 403 includes a power storage module 4031 and a discharge circuit 4032, and power storage module 4031 charges a wireless probe (e.g., wireless probe 102, wireless probe 202, wireless probe 302, or other wireless probe shown in fig. 1-3) stored in storage device 403 via discharge circuit 4032.

In the embodiment of the application, the storage device 403 is used as both a storage device and a charging device of the wireless probe, so that the storage and charging are integrated, the problem that the storage device and the charging device of the wireless probe are independent devices, the storage device and the charging device of the wireless probe are inconvenient to carry out, and the problems that when a power socket needs to be found in a bedside environment to connect a wireless probe charger, the operation complexity of a user is increased, adapter cables are not well managed, and connecting wires influence the checking operation are solved.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage apparatus 403 may include a power storage module 4031 and a discharge circuit 4032, the power storage module 4031 charging a wireless probe stored in the storage apparatus 403 via the discharge circuit 4032. Illustratively, the energy storage module 4031 may charge the wireless probe stored in the storage device 403 by a contactless (wireless charging) manner or a contact (wired charging) manner.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage space provided by the storage device 403 is capable of storing one or more wireless probes. In an embodiment of the present application, storage device 403 may include at least one power module 4031, each power module 4031 for charging a wireless probe. For example, in one example, the storage space provided by the storage apparatus 403 is capable of storing a wireless probe, and the storage apparatus 403 includes a power storage module 4031, and the power storage module 4031 charges the wireless probe. In another example, the storage 403 provides storage space capable of storing one wireless probe, and the storage 403 includes a plurality of energy storage modules 4031, and the energy storage modules 4031 are capable of charging wireless probes at the same time or at different times. In yet another example, the storage space provided by the storage apparatus 403 can store more than one wireless probe, and the storage apparatus 403 includes one power module 4031, and the power module 4031 can be used to charge the wireless probes simultaneously or non-simultaneously. In yet another example, storage 403 provides storage space capable of storing more than one wireless probe, and storage 403 includes more than one energy storage module 4031, each of these energy storage modules 4031 may charge one wireless probe, or each of these energy storage modules 4031 may charge more than one wireless probe, or more than one of these energy storage modules 4031 may charge one wireless probe; alternatively, more than one of the energy storage modules 4031 charges more than one wireless probe.

In one example, energy storage module 4031 may be a non-rechargeable battery, such as a removable battery. In this example, the storage device 403 charges the wireless probe stored therein through the detachable battery, which is not only simple in operation and easy to implement, but also can change the battery at any time, so that the application scenarios are wider, and the trouble that the wireless probe cannot be charged when the electric quantity of the energy storage module 4031 is low and the electric quantity of the wireless probe cannot be recovered is not required.

In another example, the energy storage module 4031 of the storage device 403 may be a rechargeable battery. In this example, the energy storage module 4031 of the storage device 403 may be recharged by charging it from an external power source to charge the wireless probe stored in the storage device 403. By adopting the rechargeable battery as the energy storage module 4031 to charge the wireless probe, a more economical charging scheme can be realized, and the cost is reduced.

In one example, the energy storage module 4031 of the storage device 403 may be a removable rechargeable battery. In this example, the energy storage module 4031 may be directly detached from the storage device 403 and charged by an external power source, which is simple to operate and makes the storage device 403 simpler in structure.

In another example, the energy storage module 4031 of the storage device 403 may be a non-removable rechargeable battery. In this example, the storage device 403 may also include a charging circuit (not shown in fig. 4, described further below in connection with fig. 5) via which the energy storage module 4031 may receive charging of itself from an external power source. For example, the external power source may charge the energy storage module 4031 in a wired or wireless manner. In the case of wired charging, the external power source may charge the energy storage module 4031 with dc input or ac input.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage device 403 may further include a detection module (not shown in fig. 4, which will be further described later in conjunction with fig. 5), which may be configured to detect a connection status of the storage device 403 with an external power source, detect a charge status of the energy storage module 4031, and determine whether to charge the energy storage module 4031 by the external power source based on the detection result. For the purpose of distinguishing from the detection module which will be described later, the detection module herein will be referred to as a fourth detection module.

In this embodiment, the fourth detecting module may further detect the power status of the energy storage module 4031 when detecting that the storage apparatus 403 is connected to the external power source, and determine that the energy storage module 4031 is charged by the external power source if the power status of the energy storage module 4031 is greater than a preset threshold; if the electric quantity state of the energy storage module 4031 is less than or equal to the preset threshold, it is determined that the energy storage module 4031 does not need to be charged by an external power supply.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage device 403 may further include a detection module (not shown in fig. 4, which will be further described later in conjunction with fig. 5) that causes an external power source to charge the wireless probe when it is detected that the wireless probe is stored in the storage device 403 and it is detected that the storage device 403 is connected to the external power source. For the sake of distinction from the detection modules described hereinabove, the detection module herein is referred to as a fifth detection module.

In this embodiment, the fifth detecting module further detects whether the storage device 403 is connected to an external power supply when detecting that the wireless probe is stored in the storage device 403, and if detecting that the storage device 403 is connected to the external power supply, causes the external power supply to charge the wireless probe; if it is detected that the storage device 403 is not connected to the external power source, no operation is performed. It should be understood that the aforementioned fourth detection module and the fifth detection module herein may be the same detection module, or may be different detection modules.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage device 403 may further include a detection module (not shown in fig. 4, which will be further described below in conjunction with fig. 6) that detects the amount of power stored in the wireless probe of the storage device 403, and determines whether to charge the wireless probe based on the detection result. For the sake of distinction from the detection module described hereinabove, the detection module herein is referred to as a sixth detection module.

In this embodiment, the sixth detection module detects the power of the wireless probe stored in the storage device 403, and determines to charge the wireless probe if the power of the wireless probe is detected to be less than a predetermined threshold; and if the electric quantity of the wireless probe is detected to be larger than or equal to the preset threshold value, determining not to charge the wireless probe. It should be understood that the sixth detection module and the fourth detection module may be the same detection module or different detection modules; similarly, the sixth detection module and the fifth detection module may be the same detection module or different detection modules.

In embodiments of the present application, the storage device 403 may be a separate device or may be connected to the ultrasound apparatus (e.g., ultrasound apparatus 101, ultrasound apparatus 201, ultrasound apparatus 301 (such as an ultrasound mainframe, cart, etc.) of fig. 1-3) via a connection component (not shown) in any suitable manner, such as by electrical or physical connection, for example, the storage device 403 may be connected to the ultrasound apparatus by a locking screw or a snap or other quick-release structure, further, the storage device 403 may or may not be connected to the ultrasound apparatus, the storage device 403 may or may not be removable when the storage device 403 is detachably connected to the ultrasound apparatus, further, the storage device 403 may or may be directly connected to the ultrasound apparatus, or may be indirectly connected to the ultrasound apparatus, generally, the storage device 403 can be used alone or mounted on an ultrasound mainframe and/or a trolley to be used as a probe sleeve. Further, the storage device 403 may also include a cover (not shown) that closes when the storage device 403 is moved and opens or is removed when the storage device 403 is used as a probe sleeve.

Several scenarios are exemplarily described below to describe the benefits that accrue to the storage of a wireless probe according to embodiments of the present application.

Scene one: the wireless probe is used in an ultrasonic examination room, and the storage device 403 is fixed on an ultrasonic host or a trolley through a mechanical interface and an electrical interface and used as a probe cup sleeve. In this scenario, if the wireless probe is placed in the storage device 403, the storage device 403 charges the wireless probe if the wireless probe is low in power; meanwhile, the storage apparatus 403 itself may determine whether to charge the energy storage module 4031 inside the storage apparatus 403 according to the power of the energy storage module 4031 inside the storage apparatus 403 and the state of the external power supply. Even under the condition that the ultrasonic host and the trolley are powered off, the electric energy stored in the energy storage module 4031 in the storage device 403 can be transferred to the wireless probe through a strategy, when a user takes out the wireless probe for use, the use method is the same as that of the normal use, but the probability of no electricity or low electricity quantity of the wireless probe is greatly reduced.

Scene two: the wireless probe is used in an ultrasound examination room and the storage device 403 is a stand-alone device (not connected to an ultrasound mainframe and/or cart). In this scenario, if the storage device 403 is connected to an external power source, the wireless probe is placed in the storage device 403, which corresponds to the situation where the wireless probe is placed in a conventional bag with a charger. If the storage device 403 is not connected with an external power supply, and the wireless probe is placed in the device, the electric energy stored in the energy storage module 4031 of the storage device 403 can be transferred to the wireless probe through a strategy, and when a user takes out the wireless probe for use, the use method is the same as normal, but the probability of power failure or low electric quantity of the wireless probe is greatly reduced.

Scene three: when a user receives a visit demand, the storage device 403 and the wireless probe are detached from the ultrasound host or the trolley in the first scene, or the wireless probe and the storage device 403 are carried to a check point in the second scene, in the moving process, if the power of the wireless probe is not full, the wireless probe is charged in the storage device 403, and the power of the wireless probe is increased before the wireless probe reaches a use place. The service time of the wireless probe is prolonged, and the probability of power failure in the use process is reduced.

Scene four: during the use of the medical examination, after one patient is examined, the user carries the wireless probe and the storage device 403 to go to the next examination point, during the traveling, if the wireless probe is not full of electric quantity, the storage device 403 charges the wireless probe, and before the wireless probe reaches the use place, the electric quantity of the wireless probe is increased. The service time of the wireless probe is prolonged, and the probability of power failure in the use process is reduced.

Scene five: during the use of the hospital, when the user uses the wireless probe (e.g., probe a), the user finds that the probe is low or is about to run out of power, at this time, an external power source, such as an ac power source near the hospital bed, can be connected to the storage device 403 to charge the storage device 403 and the probe a, and when the storage device 403 provides a plurality of wireless probe placement positions, the user can switch to another probe (e.g., probe B) to perform another examination, and the probe B will be charged after being placed back in the device.

Based on the above description, according to the strorage device of wireless probe of this application embodiment both can place wireless probe, can charge for wireless probe again, both can the exclusive use, also can install and use as the probe glass cover on supersound host computer and/or the platform truck, can compromise multiple use scene, reduce the not enough probability of wireless probe electric quantity, promote wireless probe's usability, and convenient to carry, simple to use.

A storage device for a wireless probe according to another embodiment of the present application is described below with reference to fig. 5. Figure 5 shows a schematic block diagram of a storage device 503 for a wireless probe according to another embodiment of the present application. As shown in fig. 5, the storage device 503 of the wireless probe comprises a power storage module 5031, a discharge circuit 5032, a charge circuit 5033 and a detection module 5034. The energy storage module 5031 charges the wireless probe stored in the storage device 503 through the discharge circuit 5032. The energy storage module 5031 receives the charging of itself by an external power supply via the charging circuit 5033. The detection module 5034 is configured to detect a connection status of the storage device 503 with the external power supply and detect a power state of the energy storage module 5031, and determine whether to charge the energy storage module 5031 by the external power supply based on the detection result. Further, the detection module 5034 causes the external power supply to charge the wireless probe when it is detected that the wireless probe is stored in the storage device 503 and the storage device 503 is connected to the external power supply.

In the embodiment of the application, the storage device 503 is used as both a storage device and a charging device of the wireless probe, so that the storage and charging are integrated, the problem that the storage device and the charging device of the wireless probe are independent devices, the storage device and the charging device of the wireless probe are inconvenient to carry out, and the problems that when a power socket needs to be found in a bedside environment to connect a wireless probe charger, the operation complexity of a user is increased, adapter cables are not well managed, and connecting wires influence the inspection operation are solved.

In an embodiment of the application, the storage device 503 may include a power storage module 5031 and a discharge circuit 5032, and the power storage module 5031 charges the wireless probe stored in the storage device 503 via the discharge circuit 5032. Illustratively, the energy storage module 5031 can charge the wireless probe stored in the storage device 503 by a contactless (wireless charging) manner or a contact (wired charging) manner.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage space provided by the storage device 503 is capable of storing one or more wireless probes. In an embodiment of the present application, the storage device 503 may include at least one energy storage module 5031, each energy storage module 5031 being configured to charge one wireless probe. For example, in one example, the storage device 503 provides a storage space that can store a wireless probe, and the storage device 503 includes a power storage module 5031, and the power storage module 5031 charges the wireless probe. In another example, the storage device 503 provides a storage space capable of storing one wireless probe, and the storage device 503 includes a plurality of energy storage modules 5031, and the energy storage modules 5031 can charge the wireless probe at the same time or at different times. In yet another example, the storage device 503 provides a storage space capable of storing more than one wireless probe, and the storage device 503 includes a power storage module 5031, and the power storage module 5031 can charge the wireless probes at the same time or at different times. In yet another example, the storage space provided by the storage device 503 can store more than one wireless probe, and the storage device 503 includes more than one energy storage module 5031, each of the energy storage modules 5031 can charge one wireless probe, or each of the energy storage modules 5031 can charge more than one wireless probe, or more than one energy storage module 5031 of the energy storage modules 5031 can charge one wireless probe; alternatively, more than one of the energy storage modules 5031 charges more than one wireless probe.

In the embodiment of the present application, the energy storage module 5031 is a rechargeable battery, and the energy storage module 5031 of the storage device 503 can recover the power by charging the external power supply to charge the wireless probe stored in the storage device 503. By using the rechargeable battery as the energy storage module 5031 to charge the wireless probe, a more economical charging scheme can be implemented, and the cost is reduced.

In the embodiment of the present application, the energy storage module 5031 of the storage device 503 is a non-removable rechargeable battery. Based on this, the storage device 503 further includes a charging circuit 5033, and the energy storage module 5031 can receive the external power to charge itself via the charging circuit 5033. For example, the energy storage module 5031 may be charged by an external power source in a wired or wireless manner. In the case of wired charging, the external power source may charge the energy storage module 5031 with dc input or ac input.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage device 503 further includes a detection module 5034. The detection module 5034 may further detect the power state of the energy storage module 5031 when the storage apparatus 503 is detected to be connected to the external power supply, and determine that the energy storage module 5031 is charged by the external power supply if the power state of the energy storage module 5031 is greater than a preset threshold; if the state of charge of the energy storage module 5031 is less than or equal to a preset threshold, it is determined that the energy storage module 5031 does not need to be charged by an external power supply. The detecting module 5034 can further detect whether the storage device 503 is connected to an external power supply when detecting that the wireless probe is stored in the storage device 503, and enable the external power supply to charge the wireless probe if detecting that the storage device 503 is connected to the external power supply; if it is detected that the storage device 503 is not connected to the external power source, no operation is performed.

In embodiments of the present application, the storage device 503 may be a stand-alone device or may be connected to the ultrasound apparatus via a connection component (not shown) in any suitable manner, such as by electrical or physical connection. For example, the storage device 503 may be connected to the ultrasonic apparatus by a screw or a quick release structure such as a snap. In addition, the storage device 503 may or may not be detachably connected to the ultrasound apparatus. The storage unit 503 is movable when the connection of the storage unit 503 to the ultrasound device is a detachable connection. The storage device 503 may be connected to the ultrasound apparatus directly or indirectly. In general, the storage device 503 may be used alone or mounted to the ultrasound mainframe and/or cart as a probe cup. Further, the storage unit 503 may further include a cover (not shown) that is closed when the storage unit 503 is moved and opened or removed when the storage unit 503 is used as a probe sleeve.

A storage device for a wireless probe according to another embodiment of the present application is described below with reference to fig. 6. Figure 6 shows a schematic block diagram of a storage device 603 for a wireless probe according to another embodiment of the present application. As shown in fig. 6, the storage apparatus 603 of the wireless probe includes an energy storage module 6031, a discharge circuit 6032, and a detection module 6034. The energy storage module 6031 charges the wireless probe stored in the storage device 603 via the discharge circuit 6032. The detection module 6034 detects the amount of power of the wireless probe stored in the storage device 603, and determines whether to charge the wireless probe based on the detection result.

In the embodiment of the application, the storage device 603 is used as a storage device of the wireless probe and a charging device of the wireless probe, so that the storage and charging are integrated, the problem that the storage device and the charging device of the wireless probe are independent devices, the storage device and the charging device of the wireless probe are inconvenient to carry out is solved, and the problems that when a power socket needs to be found in a bedside environment to connect a wireless probe charger, the operation complexity of a user is increased, adapter cables are not well managed, and connecting wires influence the checking operation are solved.

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage apparatus 603 may include a power storage module 6031 and a discharge circuit 6032, and the power storage module 6031 charges the wireless probe stored in the storage apparatus 603 via the discharge circuit 6032. For example, the energy storage module 6031 may charge the wireless probe stored in the storage device 603 in a contactless manner (wireless charging) or a contact manner (wired charging).

In an embodiment of the present application, the storage space provided by the storage device 603 is capable of storing one or more wireless probes. In embodiments of the present application, the storage device 603 may include at least one energy storage module 6031, each energy storage module 6031 being configured to charge one wireless probe. For example, in one example, the storage device 603 provides a storage space that can store a wireless probe, and the storage device 603 includes a power storage module 6031 that charges the wireless probe. In another example, the storage device 603 provides a storage space that can store one wireless probe, and the storage device 603 includes a plurality of energy storage modules 6031, which can charge the wireless probe at the same time or at different times. In yet another example, the storage device 603 provides a storage space that can store more than one wireless probe, and the storage device 603 includes a power storage module 6031, which power storage module 6031 can charge the wireless probes at the same time or at different times. In yet another example, the storage space provided by the storage device 603 can store more than one wireless probe, and the storage device 603 includes more than one energy storage module 6031, each of the energy storage modules 6031 can charge one wireless probe, or each of the energy storage modules 6031 can charge more than one wireless probe, or more than one energy storage module 6031 of the energy storage modules 6031 can charge one wireless probe; alternatively, more than one of the energy storage modules 6031 charges more than one wireless probe.

In one example, energy storage module 6031 may be a non-rechargeable battery, such as a removable battery. In this example, storage device 603 charges for the wireless probe who leaves in it through removable battery, and easy operation not only realizes easily, moreover owing to can change the battery at any time for the application scene is more extensive, need not to receive the puzzlement that can't charge for wireless probe when energy storage module 6031 electric quantity is low, and self electric quantity also can't resume.

In another example, the energy storage module 6031 of the storage device 603 may be a rechargeable battery. In this example, the energy storage module 6031 of the storage device 603 may be recharged by charging it from an external power source to charge the wireless probe stored in the storage device 603. The rechargeable battery is used as the energy storage module 6031 to charge the wireless probe, so that a more economical charging scheme can be realized, and the cost is reduced. In one example, the energy storage module 6031 of the storage device 603 may be a removable rechargeable battery. In this example, the energy storage module 6031 can be directly detached from the storage device 603 and charged by an external power source, which is simple to operate and makes the structure of the storage device 603 simpler.

In this embodiment of the application, the detecting module 6034 further detects whether the storage device 603 is connected to an external power source when detecting that the wireless probe is stored in the storage device 603, and if detecting that the storage device 603 is connected to the external power source, the external power source is enabled to charge the wireless probe; if it is detected that the storage device 603 is not connected to an external power source, no operation is performed.

In embodiments of the present application, the storage device 603 may be a stand-alone device or may be connected to the ultrasound apparatus via a connection member (not shown) in any suitable manner, such as by electrical or physical connection. For example, the storage device 603 may be connected to the ultrasonic apparatus by a screw or a quick release structure such as a snap. In addition, the storage device 603 may or may not be removably connected to the ultrasound apparatus. The storage means 603 is movable when the connection of the storage means 603 to the ultrasound device is a detachable connection. Further, the storage device 603 may be connected to the ultrasound apparatus either directly or indirectly. In general, storage device 603 may be used alone or mounted to an ultrasound mainframe and/or cart for use as a probe cup. Further, the storage device 603 may also include a cover (not shown) that closes when the storage device 603 is moved and opens or is removed when the storage device 603 is used as a probe sleeve.

According to still another aspect of the present application, there is also provided a charging device for a wireless probe, the charging device including a space capable of accommodating the wireless probe, the charging device charging the wireless probe when the wireless probe is stored in the space. Illustratively, the structure of the charging device may be the same as that of the storage device of the wireless probe described in the foregoing.

According to still another aspect of the present application, there is also provided an ultrasound imaging system including an ultrasound apparatus, a wireless probe, and a charging device, the charging device including a space capable of accommodating the wireless probe, the wireless probe being stored in the charging device when not in operation, the charging device charging the wireless probe when the wireless probe is stored in the space, the charging device being connected to the ultrasound apparatus. Illustratively, the structure of the charging device may be the same as that of the storage device of the wireless probe described in the foregoing.

Although the example embodiments have been described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the above-described example embodiments are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the present application thereto. Various changes and modifications may be effected therein by one of ordinary skill in the pertinent art without departing from the scope or spirit of the present application. All such changes and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present application as claimed in the appended claims.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the various illustrative elements and algorithm steps described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented as electronic hardware or combinations of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the implementation. Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the present application.

In the several embodiments provided in the present application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and method may be implemented in other ways. For example, the above-described device embodiments are merely illustrative, and for example, the division of the units is only one logical functional division, and other divisions may be realized in practice, for example, a plurality of units or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be omitted, or not executed.

In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the application may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

Similarly, it should be appreciated that in the description of exemplary embodiments of the present application, various features of the present application are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the application and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. However, the method of the present application should not be construed to reflect the intent: this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the detailed description are hereby expressly incorporated into this detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this application.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that all of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and all of the processes or elements of any method or apparatus so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where such features are mutually exclusive. Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise.

Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that while some embodiments described herein include some features included in other embodiments, rather than other features, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the application and form different embodiments. For example, in the claims, any of the claimed embodiments may be used in any combination.

The various component embodiments of the present application may be implemented in hardware, or in software modules running on one or more processors, or in a combination thereof. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that a microprocessor or Digital Signal Processor (DSP) may be used in practice to implement some or all of the functionality of some of the modules in an item analysis apparatus according to embodiments of the present application. The present application may also be embodied as apparatus programs (e.g., computer programs and computer program products) for performing a portion or all of the methods described herein. Such programs implementing the present application may be stored on a computer readable medium or may be in the form of one or more signals. Such a signal may be downloaded from an internet website or provided on a carrier signal or in any other form.

It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the application, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements or steps not listed in a claim. The word "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The application may be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements, and by means of a suitably programmed computer. In the unit claims enumerating several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware. The usage of the words first, second and third, etcetera do not indicate any ordering. These words may be interpreted as names.

The above description is only for the specific embodiments of the present application or the description thereof, and the protection scope of the present application is not limited thereto, and any person skilled in the art can easily conceive of the changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in the present application, and shall be covered by the protection scope of the present application. The protection scope of the present application shall be subject to the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An ultrasound imaging system comprising an ultrasound device, a wireless probe, and a storage device, the ultrasound device comprising at least one of an ultrasound mainframe and a trolley, the wireless probe being stored in the storage device when not in operation, the storage device being removably or fixedly connected to the ultrasound device, the storage device comprising an energy storage module and a discharge circuit, the energy storage module charging the wireless probe stored in the storage device via the discharge circuit.

2. The ultrasound imaging system of claim 1, wherein the energy storage module of the storage device is a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery.

3. The ultrasound imaging system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the storage device further comprises a charging circuit, via which the energy storage module receives a charging of the energy storage module from an external power source.

4. The ultrasound imaging system of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the storage device is a probe sleeve.

5. The ultrasound imaging system of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the storage device further comprises a detection module that detects a connection status with an external power source and detects a charge status of the energy storage module, and determines whether the energy storage module is charged by the external power source based on the detection result.

6. The ultrasound imaging system of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the storage device further comprises a detection module that causes an external power source to charge the wireless probe upon detecting that the wireless probe is stored in the storage device and detecting that the storage device is connected to the external power source.

7. The ultrasonic imaging system of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the storage device further comprises a detection module, and the detection module detects the electric quantity of the wireless probe stored in the storage device and determines whether to charge the wireless probe based on the detection result.

8. The storage device for the wireless probes is characterized by comprising an energy storage module and a discharging circuit, wherein the energy storage module charges the wireless probes stored in the storage device through the discharging circuit.

9. The storage device of claim 8, wherein the energy storage module is a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery.

10. The storage device of claim 8 or 9, further comprising a charging circuit, wherein the energy storage module receives a charge of the energy storage module from an external power source via the charging circuit.

11. The storage device of claim 8, further comprising a connection member via which the storage device is removably or fixedly connected with an ultrasound apparatus.

12. The storage device of claim 11, wherein the ultrasonic equipment comprises at least one of an ultrasonic mainframe and a trolley.

13. A storage device as claimed in claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the storage device is a probe sleeve.

14. The storage device according to any one of claims 8 to 13, further comprising a detection module that detects a connection state with an external power source and detects a state of charge of the energy storage module, and determines whether the energy storage module is charged by the external power source based on a result of the detection.

15. The storage device of any one of claims 8 to 13, further comprising a detection module that causes the external power source to charge the wireless probe upon detecting that the wireless probe is stored within the storage device and detecting that the storage device is connected to the external power source.

16. The storage device according to any one of claims 8 to 13, further comprising a detection module that detects the amount of power stored in the wireless probe of the storage device and determines whether to charge the wireless probe based on the detection result.

17. A storage device according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the storage device provides a storage space in which one or more wireless probes can be stored.

18. The storage device of claim 17, comprising at least one of the energy storage modules, each of the energy storage modules being configured to charge at least one wireless probe.

19. The storage device of claim 8, wherein the storage device is movable.

20. A storage device according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the storage device includes a lid which is closed when the storage device is moved and which is opened or removed when the storage device is used as a probe sleeve.