DE112018006278T5 - ULTRASONIC OPTICAL WAVE MEASURING DEVICE DEVICE, METHOD, PROGRAM AND STORAGE MEDIUM - Google Patents

Abstract

According to the present invention, an optical ultrasonic wave measuring apparatus comprises an ultrasonic pulse output section, a plurality of light pulse output sections, a timing section for pulse output, and a measuring section. The ultrasonic pulse output section is arranged to output an ultrasonic pulse. The light pulse output sections are arranged to output light pulses having their respective different wavelengths. The pulse output timing section is arranged to control the timing at which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output so that the periods of time during which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output do not overlap. The measurement section is arranged to measure a measurement object based on a reflected wave as a result of the reflection of the ultrasonic pulse on the measurement object and the optoacoustic waves generated by the light pulses on the measurement object.

Description

TECHNICAL PART

The present invention relates to the measurement of optoacoustic waves and ultrasonic waves.

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

So far, optoacoustic measuring devices are known which are set up to measure optoacoustic signals obtained by irradiating a measurement object (measurement target) (e.g. a living organism) with pulsed light. For example, an optoacoustic measuring device with multiple light sources is disclosed in Patent Literature 1 and 2. An AR-PAM, a kind of optoacoustic measuring apparatus, is disclosed in non-patent literature 1.

In addition, a measuring device configured to measure a measurement object having an illumination light generating portion and an ultrasonic wave generating portion is disclosed in Patent Literature 3.

QUOTE LIST

PATENT LITERATURE

• Patent Literature 1: JP 2016-047114 A
• Patent literature 2: JP 2011-229660 A
• Patent Literature 3: WO2010 / 095487

Non-patent literature 1: Hao F Zhang, et al., “Functional Photoacoustic Microscopy for High Resolution and Non-Invasive In Vivo Imaging,” Nature Biotechnology, Jun 25, 2006, Volume 24, Number 7, pp.848-851 .

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

However, no measuring device has been proposed that uses an ultrasonic wave generating section and a plurality of pulsed light sources.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to perform measurement with an ultrasonic wave generating section and a plurality of pulsed light sources.

MEANS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM

According to the present invention, an ultrasonic wave measuring optical apparatus comprises: an ultrasonic pulse output section configured to output an ultrasonic pulse; a plurality of light pulse output sections adapted to output light pulses having their respective different wavelengths; a pulse output timing section configured to control the timing at which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output so that the periods during which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output do not overlap with each other; and a measurement section configured to measure a measurement target based on a reflected wave as a result of the reflection of the ultrasonic pulse on the measurement target and optoacoustic waves generated by the light pulses on the measurement target.

According to the thus constructed ultrasonic wave measuring device, an ultrasonic pulse output section outputs an ultrasonic pulse. A plurality of light pulse output sections output light pulses each having different wavelengths. A pulse output timing section controls the timing at which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output so that the periods during which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output do not overlap. A measurement section measures a measurement object based on a reflected wave as a result of the reflection of the ultrasonic pulse on the measurement object and optoacoustic waves generated by the light pulses on the measurement object.

According to the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device of the present invention, trigger signals can include an ultrasonic pulse trigger signal and a plurality of light pulse trigger signals, the ultrasonic pulse trigger signal can be supplied to the ultrasonic pulse output section to generate the ultrasonic pulse, and the light pulse trigger signals can each be the light pulse -Output sections are fed to generate the light pulses.

According to the ultrasonic optical wave measuring apparatus of the present invention, the pulse output timing section (pulse output timing section) may include a trigger signal delaying section configured to delay one of the trigger signals as another of the trigger signals.

According to the optical ultrasonic wave measuring apparatus of the present invention, the pulse output timing section may have an output synchronous trigger signal delaying section configured to delay an output synchronous trigger signal as one of the trigger signals, the output synchronized trigger signal being output in synchronization with timing to which one of the light pulse output sections outputs the light pulse.

According to the ultrasonic wave measuring apparatus of the present invention, the pulse output timing section may include an electrical pulse delaying section arranged to delay an electrical pulse as a result of photoelectric conversion of the light pulse as one of the trigger signals.

According to the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device of the present invention, one of the light pulse output sections may be arranged to receive the light pulse output from another of the light pulse output sections, convert its wavelength and output the converted light pulse, wherein the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device further comprises an optical switch configured to enable switching between one of the light pulse output sections and the measurement object to which the output from another of the light pulse output sections is supplied.

According to the present invention, the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device may further include a moving section configured to receive a movement control pulse and move the position at which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are supplied to the measuring object, the timing section for pulse output so is arranged to control the timing at which the movement control pulse, the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output so that the periods during which the movement control pulse, the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output do not overlap each other.

According to the optical ultrasonic wave measuring apparatus of the present invention, after the motion control pulse has dropped, another ultrasonic pulse and other light pulses can be output.

According to the present invention, an optical ultrasonic wave measuring method using an optical ultrasonic wave measuring device having an ultrasonic pulse output section configured to output an ultrasonic pulse and a plurality of light pulse output sections configured to output light pulses output with their respective different wavelengths: a timing step for the pulse output which is set up to control the point in time at which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output so that the time periods during which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output, do not overlap each other; and a measuring step configured to measure a measurement object based on a reflected wave as a result of the reflection of the ultrasonic pulse on the measurement object and optoacoustic waves generated by the light pulses on the measurement object.

The present invention is also a program of instructions to be executed by a computer for performing an optical ultrasonic wave measuring method using an optical ultrasonic wave measuring device having an ultrasonic pulse output section arranged to output an ultrasonic pulse and a plurality of light pulse output sections adapted to output light pulses having their respective different wavelengths, the method comprising: a timing step for the pulse output adapted to determine the timing at which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses controls so that the periods during which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output do not overlap with each other; and a measuring step arranged to be a measurement object based on a reflected wave as a result of the reflection of the ultrasonic pulse on the measurement object and optoacoustic waves generated by the light pulses on the measurement object.

The present invention is also a computer readable medium having a program of instructions to be executed by a computer for performing an optical ultrasonic wave measuring method using an optical ultrasonic wave measuring device having an ultrasonic pulse output section adapted to have a An ultrasonic pulse outputting, and a plurality of light pulse output sections adapted to output light pulses having their respective different wavelengths, the method comprising: a timing step for the pulse output adapted to determine the time when the The ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are outputted so that the periods of time during which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output do not overlap each other; and a measuring step configured to measure a measurement object based on a reflected wave as a result of the reflection of the ultrasonic pulse on the measurement object and optoacoustic waves generated by the light pulses on the measurement object.

Figure list

• Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the construction of an optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
• Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the pulse output timing section 20th according to the first embodiment of the present invention;
• Figure 3 is a timing diagram of the trigger signals T1 , T2 , T3 according to the first embodiment;
• Figure 13 is a timing diagram of the multiple light pulses P1 , P2 and the ultrasonic pulse P3 according to the first embodiment;
• Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of a timing section for pulse output 20th in the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to the second embodiment;
• Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of a timing section for pulse output 20th in the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to a variation of the second embodiment;
• Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of a timing section for pulse output 20th in the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to the third embodiment;
• Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of a timing section for pulse output 20th in the optical ultrasonic wave meter 1 according to the fourth embodiment;
• Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the ultrasonic wave measuring apparatus 1 according to the fifth embodiment;
• Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the pulse output timing section 20th according to the fifth embodiment;
• Figure 13 is a timing diagram of the multiple light pulses P1 , P2 , the ultrasonic pulse P3 , the optoacoustic waves AW1 , AW2 and the reflected wave US according to the fifth embodiment; and
• Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the pulse output timing section 20th corresponding to the variation of the fifth embodiment.

MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

A description will now be given of embodiments of the present invention with reference to the drawings.

First execution formation

1 Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the construction of an optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

The optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to the first embodiment is for measuring a measurement object 2 (including, for example, a human organism) and includes a pulse output section 10 , a timing section for pulse output 20th , Light pulse output sections 30a , 30b , an ultrasonic pulse output section 32 and a measuring section 40 .

The pulse output section 10 is for the output of an electrical pulse (i.e. light pulse trigger signal (trigger signal) T1 ) designed.

The multiple light pulse output sections 30a , 30b are arranged so that they can generate light pulses P1 , P2 output with their respective different wavelengths. It should be noted that three or more light pulse output sections may be provided, although the two sections 30a , 30b in 1 are provided. The ultrasonic pulse output section 32 is set up to give an ultrasonic pulse P3 issues.

It should be noted that light pulse trigger signals T1 , T2 to the light pulse output sections 30a , 30b be delivered to light pulses P1 , P2 to create. The light pulse output section 30a is set up so that he has the light pulse P1 in synchronization with the light pulse trigger signal T1 generated and to the measurement object 2 supplies. The light pulse output section 30b is set up so that he has the light pulse P2 in synchronization with the light pulse trigger signal T2 generated and the measurement object 2 feeds.

An ultrasonic pulse trigger signal T3 is sent to the ultrasonic pulse output section 32 delivered to an ultrasonic pulse P3 to create. The ultrasonic pulse output section 32 is arranged so that it receives the ultrasonic pulse P3 synchronous with the ultrasonic pulse trigger signal T3 generated and to the measurement object 2 supplies.

The ultrasonic pulse trigger signal T3 and the multiple light pulse trigger signals T1 , T2 are collectively referred to as trigger signals.

The measuring section 40 is arranged so that the target 2 based on a reflected wave US as a result of the reflection of the ultrasonic pulse on the measurement object 2 and that of the light pulses P1 , P2 generated optoacoustic waves AW1 , AW2 on the measurement object 2 is measured.

It should be noted that the structures for the irradiation of the measurement object 2 with the light pulses P1 , P2 and the reception of the optoacoustic waves AW1 , AW2 on the measuring section 40 eg AR-PAM belong without restriction.

The timing section for the pulse output 20th is arranged so that it indicates the point in time at which the ultrasonic pulse P3 and the multiple light pulses P1 , P2 are output, so controls that the length of time during which the ultrasonic pulse P3 and the multiple light pulses P1 , P2 output, do not overlap (see 4th ).

2 Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the timing section of the pulse output 20th according to the first embodiment. The timing section for the pulse output 20th has delay sections (trigger signal delay sections) 20a , 20b .

The timing section for the pulse output 20th is set up to emit an electrical pulse (ie a light pulse trigger signal T1 ) from the pulse output section 10 receives and outputs and sends it directly to the light pulse output section 30a supplies.

The delay section (trigger signal delay section) 20a is set up so that he can get the trigger signal T1 (one of the trigger signals) is delayed and used as a trigger signal T2 (another one of the trigger signals) to the light pulse output section 30b and the delay section 20b provides. The delay section (trigger signal delay section) 20b is set up so that he can get the trigger signal T2 (one of the trigger signals) delayed and used it as the trigger signal T3 (another one of the trigger signals) to the ultrasonic pulse output section 32 supplies.

3 Figure 3 is a timing diagram of the trigger signals T1 , T2 , T3 according to the first embodiment. The trigger signal T1 is so delayed that it is the trigger signal T2 is while the trigger signal T2 so delayed that it is the trigger signal T3 is. The time durations during which the trigger signals T1 , T2 , T3 are issued (raised high) do not overlap.

4th Figure 13 is a timing diagram of the multiple light pulses P1 , P2 and the ultrasonic pulse P3 according to the first embodiment.

The multiple light pulses P1 , P2 and the ultrasonic pulse P3 become synchronous with the respective trigger signals T1 , T2 , T3 issued. The rise in the pulse of light P2 is opposite to the rise in the light pulse P1 around Δt1 delayed. Δt1 is larger than the pulse width W1 of the light pulse P1 . The rise in the ultrasonic pulse P3 is opposite to the rise in the light pulse P2 around Δt2 delayed. Δt2 is larger than the pulse width W2 of the light pulse P2 . The duration of the ultrasonic pulse P3 and the multiple light pulses P1 , P2 are output, so do not overlap.

It should be noted that in 4th the pulse of light P2 after the light pulse P1 and the ultrasonic pulse P3 after the light pulse P2 is issued. The light pulses P1 , P2 and the ultrasonic pulse P3 do not necessarily have to be output in this order, but can be output in any order.

Next, an operation according to the first embodiment will be described.

The pulse output section 10 first emits an electrical pulse (ie light pulse trigger signal T1 ). The electrical pulse passes through the pulse output timing section 20th to act as a light pulse trigger signal T1 to the light pulse output section 30a to be delivered.

The light pulse trigger signal T1 is through the delay section 20a delayed and as a light pulse trigger signal T2 to the light pulse output section 30b delivered.

The light pulse trigger signal T2 is through the delay section 20b delayed and as an ultrasonic pulse trigger signal T3 the ultrasonic pulse output section 32 fed.

The light pulse output sections 30a , 30b give light impulses P1 , P2 with their different wavelengths. The ultrasonic pulse output section 32 gives an ultrasonic pulse P3 out.

The light pulses P1 , P2 and the ultrasonic pulse P3 become the target 2 fed. When the pulse of light P1 on the measurement object 2 is given, becomes an optoacoustic wave AW1 generated. When the pulse of light P2 on the measurement object 2 is given, becomes an optoacoustic wave AW2 generated. The ultrasonic pulse P3 is reflected when it hits the target 2 is given. The reflection causes a reflected wave US .

The measuring section 40 measures the target 2 on the basis of the reflected wave US and the optoacoustic waves AW1 , AW2 .

According to the first embodiment, the timing section operates 20th for the pulse output, that is the length of time during which the ultrasonic pulse P3 and the multiple light pulses P1 , P2 do not overlap, thereby causing artifact signals when making measurements with the ultrasonic pulse output section 32 and the multiple light pulse output sections 30a , 30b can be excluded.

Second embodiment

An optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to a second embodiment is different from the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to the first embodiment in that an output-synchronized trigger signal T10ut ( T2out ) as the trigger signal T2 ( T3 ) (one of the trigger signals) is delayed, whereby the output-synchronized trigger signal Tiout ( T2out ) is output in synchronism with the timing when the light pulse output section 30a (30b) (one of the light pulse output sections) the light pulse P1 ( P2 ) outputs.

5 Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of a timing section 20th for the pulse output in the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to the second embodiment. It should be noted that the components of the ultrasonic wave measuring apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment, which are identical to those of the first embodiment, are denoted by the same reference numerals so that their description is omitted. The measurement object 2 , the pulse output section 10 , the ultrasonic pulse output section 32 and the measurement section 40 are identical to those of the first embodiment and will not be described.

The light pulse output sections 30a , 30b according to the second embodiment are similar to those in the first embodiment, but differ in that trigger signals are synchronized therefrom T10ut , T2out issued.

The light pulse output area 30a according to the second embodiment is set up in such a way that it outputs an output-synchronized trigger signal Tiout synchronously with the point in time at which it generates the light pulse P1 issues. The light pulse output area 30b according to the second embodiment is arranged to have a synchronized output trigger signal T2out synchronously with the time at which it outputs the light pulse P2 issues.

Similar to the first embodiment, the timing section has the pulse output 20th according to the second embodiment, delay sections (output-synchronized trigger signal delay sections) 20c, 20d .

The delay section (output synchronized trigger signal delay section) 20c is arranged to receive the output synchronized trigger signal Tiout as a trigger signal T2 delayed. The delay section (delay section for the output-synchronized trigger signal) 20d is set up to receive the output-synchronized trigger signal T2out than the trigger signal T3 delayed.

It should be noted that the timing diagram of the trigger signals T1 , T2 , T3 which corresponds to that of the first embodiment (see ), and the timing diagram of the light pulses P1 , P2 and the ultrasonic pulse P3 which corresponds to that of the first embodiment (see ), cannot be described.

Next, an operation according to the second embodiment will be described.

The pulse output area 10 first emits an electrical pulse (ie light pulse trigger signal T1 ). The electrical pulse passes through the pulse output timing section 20th to act as a light pulse trigger signal T1 to the light pulse output section 30a to be delivered.

The light pulse output section 30a gives a pulse of light P1 out. The light pulse output section 30a also gives an output-synchronized trigger signal T10ut in synchronization with the time at which he received the light pulse P1 issues. The output synchronized trigger signal Tiout is passed through the delay section 20c delayed and as a light pulse trigger signal T2 to the light pulse output section 30b delivered.

The light pulse output section 30b gives a pulse of light P2 out. The light pulse output section 30b also gives an output-synchronized trigger signal T2out synchronously with the time at which he received the light pulse P2 issues. The output-synchronized trigger signal T2out is through the delay section 20d delayed and as an ultrasonic pulse trigger signal T3 to the ultrasonic pulse output section 32 delivered.

The ultrasonic pulse output area 32 gives an ultrasonic pulse P3 out.

The subsequent steps are identical to those of the first embodiment and will not be described.

According to the second embodiment, the timing section operates for the pulse output 20th that the length of time during which the ultrasonic pulse P3 and the multiple light pulses P1 , P2 do not overlap, thereby causing artifact signals when making measurements with the ultrasonic pulse output section 32 and the multiple light pulse output sections 30a , 30b can be excluded.

It should be noted that in the second embodiment, both of the light pulse output portions 30a and 30b output the synchronized trigger signals. The light pulse output section 30a however, may only output the output-synchronized trigger signal. Therefore, it becomes the case where the light pulse output section 30a only outputs the output synchronized trigger signal, as a variation with reference to FIG 6 described.

6 Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of a timing section 20th for the pulse output in the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to a variation of the second embodiment.

The timing section for the pulse output 20th has delay sections corresponding to this variation 20c , 20e . The delay section 20c is identical to that in the second embodiment. The delay section (output synchronized trigger signal delay section) 20e is arranged to have the output synchronized trigger signal Tiout as the trigger signal T3 (one of the trigger signals) delayed.

It should be noted that the timing diagram of the trigger signals T1 , T2 , T3 , which corresponds to that of the second embodiment (see 3 ), and the timing diagram of the light pulses P1 , P2 and the ultrasonic pulse P3 , which corresponds to that of the second embodiment (see 4th ), cannot be described.

Third embodiment

An optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to a third embodiment is different from the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to the first embodiment in that an electrical pulse as a result of the photoelectric conversion of the light pulse P1 ( P2 ) as the trigger signal T2 ( T3 ) (one of the trigger signals) is delayed.

7th Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of a timing section 20th for the pulse output in the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to the third embodiment. It should be noted that the components of the ultrasonic wave measuring apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment, which are identical to those of the first embodiment, are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description is omitted. The measurement object 2 , the pulse output section 10 , the light pulse output sections 30a , 30b , the ultrasonic pulse output section 32 and the measurement section 40 are identical to those of the first embodiment and will not be described.

The optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to the third embodiment, the comprises photodiodes PD1 , PD2 . The photodiode PD1 is arranged to be as a result of the photoelectric conversion of the light pulse P1 outputs an electrical pulse. The photodiode PD2 is arranged to be as a result of the photoelectric conversion of the light pulse P2 outputs an electrical pulse. It should be noted that other devices in place of the photodiodes PD1 , PD2 can be used as long as they are capable of photoelectric conversion.

Similar to the first embodiment, the timing section has the pulse output 20th according to the third embodiment delay sections (electric pulse delaying sections) 20f , 20g .

The delay section (electrical pulse delay section) 20f is set up to have an output from the photodiode PD1 as a trigger signal T2 delayed. The delay section (electrical pulse delay section) 20g is arranged to have an output signal from the photodiode PD2 as a trigger signal T3 delayed.

It should be noted that the timing diagram of the trigger signals T1 , T2 , T3 which corresponds to that of the first embodiment (see 3 ), and the timing diagram of the light pulses P1 , P2 and the ultrasonic pulse P3 that dem corresponds to the first embodiment (see 4th ), cannot be described.

Next, an operation according to the third embodiment will be described.

The pulse output area 10 first emits an electrical pulse (ie light pulse trigger signal T1 ). The electrical pulse passes through the pulse output timing section 20th to act as a light pulse trigger signal T1 to the light pulse output section 30a to be delivered.

The light pulse output section 30a gives a pulse of light P1 out. The pulse of light P1 becomes photoelectric through the photodiode PD1 converted into an electrical pulse and passed through the delay section 20f delayed and as a light pulse trigger signal T2 to the light pulse output section 30b delivered.

The light pulse output section 30b gives a pulse of light P2 out. The pulse of light P2 is made by the photodiode PD2 photoelectrically converted into an electrical pulse and passed through the delay part 20g delayed and as an ultrasonic pulse trigger signal T3 to the ultrasonic pulse output part 32 issued.

The ultrasonic pulse output area 32 gives an ultrasonic pulse P3 out.

The following operations are the same as those of the first embodiment and will not be described.

In accordance with the third embodiment, the timing section effects pulse output 20th that the length of time during which the ultrasonic pulse P3 and the multiple light pulses P1 , P2 do not overlap, thereby causing artifact signals when making measurements with the ultrasonic pulse output section 32 and the multiple light pulse output sections 30a , 30b can be excluded.

Fourth embodiment

An optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to a fourth embodiment is different from the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to the first embodiment in that an optical switch 34 used to between pulses of light P1 and P2 toggle that to the DUT 2 should be output.

8th Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of a timing section 20th for the pulse output in the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to the fourth embodiment. It is noted that the components of the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to the fourth embodiment, which are identical to those of the first embodiment, are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description is omitted. The measurement object 2 , the pulse output section 10 , the timing section for the pulse output 20th , the light pulse output section 30a , the ultrasonic pulse output section 32 and the measurement section 40 are identical to those of the first embodiment and will not be described.

The optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to the fourth embodiment comprises a light pulse output section 30d and an optical switch 34 .

It should be noted that the trigger signal T2 , that of the delay section 20a the timing section for the pulse output 20th according to the fourth embodiment, the optical switch 34 is fed.

The light pulse output section 30d is arranged so that it receives the pulse of light P1 from the light pulse output section 30a is output, receives, converts its wavelength and outputs the converted light pulse. The output is a pulse of light P2 . The optical switch 34 is arranged to be switching between the light pulse output section 30d and the target 2 to which the output P1 from the light pulse output section 30a is delivered, enables. The switching takes place synchronously with the point in time at which the optical switch 34 the trigger signal T2 receives.

For example, the optical switch 34 arranged so that he can output P1 from the light pulse output section 30a to the measurement object 2 supplies before it the trigger signal T2 increases high receives. The optical switch 34 is arranged so that he can output P1 from the light pulse output section 30a to the light pulse output section 30d returns after having the trigger signal T2 , raised high, has received.

It should be noted that the timing diagram of the trigger signals T1 , T2 , T3 which corresponds to that of the first embodiment (see 3 ), and the timing diagram of the light pulses P1 , P2 and the ultrasonic pulse P3 which corresponds to that of the first embodiment (see 4th ), cannot be described.

Next, an operation according to the fourth embodiment will be described.

The pulse output area 10 first emits an electrical pulse (ie light pulse trigger signal T1 ). The electrical pulse passes through the pulse output timing section 20th to act as a light pulse trigger signal T1 to the light pulse output section 30a to be delivered.

The light pulse output section 30a gives a pulse of light P1 out. The pulse of light P1 is via the optical switch 34 the measurement object 2 fed.

The light pulse trigger signal T1 is through the delay section 20a delayed and as a light pulse trigger signal T2 the optical switch 34 fed. The optical switch 34 directs the output of the light pulse P1 to the light pulse output section 30d around. From the light pulse output section 30d becomes a pulse of light P2 issued.

The light pulse trigger signal T2 is through the delay section 20b delayed and as an ultrasonic pulse trigger signal T3 the ultrasonic pulse output section 32 fed. The ultrasonic pulse output section 32 gives an ultrasonic pulse P3 out.

The subsequent steps are identical to those in the first embodiment and will not be described.

According to the fourth embodiment, the timing section operates for the pulse output 20th that the length of time during which the ultrasonic pulse P3 and the multiple light pulses P1 , P2 do not overlap, thereby causing artifact signals when making measurements with the ultrasonic pulse output section 32 and the multiple light pulse output sections 30a , 30b can be excluded.

Fifth embodiment

An optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to a fifth embodiment is different from the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to the first embodiment in that a movement section 50 (moving section) is provided.

9 Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the structure of the optical ultrasonic wave meter 1 according to the fifth embodiment.

The optical ultrasonic wave measuring device 1 according to the fifth embodiment comprises the pulse output section 10 , the timing section for the pulse output 20th , the light pulse output sections 30a , 30b , the ultrasonic pulse output section 32 , the measurement section 40 and the movement segment 50 . The components other than the motion segment 50 are identical to those of the first embodiment and are denoted by the same reference numerals to omit their description.

The moving portion 50 is arranged to receive a movement control pulse P4 receives and moves the position at which the ultrasonic pulse P3 and the light pulses P1 , P2 the measurement object 2 are fed.

The timing section for the pulse output 20th is arranged to control when the motion control pulse P4 , the ultrasonic pulse P3 and the multiple light pulses P1 , P2 are output so that the time durations during which the motion control pulse P4 , the ultrasonic pulse P3 and the multiple light pulses P1 , P2 output, do not overlap.

10 Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the timing section 20th of the pulse output according to the fifth embodiment. The timing section for the pulse output 20th according to the fifth embodiment, the has delay sections 20a , 20b , 20k . The delay sections 20a , 20b are identical to those in the first embodiment and will not be described.

The delay section 20k is arranged so that it has a trigger signal T3 as a motion control pulse P4 delayed.

11 Figure 13 is a timing diagram of the multiple light pulses P1 , P2 , the ultrasonic pulse P3 , the optoacoustic waves AW1 , AW2 and the reflected wave US according to the fifth embodiment.

The times when the motion control pulse P4 , the ultrasonic pulse P3 and the multiple light pulses P1 , P2 are output do not overlap. In addition, the motion control pulse P4 output after the optoacoustic waves AWi, AW2 and the reflected wave US were issued.

Next, an operation according to the fifth embodiment will be described.

The pulse output area 10 first emits an electrical pulse (ie light pulse trigger signal T1 ). The electrical pulse passes through the pulse output timing section 20th to act as a light pulse trigger signal T1 to the light pulse output section 30a to be delivered.

The light pulse trigger signal T1 is through the delay section 20a delayed and as a light pulse trigger signal T2 to the light pulse output section 30b delivered.

The light pulse trigger signal T2 is through the delay section 20b delayed and as an ultrasonic pulse trigger signal T3 the ultrasonic pulse output section 32 fed.

The light pulse output sections 30a , 30b give light impulses P1 , P2 with their different wavelengths. The ultrasonic pulse output section 32 gives an ultrasonic pulse P3 out.

The light pulses P1 , P2 and the ultrasonic pulse P3 become the target 2 fed. When the pulse of light P1 on the measurement object 2 is given, becomes an optoacoustic wave AW1 generated. When the pulse of light P2 on the measurement object 2 is given, becomes an optoacoustic wave AW2 generated. The ultrasonic pulse P3 is reflected when it hits the target 2 meets. The reflection causes a reflected wave US .

The measuring section 40 measures the target 2 on the basis of the reflected wave US and the optoacoustic waves AW1 , AW2 .

The ultrasonic pulse trigger signal T3 is through the delay section 20k delayed and as a motion control pulse P4 the ultrasonic pulse output section 32 fed. It should be noted that the motion control pulse P4 the movement segment 50 is fed after the reflected wave US and the optoacoustic waves AW1 , AW2 were generated.

The movement section 50 receives the motion control pulse P4 and moves the position where the ultrasonic pulse is P3 and the light pulses P1 , P2 the measurement object 2 are fed.

According to the fifth embodiment, the timing section operates for the pulse output 20th that the time durations during which the motion control pulse P4 , the ultrasonic pulse P3 and the multiple light pulses P1 , P2 do not overlap, whereby artifact signals can be excluded during the moving section 50 the position at which the ultrasonic pulse P3 and the light pulses P1 , P2 the measurement object 2 for measurements with the ultrasonic pulse output section 32 and the multiple light pulse output sections 30a , 30b shifts.

It should be noted that the fifth embodiment corresponds to the first embodiment when the moving section 50 will be added. The movement section 50 however, it can also be added to the second to fourth embodiments.

As a variation of the fifth embodiment, other light pulses can also be used P1 , P2 and another ultrasonic pulse P3 after the motion control pulse has dropped P4 issued.

12th Fig. 13 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the timing section 20th of the pulse output according to the variation of the fifth embodiment.

The motion control pulse P4 is also sent to the pulse output section 10 delivered. The pulse output section 10 detects the drop in the motion control pulse P4 after issuing a trigger signal T1 . After the detection, the pulse output section outputs 10 another trigger signal T1 out. This causes after the fall of the motion control pulse P4 further light pulses P1 , P2 and another ultrasonic pulse P3 issued.

Incidentally, the above-described embodiments can be achieved as follows. A computer with a CPU, a hard disk and a data carrier reading device (floppy disk (registered trademark), CD-ROM or the like) is caused to read a data carrier with a program recorded on it that implements the components described above (e.g. timing section for the Pulse output 20th and measuring section 40 ) and install the program on the hard drive. The features described above can also be achieved in this way.

List of reference symbols

P1, P2

Light pulse

P3

Ultrasonic pulse

P4

Motion control pulse

US

Reflected wave

AW1, AW2

Optoacoustic waves

T1, T2

Light pulse trigger signal

T1out, T2out

Output synchronized trigger signal

T3

Ultrasonic pulse trigger signal ( T3 )

1

Optical ultrasonic wave measuring device

2

Measurement object

10

Pulse output section

20th

Timing section for pulse output

20a, 20b

Delay section (section for delaying the trigger signal)

20c, 20d

Delay section (section for delaying the output-synchronized trigger signal)

20f, 20g

Delay section (section for delaying electrical pulses)

30a, 30b, 30d

Light pulse output section

32

Output section of the ultrasonic pulse

34

Optical switch

40

Measuring section

50

Movement segment

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• JP 2016047114 A [0003]
• JP 2011229660 A [0003]
• WO 2010/095487 [0003]

Non-patent literature cited

• Hao F Zhang, et al., “Functional Photoacoustic Microscopy for High-Resolution and Non-Invasive In-Vivo Imaging”, Nature Biotechnology, June 25, 2006, Volume 24, Number 7, pp.848-851 [0004]

Claims (11)

An optical ultrasonic wave measuring device comprising: an ultrasonic pulse output section configured to output an ultrasonic pulse; a plurality of light pulse output sections adapted to output light pulses having their respective different wavelengths; a pulse output timing section configured to control the timing at which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output so that the periods during which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output do not overlap with each other; and a measuring section configured to measure a measurement object based on a reflected wave as a result of the reflection of the ultrasonic pulse on the measurement object and the optoacoustic waves generated by the light pulses on the measurement object. Optical ultrasonic wave measuring device according to Claim 1 , wherein the trigger signals include an ultrasonic pulse trigger signal and a plurality of light pulse trigger signals, the ultrasonic pulse trigger signal is supplied to the ultrasonic pulse output section to generate the ultrasonic pulse, and the light pulse trigger signals are supplied to the light pulse output sections, respectively, to to generate the light pulses. Optical ultrasonic wave measuring device according to Claim 2 wherein the pulse output timing section includes a trigger signal delay section configured to delay one of the trigger signals as another of the trigger signals. Optical ultrasonic wave measuring device according to Claim 2 wherein the pulse output timing section includes an output-synchronized trigger signal delay section configured to delay an output-synchronized trigger signal as one of the trigger signals, the output-synchronized trigger signal being output in synchronism with the timing at which one of the light pulse output sections outputs the light pulse. Optical ultrasonic wave measuring device according to Claim 2 wherein the pulse output timing section comprises an electrical pulse delay section configured to delay an electrical pulse as a result of photoelectric conversion of the light pulse as one of the trigger signals. Optical ultrasonic wave measuring device according to Claim 1 , wherein one of the light pulse output sections is adapted to receive the light pulse output from another of the light pulse output sections, convert the wavelength thereof and output the converted light pulse, the optical ultrasonic wave measuring device further comprising an optical switch that is arranged to enable switching between one of the light pulse output sections and the measurement object to which the output from another of the light pulse output sections is supplied. Optical ultrasonic wave measuring device according to one of the Claims 1 to 6 , further comprising a moving section configured to receive a movement control pulse and moving the position at which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are supplied to the measurement object, the pulse output timing section being configured to determine the timing which the motion control pulse, the ultrasonic pulse, and the light pulses are output controls so that the periods of time during which the motion control pulse, the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output do not overlap. Optical ultrasonic wave measuring device according to Claim 7 , wherein after the motion control pulse has dropped, a further ultrasonic pulse and further light pulses are output. An ultrasonic wave optical measurement method using an ultrasonic wave optical measuring device having an ultrasonic pulse output section configured to output an ultrasonic pulse and a plurality of light pulse output sections configured to output light pulses having their respective different wavelengths , the method comprising: a pulse output timing step arranged to control the timing at which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output so that the periods during which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output do not overlap each other; and a measuring step which is set up in such a way that a measurement object is measured on the basis of a reflected wave as a result of the reflection of the ultrasonic pulse on the measurement object and the optoacoustic waves generated by the light pulses on the measurement object. A program of instructions for execution by a computer to perform an optical ultrasonic wave measuring operation using an optical ultrasonic wave measuring device having an ultrasonic pulse output section arranged to output an ultrasonic pulse and a plurality of light pulse output sections arranged to output pulses of light having their respective different wavelengths, the process comprising: a pulse output timing step configured to control the timing at which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output so that the periods of time during which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output do not overlap each other; and a measuring step configured to measure a measurement object based on a reflected wave as a result of the reflection of the ultrasonic pulse on the measurement object and the optoacoustic waves generated by the light pulses on the measurement object. A computer readable medium having a program of instructions for execution by a computer to perform an optical ultrasonic wave measuring operation using an optical ultrasonic wave measuring device having an ultrasonic pulse output section arranged to output an ultrasonic pulse and a plurality of light pulse output sections arranged to output light pulses having their respective different wavelengths, the process comprising: a pulse output timing step arranged to control the timing at which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output so that the periods during which the ultrasonic pulse and the light pulses are output do not overlap each other; and a measuring step which is set up so that a measurement object is measured on the basis of a reflected wave as a result of the reflection of the ultrasonic pulse on the measurement object and the optoacoustic waves generated by the light pulses on the measurement object.

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