JP2006198037A - Ultrasonic probe - Google Patents
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本発明は、超音波を用いて生体情報を得るために使用される超音波探触子に関する。 The present invention relates to an ultrasonic probe used for obtaining biological information using ultrasonic waves.
超音波診断装置は、超音波探触子を用いて生体に対して超音波の送受信を行うことにより、生体内の画像情報などを得るものであり、各種医療分野で活用されている。例えば、動脈硬化診断を目的とした頸動脈の超音波診断に用いられる超音波診断装置として、図３に示すような構成のものが下記の特許文献１に開示されている。この超音波診断装置においては、操作者が超音波探触子１０を把持し、超音波探触子１０を被検者１５の頸部体表に当てて、超音波ビームを体内の血管１４に向けて放射する。そして、超音波計測部１１では血管１４から反射された超音波信号を検出して検波出力し、データ解析処理部１２では、出力された検波信号に基づいて血管１４の特性を解析し、その解析結果を表示装置１３に表示させる。
しかしながら、超音波診断を実施する際に、体表に当てた超音波探触子１０が位置ずれを起こしたり、体表に当てている角度が変化したりすると、検出する超音波信号が変化してしまい、得られる解析結果の精度に誤差が生じてしまうという問題があった。この問題は、頸動脈の診断や、手腕、足など体表面の湾曲度合いが大きな診断部位の診断時、特に超音波探触子１０の操作時などに特に顕著に生じていた。なぜならば、超音波探触子１０の筺体が超音波送受信面から体表面と遠ざかる方向に高くなった構成をしており、超音波探触子１０の被検体との接触面を支点として超音波探触子１０に揺れや振動を与えることから、超音波探触子１０を安定して保持し難いからである。 However, when performing ultrasonic diagnosis, if the ultrasonic probe 10 applied to the body surface is displaced or the angle applied to the body surface changes, the detected ultrasonic signal changes. As a result, there is a problem that an error occurs in the accuracy of the obtained analysis result. This problem has been particularly prominent when diagnosing the carotid artery or diagnosing a diagnostic part with a large degree of curvature of the body surface such as a hand, arm, or leg, especially when operating the ultrasonic probe 10. This is because the structure of the ultrasound probe 10 is increased in the direction away from the body surface from the ultrasound transmission / reception surface, and the ultrasound probe 10 is used as a fulcrum for the contact surface with the subject. This is because it is difficult to stably hold the ultrasonic probe 10 because the probe 10 is shaken or vibrated.
本発明は、上記問題を解決するためになされたものであり、操作性を向上させ、自身の位置ずれ及び角度変化を抑制し、より安定した正確な診断を可能とする超音波探触子を提供することを目的とする。 The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-described problem. An ultrasonic probe that improves operability, suppresses misalignment and angle change of itself, and enables more stable and accurate diagnosis. The purpose is to provide.
上記目的を達成するために、本発明によれば、被検者の体内に対して超音波を送信し、受信した受信波を電気信号に変換して超音波診断装置へ送信する超音波探触子であって、前記超音波の送受信を行うヘッド部と、前記ヘッド部を覆う筺体部と、前記ヘッド部の前記超音波の送受信面における長手方向及び短手方向のうち、少なくとも前記長手方向における前記筺体部の側面に設置され、前記筺体部から前記短手方向に伸長する部分又は部材とを有する超音波探触子が提供される。この構成により、超音波探触子の操作性を向上させ、超音波探触子の位置ずれ及び角度変化を抑制し、より安定した正確な診断を可能とする。 In order to achieve the above object, according to the present invention, an ultrasonic probe that transmits ultrasonic waves to the body of a subject, converts received waves into electrical signals, and transmits them to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. A head part that transmits / receives the ultrasonic wave, a casing part that covers the head part, and a longitudinal direction and a lateral direction of the ultrasonic wave transmission / reception surface of the head part, at least in the longitudinal direction There is provided an ultrasonic probe that is provided on a side surface of the housing part and has a portion or a member that extends from the housing part in the lateral direction. With this configuration, the operability of the ultrasonic probe is improved, the positional deviation and angle change of the ultrasonic probe are suppressed, and a more stable and accurate diagnosis is possible.
また、本発明の超音波探触子において、前記部分又は部材が前記筺体部の少なくとも前記長手方向の両側面のうちの両側若しくは片側に設けられたことは、本発明の好ましい態様である。この構成により、超音波探触子の操作性を向上させ、超音波探触子の位置ずれ及び角度変化を抑制し、より安定した正確な診断を可能とする。 In the ultrasonic probe of the present invention, it is a preferable aspect of the present invention that the part or member is provided on both sides or one side of at least both side surfaces of the casing in the longitudinal direction. With this configuration, the operability of the ultrasonic probe is improved, the positional deviation and angle change of the ultrasonic probe are suppressed, and a more stable and accurate diagnosis is possible.
また、本発明によれば、被検者の体内に対して超音波を送信し、受信した受信波を電気信号に変換して超音波診断装置へ送信する超音波探触子であって、前記超音波の送受信を行うヘッド部と、前記ヘッド部の前記超音波の送受信面における長手方向及び短手方向のうち、少なくとも前記長手方向における前記ヘッド部の側面に設置され、前記ヘッド部から前記短手方向に伸長する部分又は部材と、前記ヘッド部及び前記部分又は部材を覆う筺体部とを有する超音波探触子が提供される。この構成により、超音波探触子の操作性を向上させ、超音波探触子の位置ずれ及び角度変化を抑制し、より安定した正確な診断を可能とする。 Further, according to the present invention, there is provided an ultrasonic probe that transmits ultrasonic waves to the body of a subject, converts received received waves into electric signals, and transmits the electric signals to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, Among the head part for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves, and the longitudinal direction and the short direction of the ultrasonic wave transmitting and receiving surface of the head part, the head part is installed at least on the side surface of the head part in the longitudinal direction. There is provided an ultrasonic probe having a portion or member extending in the hand direction and a housing portion covering the head portion and the portion or member. With this configuration, the operability of the ultrasonic probe is improved, the positional deviation and angle change of the ultrasonic probe are suppressed, and a more stable and accurate diagnosis is possible.
また、本発明の超音波探触子において、前記部分又は部材が前記ヘッド部の少なくとも前記長手方向の両側面のうちの両側若しくは片側に設けられたことは、本発明の好ましい態様である。この構成により、超音波探触子の操作性を向上させ、超音波探触子の位置ずれ及び角度変化を抑制し、より安定した正確な診断を可能とする。 In the ultrasonic probe of the present invention, it is a preferable aspect of the present invention that the portion or member is provided on both sides or one side of at least both side surfaces of the head portion in the longitudinal direction. With this configuration, the operability of the ultrasonic probe is improved, the positional deviation and angle change of the ultrasonic probe are suppressed, and a more stable and accurate diagnosis is possible.
また、本発明の超音波探触子において、前記部分又は部材が弾性体であることは、本発明の好ましい態様である。この構成により、超音波探触子の操作性を向上させ、超音波探触子の位置ずれ及び角度変化を抑制し、より安定した正確な診断を可能とする。 In the ultrasonic probe of the present invention, it is a preferable aspect of the present invention that the portion or member is an elastic body. With this configuration, the operability of the ultrasonic probe is improved, the positional deviation and angle change of the ultrasonic probe are suppressed, and a more stable and accurate diagnosis is possible.
また、本発明の超音波探触子において、前記弾性体がゴム材、エラストマー材若しくはゲル材であることは、本発明の好ましい態様である。この構成により、超音波探触子の操作性を向上させ、超音波探触子の位置ずれ及び角度変化を抑制し、より安定した正確な診断を可能とする。 In the ultrasonic probe of the present invention, it is a preferable aspect of the present invention that the elastic body is a rubber material, an elastomer material, or a gel material. With this configuration, the operability of the ultrasonic probe is improved, the positional deviation and angle change of the ultrasonic probe are suppressed, and a more stable and accurate diagnosis is possible.
また、本発明の超音波探触子において、前記弾性体が高分子の外膜に覆われた構成であることは、本発明の好ましい態様である。この構成により、超音波探触子の操作性を向上させ、超音波探触子の位置ずれ及び角度変化を抑制し、より安定した正確な診断を可能とする。 In the ultrasonic probe of the present invention, it is a preferable aspect of the present invention that the elastic body is covered with a polymer outer film. With this configuration, the operability of the ultrasonic probe is improved, the positional deviation and angle change of the ultrasonic probe are suppressed, and a more stable and accurate diagnosis is possible.
また、本発明の超音波探触子において、前記部分又は部材が塑性変形する塑性体であることは、本発明の好ましい態様である。この構成により、超音波探触子の操作性を向上させ、超音波探触子の位置ずれ及び角度変化を抑制し、より安定した正確な診断を可能とする。 In the ultrasonic probe of the present invention, it is a preferable aspect of the present invention that the portion or member is a plastic body that is plastically deformed. With this configuration, the operability of the ultrasonic probe is improved, the positional deviation and angle change of the ultrasonic probe are suppressed, and a more stable and accurate diagnosis is possible.
また、本発明の超音波探触子において、前記塑性体の材料が酢酸ビニル樹脂を主成分とする材料であることは、本発明の好ましい態様である。この構成により、超音波探触子の操作性を向上させ、超音波探触子の位置ずれ及び角度変化を抑制し、より安定した正確な診断を可能とする。 In the ultrasonic probe of the present invention, it is a preferable aspect of the present invention that the plastic material is a material mainly composed of vinyl acetate resin. With this configuration, the operability of the ultrasonic probe is improved, the positional deviation and angle change of the ultrasonic probe are suppressed, and a more stable and accurate diagnosis is possible.
また、本発明の超音波探触子において、前記塑性体が高分子の外膜に覆われた構成であることは、本発明の好ましい態様である。この構成により、超音波探触子の操作性を向上させ、超音波探触子の位置ずれ及び角度変化を抑制し、より安定した正確な診断を可能とする。 In the ultrasonic probe of the present invention, it is a preferable aspect of the present invention that the plastic body is covered with a polymer outer film. With this configuration, the operability of the ultrasonic probe is improved, the positional deviation and angle change of the ultrasonic probe are suppressed, and a more stable and accurate diagnosis is possible.
また、本発明の超音波探触子において、前記部分又は部材が高分子の外膜に覆われ、前記外膜内に液体が満たされた構成であることは、本発明の好ましい態様である。この構成により、超音波探触子の操作性を向上させ、超音波探触子の位置ずれ及び角度変化を抑制し、より安定した正確な診断を可能とする。 In the ultrasonic probe of the present invention, it is a preferable aspect of the present invention that the portion or member is covered with a polymer outer membrane and the outer membrane is filled with a liquid. With this configuration, the operability of the ultrasonic probe is improved, the positional deviation and angle change of the ultrasonic probe are suppressed, and a more stable and accurate diagnosis is possible.
また、本発明の超音波探触子において、前記部分又は部材が着脱を可能とする構成であることは、本発明の好ましい態様である。この構成により、超音波探触子の操作性を向上させ、超音波探触子の位置ずれ及び角度変化を抑制し、より安定した正確な診断を可能とする。 In the ultrasonic probe of the present invention, it is a preferable aspect of the present invention that the portion or member is configured to be detachable. With this configuration, the operability of the ultrasonic probe is improved, the positional deviation and angle change of the ultrasonic probe are suppressed, and a more stable and accurate diagnosis is possible.
本発明の超音波探触子は、上記構成を有し、超音波探触子の使用時における不安定さが軽減され、その結果、ヘッド部の位置ずれや被検者への接触角度の変化を抑制し、より安定した正確な診断を可能とする。 The ultrasonic probe of the present invention has the above-described configuration, and the instability at the time of use of the ultrasonic probe is reduced. As a result, the positional deviation of the head portion and the change of the contact angle to the subject are performed. And more stable and accurate diagnosis is possible.
＜第１の実施の形態＞
以下、本発明の第１の実施の形態に係る超音波探触子について図１を用いて説明する。図１は本発明の第１の実施の形態に係る超音波探触子の一例を示す概略図である。図１に示すように、超音波探触子１は、超音波診断装置を構成する際に、不図示の超音波診断装置本体と電気的に接続されて使用されるものであり、超音波を送受信し、受信した受信波を電気信号に変換して超音波診断装置本体に送信する機能を有している。超音波探触子１は、不図示の操作者によって被検体５の体表に当てられて使用され、被検体５に対して超音波の送受信を行うヘッド部２と、ヘッド部２を超音波診断装置本体と電気的に接続するためのケーブル３とを備え、さらにヘッド部２とケーブル３とを接続した部分を含めて抱合する筺体４を備えている。
<First Embodiment>
Hereinafter, an ultrasonic probe according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a schematic view showing an example of an ultrasonic probe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the ultrasonic probe 1 is used by being electrically connected to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus main body (not shown) when configuring an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. It has a function of transmitting and receiving, converting received received waves into electrical signals and transmitting them to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus body. The ultrasonic probe 1 is used by being applied to the body surface of the subject 5 by an operator (not shown), and transmits and receives ultrasonic waves to and from the subject 5. A cable 3 for electrical connection with the diagnostic apparatus main body is provided, and a housing 4 is further provided that includes a portion where the head portion 2 and the cable 3 are connected.
ヘッド部２は、例えば、超音波を送受信する圧電セラミックスなどの圧電材料の振動子及び分解能を向上させるために音響整合層や音響レンズなどを備えている。例えば、図１のヘッド部２の奥行き方向に複数個配列した振動子のような、いわゆる電子走査型のタイプでは、複数個配列した振動子方向が長くなるので長軸（長手）となり、それと直交する方向は長軸より短いので短軸（短手）方向となる。図１において、超音波探触子１を被検体５に当てたとき短軸方向に対して不安定になるため、超音波探触子１の長軸方向に沿った筺体４の両側には安定体６が設けられており、安定した状態で被検体５に超音波探触子１のヘッド部２を当てられる構成となっている。この安定体６は、超音波探触子１の短軸方向に対して安定性が得られるように少なくとも短軸方向の筺体４の幅の２倍以上の幅にすることが望ましく、上述した部分又は部材に相当するものである。ここで、安定体６は、図１に示すような部材に限られず、安定した状態でヘッド部２を被検体５に当てられれば、かんじきに用いられる外枠のような部分であってもよい。 The head unit 2 includes, for example, a vibrator of a piezoelectric material such as piezoelectric ceramic that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves, and an acoustic matching layer and an acoustic lens to improve resolution. For example, in a so-called electronic scanning type, such as a plurality of transducers arranged in the depth direction of the head portion 2 in FIG. 1, the direction of the plurality of arranged transducers becomes long, so that it becomes a long axis (longitudinal) and orthogonal to it. Since the direction to do is shorter than the long axis, it becomes the short axis (short side) direction. In FIG. 1, when the ultrasound probe 1 is applied to the subject 5, it becomes unstable with respect to the minor axis direction, so that it is stable on both sides of the housing 4 along the major axis direction of the ultrasound probe 1. A body 6 is provided so that the head portion 2 of the ultrasonic probe 1 can be applied to the subject 5 in a stable state. The stabilizing body 6 is preferably at least twice as wide as the width of the housing 4 in the short axis direction so that stability can be obtained in the short axis direction of the ultrasonic probe 1. Or it corresponds to a member. Here, the stabilizing body 6 is not limited to the member as shown in FIG. 1, and may be a portion such as an outer frame used for wiping as long as the head portion 2 is applied to the subject 5 in a stable state. .
超音波探触子１を当てる被検体５の表面形態は様々であり同じ形態ではないため、超音波探触子１の長軸方向の両側に設ける安定体６がプラスチックのような固定された形状では、超音波探触子１を被検体５の形態に密着させることができない。そのため、安定体６は、柔軟性を有する弾性体の材料若しくは塑性変形するような塑性体の材料を使用して密着できる構成であることが望ましい。弾性体材料としては、シリコーンゴム、ウレタンゴムなどに代表されるようなゴム材や、エチレン−酢酸ビニル樹脂（ＥＶＡ）、ポリエチレンなどのエラストマー材若しくはゲル状にできる物質のゲル材が有用であり、被検体５の形態に合わせて変形して密着しやすいものが望ましい。 Since the surface form of the subject 5 to which the ultrasonic probe 1 is applied varies and is not the same, the stabilizing body 6 provided on both sides of the ultrasonic probe 1 in the long axis direction is fixed like plastic. Then, the ultrasonic probe 1 cannot be brought into close contact with the form of the subject 5. Therefore, it is desirable that the stabilizing body 6 has a structure that can be in close contact using a flexible elastic material or a plastic material that undergoes plastic deformation. As the elastic material, a rubber material typified by silicone rubber, urethane rubber, etc., an elastomer material such as ethylene-vinyl acetate resin (EVA), polyethylene, or a gel material that can be gelled is useful. It is desirable that it is easy to deform and adhere to the form of the subject 5.
また、塑性変形する塑性体材料としては、酢酸ビニル樹脂を主成分とした材料あるいはガム状のような材料が有用である。上述したように超音波探触子１を当てる被検体５の表面形態は様々であり同じ形態ではない。よって、安定体６に塑性変形する塑性体材料を使用することにより、安定体６を設けた超音波探触子１を被検体５に当てたときに、安定体６は塑性変形して被検体５の形態で密着してその形状で保持されるため、超音波探触子１を安定させて被検体５に当てていることができる。 In addition, as the plastic material that undergoes plastic deformation, a material mainly composed of vinyl acetate resin or a gum-like material is useful. As described above, the surface form of the subject 5 to which the ultrasonic probe 1 is applied is various and not the same form. Therefore, by using a plastic material that is plastically deformed for the stabilizing body 6, when the ultrasonic probe 1 provided with the stabilizing body 6 is applied to the subject 5, the stabilizing body 6 is plastically deformed and the subject. 5 is closely attached and held in that shape, the ultrasonic probe 1 can be stabilized and applied to the subject 5.
安定体６としては、超音波探触子１の筺体４に機械的に、あるいは接着などの方法で直接固定して設ける、あるいは着脱できるような構成にしても超音波探触子１が安定体６によって被検体５に安定して当てられる方法であればこれに限定されるものではない。なお、第１の実施の形態では、超音波探触子１の筺体４の両側面に安定体６を設けた場合について説明したが、このほか、超音波探触子１の筺体４の長軸方向の片側面だけに設けても安定して被検体５に当てることができる形状であれば同様の効果が得られる。 As the stabilizing body 6, the ultrasonic probe 1 is provided as a stabilizing body in a configuration in which it is mechanically or directly fixed to the housing 4 of the ultrasonic probe 1 by a method such as adhesion, or is detachable. The method is not limited to this as long as it is a method that can be stably applied to the subject 5 by 6. In the first embodiment, the case where the stabilizers 6 are provided on both side surfaces of the casing 4 of the ultrasonic probe 1 has been described. In addition, the long axis of the casing 4 of the ultrasonic probe 1 is described. The same effect can be obtained if the shape can be stably applied to the subject 5 even if it is provided only on one side in the direction.
また、第１の実施の形態では、超音波探触子１の筺体４の両側面に安定体６を設けた場合について説明したが、このほか、超音波探触子１の筺体４の短軸方向の幅を広くして安定体６がヘッド部２の両側に設けられ、筺体４が安定体６をも内包する構成としても同様の効果が得られる。また、第１の実施の形態では、超音波探触子１の長軸方向を複数個振動子が配列した方向として説明したが、このほか、複数個の振動子が配列した方向のヘッド部２の長さがその方向と直交する方向のヘッド部２の長さよりも短い場合には、直交する方向を長軸方向としても同様の効果が得られる。また、第１の実施の形態では、超音波探触子１の筺体４の両側面に安定体６を設けた場合について説明したが、このほか、超音波探触子１の筺体４の長軸方向の両側面及び短軸方向、つまり全周に安定体６を設けた場合においても同様の効果が得られる。 In the first embodiment, the case where the stabilizers 6 are provided on both side surfaces of the casing 4 of the ultrasonic probe 1 has been described. In addition, the short axis of the casing 4 of the ultrasonic probe 1 is described. The same effect can be obtained even when the stabilizing body 6 is provided on both sides of the head portion 2 with the width in the direction wide, and the housing 4 also includes the stabilizing body 6. In the first embodiment, the long axis direction of the ultrasound probe 1 has been described as the direction in which a plurality of transducers are arranged, but in addition, the head unit 2 in the direction in which the plurality of transducers are arranged. Is shorter than the length of the head portion 2 in the direction orthogonal to that direction, the same effect can be obtained even if the direction orthogonal to the major axis direction is used. In the first embodiment, the case where the stabilizers 6 are provided on both side surfaces of the casing 4 of the ultrasonic probe 1 has been described. In addition, the long axis of the casing 4 of the ultrasonic probe 1 is described. The same effect can be obtained even when the stabilizer 6 is provided on both side surfaces and the minor axis direction, that is, the entire circumference.
以上説明した超音波探触子１によれば、筺体４の長軸方向の側部に安定体６を設けた構成にしているため、ヘッド部２の揺れを抑制し超音波探触子１を安定して保持できる。したがって、操作性が向上し超音波探触子１の位置ずれ及び角度の変化を抑制でき、安定して正確な診断を行うことができる。 According to the ultrasonic probe 1 described above, since the stabilizing body 6 is provided on the side of the long axis direction of the casing 4, the vibration of the head portion 2 is suppressed and the ultrasonic probe 1 is arranged. It can be held stably. Therefore, the operability is improved, the displacement of the ultrasonic probe 1 and the change in angle can be suppressed, and a stable and accurate diagnosis can be performed.
＜第２の実施の形態＞
以下、本発明の第２の実施の形態に係る超音波探触子について図２を用いて説明する。図２は本発明の第２の実施の形態に係る超音波探触子の一例を示す断面図である。なお、図２において図１と同一部分には同一番号を付している。図２に示すように、超音波探触子１は、第１の実施の形態と同様に、ヘッド部２及びケーブル３を備え、ヘッド部２とケーブル３とを電気的に接続した部分を含めて抱合する筺体４を備えている。ヘッド部２は、例えば、超音波を送受信する圧電セラミックスなどの圧電材料の振動子及び分解能を向上させるために音響整合層や音響レンズなどを備えている。例えば、図２のヘッド部２の短軸方向に直交する奥行き方向に複数個配列した振動子のような、いわゆる電子走査型のタイプでは、複数個配列した振動子方向が長くなるので長軸（長手）となり、それと直交する方向は長軸より短いので短軸（短手）方向となる。
<Second Embodiment>
An ultrasonic probe according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a sectional view showing an example of an ultrasonic probe according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 2, the same parts as those in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the ultrasonic probe 1 includes a head portion 2 and a cable 3 as in the first embodiment, and includes a portion where the head portion 2 and the cable 3 are electrically connected. It is provided with a housing 4 to be conjugated. The head unit 2 includes, for example, a vibrator of a piezoelectric material such as piezoelectric ceramic that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves, and an acoustic matching layer and an acoustic lens to improve resolution. For example, in a so-called electronic scanning type, such as a plurality of vibrators arranged in the depth direction orthogonal to the minor axis direction of the head portion 2 in FIG. (Longitudinal), and the direction perpendicular to the long axis is shorter than the long axis, and thus the short axis (short) direction.
図２において、超音波探触子１を被検体５に当てたとき短軸方向に対して不安定になるため、超音波探触子１の長軸方向（図２では短軸方向と直交する奥行きの方向）に沿った筺体４の両側には安定体６が設けられており、安定した状態で被検体５に超音波探触子１のヘッド部２を当てられる構成となっている。この安定体６には、第１の実施の形態で説明した弾性変形する弾性体、若しくは塑性変形する塑性体を用い、かつ、その弾性体、塑性体は高分子などの外膜７で抱合されている（覆われている）。そのような安定体６が超音波探触子１の筺体４の長軸方向の両側面に設けられている。 In FIG. 2, the ultrasound probe 1 is unstable with respect to the minor axis direction when the probe 5 is applied to the subject 5, and therefore the major axis direction of the ultrasound probe 1 (in FIG. 2, orthogonal to the minor axis direction). Stabilizers 6 are provided on both sides of the casing 4 along the depth direction) so that the head portion 2 of the ultrasonic probe 1 can be applied to the subject 5 in a stable state. As the stabilizing body 6, the elastic body that is elastically deformed as described in the first embodiment or a plastic body that is plastically deformed is used, and the elastic body and the plastic body are conjugated with an outer film 7 such as a polymer. (Covered). Such a stabilizing body 6 is provided on both side surfaces in the major axis direction of the casing 4 of the ultrasonic probe 1.
外膜７を設ける点が第２の実施の形態の特徴である。すなわち、安定体６は被検体５に接触することになるので、使用する安定体６は被検体５に対して害を与えない材料である必要がある。仮に被検体５に対して多少有害であるが安定体６としての機能が十分果たせる材料である場合には、この材料を直接被検体５に接触させないように、高分子フィルムのような外膜７で抱合させるような構成の安定体６にすれば、被検体５に害を与えるという問題は解消できることになる。この高分子の外膜７としては、シリコーンゴムなどのゴム系のフィルム若しくはエチレン−酢酸ビニル樹脂（ＥＶＡ）、ポリエチレンなどのエラストマーのフィルムを用いるとよい。また、高分子の外膜７で抱合されている弾性変形する弾性体、若しくは塑性変形する塑性体の安定体６は、接着のようにして固定された場合でも、また、ただ単に内包された場合のどちらでも安定体６としての機能を果たす構成であればこれらに限定されるものではない。 The feature of the second embodiment is that the outer film 7 is provided. That is, since the stabilizer 6 comes into contact with the subject 5, the stabilizer 6 to be used needs to be a material that does not harm the subject 5. If the material is somewhat harmful to the subject 5 but can function sufficiently as the stabilizer 6, the outer membrane 7 such as a polymer film is used so that the material does not directly contact the subject 5. The problem of harming the subject 5 can be solved by using the stable body 6 configured to be conjugated at 1. The polymer outer film 7 may be a rubber film such as silicone rubber or an elastomer film such as ethylene-vinyl acetate resin (EVA) or polyethylene. Further, the elastic body that is elastically deformed or the plastic body that is plastically deformed conjugated with the polymer outer membrane 7 is fixed by adhesion or when it is simply encapsulated. Any of the above is not limited to these as long as it functions as the stabilizer 6.
なお、第２の実施の形態では、外膜７に内包される安定体６は弾性変形する弾性体、若しくは塑性変形する塑性体のいわゆる固体の場合について説明したが、このほか、外膜７に内包される安定体６は、液体若しくはゲル状のものであっても同様の効果を得ることができる。この液体は、被検体５に対して害が少ないあるいは害がない液体であればどのようなものでもよく、例えば水や生理食塩水、あるいはシリコーンゲルなどを用いても有用である。 In the second embodiment, the stabilizer 6 included in the outer membrane 7 has been described as an elastic body that is elastically deformed, or a so-called solid plastic body that is plastically deformed. The same effect can be acquired even if the stabilizer 6 included is a liquid or a gel-like thing. This liquid may be any liquid as long as it has little or no harm to the subject 5, and for example, water, physiological saline, or silicone gel is useful.
また、外膜７に内包された安定体６は、超音波探触子１の筺体４に機械的に、あるいは接着などの方法で外膜７を介して直接固定して設ける、あるいは着脱できるような構成にしても超音波探触子１が安定体６によって被検体５に安定して当てられる方法であればこれに限定されるものではない。また、第２の実施の形態では、超音波探触子１の筺体４の両側面に外膜７に内包された安定体６を設けた場合について説明したが、このほか、超音波探触子１の筺体４の長軸方向の片側面だけに設けても安定して被形体５に当てることができる形状であれば同様の効果が得られる。 Further, the stabilizing body 6 encapsulated in the outer membrane 7 can be provided by being fixed directly to the casing 4 of the ultrasonic probe 1 through the outer membrane 7 mechanically or by a method such as adhesion, or can be attached and detached. However, the present invention is not limited to this as long as the ultrasonic probe 1 is stably applied to the subject 5 by the stabilizer 6. In the second embodiment, the case where the stabilizing body 6 included in the outer membrane 7 is provided on both side surfaces of the housing 4 of the ultrasonic probe 1 has been described. Even if it is provided only on one side surface in the major axis direction of one casing 4, the same effect can be obtained as long as it can be stably applied to the shaped body 5.
また、第２の実施の形態では、超音波探触子１の筺体４の両側面に外膜７に内包された安定体６を設けた場合について説明したが、このほか、超音波探触子１の筺体４の短軸方向の幅を広くして安定体６がヘッド部２の両側に設けられ、筺体４が安定体６をも内包する構成としても同様の効果が得られる。また、第２の実施の形態では、超音波探触子１の長軸方向を複数個振動子が配列した方向として説明したが、このほか、複数個の振動子が配列した方向のヘッド部２の長さがその方向と直交する方向のヘッド部２の長さよりも短い場合には、直交する方向を長軸方向としても同様の効果が得られる。また、第２の実施の形態では、超音波探触子１の筺体４の両側面に外膜７に内包された安定体６を設けた場合について説明したが、このほか、超音波探触子１の筺体４の長軸方向の両側面及び短軸方向、つまり全周に外膜７に内包された安定体６を設けた場合においても同様の効果が得られる。 In the second embodiment, the case where the stabilizing body 6 included in the outer membrane 7 is provided on both side surfaces of the housing 4 of the ultrasonic probe 1 has been described. The same effect can be obtained even if the width of the first casing 4 is widened in the short axis direction and the stabilizer 6 is provided on both sides of the head portion 2 so that the casing 4 also includes the stabilizer 6. In the second embodiment, the major axis direction of the ultrasonic probe 1 has been described as the direction in which a plurality of transducers are arranged, but in addition, the head unit 2 in the direction in which a plurality of transducers are arranged. Is shorter than the length of the head portion 2 in the direction orthogonal to that direction, the same effect can be obtained even if the direction orthogonal to the major axis direction is used. In the second embodiment, the case where the stabilizing body 6 included in the outer membrane 7 is provided on both side surfaces of the housing 4 of the ultrasonic probe 1 has been described. The same effect can be obtained even when the stabilizing body 6 included in the outer membrane 7 is provided on both sides in the major axis direction and the minor axis direction of the single casing 4, that is, on the entire circumference.
以上説明した超音波探触子１によれば、長軸方向の側部に外膜７に内包された安定体６を設けた構成にしているため、ヘッド部２の揺れを抑制し超音波探触子１を安定して保持できる。したがって、操作性が向上し超音波探触子１の位置ずれ及び角度の変化を抑制でき、安定して正確な診断を行うことができる。 According to the ultrasonic probe 1 described above, since the stabilizing body 6 included in the outer membrane 7 is provided on the side in the long axis direction, the ultrasonic probe is suppressed by suppressing the shaking of the head portion 2. The touch element 1 can be stably held. Therefore, the operability is improved, the displacement of the ultrasonic probe 1 and the change in angle can be suppressed, and a stable and accurate diagnosis can be performed.
本発明に係る超音波探触子は、診断時の超音波探触子の位置ずれを及び角度変化を抑制することにより、誤差の少ない正確な診断を可能とするため、動脈硬化診断など各種医療分野で活用される超音波探触子などに有用である。 The ultrasonic probe according to the present invention enables accurate diagnosis with few errors by suppressing positional deviation and angle change of the ultrasonic probe at the time of diagnosis. This is useful for ultrasonic probes used in the field.
１、１０ 超音波探触子
２ ヘッド部
３ ケーブル
４ 筺体（筺体部）
５ 被検体
６ 安定体（部分又は部材）
７ 外膜
１１ 超音波計測部
１２ データ解析処理部
１３ 表示装置
１４ 血管
１５ 被検者
1, 10 Ultrasonic probe 2 Head 3 Cable 4 Housing (housing)
5 Subject 6 Stabilizer (part or member)
7 outer membrane 11 ultrasonic measurement unit 12 data analysis processing unit 13 display device 14 blood vessel 15 subject
Claims (12)
前記超音波の送受信を行うヘッド部と、
前記ヘッド部を覆う筺体部と、
前記ヘッド部の前記超音波の送受信面における長手方向及び短手方向のうち、少なくとも前記長手方向における前記筺体部の側面に設置され、前記筺体部から前記短手方向に伸長する部分又は部材とを有する超音波探触子。 An ultrasonic probe that transmits ultrasonic waves to the body of a subject, converts received received waves into electrical signals and transmits them to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus,
A head unit for transmitting and receiving the ultrasonic wave;
A housing portion covering the head portion;
Of the longitudinal direction and the short direction of the ultrasonic transmission / reception surface of the head portion, a portion or member that is installed on at least a side surface of the housing portion in the longitudinal direction and extends from the housing portion in the short direction. An ultrasonic probe having.
前記超音波の送受信を行うヘッド部と、
前記ヘッド部の前記超音波の送受信面における長手方向及び短手方向のうち、少なくとも前記長手方向における前記ヘッド部の側面に設置され、前記ヘッド部から前記短手方向に伸長する部分又は部材と、
前記ヘッド部及び前記部分又は部材を覆う筺体部とを有する超音波探触子。 An ultrasonic probe that transmits ultrasonic waves to the body of a subject, converts received received waves into electrical signals and transmits them to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus,
A head unit for transmitting and receiving the ultrasonic wave;
Of the longitudinal direction and the short direction of the ultrasonic transmission / reception surface of the head part, a part or member that is installed at least on the side surface of the head part in the longitudinal direction and extends from the head part in the short direction;
An ultrasonic probe having the head part and a casing part covering the part or member.
The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1, wherein the portion or member is configured to be detachable.
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