JP2007275354A - Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and its signal processing program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To easily evaluate a channel characteristic concerning an ultrasonic vibrator. <P>SOLUTION: In an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1, an echo extracting part 19 extracts a bottom surface echo signal based on reflection wave which is reflected from a prescribed depth among reception signals. A positioning channel echo calculating part 26 calculates a time interval which is included in the channel characteristic concerning the prescribed ultrasonic vibrator 31, the maximum voltage value or the like, based on the bottom surface echo signal. A positioning channel echo comparison determining part 27 determines whether coincidence is obtained within a prescribed range, based on the calculation result. A whole channel echo calculating part 29 calculates the time interval which is included in the channel characteristic concerning the prescribed ultrasonic vibrator 31, the maximum voltage value or the like, based on the bottom surface echo signal. A video converting part 22 performs prescribed image processing and arithmetic processing in the calculation result. A display part 13 displays the calculation result where the prescribed image processing and arithmetic processing or the like are performed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and a signal processing program thereof, and more particularly to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and a signal processing program thereof capable of evaluating channel characteristics related to an ultrasonic transducer.

  In recent years, in an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, higher resolution and higher image quality of an ultrasonic image generated by transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves to and from a subject have been achieved. The image quality of the ultrasound image obtained by the ultrasound diagnostic device includes the channel characteristics of the ultrasound transducer used in the ultrasound probe and its accessory parts, the acoustic characteristics of the living tissue that is the propagation material, the signal processing method, etc. It is determined by various factors.

  Therefore, a method for comprehensively evaluating an ultrasonic image after clarifying the relationship between various parameters that determine the image quality of the ultrasonic image has been proposed (for example, see Patent Document 1).

  According to the method proposed in Patent Document 1, it is possible to synthesize an ultrasound image while changing various parameters that determine the image quality of the ultrasound image, and to evaluate the synthesized ultrasound image. Thereby, various parameters can be optimized while observing an ultrasonic image.

  In recent ultrasonic diagnostic apparatuses, since a considerable number of ultrasonic transducers are provided in the ultrasonic probe, in general, not only in the main body of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus but also in the ultrasonic probe. The signal processing associated with the transmission / reception of is performed. That is, generally, an accessory such as a transmission / reception circuit that performs signal processing accompanying transmission / reception with respect to the ultrasonic transducer is connected to the ultrasonic transducer in the ultrasonic probe.

  By the way, the channel characteristic of the ultrasonic transducer and its accessory parts, which is one of the factors affecting the image quality of the ultrasonic image, is caused when a problem occurs in the ultrasonic vibrator provided in the ultrasonic probe and its accessory parts. The channel characteristics which can be exhibited when the ultrasonic transducer and its accessory parts are normal are deteriorated. When an ultrasonic image is generated using an ultrasonic probe having a defective ultrasonic transducer and its accessory parts, the image quality of the generated ultrasonic image is lower than normal, and various artifacts are also generated. Will occur.

Therefore, in order to prevent the deterioration of the image quality of the ultrasonic image and the occurrence of various artifacts due to the defects occurring in the ultrasonic transducer and its accessory parts, the ultrasonic transducer and its accessory parts provided in the ultrasonic probe Therefore, it is necessary to periodically inspect whether or not a defect has occurred and not to use an ultrasonic probe having an ultrasonic transducer whose channel characteristics are deteriorated due to the occurrence of the defect and its accessory parts.
JP-A-5-111484

  By the way, in recent years, a three-dimensional tomographic image is displayed by reconstructing a tomographic image obtained by scanning a subject using an ultrasonic probe in which a plurality of ultrasonic transducers are arranged in a matrix in two dimensions. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus has been proposed. The number of ultrasonic transducers and their accessory parts used in an ultrasonic probe in which a plurality of ultrasonic transducers are arranged in a matrix in two dimensions is much larger than that in an ultrasonic probe in which a one-dimensional array is arranged. .

  Therefore, in the case of an ultrasonic probe in which a plurality of ultrasonic transducers are arranged in a matrix in a two-dimensional manner, it is periodically inspected whether there are any defects in the ultrasonic transducers provided in the ultrasonic probe and its accessory parts. There was a problem that it was difficult to do.

  The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and an object of the present invention is to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus and a signal processing program thereof that can easily evaluate channel characteristics related to an ultrasonic transducer.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention transmits a ultrasonic wave by vibrating an ultrasonic transducer, and reflects from a reflector among ultrasonic waves transmitted by the transmission unit. Detecting means for detecting channel characteristics relating to the ultrasonic transducer based on the received signal converted from the reflected wave by the ultrasonic transducer, and a channel relating to the ultrasonic transducer based on the detection result detected by the detecting means And a display means for displaying the characteristics.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus further includes an extraction unit that extracts a reception signal based on a reflected wave from a predetermined depth from the reception signal, and the detection unit is configured to extract from the predetermined depth extracted by the extraction unit. The channel characteristic relating to the ultrasonic transducer can be detected based on the received signal based on the reflected wave.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus further includes determination means for determining whether or not channel characteristics regarding at least three or more ultrasonic transducers match within a predetermined range set in advance, and at least three or more are determined by the determination means. When it is determined that the channel characteristics regarding the ultrasonic transducers match within a predetermined range set in advance, the transmission unit may sequentially transmit the ultrasonic waves by vibrating the plurality of ultrasonic transducers. it can.

  The channel characteristic related to the ultrasonic transducer includes at least one of information related to the depth at which the ultrasonic wave transmitted by the transmission unit is reflected from the reflector and information related to the signal intensity of the received signal. be able to.

  When displaying the channel characteristic related to the ultrasonic transducer, the display means can perform color display according to the magnitude of the signal intensity of the received signal included in the channel characteristic related to the ultrasonic transducer.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes a channel characteristic determination unit that determines whether or not a channel characteristic related to the ultrasonic transducer is deviated from a predetermined reference value that is set in advance, and a predetermined reference that is set in advance by the channel characteristic determination unit. Prohibiting data generating means for generating prohibiting data for prohibiting use of an ultrasonic transducer having a channel characteristic determined to be out of the value, and image data generating means for generating ultrasonic image data based on the received signal The transmission means can transmit an ultrasonic wave by vibrating an ultrasonic transducer that is not prohibited from use based on the prohibition data.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus may further include prohibition data storage means for storing prohibition data.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, the signal processing program of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention is configured to generate ultrasonic vibrations from reflected waves reflected from a reflector among ultrasonic waves transmitted by vibrating an ultrasonic transducer. A detection step for detecting channel characteristics related to the ultrasonic transducer based on the received signal converted by the child, and a display step for displaying the channel characteristics related to the ultrasonic transducer based on the detection result detected by the processing of the detection step And making the computer execute.

  In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention, an ultrasonic wave is transmitted by vibrating the ultrasonic vibrator, and the received ultrasonic wave converted from the reflected wave reflected from the reflector among the transmitted ultrasonic waves is received. Channel characteristics related to the ultrasonic transducer are detected based on the signal, and channel characteristics related to the ultrasonic transducer are displayed based on the detected result.

  In the signal processing program of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention, out of the ultrasonic waves transmitted by vibrating the ultrasonic transducer, the reflected signal reflected from the reflector is converted into a reception signal converted by the ultrasonic transducer. Based on this, channel characteristics relating to the ultrasonic transducer are detected, and channel characteristics relating to the ultrasonic transducer are displayed based on the detected result.

  According to the present invention, channel characteristics relating to an ultrasonic transducer can be easily evaluated.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 shows an internal configuration of a first embodiment of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 to which the present invention is applied. In the embodiment of the present invention, in order to simplify the explanation, only the transmission control unit 16 and the reception control unit 17 in the main body 11 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 perform signal processing accompanying transmission / reception, and perform ultrasonic processing. The probe 12 is applied to the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 that does not perform signal processing associated with transmission / reception. However, the present invention is not limited to such a case. For example, signal processing associated with transmission / reception is performed in the ultrasonic probe 12. By providing accessory parts such as a transmission / reception circuit, the present invention can be applied not only in the main body 11 but also in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 that performs signal processing accompanying transmission / reception in the ultrasonic probe 12.

  Further, the “channel characteristics related to the ultrasonic transducer” are provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 including the case where an accessory such as a transmission / reception circuit that performs signal processing associated with transmission / reception is provided in the ultrasonic probe 12. It means the characteristics of one entire channel when a predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31 is used among the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 includes a main body 11, an ultrasonic probe 12 connected to the main body 11 via an electric cable, and a display unit 13.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the main body 11 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 includes a positioning control data generation unit 14, an all-channel operation control data generation unit 15, a transmission control unit 16, a reception control unit 17, an image data generation unit 18, The echo extraction unit 19, the positioning channel echo detection unit 20, the all channel echo detection unit 21, and the video conversion unit 22 are configured.

  The positioning control data generation unit 14 generates positioning control data for driving a predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31 among a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12, and performs transmission control unit 16 and reception control. Supply to unit 17.

  The all-channel operation control data generating unit 15 generates all-channel control data for sequentially driving the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 included in the ultrasonic probe 12 in accordance with instructions from the positioning channel echo comparison / determination unit 27 of the positioning channel echo detection unit 20. Generated and supplied to the transmission control unit 16 and the transmission control unit 17.

  The transmission control unit 16 includes a rate pulse generator, a transmission delay circuit, and a pulser (all not shown), and the rate pulse generator determines the pulse repetition frequency of the ultrasonic pulse incident on the inside of the subject. A rate pulse is generated and supplied to the transmission delay circuit. The transmission delay circuit is a delay circuit for setting the convergence distance and deflection angle of the ultrasonic beam at the time of transmission so that the focal position and deflection angle of the ultrasonic beam at the time of transmission become a predetermined focal position and deflection angle. In addition, a delay time is added to the rate pulse supplied from the rate pulse generator to supply to the pulser. The pulser is a drive circuit that generates a high-pressure pulse for driving the ultrasonic transducer, generates a high-pressure pulse for driving the ultrasonic transducer based on the rate pulse supplied from the transmission delay circuit, The generated high-pressure pulse is output to the ultrasonic probe 12.

  Further, the transmission control unit 16 acquires the positioning control data supplied from the positioning control data generation unit 14, and based on the acquired positioning control data, the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 A transmission control signal for transmitting ultrasonic waves from a predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31 is generated and supplied to the channel selector 30 of the ultrasonic probe 12. Further, the transmission control unit 16 acquires all channel control data supplied from the all channel operation control data generation unit 15, and a plurality of ultrasonic waves provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 based on the acquired all channel control data. Transmission control signals for sequentially transmitting ultrasonic waves from the transducer 31 are generated and supplied to the channel selector 30 of the ultrasonic probe 12.

  The reception control unit 17 includes a preamplifier, a reception delay circuit, and an adder (all not shown). The preamplifier receives a reception signal based on a reflected wave of an ultrasonic pulse incident on the reflector P from the ultrasonic probe 12. The received signal is amplified to a predetermined level, and the amplified received signal is supplied to the reception delay circuit.

  The reception delay circuit gives a delay time corresponding to the difference in the propagation time of the ultrasonic wave from the focus position of each ultrasonic transducer to the amplified reception signal supplied from the preamplifier, and supplies it to the adder. The adder adds the reception signals from the respective ultrasonic transducers supplied from the reception delay circuit, and supplies the added reception signals to the image data generation unit 18 and the echo extraction unit 19.

  In addition, the reception control unit 17 acquires the positioning control data supplied from the positioning control data generation unit 14, and the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 based on the acquired positioning control data. A reception control signal for causing the predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31 to receive the reflected wave of the ultrasonic wave is generated and supplied to the channel selector 30 of the ultrasonic probe 12. Further, the transmission control unit 16 acquires all channel control data supplied from the all channel operation control data generation unit 15, and a plurality of ultrasonic waves provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 based on the acquired all channel control data. A reception control signal for causing the transducer 31 to sequentially receive the reflected wave of the ultrasonic wave is generated and supplied to the channel selector 30 of the ultrasonic probe 12.

  The image data generation unit 24 includes a B mode processing unit 23 and a Doppler mode processing unit 24. The B mode processing unit 23 includes a logarithmic amplifier, an envelope detection circuit, and a TGC (Time Gain Control) circuit (all not shown), and performs the following processing.

  That is, the logarithmic amplifier of the B-mode processing unit 23 logarithmically amplifies the reception signal supplied from the reception control unit 17 and supplies the logarithmically amplified reception signal to the envelope detection circuit. The envelope detection circuit is a circuit that detects only the amplitude by removing the ultrasonic frequency components, detects the envelope of the received signal supplied from the logarithmic amplifier, and supplies the detected received signal to the TGC circuit. To do. The TGC circuit adjusts the intensity of the received signal supplied from the envelope detection circuit so that the final image brightness is uniform, generates B-mode image data, and converts the generated B-mode image data to video Supplied to the unit 22.

  The Doppler mode processing unit 24 includes a reference signal generator, a π / 2 phase shifter, a mixer, an LPF (Low Pass Filter), a Doppler signal storage circuit, an FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) analyzer, and an arithmetic unit (all not shown). ) And the like, mainly quadrature detection and FFT analysis are performed, and the generated Doppler mode image data is supplied to the video converter 22.

  The echo extraction unit 19 extracts a bottom echo signal based on a reflected wave reflected from a predetermined depth from the reception signal supplied from the reception control unit 17, and a positioning channel echo detection unit 20 and an all-channel echo detection unit 21.

  The positioning channel echo detection unit 20 includes a positioning channel echo storage unit 25, a positioning channel echo calculation unit 26, and a positioning channel echo comparison / determination unit 27. The positioning channel echo storage unit 25, the positioning channel echo calculation unit 26, and the positioning channel echo comparison / determination unit 27 are connected to each other by a bus in the positioning channel echo detection unit 20.

  The positioning channel echo storage unit 25 acquires a bottom surface echo signal based on a reflected wave reflected from a predetermined depth supplied from the echo extraction unit 19, stores the acquired bottom surface echo signal, and is stored as appropriate. The obtained bottom surface echo signal is supplied to the positioning channel echo calculation unit 26. The positioning channel echo storage unit 25 acquires the calculation result supplied from the positioning channel echo calculation unit 26, stores the acquired calculation result, and appropriately stores the stored calculation result in the positioning channel echo comparison determination unit 27. Supply.

  The positioning channel echo calculation unit 26 acquires the bottom surface echo signal supplied from the positioning channel echo storage unit 25, and the reflector P included in the channel characteristics related to the predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31 based on the acquired bottom surface echo signal. A time interval corresponding to the depth from the time, a maximum voltage value in a preset time width, and the like are calculated, and the calculation result is supplied to the positioning channel echo storage unit 25.

  The positioning channel echo comparison / determination unit 27 determines whether or not they match within a predetermined range based on the calculation result supplied from the positioning channel echo storage unit 25, and uses the determination result as the all-channel operation control generation unit 15. To supply.

  The all channel echo detection unit 21 includes an all channel echo storage unit 28 and an all channel echo calculation unit 29. The all channel echo storage unit 28 and the all channel echo calculation unit 29 are connected to each other by a bus in the all channel echo detection unit 21.

  The all-channel echo storage unit 28 acquires a bottom surface echo signal based on a reflected wave reflected from a predetermined depth supplied from the echo extraction unit 19, stores the acquired bottom surface echo signal, and is stored as appropriate. The obtained bottom surface echo signal is supplied to the positioning channel echo calculation unit 26. The all-channel echo storage unit 28 acquires the calculation result supplied from the all-channel echo calculation unit 29, stores the acquired calculation result, and supplies it to the video conversion unit 22 as necessary.

  The all-channel echo calculation unit 29 reads the bottom surface echo signal stored in the all-channel echo storage unit 28, and based on the read bottom surface echo signal, the reflector included in the channel characteristics related to the predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31 A time interval corresponding to the depth from P, a maximum voltage value in a preset time width, and the like are calculated, and the calculation result is supplied to the all-channel echo storage unit 28.

  The video conversion unit 22 acquires the B mode image data and the Doppler mode image data supplied from the B mode processing unit 23 and the Doppler mode processing unit 24 of the image data generation unit 24, and acquires the acquired B mode image data and the Doppler mode. The image data is converted from the scanning line signal sequence of the ultrasonic scan to the scanning line signal sequence of the video format and supplied to the display unit 13. In addition, the video conversion unit 22 acquires the calculation result supplied from the all-channel echo storage unit 28 of the all-channel echo detection unit 21, performs predetermined image processing, calculation processing, and the like on the acquired calculation result, and displays the display unit. 13 is supplied.

  The ultrasonic probe 12 is connected to the main body 11 via an electric cable, and is an ultrasonic transducer that transmits and receives ultrasonic waves by bringing the front surface of the reflector P into contact with the front surface of the reflector P. The ultrasonic probe 12 is a two-dimensional matrix. A plurality of minute ultrasonic transducers 31 (in the case of FIG. 1, one ultrasonic transducer 31 is described in one ultrasonic probe 12 for convenience in the case of FIG. 1) are provided at the tip portion. Each ultrasonic transducer 31 is an electroacoustic transducer as a piezoelectric transducer, and is connected to a channel selector 30. At the time of transmission, an electric signal input from the transmission control unit 16 of the main body 11 via the channel selector 30 is used. The pulse is converted into an ultrasonic pulse (transmitted ultrasonic wave), and the reflected wave reflected from the reflector P is converted into an electric signal at the time of reception, and is output to the main body 11 via the channel selector 30.

  Note that, at the distal end portion of the ultrasonic probe 12, since a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 are arranged in a two-dimensional matrix, an ultrasonic transducer surface M is formed as shown in FIG.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, the ultrasonic probe 12 in which a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 are arranged in a two-dimensional matrix is used. However, the present invention is not limited to such a case. The ultrasonic probe 12 in which the acoustic transducers 31 are arranged in a one-dimensional array may be used.

  The channel selector 30 is a switch for switching the driving of a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12, and is based on a transmission control signal input from the transmission control unit 16 of the main body 11 during transmission. The driving of a predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31 among a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 included in the acoustic probe 12 is selected, and an electrical pulse input from the transmission control unit 16 of the main body 11 is acquired, and the acquired electrical A pulse is supplied to a predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31. In addition, the channel selector 30 receives a predetermined ultrasonic transducer among a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 included in the ultrasonic probe 12 based on the reception control signal input from the reception control unit 17 of the main body 11 during reception. 31 is selected, and an electric signal supplied from a predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31 among a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 included in the ultrasonic probe 12 is acquired and output to the reception control unit 17 of the main body 11. To do.

  The display unit 13 is connected to the video conversion unit 22 of the main body 11 through a cable, and is provided with an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) (not shown) and a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) (not shown). B-mode image data and Doppler mode image data from the video conversion unit 22 converted from a line signal sequence to a video format scanning line signal sequence are acquired, and the acquired B-mode image data and Doppler mode image data are illustrated. Display on the LCD (not shown) or CRT (not shown). In addition, a calculation result subjected to predetermined image processing or arithmetic processing is acquired, and the acquired calculation result is displayed on an LCD (not shown) or a CRT (not shown).

  Here, an outline of the channel characteristic evaluation process using the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 of FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, when performing the channel characteristic evaluation process using the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 of FIG. 1, first, the ultrasonic probe 12 is brought into contact with the reflector P made of a block-shaped acrylic material. Next, the ultrasonic transducer 31 of the ultrasonic probe 12 is vibrated to transmit the ultrasonic wave to the reflector P, and based on the reception signal converted by the ultrasonic transducer 31 from the reflected wave reflected from the reflector P. The channel characteristics are detected by the main body 11. Thereby, it is possible to evaluate the channel characteristics regarding the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12.

  However, in order to accurately evaluate the channel characteristics related to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12, the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 in the ultrasonic probe 12 can be compared with the reflection surface X that is the bottom surface of the reflector P. The ultrasonic transducer surfaces M formed by the ultrasonic transducers 31 need to be parallel, and the reflection conditions for receiving the reflected wave from the reflector P in each ultrasonic transducer 31 need to be substantially the same.

  Therefore, as shown in FIG. 2, before sequentially transmitting ultrasonic waves from a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12, first, the ultrasonic probe 12 is two-dimensionally arranged in a matrix. Of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31, for example, the ultrasonic transducers 31 at the four corners (ultrasonic transducers 31 arranged at the four corners a, b, c, and d in FIG. 2) are used as a reflector. It is determined whether or not the ultrasonic transducer surface M formed by the plural ultrasonic transducers 31 is parallel to the P reflection surface X. When it is determined that the ultrasonic transducer surfaces M formed by the multiple ultrasonic transducers 31 are parallel to the reflection surface X of the reflector P, the multiple ultrasonic waves provided on the ultrasonic probe 12 are arranged. Ultrasonic waves are sequentially transmitted from the ultrasonic transducer 31, and the channel characteristics are detected by the main body 11 from the received signal that is received by the reflected wave reflected from the reflector P and converted by the ultrasonic transducer 31. This makes it possible to accurately evaluate channel characteristics related to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12. The details of the channel characteristic evaluation process in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 of FIG. 1 will be described below with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

  In addition, when transmitting an ultrasonic wave to the reflector P made of a block-shaped acrylic material, the reflection point of the ultrasonic beam at the time of transmission is the reflection surface X (that is, the reflection point of the ultrasonic beam at the time of transmission is It is set in advance so as to have a predetermined depth D).

  With reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 3 and 4, channel characteristic evaluation processing in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 of FIG. 1 will be described.

  In step S <b> 1, the positioning control data generation unit 14 determines whether or not an instruction to start the channel characteristic evaluation process is made by the user operating the input unit (not shown), and the user selects the input unit (not shown). The operation waits until it is determined that an instruction to start the channel characteristic evaluation process has been issued.

  If it is determined in step S1 that the user has instructed to start the channel characteristic evaluation process by operating an input unit (not shown), the positioning control data generating unit 14 is determined in step S2 to be a predetermined possessed by the ultrasonic probe 12. Positioning control data for driving the ultrasonic transducer 31 (the ultrasonic transducers 31 arranged at the four corners a, b, c, or d in FIG. 2) is generated, and the transmission control unit 16 and the reception control unit 17 are generated. To supply.

  In step S3, the transmission control unit 16 acquires the positioning control data supplied from the positioning control data generation unit 14, and a plurality of ultrasonic transducers provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 based on the acquired positioning control data. 31 generates a transmission control signal for transmitting ultrasonic waves from a predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31 (ultrasonic transducers 31 arranged at four corners a, b, c, or d in FIG. 2) This is supplied to the channel selector 30 of the sonic probe 12.

  The rate pulse generator of the transmission control unit 16 generates a rate pulse that determines the pulse repetition frequency of the ultrasonic pulse that enters the reflector P, and supplies the pulse to the transmission delay circuit. The transmission delay circuit delays the rate pulse supplied from the rate pulse generator so that the focal position and deflection angle of the ultrasonic beam at the time of transmission become a predetermined focal position (predetermined depth D) and deflection angle. And supply to Pulsa. The pulser generates a high-pressure pulse for driving the ultrasonic transducer based on the rate pulse supplied from the transmission delay circuit, and outputs the generated high-pressure pulse to the ultrasonic probe 12.

  In step S4, the channel selector 30 of the ultrasonic probe 12 transmits a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 based on the transmission control signal input from the transmission control unit 16 of the main body 11 at the time of transmission. Is selected from among the predetermined ultrasonic transducers 31 (the ultrasonic transducers 31 arranged at the four corners a, b, c, or d in FIG. 2), and from the transmission control unit 16 of the main body 11. The inputted electric pulse is supplied to a predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31. The ultrasonic transducer 31 converts an electric pulse input from the transmission control unit 16 of the main body 11 via the channel selector 30 into an ultrasonic pulse (transmission ultrasonic wave), and converts the converted ultrasonic pulse into the reflector P. Send to. A part of the ultrasonic wave transmitted into the reflector P is reflected at the boundary surfaces having different acoustic impedances.

  In step S5, the predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31 selected to be driven (the ultrasonic transducer 31 arranged in the four corners a, b, c, or d in FIG. 2) is reflected from the reflector P. The reflected wave is converted into an electric signal, and the converted electric signal is output to the main body 11 via the channel selector 30 as a reception signal. The channel selector 30 of the ultrasonic probe 12 receives a predetermined one of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 based on the reception control signal input from the reception control unit 17 of the main body 11 at the time of reception. The driving of the ultrasonic transducers 31 is sequentially selected.

  The reception control unit 17 amplifies the reception signal input from the ultrasonic transducer 31 via the channel selector 30, adds a predetermined delay time, and supplies it to the image data generation unit 18 and the echo extraction unit 19. . That is, the preamplifier of the reception control unit 17 amplifies the reception signal input from the ultrasonic transducer 31 via the channel selector 30 to a predetermined level, and supplies the amplified reception signal to the reception delay circuit.

  The reception delay circuit of the reception control unit 17 gives a delay time corresponding to the difference in the propagation time of the ultrasonic wave from the focus position of the ultrasonic transducer 31 to the amplified reception signal supplied from the preamplifier, and supplies it to the adder. To do. The adder adds the reception signals from the ultrasonic transducer 31 supplied from the reception delay circuit, and supplies the added reception signals to the echo extraction unit 19.

  Here, since the transmitted ultrasonic waves include side lobes that propagate in other directions besides the main lobe, when transmitting ultrasonic waves to the reflector P made of block-shaped acrylic material, the bottom surface of the reflector P Apart from a certain reflecting surface X, part of the light is also reflected from the side surface of the reflector P. For this reason, the reception signal converted by the ultrasonic transducer 31 upon receiving the reflected wave reflected from the reflector P is a signal based on the reflected wave from the reflecting surface X of the reflector P (that is, a predetermined depth D). Signal based on the reflected wave from the side surface of the reflector P, or a signal based on the reflected wave that has been multiple-reflected by the reflecting surface X or the side surface that is the bottom surface of the reflector P. included.

  Therefore, when the channel characteristic related to the ultrasonic transducer 31 is detected and evaluated using the reception signal supplied from the reception control unit 17 as it is, the reception signal supplied from the reception control unit 17 includes the reflector P. Since the signal other than the signal based on the reflected wave from the reflection surface X is included, the channel characteristics regarding the ultrasonic transducer 31 cannot be accurately evaluated.

  Therefore, before detecting and evaluating channel characteristics related to the ultrasonic transducer 31 based on the reception signal supplied from the reception control unit 17, the reflection of the reflector P from the reception signal supplied from the reception control unit 17. A process (extraction process) for extracting only the received signal based on the reflected wave from the surface X is performed.

  In step S <b> 6, the echo extraction unit 19 acquires the reception signal supplied from the reception control unit 17, and receives the reception signal based on the reflected wave from the reflection surface X of the reflector P (hereinafter, referred to as “reception signal”). “Bottom echo signal”) is extracted and supplied to the positioning channel echo detector 20.

  A specific echo extraction method in the echo extraction unit 19 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, in synchronization with a reference signal that is a reference for transmitting an ultrasonic wave as shown in FIG. 5A, an electric pulse having a transmission signal waveform as shown in FIG. And supplied to the ultrasonic transducer 31 of the ultrasonic probe 12 through the channel selector 30.

  Here, since the predetermined depth D to the reflecting surface X of the reflector P made of block-shaped acrylic material is a known value, the time Tgd corresponding to the predetermined depth D is calculated in advance, and the received signal It is possible to set a time width Tgw for extracting the bottom echo signal from the inside. Note that the time width Tgw for extracting the bottom echo signal from the received signal can be arbitrarily set in advance by the operator.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 5 [C], the echo extraction unit 19 generates a take-out signal for taking out the bottom echo signal from the received signal, and in FIG. 5 [D] based on the generated take-out signal. Extract the bottom echo signal as shown.

  In step S7, the positioning channel echo storage unit 25 of the positioning channel echo detection unit 20 acquires the bottom surface echo signal supplied from the echo extraction unit 19, and stores the acquired bottom surface echo signal.

  In step S8, the positioning control data generator 14 determines whether positioning control data for four channels has been generated. That is, the positioning control data generation unit 14 includes four ultrasonic transducers 31 in the ultrasonic probe 12 (four ultrasonic transducers 31 arranged in the four corners a, b, c, and d in FIG. 2). It is determined whether or not four positioning control data for driving) have been generated.

  If it is determined in step S8 that the positioning control data for the four channels has not been generated, the process returns to step S2, and the processes after step S2 are repeated.

  As a result, ultrasonic waves are sequentially transmitted from the four ultrasonic transducers 31 arranged at the four corners a, b, c, and d in FIG. 2 to the reflector P, and the four bottom surface echo signals are stored in the positioning channel echo memory. The data are sequentially stored in the unit 25.

  If it is determined in step S8 that the positioning control data for the four channels have been generated, the positioning channel echo detector 20 detects the channel characteristics based on the extracted four bottom surface echo signals in step S9. That is, the positioning channel echo calculation unit 26 of the positioning channel echo detection unit 20 sequentially reads the four bottom surface echo signals stored in the positioning channel echo storage unit 25, and based on the read bottom surface echo signals, a predetermined super The time interval Td corresponding to the depth from the reflector P included in the channel characteristics related to the acoustic wave oscillator 31, the maximum voltage value Vp in the preset time width Tgw, and the average voltage value in the preset time width Tgw An average voltage value Va is calculated.

  Specifically, the positioning channel echo calculation unit 26 first converts the bottom echo signal as shown in FIG. 5 [D] into an absolute value as shown in FIG. 5 [E]. Based on the bottom echo signal converted into the absolute value, the positioning channel echo calculation unit 26 reflects the time interval from when the ultrasonic wave is transmitted until it becomes larger than the preset set voltage Vs from the reflector P. It is calculated as a time interval Td corresponding to the depth of time.

  The set voltage Vs can be arbitrarily set by the operator before the channel characteristic evaluation process. Of course, the set voltage Vs may be calculated using the ultrasonic probe 12 that has been previously evaluated to have normal channel characteristics, and may be set based on the calculation result.

  The positioning channel echo calculation unit 26 calculates the maximum voltage value Vp in the preset time width Tgw based on the absolute value converted bottom echo signal, and average voltage value in the preset time width Tgw. An average voltage value Va is calculated.

  The positioning channel echo calculation unit 26 supplies channel characteristic data, which is the calculation result, to the positioning channel echo storage unit 25.

  In step S10, the positioning channel echo comparison / determination unit 27 is arranged at the four ultrasonic transducers 31 (four corners a, b, c, and d in FIG. 2) stored in the positioning channel echo storage unit 25. Channel characteristic data corresponding to the four ultrasonic transducers 31) is read out, and based on the read channel characteristic data corresponding to the four ultrasonic transducers 31, four ultrasonic transducers 31 (4 in FIG. 2) are read out. It is determined whether or not the channel characteristics regarding the four ultrasonic transducers 31) arranged at the corners a, b, c, and d are matched within a predetermined allowable range. Specifically, the reflection from the reflector P included in the channel characteristics relating to the four ultrasonic transducers 31 (four ultrasonic transducers 31 arranged at the four corners a, b, c, and d in FIG. 2). It is determined whether or not the time interval Td, maximum voltage value Vp, and average voltage value Va corresponding to the depth at which they are matched match within a predetermined allowable range.

  If it is determined in step S10 that the channel characteristics regarding the four ultrasonic transducers 31 do not match within a predetermined allowable range, the positioning channel echo comparison / determination unit 27 performs determination processing (determination processing in step S10) in step S11. Is repeated a predetermined number of times (for example, four times). The predetermined number of times can be arbitrarily set in advance by a doctor, an engineer, or the like (hereinafter referred to as “operator”).

  If it is determined in step S11 that the determination process has not been repeated a predetermined number of times (for example, four times), the process returns to step S2, and the processes after step S2 are repeated. Thus, the operator operates the ultrasonic probe 12 while finely adjusting it (by manually turning the ultrasonic probe 12), so that the inside of the ultrasonic probe 12 is in the reflective surface X that is the bottom surface of the reflector P. The ultrasonic transducer surfaces M formed by the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 can be made parallel, and the reflection conditions for receiving the reflected wave from the reflector P in each ultrasonic transducer 31 can be made substantially the same. it can. Accordingly, in the subsequent processing, channel characteristics relating to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 can be accurately evaluated.

  If it is determined in step S11 that the determination process has been repeated a predetermined number of times, the positioning channel echo comparison determination unit 27 performs error processing in step S12, and then the channel characteristic evaluation process ends.

  Thereby, the operator is an ultrasonic probe in which the failure has already occurred in the ultrasonic probe 12 in which the reflection conditions for receiving the reflected wave from the reflector P in each ultrasonic transducer 31 cannot be made substantially the same. It can be known that it cannot be used in diagnosis. Therefore, the channel characteristics regarding the ultrasonic transducer can be easily evaluated.

  In the error process in step S12, the display unit 13 may display that the reflection conditions for receiving the reflected wave from the reflector P in each ultrasonic transducer 31 cannot be made substantially the same. Good.

  When it is determined in step S10 that the channel characteristics related to the four ultrasonic transducers 31 match within a predetermined allowable range, the positioning channel echo comparison determination unit 27 determines that the channel characteristics regarding the ultrasonic transducer 31 are within the predetermined allowable range. The determination result indicating that they match is supplied to the all-channel operation control data generation unit 15. In step S13, the all-channel operation control data generation unit 15 acquires the determination result supplied from the positioning channel echo comparison determination unit 27, and the channel characteristics regarding the four ultrasonic transducers 31 are based on the acquired determination result. Recognizing that they match within a predetermined tolerance range, all channel control data for sequentially driving the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 is generated and supplied to the transmission control unit 16 and the reception control unit 17. .

  In step S14 of FIG. 4, the transmission control unit 16 acquires all channel control data supplied from the all channel operation control data generation unit 15, and is provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 based on the acquired all channel control data. A transmission control signal for sequentially transmitting ultrasonic waves from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 is generated and supplied to the channel selector 30 of the ultrasonic probe 12.

  The rate pulse generator of the transmission control unit 16 generates a rate pulse that determines the pulse repetition frequency of the ultrasonic pulse that enters the reflector P, and supplies the pulse to the transmission delay circuit. The transmission delay circuit delays the rate pulse supplied from the rate pulse generator so that the focal position and deflection angle of the ultrasonic beam at the time of transmission become a predetermined focal position (predetermined depth D) and deflection angle. And supply to Pulsa. The pulser generates a high-pressure pulse for driving the ultrasonic transducer based on the rate pulse supplied from the transmission delay circuit, and outputs the generated high-pressure pulse to the ultrasonic probe 12.

  In step S <b> 15, the channel selector 30 of the ultrasonic probe 12 at the time of transmission uses a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 based on the transmission control signal input from the transmission control unit 16 of the main body 11. Are sequentially selected to drive the predetermined ultrasonic transducers 31, and the electric pulses input from the transmission control unit 16 of the main body 11 are sequentially supplied to the predetermined ultrasonic transducers 31. The ultrasonic transducer 31 converts an electric pulse input from the transmission control unit 16 of the main body 11 via the channel selector 30 into an ultrasonic pulse (transmission ultrasonic wave), and converts the converted ultrasonic pulse into the reflector P. Send to. A part of the ultrasonic wave transmitted into the reflector P is reflected at the boundary surfaces having different acoustic impedances.

  In step S16, the predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31 selected to be driven converts the reflected wave reflected from the reflector P into an electric signal, and the converted electric signal is received as a received signal via the channel selector 30. Output to the main body 11. The channel selector 30 of the ultrasonic probe 12 receives a predetermined one of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 based on the reception control signal input from the reception control unit 17 of the main body 11 at the time of reception. The driving of the ultrasonic transducers 31 is sequentially selected. The reception control unit 17 amplifies the reception signal input from the ultrasonic transducer 31 via the channel selector 30, adds a predetermined delay time, and supplies it to the image data generation unit 18 and the echo extraction unit 19. . That is, the preamplifier of the reception control unit 17 amplifies the reception signal input from the ultrasonic transducer 31 via the channel selector 30 to a predetermined level, and supplies the amplified reception signal to the reception delay circuit.

  The reception delay circuit of the reception control unit 17 gives a delay time corresponding to the difference in the propagation time of the ultrasonic wave from the focus position of the ultrasonic transducer 31 to the amplified reception signal supplied from the preamplifier, and supplies it to the adder. To do. The adder adds the reception signals from the ultrasonic transducer 31 supplied from the reception delay circuit, and supplies the added reception signals to the echo extraction unit 19.

  In step S <b> 17, the echo extraction unit 19 sequentially acquires the reception signals supplied from the reception control unit 17, sequentially extracts the bottom surface echo signals from the acquired reception signals, and supplies them to the all-channel echo detection unit 21. Note that the echo extraction method is the same as the echo extraction method described with reference to FIG. 5, and the description thereof will be omitted because it is repeated.

  In step S <b> 18, the all channel echo storage unit 28 of the all channel echo detection unit 21 sequentially acquires the bottom surface echo signals supplied from the echo extraction unit 19 and sequentially stores the acquired bottom surface echo signals.

  In step S <b> 19, the all channel echo detector 21 sequentially detects channel characteristics related to the predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31 based on the extracted bottom surface echo signal. That is, the all channel echo calculation unit 29 of the all channel echo detection unit 21 sequentially reads the bottom surface echo signals stored in the all channel echo storage unit 28, and is included in the channel characteristics based on the read bottom surface echo signals. The time interval Td corresponding to the depth when reflected from the reflector P, the maximum voltage value Vp, and the average voltage value Va are calculated, and the channel characteristic data, which is the calculation result, is sequentially supplied to the all-channel echo storage unit 28. .

  In step S20, the all channel echo storage unit 28 sequentially acquires the channel characteristic data supplied from the all channel echo calculation unit 29, and stores the sequentially acquired channel characteristic data.

  In step S21, the all-channel operation control data generation unit 15 determines whether all-channel operation control data for all channels has been generated.

  If it is determined in step S21 that all channel operation control data for all channels has not been generated, the process returns to step S14, and the same processes after step S14 are repeated. That is, the all-channel operation control data generation unit 15 generates all-channel control data for driving the next ultrasonic transducer 31 among the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12, and performs transmission control. To the unit 16 and the reception control unit 17. Thereby, the channel characteristics of all the ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 can be detected and stored.

  If it is determined in step S21 that all channel operation control data for all channels has been generated, the all channel operation control data generation unit 15 displays the determination result indicating that all channel operation control data for all channels has been generated for all channels. This is supplied to the echo detector 21. The all channel echo storage unit 28 of the all channel echo detection unit 21 acquires the determination result supplied from the all channel operation control data generation unit 15, and based on the acquired determination result, all channel operation control data of all channels. And the channel characteristic data of all the stored channels is supplied to the video conversion unit 22.

  In step S <b> 22, the video conversion unit 22 acquires channel characteristic data of all channels supplied from the all channel echo storage unit 28 of the all channel echo detection unit 21, and sets the acquired channel characteristic data of all channels to a predetermined value. The image processing and the arithmetic processing are performed and supplied to the display unit 13. The display unit 13 acquires channel characteristic data of all channels that have been subjected to predetermined image processing or arithmetic processing, and an LCD (not shown) that displays all channel characteristics based on the acquired channel characteristic data of all channels. Or on a CRT not shown.

  FIG. 6 shows a display example of all channel characteristics displayed on the display unit 13 of FIG.

  In the first column to the fourth column in FIG. 6, “channel number”, “Time”, “Vp”, and “Va” are described, and the ultrasonic waves provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 are respectively described. The identification number of the vibrator 31, the time interval Td corresponding to the depth when reflected from the reflector P, the maximum voltage value Vp in the preset time width Tgw, and the average voltage in the preset time width Tgw The average voltage value Va as a value is shown.

In the first row of FIG. 6, the “channel number” is “1”, which indicates that the identification number of the ultrasonic transducer 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 is “1”. “Time” is “T ₁ ”, which indicates that the time interval Td corresponding to the depth when reflected from the reflector P is “T ₁ ”. “Vp” is “A ₁ ”, which indicates that the maximum voltage value Vp in the preset time width Tgw is “A ₁ ”. “Va” is “B ₁ ”, which indicates that an average voltage value Va that is an average voltage value in a preset time width Tgw is “B ₁ ”.

In the second row of FIG. 6, the “channel number” is “2”, and the identification number of the ultrasonic transducer 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 is “2”. “Time” is “T ₂ ”, which indicates that the time interval Td corresponding to the depth when reflected from the reflector P is “T ₂ ”. “Vp” is “A ₂ ”, which indicates that the maximum voltage value Vp in the preset time width Tgw is “A ₂ ”. “Va” is “B ₂ ”, which indicates that an average voltage value Va that is an average voltage value in a preset time width Tgw is “B ₂ ”.

  The same applies to the third and subsequent lines in FIG. 6, and the description thereof will be omitted to avoid repetition.

  FIG. 7 shows another display example of all channel characteristics displayed on the display unit 13 of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 7, a two-dimensional map of the ultrasonic transducer surface M formed by the ultrasonic transducers 31 arranged in a two-dimensional matrix is displayed, and the horizontal axis X direction and the vertical axis Y direction are These correspond to the horizontal axis X direction and the vertical axis Y direction of the ultrasonic transducer surface M, respectively.

  The signal intensity (value corresponding to the maximum voltage value Vp or the like) of each ultrasonic transducer 31 on the two-dimensional map of the ultrasonic transducer surface M is displayed in color (display of colors 1 to 6) according to the signal strength. ) In the case of the example in FIG. 7, only the ultrasonic transducer 31 arranged at the coordinates (X1, Y4) is displayed with the color 1 corresponding to the lowest signal intensity (1), and the other ultrasonic transducers 31 are To color 2 corresponding to the second signal strength (5).

  As a result, the operator has deteriorated the channel characteristics of the ultrasonic transducer 31 arranged at the coordinates (X1, Y4) due to a defect, and the channel characteristics of the other ultrasonic transducers 31 are normal. I can know that. Therefore, the channel characteristics regarding the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 can be easily evaluated.

  In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 shown in the first embodiment of the present invention, channel characteristics of a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 are detected and displayed on the display unit 13. However, for example, if channel characteristics of a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 are detected, and those that deviate from a predetermined reference value set in advance, channel characteristic evaluation processing is performed. After it is done, its use may be prohibited. Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 to which the present invention is applied will be described.

[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 8 shows the internal configuration of the second embodiment of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 to which the present invention is applied. The components corresponding to those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted to avoid repetition.

  The all channel echo detection unit 21 includes an all channel echo storage unit 28, an all channel echo calculation unit 29, and an all channel echo comparison determination unit 41.

  The all-channel echo storage unit 28 acquires a bottom surface echo signal based on a reflected wave reflected from a predetermined depth supplied from the echo extraction unit 19, stores the acquired bottom surface echo signal, and is stored as appropriate. The obtained bottom surface echo signal is supplied to the positioning channel echo calculation unit 26. The all channel echo storage unit 28 acquires the calculation result supplied from the all channel echo calculation unit 29, stores the acquired calculation result, and, if necessary, the video conversion unit 22 and the all channel echo comparison determination unit. 41. The all-channel echo storage unit 28 acquires the comparison determination result supplied from the all-channel echo comparison / determination unit 41, stores the acquired comparison determination result, and supplies it to the video conversion unit 22.

  The all-channel echo comparison / determination unit 41 reads out the calculation result stored in the all-channel echo storage unit 28, and determines whether or not a predetermined reference value set in advance based on the read-out calculation result. The determination result is supplied to the channel prohibition data generator 42.

  The channel prohibition data generation unit 42 acquires the comparison determination result supplied from the all-channel echo comparison determination unit 41, and a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 based on the acquired comparison determination result. Among them, the one that deviates from the predetermined reference value set in advance is recognized, and the channel prohibition data for prohibiting the use of the ultrasonic transducer 31 that deviates from the predetermined reference value set in advance is generated. Then, the data is supplied to the channel prohibition data memory 43 in the ultrasonic probe 12.

  The channel prohibition data memory 43 of the ultrasonic probe 12 acquires the channel prohibition data supplied from the channel prohibition data generation unit 42, stores the acquired channel prohibition data, and supplies it to the channel selector 30 as appropriate.

  Next, channel characteristic evaluation processing in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 in FIG. 8 will be described with reference to the flowcharts in FIGS. 9 and 10. 9 and 10 are the same as the processes in steps S1 to S21 in FIGS. 3 and 4, and the description thereof will be omitted.

  When it is determined in step S51 that all channel operation control data for all channels has been generated, the all channel operation control data generation unit 15 displays the determination result indicating that all channel operation control data for all channels has been generated for all channels. This is supplied to the echo detector 21. The all channel echo storage unit 28 of the all channel echo detection unit 21 acquires the determination result supplied from the all channel operation control data generation unit 15, and based on the acquired determination result, all channel operation control data for all channels. The channel characteristic data of all the stored channels is supplied to the all-channel echo comparison / determination unit 41 and the video conversion unit 22.

  In step S52, the all-channel echo comparison / determination unit 41 determines whether or not a predetermined reference value set in advance is based on the channel characteristic data of all the channels supplied from the all-channel echo storage unit 28. To do.

  Specifically, this corresponds to the depth when reflected from the reflector P included in the channel characteristics related to a predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31 among the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12. It is determined whether the time interval Td, the maximum voltage value Vp, and the average voltage value Va are out of a predetermined reference value set in advance.

  When it is determined in step S52 that the predetermined channel is not within the predetermined reference value, the all-channel echo comparison / determination unit 41 determines the time interval Td and the maximum voltage included in the channel characteristics related to the predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31. A determination result indicating that the value Vp and the average voltage value Va deviate from a predetermined reference value set in advance is supplied to the channel inhibition data generation unit 42 and the all channel echo storage unit 28.

  In step S <b> 53, the channel prohibition data generation unit 42 acquires a determination result that is out of a predetermined reference value set in advance supplied from the all-channel echo comparison determination unit 41, and sets the acquired determination result. Based on this, a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 that are out of a predetermined reference value set in advance are recognized and deviated from the predetermined reference value set in advance. The channel prohibition data for prohibiting the use of the ultrasonic transducer 31 is generated and supplied to the channel prohibition data memory 43 in the ultrasonic probe 12.

  In step S54, the channel prohibition data memory 43 of the ultrasonic probe 12 acquires the channel prohibition data supplied from the channel prohibition data generation unit 42, and stores the acquired channel prohibition data.

  When it is determined in step S52 that the predetermined reference value is not deviated from the preset reference value, the all-channel echo comparison / determination unit 41 supplies the determination result to the channel inhibition data generation unit 42. Thereafter, the processes in step S53 and step S54 are skipped, and the process proceeds to step S55. That is, the channel prohibition data generation unit 42 does not generate channel prohibition data that prohibits the use of the ultrasonic transducer 31 that does not deviate from a predetermined reference value set in advance.

  In step S <b> 55, the channel prohibition data generation unit 42 determines whether determination processing has been performed for all the ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12.

  If it is determined in step S55 that the determination process has not been performed for all the ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12, the process returns to step S52, and the processes after step S52 are repeated. As a result, it is possible to generate channel prohibition data that prohibits use of all the ultrasonic transducers 31 that deviate from a predetermined reference value set in advance.

  If it is determined in step S55 that the determination processing has been performed for all the ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12, the all channel echo storage unit 28 of the all channel echo detection unit 21 generates all channel operation control data. A determination result indicating that determination processing has been performed for all the ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 supplied from the unit 15 is acquired, and all channel operations of all channels are performed based on the acquired determination result. Recognizing that the control data has been generated, the channel characteristic data of all the stored channels and the determination result as to whether or not the predetermined reference value is deviated from the preset channel are supplied to the video converter 22.

  The predetermined reference value set in advance may be changed according to the preference of the operator, the type of the ultrasonic probe 12, and the like.

  In step S56, the video conversion unit 22 determines whether or not the channel characteristic data of all the channels supplied from the all channel echo storage unit 28 of the all channel echo detection unit 21 deviates from a predetermined reference value set in advance. The determination result is obtained, and predetermined image processing and calculation processing are performed on the determination result of whether or not the obtained channel characteristic data of all the channels is deviated from a predetermined reference value set in advance. 13 is supplied. The display unit 13 acquires the channel characteristic data of all channels that have undergone predetermined image processing or arithmetic processing, and determination results as to whether or not they deviate from a predetermined reference value that is set in advance. Whether or not all channel characteristics are deviated from a preset predetermined reference value based on the determination result of whether or not all channel characteristics data deviate from a preset predetermined reference value Is displayed on an LCD (not shown) or a CRT (not shown).

  FIG. 11 shows a display example of all channel characteristics displayed on the display unit 13 of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 11, a two-dimensional map of the ultrasonic transducer plane M formed by the ultrasonic transducers 31 arranged in a two-dimensional matrix is displayed. The horizontal axis X direction and the vertical axis Y direction are These correspond to the horizontal axis X direction and the vertical axis Y direction of the ultrasonic transducer surface M, respectively.

  The signal intensity (value corresponding to the maximum voltage value Vp or the like) of each ultrasonic transducer 31 on the two-dimensional map of the ultrasonic transducer surface M is displayed in color (display of colors 1 to 6) according to the signal strength. ) In the case of the example in FIG. 11, only the ultrasonic transducer 31 arranged at the coordinates (X1, Y4) is displayed with the color 1 corresponding to the lowest signal intensity (1), and the other ultrasonic transducers 31 are 2 from the top. Displayed in color 5 corresponding to the second signal strength (5). The portion of coordinates (X1, Y4) is highlighted, indicating that the use of the ultrasonic transducer 31 arranged at the coordinates (X1, Y4) is prohibited by this channel characteristic evaluation process. . It should be noted that the coordinates (X6, Y3) portion is displayed in a mesh pattern, and that the use of the ultrasonic transducer 31 arranged at the coordinates (X6, Y3) is prohibited by the already performed channel characteristic evaluation process. Show.

  As a result, the operator has deteriorated the channel characteristics of the ultrasonic transducers 31 arranged at the coordinates (X1, Y4) due to defects, while the channel characteristics of the other ultrasonic transducers 31 are normal. In addition, it is possible to know that the use of the ultrasonic transducer 31 arranged at the coordinates (X1, Y4) is prohibited by this channel characteristic evaluation process. Therefore, the channel characteristics regarding the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided in the ultrasonic probe 12 can be easily evaluated.

  Thereafter, when the operator performs diagnosis using the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1, the channel selector 30 of the ultrasonic probe 12 applies the ultrasonic probe 12 to the ultrasonic probe 12 based on the transmission control signal input from the transmission control unit 16 of the main body 11. Before selecting the driving of a predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31 among the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 provided, the channel prohibition data is read from the channel prohibition data memory 43 and based on the read channel prohibition data. It is determined whether or not the ultrasonic transducer 31 whose use is prohibited among the ultrasonic transducers 31 that are selected to be driven is included, and the ultrasonic transducer 31 that is prohibited from being used is included. If it is determined, driving of the ultrasonic transducer 31 whose use is prohibited is not selected, and driving of only the ultrasonic transducer 31 whose use is not prohibited is selected.

  Further, the channel selector 30 supplies the electrical pulse input from the transmission control unit 16 of the main body 11 to a predetermined ultrasonic transducer 31. The ultrasonic transducer 31 converts an electric pulse input from the transmission control unit 16 of the main body 11 via the channel selector 30 into an ultrasonic pulse (transmission ultrasonic wave), and converts the converted ultrasonic pulse into the reflector P. Send to.

  Accordingly, it is possible to prohibit the use of the ultrasonic transducer 31 that deviates from a predetermined reference value set in advance by the channel characteristic evaluation process. It is possible to prevent the deterioration of image quality and the occurrence of various artifacts.

  In the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 1 shown in the embodiment of the present invention, an ultrasonic wave formed by a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 31 in the ultrasonic probe 12 with respect to the reflection surface X that is the bottom surface of the reflector P. The ultrasonic transducers 31 at the four corners in the ultrasonic probe 12 are arranged so that the ultrasonic transducer surfaces M are parallel and the reflection conditions for receiving the reflected wave from the reflector P in each ultrasonic transducer 31 are substantially the same. However, it is only necessary to use at least any three ultrasonic transducers 31 in the ultrasonic probe 12.

  The series of processes described in the embodiment of the present invention can be executed by hardware, but can also be executed by software.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, the steps of the flowchart show examples of processing performed in time series in the described order. However, even if they are not necessarily processed in time series, they are performed in parallel or individually. The process to be executed is also included.

1 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration in a first embodiment of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus to which the present invention is applied. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an outline of channel characteristic evaluation processing in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of FIG. 1. The flowchart explaining the channel characteristic evaluation process in the ultrasonic diagnosing device of FIG. The flowchart explaining the channel characteristic evaluation process in the ultrasonic diagnosing device of FIG. Explanatory drawing explaining the echo extraction method in step S6 and step S17 of FIG. 3 and FIG. The figure which shows the example of a display of the display screen displayed on the display part 13 of FIG. The figure which shows the other example of a display screen displayed on the display part of FIG. The block diagram which shows the internal structure in 2nd Embodiment of the ultrasonic diagnosing device to which this invention is applied. The flowchart explaining the channel characteristic evaluation process in the ultrasonic diagnosing device of FIG. The flowchart explaining the channel characteristic evaluation process in the ultrasonic diagnosing device of FIG. The figure which shows the example of a display of the display screen displayed on the display part 13 of FIG.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 11 Main body 12 Ultrasonic probe 13 Display part 14 Positioning channel data generation part 15 All channel operation data generation part 16 Transmission control part 17 Reception control part 18 Image data generation part 19 Echo extraction part 20 Positioning channel echo detection part Reference Signs List 21 All-channel echo detection unit 22 Video conversion unit 23 B-mode processing unit 24 Doppler mode processing unit 25 Positioning channel echo storage unit 26 Positioning channel echo calculation unit 27 Positioning channel echo comparison determination unit 28 All-channel echo storage unit 29 All-channel echo calculation Unit 30 Channel selector 31 Ultrasonic transducer 41 All channel echo comparison / determination unit 42 Channel prohibition data generation unit 43 Channel prohibition data memory

Claims (8)

Transmitting means for transmitting ultrasonic waves by vibrating an ultrasonic transducer;
Detecting means for detecting channel characteristics relating to the ultrasonic transducer based on a reception signal converted by the ultrasonic transducer from a reflected wave reflected from a reflector among the ultrasonic waves transmitted by the transmitting unit;
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising: display means for displaying channel characteristics related to the ultrasonic transducer based on a detection result detected by the detection means. An extraction means for extracting a reception signal based on a reflected wave from a predetermined depth from the reception signal;
The said detection means detects the channel characteristic regarding the said ultrasonic transducer | vibrator based on the received signal based on the reflected wave from the said predetermined depth extracted by the said extraction means. Ultrasound diagnostic equipment. Determination means for determining whether channel characteristics relating to at least three or more ultrasonic transducers match within a predetermined range set in advance;
When it is determined by the determination means that channel characteristics regarding at least three or more ultrasonic transducers match within a predetermined range set in advance, the transmission means sequentially vibrates a plurality of the ultrasonic transducers. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein ultrasonic waves are transmitted. The channel characteristics related to the ultrasonic transducer include at least one of information related to the depth at which the ultrasonic wave transmitted from the transmission unit is reflected from the reflector and information related to the signal intensity of the received signal. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The display means, when displaying the channel characteristics related to the ultrasonic transducer, performs color display according to the magnitude of the signal intensity of the received signal included in the channel characteristics related to the ultrasonic transducer. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1. Channel characteristic determination means for determining whether or not the channel characteristic related to the ultrasonic transducer deviates from a predetermined reference value set in advance;
Prohibited data generating means for generating prohibited data for prohibiting use of the ultrasonic transducer having the channel characteristics determined to be out of a predetermined reference value set in advance by the channel characteristics determining means;
Further comprising image data generating means for generating ultrasonic image data based on the received signal;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit transmits an ultrasonic wave by vibrating the ultrasonic transducer that is not prohibited to be used based on the prohibition data. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising prohibition data storage means for storing the prohibition data. Among the ultrasonic waves transmitted by vibrating the ultrasonic vibrator, channel characteristics relating to the ultrasonic vibrator are detected based on a reception signal converted by the ultrasonic vibrator from a reflected wave reflected from a reflector. A detection step;
A signal processing program for an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, which causes a computer to execute a display step for displaying channel characteristics related to the ultrasonic transducer based on a detection result detected by the processing of the detection step.

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