JP2009131419A - Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus which is easy to operate during ultrasonic diagnosis. <P>SOLUTION: The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprises a first operating section 6 into which examination information including photography conditions for photographing a subject P and display conditions of image data generated on the basis of the photography conditions is input, a monitor 77 for displaying the image data acquired by photographing the subject P, and an angle detecting section 75 for detecting the rotation angle of the monitor 77. The apparatus further includes a second operating section 71 whose range into which the examination information is input is arranged on different positions of the monitor 77 on the basis of the angle detected by the angle detecting section 75. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that images and diagnoses the inside of a subject with ultrasonic waves.

  The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus emits ultrasonic waves to a subject, receives a reflected wave generated by a difference in acoustic impedance of a tissue in the subject, and displays it on a monitor. This diagnostic method based on ultrasonic imaging enables observation with two-dimensional or three-dimensional image data simply by bringing an ultrasonic probe into contact with the body surface, so that it can be used for in vivo heart, blood vessel, abdomen, urinary organs, etc. Widely used for diagnosis and treatment of various organs.

  Ultrasonic diagnostic methods that obtain tissue and blood flow information from reflected waves from tissues and blood cells in a subject have made rapid progress due to technological innovation in ultrasonic pulse reflection and ultrasonic Doppler methods. Image data obtained by using this technology has become indispensable for current ultrasonic diagnosis.

  By the way, the operator of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus operates by placing the ultrasonic probe near the imaging region of the patient with one hand of the right hand or the left hand from the position reaching the operation unit for inputting imaging conditions and the like. Operate the operation unit with to inspect. And each operation is normally performed from the position of the front of an operation part and a monitor.

  In addition, when it is difficult to operate the ultrasonic probe from the position in front of the operation unit depending on the imaging part, the operation unit and the ultrasonic probe are rotated while the monitor is rotated from the right side or the left side of the apparatus in a direction that the operator can observe. Operate the acoustic probe. In this case, there is a problem that the operation unit is not directed to the front of the operator, so that the operation is difficult and the user cannot concentrate on the inspection. In order to solve this problem, there is known an apparatus that can rotate and operate a sub-panel including an input device such as a switch or a trackball that is frequently used among input devices arranged in an operation unit in the direction of the operator. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

Furthermore, in obstetrics, there are cases where explanations are given while showing the image data of the fetus, for example, with the monitor directed toward the patient so that the patient can relax and receive diagnosis. Enlarging, reducing, etc.
JP-A-5-277107

  However, when the operator tries to operate the operation unit from the right side or the left side, the input device arranged on the other side of the operation unit becomes far from the operator, and thus the operation becomes difficult. Moreover, since many input devices are arrange | positioned at the operation part, operation is difficult for a patient. As a result, when an operation mistake is made, it is necessary to correct the operation again, and there is a problem that it takes time and labor for the inspection.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that can be easily operated in ultrasonic diagnosis.

  In order to solve the above problems, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus of the present invention is capable of inputting examination information including imaging conditions for imaging a subject or display conditions for image data generated by the imaging conditions. One operation means, image data generation means for generating image data by ultrasonic imaging of the subject based on information input from the operation means, and image data generated by the image data generation means. Display means for displaying; support for rotatably supporting the display means; detection means for detecting the angle of rotation of the display means; and input of the inspection information arranged on the display means Second operation means, and the second operation means changes a range in which the examination information arranged in the display means can be input according to an angle detected by the detection means. When That.

  According to the present invention, when the angle when the monitor is rotated is within a predetermined range, an operation unit capable of inputting inspection information can be arranged on the monitor. As a result, the operation is facilitated, and the inspection time can be shortened and performed efficiently.

  Examples of the present invention will be described.

Embodiments of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 includes an ultrasonic probe 1 that transmits / receives ultrasonic waves to / from a subject P, and a transmission / reception unit 2 that transmits ultrasonic drive signals and receives reflection signals to / from the ultrasonic probe 1. And a data generation unit 3 that processes a reception signal obtained by the transmission / reception unit 2 to generate B-mode data, Doppler mode data, and the like.

  In addition, the image data generation unit 4 that generates B-mode image data, Doppler mode image data, and the like from the B-mode data and Doppler mode data generated by the data generation unit 3, and a plurality of images generated by the image data generation unit 4 Image data for generating three-dimensional image data using B-mode image data, processing the generated three-dimensional image data, and image data such as B-mode image data and Doppler mode image data generated by the image data generation unit 4 And a processing unit 5.

  Furthermore, a first operation unit 6 for inputting shooting conditions for generating image data, display conditions for processing the generated image data, and the like, and display of image data output from the image data processing unit 5 And a display unit 7 for inputting photographing conditions and display conditions, a printing unit 8 for printing image data output from the image data processing unit 5, and a system control unit for controlling these units as a whole. 9 and.

  The ultrasonic probe 1 is for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves by bringing its tip surface into contact with the body surface of the subject P. For example, a plurality (N) of piezoelectric vibrations arranged in a two-dimensional matrix form. Has a child. This piezoelectric vibrator is an electroacoustic transducer, which converts an electric pulse (ultrasonic drive signal) into an ultrasonic pulse (transmitted ultrasonic wave) at the time of transmission, and an ultrasonic reflected wave (from the subject P at reception) ( It has a function of converting received ultrasonic waves into electrical signals (ultrasound received signals).

  The transmission / reception unit 2 includes a transmission unit 21 that generates an ultrasonic drive signal for generating transmission ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic probe 1 and a plurality of channels (N channels) of ultrasonic waves obtained from the piezoelectric vibrator of the ultrasonic probe 1. And a receiving unit 22 that performs phasing addition on the received signal.

  The transmission unit 21 generates a rate pulse that determines the repetition frequency of the ultrasonic pulse radiated to the subject P, and a focusing delay time for focusing the ultrasonic wave to a predetermined depth in transmission and a two-dimensional or three-dimensional transmission. After applying a deflection delay time for transmitting an ultrasonic wave in the scanning direction to the rate pulse, N piezoelectric vibrators built in the ultrasonic probe 1 are driven, and the subject P is driven. An ultrasonic drive pulse for emitting transmission ultrasonic waves is generated and output to the ultrasonic probe 1.

  The receiving unit 22 amplifies a minute ultrasonic reception signal output from the ultrasonic probe 1 to ensure a sufficient S / N, and receives a reception ultrasonic wave from a predetermined depth with respect to the ultrasonic reception signal. After giving a focusing delay time for focusing and obtaining a narrow received beam width and a deflection delay time for setting the receiving directionality of ultrasonic waves in the two-dimensional or three-dimensional scanning direction, The N-channel ultrasonic reception signals are phased and added together and output to the data generation unit 3 as one.

  The data generation unit 3 includes a B mode data generation unit 31 that generates B mode data from the signal phased and added by the reception unit 22, and a Doppler data generation unit 32 that generates Doppler mode data from the signal. .

  The B-mode data generation unit 31 performs envelope detection on the signal output from the reception unit 22 and then performs logarithmic conversion. Then, the logarithmically converted signal is converted into a digital signal to generate B-mode data and output to the image data generation unit 4.

  The Doppler data generation unit 32 detects the Doppler shift frequency for the signal output from the reception unit 22 and converts it to a digital signal, and then extracts only blood flow information and performs self-extraction on the extracted Doppler signal. Perform correlation processing. Then, based on the autocorrelation processing result, an average blood flow velocity value, a variance value, and the like are calculated to generate Doppler mode data, which is output to the image data generation unit 4.

  The image data generation unit 4 includes a data storage unit 41 that sequentially stores the B mode data output from the B mode data generation unit 31 of the data generation unit 3 and the Doppler mode data output from the Doppler data generation unit 32; A data processing unit 42 that reads out B-mode data and Doppler mode data stored in the unit 41 and generates image data such as B-mode image data and Doppler mode image data.

  The data storage unit 41 performs ultrasonic scanning corresponding to each data supplied from the system control unit 9 together with the B mode data output from the B mode data generation unit 31 and the Doppler mode data output from the Doppler data generation unit 32. Information is added and saved sequentially.

  The data processing unit 42 reads out the B mode data stored in the data storage unit 41, performs scan conversion for image display on the read B mode data, and generates B mode image data. In addition, the Doppler mode data stored in the data storage unit 41 is read to generate Doppler mode image data. Then, the generated B-mode image data and Doppler mode image data are output to the image data processing unit 5.

  The image data processing unit 5 outputs image data such as B-mode image data and Doppler mode image data output from the data processing unit 42 of the image data generation unit 4 to the display unit 7. Further, volume data is reconstructed from a plurality of B-mode image data output from the data processing unit 42, and three-dimensional image data is generated by processing the volume data by, for example, a volume rendering method.

  Also, processing such as enlargement and reduction of B-mode image data and Doppler mode image data, and processing such as change, enlargement, and reduction of the display direction of the generated three-dimensional image data are performed. Then, the generated three-dimensional image data, processed B-mode image data, Doppler mode image data, three-dimensional image data, and other image data are output to the display unit 7.

  In addition, for example, the B-mode image data output from the data processing unit 42 is subjected to various measurements such as the distance between two points of the tumor portion, the perimeter, the area, etc., and the measurement data is generated, 7 is output.

  FIG. 2 is a view of the first operation unit 6 as viewed from above, and shows the configuration of the first operation unit 6. As shown in FIG. 3, the first operation unit 6 is disposed on the front side of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10, and includes subject information such as the ID and name of the subject P, and imaging conditions (gain, transmission / reception frequency, focusing). A first input device for inputting inspection information for performing inspections such as a position, a pulse repetition frequency, a generation mode, and display conditions (such as enlargement and reduction of image data). Then, the input information input using the first input device is output to the system control unit 9.

  On the left side of the first operation unit 6 toward the front side of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10, the image data output from the image data processing unit 5 is displayed on the print unit 60 and the display unit 7. The first measurement switch 60b that enables the distance measurement of the B-mode image data and the like, the second measurement switch 60c that enables the area measurement of the B-mode image data displayed on the display unit 7, and obtained by measurement. A first input device such as a report switch 60d that displays the measured data in a predetermined format is arranged.

  Further, on the right side of the first operation unit 6, a freeze switch 60e that performs stillness and release of image data displayed in real time on the display unit 7, a 2D switch 60f that generates B-mode image data, and three-dimensional image data are displayed. The 3D switch 60g to be generated, the zoom switch 60h for enlarging and reducing the image data displayed on the display unit 7, the track ball 60i for specifying the measurement range of the image data displayed on the display unit 7, and the adjustment of the focusing position. A first input device such as a focusing position switch 60j is provided.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the display unit 7 creates a second operation panel 71 that can input examination information and a second operation panel that schematically depicts the second operation unit 71. A creation unit 72; a synthesis unit 73 that synthesizes the image data output from the image data processing unit 5 and the second operation panel created by the second operation panel creation unit 72; The monitor unit 74 displays the display data generated in 73, and the angle detection unit 75 detects the angle of the screen on which the image data of the monitor 74 is displayed.

  The second operation unit 71 is a second operation unit 71R, which is a touch panel in which a range in which inspection information can be input that is arranged on the monitor unit 74 changes according to the angle detected by the angle detection unit 75. The operation unit 71L and the second operation unit 71N are configured. Each of the second operation units 71R, 71L, 71N is configured by a second input device corresponding to the first input device of the first operation unit 6. The touch panel detects a second operation panel configured by a schematic device schematically depicting the second input device displayed on the monitor unit 74, and a position of each schematic device on the second operation panel. It consists of a position sensor. When the operator's hand touches the position of a desired schematic device displayed on the second operation panel on the monitor unit 74, the system controls the input information from the second input device corresponding to the position. To the unit 9.

  The second operation panel creation unit 72 corresponds to the second operation unit 71 (71R, 71L, 71N) in response to an instruction from the system control unit 9 based on the angle information detected by the angle detection unit 75. The operation panels 71a (71aR, 71aL, 71aN) are created, and the created second operation panels 71a are output to the combining unit 73.

  The composition unit 73 outputs the image data output from the image data processing unit 5 to the monitor unit 74. In addition, each second operation panel 71 a output from the second operation panel creation unit 72 is output to the monitor unit 74. Further, the image data output from the image data processing unit 5 and the second operation panel 71a output from the second operation panel creation unit 72 are combined to generate display data, and the generated display data is displayed on the monitor unit. Output to 74. Furthermore, the measurement data output from the image data processing unit 5 is combined with the image data corresponding to the measurement data and output to the monitor unit 74.

  Here, the combining unit 73 combines the image data output from the image data processing unit 5 and the second operation panel 71aR output from the second operation panel creation unit 72 to generate first display data. . Further, the second display data is generated by synthesizing the image data and the second operation panel 71aL. Further, the image data and the second operation panel 71aN are combined to generate third display data.

  The monitor unit 74 displays the image data output from the combining unit 73, each second operation panel 71a, each display data, image data, measurement data, and the like. In addition, an input device setting screen for setting the second input device constituting the second operation unit 71 is displayed.

  The angle detection unit 75 includes a rotation angle detection sensor such as a rotary encoder or a rotary potentiometer disposed in the monitor unit 74, and information on the angle of the monitor 77 detected by the rotation angle detection sensor is used as the system control unit 9. Output to.

  The printing unit 8 includes a printer and prints the image data output from the image data processing unit 5.

  The system control unit 9 includes a CPU and a storage circuit (not shown), and performs various examinations such as subject information, imaging conditions, and display conditions supplied from the first operation unit 6 and the second operation unit 71 of the display unit 7. Information is stored in the storage circuit. The CPU controls each unit such as the transmission / reception unit 2, the data generation unit 3, the image data generation unit 4, the image data processing unit 5, and the display unit 7 and controls the entire system based on the input information. To do.

  Next, details of the monitor unit 74 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an input device setting screen displayed on the monitor unit 74. FIG. 5 is a view of the monitor unit 74 and the first operation unit 6 as viewed from above.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of an input device setting screen displayed on the monitor unit 74. This input device setting screen 731 displays the fields of “one-side operation display” and “simple operation display” for setting the second input device of the second operation unit 71, and the second operation unit 71 “one-side operation”. The “display” field or the “simple operation display” field is configured by a “selection” field for arranging the second operation unit 71 configured by the second input device on the monitor unit 74.

  The “one-side operation display” column is arranged on the “right display” column for setting the first input device arranged on the right side of the first operation unit 6 and the left side of the first operation unit 6. For the first input device to be set.

  The “right-side display” column is configured by dialog boxes 73a1 to 73aN capable of selecting and inputting N first input devices arranged on the right side of the first operation unit 6. When the freeze switch 60e, 2D switch 60f, and the like of the first operation unit 6 are selected and input, a “freeze touch switch” that is a second input device corresponding to the freeze switch 60e is input to the dialog box 73a1, the dialog box 73a2, and the like. A “2D touch switch” or the like as a second input device corresponding to the 2D switch 60f is displayed. By this selection, the second input device of the second operation unit 71R is set.

  The “left display” column is configured by dialog boxes 73b1 to 73bN capable of selecting and inputting N first input devices arranged on the left side of the first operation unit 6. When, for example, the print switch 60a, the first measurement switch 60b, and the like of the first operation unit 6 are selected and input, the dialog box 73b1, the dialog box 73b2, and the like are the second input devices corresponding to the print switch 60a “print touch”. “Switch”, “first measurement touch switch” which is the second input device corresponding to the first measurement switch 60b, and the like are displayed. By this selection, the second input device of the second operation unit 71L is set.

  The “simple operation display” column is configured by dialog boxes 73c1 to 73cN capable of selecting and inputting N first input devices arranged in the first operation unit 6. When, for example, the freeze switch 60e, the zoom switch 60h, and the like of the first operation unit 6 are selected and input, the “freeze touch switch” corresponding to the freeze switch 60e and the zoom switch 60h are displayed in the dialog box 73c1, the dialog box 73c2, and the like. A “zoom touch switch” or the like as the second input device is displayed. By this selection, the second input device of the second operation unit 71N is set.

  After the above-described second input device is set, when an operation for selecting and inputting the “one-side operation display” field in the “selection” field is performed, the white circle “◯” immediately next to the “one-side display” in the dialog box 73d1 A black circle “●” is displayed. In this case, the second operation unit 71R or the second operation unit 71L is arranged on the monitor unit 74.

  Further, when an operation for selecting and inputting the “Simple operation display” field is performed, a black circle “●” is displayed in the white circle “◯” immediately after “Simple display” in the dialog box 73 d 1, and the second 74 is displayed on the monitor unit 74. An operation unit 71N is arranged.

  The input information set in the “one-side operation display”, “simple operation display”, and “selection” fields is stored in the storage circuit of the system control unit 9.

  As described above, by selecting a desired first input device from the first operation unit 6, a second input device corresponding to the selected first input device is set, and the set second input device is set. Each of the second operation units 71 constituted by the input devices can be arranged on the monitor unit 74.

  FIG. 5 is a view of the monitor unit 74 and the first operation unit 6 as viewed from above. The monitor unit 74 includes a monitor 77 that displays the image data and display data output from the combining unit 73, and a support base 78 that supports the monitor 77 in a rotatable manner. The monitor 77 includes a CRT, a liquid crystal panel, or the like, and the first operation unit 6 is disposed in front of the screen that displays the image data of the monitor 77.

  First, an example in which the second operation units 71R and 71L are arranged by turning the monitor 77 will be described. The monitor 77 is rotated from the home position (angle 0 °) where the screen of the monitor 77 faces the front, and the angle θx of the rotated monitor 77 is an angle θ1 (0 ° <θ1 <) in the clockwise direction with respect to the home position. 90 °) within the front right first range θF1, or within the front left first range θF2 between the home position and the angle θ1 in the counterclockwise direction, the first operating unit 6 It is determined that the input operation from the first input device arranged on the left and right of the image data can be performed, and the image data output from the combining unit 73 is displayed on the monitor 77.

  Further, when the angle θx is within the first right-side display range θR1 between the angle θ1 in the clockwise direction from the home position and 90 °, for example, the monitor 77 is disposed on the right side of the first operation unit 6 approaching the screen. It is determined that the input operation from the first input device is impossible, and the first display data output from the combining unit 73 is displayed on the monitor 77 and the second operation unit 71R is arranged. Further, when the angle θ1 in the counterclockwise direction from the home position is within the left-side display first range θL1 between, for example, 90 °, the first operation unit 6 arranged on the left side of the first operation unit 6 that the screen of the monitor 77 approaches. It is determined that the input operation from the input device is impossible, the second display data is displayed on the monitor 77, and the second operation unit 71L is arranged.

  In the right display first range θR1, the first input device arranged on the right side of the first operation unit 6 from the vicinity of the screen of the monitor 77 is far away, and it is difficult to operate the first input device. This is a preset range. Further, in the left display first range θL1, the first input device arranged on the left side of the first operation unit 6 from the vicinity of the screen of the monitor 77 is far away, and it becomes difficult to operate the first input device. This is a preset range.

  Further, after rotating within the first right-side display first range θR1, the rotation is performed in the direction of the home position opposite to the rotation direction, and the angle θx of the rotation is smaller than the angle θ1 by the angle θ2 (0 ° <0 When it is within the right side display second range θR2 between θ2 <θ1) and 90 °, the first display data is displayed on the monitor 77 and the second operation unit 71R is arranged. When the angle θx is within the front right second range θF3 or the front left first range θF2 between the home position and the angle θ2, the image data is displayed on the monitor 77.

  Furthermore, after rotating in the left display first range θL1, the display rotates in the direction of the home position opposite to the rotation direction, and the rotated left angle θx is between the angles θ2 and 90 °. When it is within the second range θL2, the second display data is displayed on the monitor 77 and the second operation unit 71L is arranged. When the angle θx is within the front left second range θF4 or the front right first range θF1 between the home position and the angle θ2, the image data is displayed on the monitor 77.

  In addition, when it rotates through the home position, it is reset when it passes through the home position, and the display 77 displays each display data and each second on the basis of the angle θx in the direction rotated from the home position. The operation unit 71 is arranged or image data is displayed.

  Next, an example in which the second operation unit 71N is arranged by turning the monitor 77 will be described. A first angle corresponding to the angle θ1 for setting a range of angles at which the subject P on the bed can see the monitor 77, and a second angle corresponding to the angle θ2 determined by the first angle Set. Then, the first angle is applied to the angle θ1, and each range corresponding to the front right first range θF1, the front left first range θF2, the right display first range θR1, and the left display first range θL1 is set. Further, the second angle is applied to the angle θ2, and each range corresponding to the front right second range θF3, the front left second range θF4, the right display second range θR2, and the left display second range θL2 is set.

  Hereinafter, in the same manner as the second operation units 71R and 71L, the second operation unit 71N has a first angle on the front right side θF1 and an angle θ2 on the second front side. Example set to range θF2, right display first range θR1, left display first range θL1, front right second range θF3, front left second range θF4, right display second range θR2, and left display second range θL2 explain.

  When the angle θx of the monitor 77 is within the front right first range θF1 or the front left first range θF2, the image data is displayed on the monitor 77. Next, it rotates clockwise or counterclockwise from the front right first range θF1 or from the front left first range θF2, and the rotated angle θx is within the right display first range θR1 or the left display first range θL1. In some cases, the third display data is displayed on the monitor 77 and the second operation unit 71N is arranged. After the rotation, when the rotation angle θx is in the right display second range θR2 or the left display second range θL2, the third display is performed on the monitor 77. The data is displayed and the second operation unit 71N is arranged. When the rotated angle θx is within the front right second range θF3 or the front left first range θF2, or the front left second range θF4 or the front right first range θF1, the image data is displayed on the monitor 77. indicate.

  Hereinafter, an example of the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of B-mode image data displayed on the screen of the monitor 77. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of first display data including the second operation panel 71aR displayed on the screen of the monitor 77. As shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of second display data including the second operation panel 71aL displayed on the screen of the monitor 77. As shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of third display data including the second operation panel 71aN displayed on the screen of the monitor 77. As shown in FIG.

  6, the “freeze touch switch” and the “2D touch switch” set in the “right display” column of “one side operation display” of the input device setting screen 731 illustrated in FIG. 4 are stored in the storage circuit of the system control unit 9. Input information such as “print touch switch” and “first measurement touch switch” set in the “left display” column, and “single side display” input set in the “select” column Information is stored. Further, the examination information of the subject P such as the subject information of the subject P, the imaging condition in which the generation mode is set to “B mode image data”, the display condition, and the like are stored.

  The operator of this apparatus is positioned in front of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10 with the monitor 77 set at the home position, and the subject P is placed on the back side of the bed placed on the right side of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10. In addition, it is placed in a supine position with its head facing the front side. Then, when an operation for starting imaging of the subject P is performed from the first operation unit 6 by the operator's left hand, for example, the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 10 starts an examination (step S1).

  The system control unit 9 instructs the transmission / reception unit 2, the data generation unit 3, the image data generation unit 4, the image data processing unit 5, and the display unit 7 to perform ultrasonic imaging. Then, the B-mode data generation unit 31 of the data generation unit 3 performs B from the signal output from the reception unit 22 of the transmission / reception unit 2 by the operator operating the ultrasonic probe 1 to the subject P by operating with the right hand. Mode data is generated and stored in the data storage unit 41 of the image data generation unit 4. The data processing unit 42 reads out the B mode data from the data storage unit 41 to generate B mode image data, and outputs the generated B mode image data to the display unit 7.

  The angle detection unit 75 of the display unit 7 detects the angle θx of the monitor 77 and outputs information on the detected angle θx to the system control unit 9. The system control unit 9 determines whether or not to create the second operation unit 71 on the monitor 77 based on the information on the angle θx output from the angle detection unit 75.

  If the angle θx is within the front right first range θF1 or the front left first range θF2 (Yes in step S2), the process proceeds to step 3. When the angle θx is out of the front right first range θF1 and front left first range θF2 (No in step S2), the process proceeds to step S4.

  After “Yes” in step S2, the synthesis unit 73 outputs the B-mode image data from the data processing unit 42 to the monitor 77, and the B-mode image data output from the synthesis unit 73 is displayed on the monitor 77 in real time. (Step S3). Thereafter, the process returns to step S2.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of B-mode image data displayed on the screen of the monitor 77. The screen 732 includes a first display area 751, and B-mode image data 751 a output from the combining unit 73 is displayed in the first display area 751.

  Here, since the monitor 77 is set to the home position, the B-mode image data 751a is displayed on the monitor 77.

  Next, when the monitor 77 is rotated and the angle θx of the rotated monitor 77 is within the first right display first range θR1 (Yes in step S4 in FIG. 6), the system control unit 9 performs the second operation. Information on the second input device of the second operation unit 71R is supplied to the panel creation unit 72. If the angle θx is within the left display first range θL1 (No in step S4 in FIG. 6), information on the second input device of the second operation unit 71L is supplied.

  After “Yes” in step S4, the second operation panel creation unit 72 creates the second operation panel 71aR based on the information of the second input device supplied from the system control unit 9. Then, the created second operation panel 71aR is output to the combining unit 73. The synthesizing unit 73 synthesizes the B-mode image data output from the data processing unit 42 and the second operation panel 71aR output from the second operation panel creation unit 72, and generates first display data. The first display data is output to the monitor 77. The first display data output from the synthesis unit 73 is displayed on the monitor 77, and the B-mode image data included in the first display data is displayed in real time (step S5 in FIG. 6).

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of first display data including the second operation panel 71aR displayed on the screen of the monitor 77. As shown in FIG. The screen 733 includes a second display area 752 in which first display data is displayed and a third display area 753 arranged on the left side of the second display area 752. Then, the second operation panel 71aR is displayed in the second display area 752, and the second operation unit 71R is arranged. In addition, B-mode image data 751b is displayed in the third display area 753.

  The second operation unit 71R has a 2D touch corresponding to the freeze touch switch 711R and the 2D switch 60f corresponding to the freeze switch 60e of the first operation unit 6 set in the “right display” column in the input device setting screen 731. A switch 712R and the like are arranged.

  Thus, the monitor 77 is rotated clockwise until it enters the right display first range θR1 from the front right first range θF1 or the front left first range θF2, thereby displaying the first display data on the monitor 77. In addition, a second operation unit 71R having a second input device corresponding to the first input device on the right side of the first operation unit 6 on the side closer to the screen of the monitor 77 can be arranged. As a result, an input operation corresponding to the first input device on the right side of the first operation unit 6 located far from the operator positioned in the vicinity of the monitor 77 rotated clockwise is performed from the second operation unit 71R. It can be done easily. Note that the second operation unit 71R can be disposed on the monitor 77 by rotating the angle θx of the monitor 77 into the right display first range θR1 even before the operation for starting photographing.

  When the monitor 77 is rotated counterclockwise after step S5, the system control unit 9 determines whether or not to arrange the second operation unit 71 based on the information on the angle θx output from the angle detection unit 75. judge. If the rotated angle θx is within the second right display second range θR2 (Yes in step S6 in FIG. 6), the process returns to step S5. If the angle θx is out of the right display second range θR2 (No in step S6 in FIG. 6), the process proceeds to step S7.

  Next, when the angle θx is within the front right second range θF3 or the front left first range θF2 (Yes in step S7 in FIG. 6), the process returns to step S3. If the angle θx is within the left display first range θL1 (No in step S7 in FIG. 6), the process proceeds to step S8.

  Thus, by rotating the monitor 77 rotated in the right display first range θR1 until it enters the front right second range θF3 or the front left first range θF2 in the opposite direction to the rotated direction. The monitor 77 can display image data excluding the second operation panel 71aR which has become unnecessary from the first display data.

  After “No” in step S4 or “No” in step S7, the second operation panel creation unit 72 generates a second operation panel based on the information on the second input device supplied from the system control unit 9. 71aL is created, and the created second operation panel 71aL is output to the combining unit 73. The synthesizing unit 73 generates the second display data by synthesizing the B mode image data output from the data processing unit 42 and the second operation panel 71aL output from the second operation panel creating unit 72. The second display data thus displayed is displayed on the monitor 77 (step S8 in FIG. 6).

  FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of second display data including the second operation panel 71aL displayed on the screen of the monitor 77. As shown in FIG. The screen 734 includes a fourth display area 754 on which second display data is displayed and a fifth display area 755 arranged on the right side of the fourth display area 754. In the fourth display area 754, the second operation panel 71aL is displayed, and the second operation unit 71L is arranged. In the fifth display area 755, B-mode image data 751c is displayed in real time.

  The second operation unit 71L corresponds to the print touch switch 711L and the first measurement switch 60b corresponding to the print switch 60a of the first operation unit 6 set in the “left display” column in the input device setting screen 731. A first measurement touch switch 712L and the like are arranged.

  Thus, by rotating the monitor 77 counterclockwise until it enters the left display first range θL 1, the second display data is displayed on the monitor 77 and the screen of the monitor 77 approaches the first operation unit 6. A second operation unit 71L having a second input device corresponding to the left first input device can be arranged. Thereby, an input operation corresponding to the first input device on the left side of the first operation unit 6 located far from the operator located in the vicinity of the monitor 77 can be easily performed from the second operation unit 71L. .

  By rotating the monitor 77 rotated in the left display first range θL1 until it enters the front left second range θF4 or the front right first range θF1 in the direction opposite to the rotated direction, The image data excluding the second operation panel 71aL that has become unnecessary from the second display data can be displayed on the monitor 77. Further, the second operation unit 71L can be arranged on the monitor 77 by rotating the angle θx of the monitor 77 until it enters the left display first range θL1 even before the operation for starting the photographing.

  Here, the operator moves, for example, from the front of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 to the right side surface between the apparatus and the subject P in order to image another part of the subject P, and turns the monitor 77 counterclockwise. After the rotation, the ultrasonic probe 1 is applied to the subject P and the examination is continued. For example, a screen 734 is displayed on the monitor 77, and if the B-mode image data 751c is image data useful for diagnosis, an operation of turning on the freeze switch 60e is performed from the first operation unit 6. At this time, the monitor 77 displays the second display data including the still B-mode image data. Further, when an operation of touching the print touch switch 71L of the second operation unit 71L disposed on the monitor 77 is performed, the same image data as the stationary B-mode image data displayed on the monitor 77 is printed out on the printing unit 8. Is done.

  Then, after the B-mode image data useful for diagnosis of the subject P is printed out on the printing unit 8 and an operation for ending the imaging is performed from the first operation unit 6 or the second operation unit 71L, system control is performed. The unit 9 instructs the transmission / reception unit 2, the data generation unit 3, the image data generation unit 4, the image data processing unit 5, and the display unit 7 to stop, and the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus 10 ends the examination (step of FIG. 6). S9).

  The operator observes the B-mode image data printed out on the printing unit 8 in detail, and diagnoses and treats the subject P.

  Note that a second input device such as a “freeze touch switch” and a “zoom touch switch” is set in the “simple operation display” field of the input device setting screen 731 in FIG. Then, set “Simple display” in the “Select” column. Further, by setting the generation mode to “three-dimensional mode”, the third display data including the second operation panel 71aN is displayed on the monitor 77 after “No” in Step S2.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of third display data including the second operation panel 71aN displayed on the screen of the monitor 77. As shown in FIG. The screen 735 includes a sixth display area 756 on which third display data is displayed, and a seventh display area 757 disposed on the upper side of the sixth display area 756. Then, the second operation panel 71aN is displayed in the sixth display area 756, and the second operation unit 71N is arranged. In the seventh display area 757, three-dimensional image data 751d is displayed.

  The second operation unit 71N corresponds to the freeze touch switch 711R corresponding to the freeze switch 60e of the first operation unit 6 set in the “simple operation display” field of the input device setting screen 731 and the zoom switch 60h. A zoom touch switch 713L is disposed.

  Here, if the subject P is, for example, a pregnant woman, and the three-dimensional image data 751d displayed on the monitor 77 is fetal image data, the angle θx is set to, for example, the left display first range θL1. By touching a second input device such as the zoom touch switch 713L of the arranged second operation unit 71N, an operation such as enlargement of the three-dimensional image data 751d displayed on the monitor 77 can be performed.

  Thus, by rotating the monitor 77 clockwise or counterclockwise until it enters the right display first range θR1 or the left display first range θL1, the third display data is displayed on the monitor 77 and the second display data is displayed. An operation unit 71N can be arranged. Thereby, input operation can be easily performed from the 2nd operation part 71N.

  Next, the rotated monitor 77 is placed in the front right second range θF3 or in the front left first range θF2 or in the front left first range θF2 or in the front right first range θF1 in the direction opposite to the rotated direction. By rotating until it enters, the image data excluding the second operation panel 71aN that has become unnecessary from the third display data can be displayed on the monitor 77.

  According to the embodiment of the present invention described above, by rotating the monitor 77 clockwise until the angle θx enters from the front right first range θF1 or the front left first range θF2 to the right display first range θR1, The second operation unit 71R can be arranged on the monitor 77 together with the first display data. Next, the second operation panel which has become unnecessary from the first display data on the monitor 77 by rotating until it enters the front right second range θF3 or the front left first range θF2 in the direction opposite to the rotated direction. Image data excluding 71aR can be displayed.

  Further, by rotating counterclockwise from the front right first range θF1 or the front left first range θF2 until entering the left display first range θL1, the second display data is displayed on the monitor 77 and the second operation is performed. The part 71L can be arranged. Next, the second display data that has become unnecessary from the second display data is displayed on the monitor 77 by rotating until it is within the front left second range θF4 or in the front right first range θF1 in the direction opposite to the rotated direction. Image data excluding the operation panel 71aL can be displayed.

  Further, the monitor 77 is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise from the front right first range θF1 or the front left first range θF2, and the angle θx of the rotated monitor 77 is within the right display first range θR1 or the left display first. When it is within one range θL1, it is possible to display the third display data on the monitor 77 and arrange the second operation unit 71N. Next, the rotated monitor 77 is placed in the front right second range θF3 or in the front left first range θF2 or in the front left first range θF2 or in the front right first range θF1 in the direction opposite to the rotated direction. By rotating until it enters, the image data excluding the second operation panel 71aN that has become unnecessary from the third display data can be displayed on the monitor 77.

  As a result, the input operation can be performed from the first operation unit 6 and the respective second operation units 71 arranged on the monitor 77, so that the input of inspection information is facilitated, and the time and labor required for the inspection are reduced. The inspection time can be shortened and the inspection efficiency can be improved.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and a plurality of input devices are arranged around the screen of the monitor 77, and input information and angle detection in which the arranged input devices are set in the input device setting screen 731. The second input device of the second operation unit 71 may be used based on the angle information from the unit 75.

1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. The figure which shows the structure of the 1st operation part which concerns on the Example of this invention. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. The figure which shows the input device setting screen displayed on the monitor part which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which looked at the monitor part and 1st operation part which concern on the Example of this invention from the top. The flowchart which shows operation | movement of the ultrasonic diagnosing device based on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the image data displayed on the screen of the monitor which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the 1st display data containing the 2nd operation panel displayed on the screen of the monitor which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the 2nd display data containing the 2nd operation panel displayed on the screen of the monitor which concerns on the Example of this invention. The figure which shows an example of the 3rd display data displayed on the monitor which concerns on the Example of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

P Subject 1 Ultrasonic probe 2 Transmission / reception unit 3 Data generation unit 4 Image data generation unit 5 Image data processing unit 6 First operation unit 7 Display unit 8 Printing unit 9 System control unit 10 Ultrasound diagnostic apparatus 21 Transmission unit 22 Reception Unit 31 B-mode data generation unit 32 Doppler data generation unit 41 Data storage unit 42 Data processing units 71, 71R, 71L, 71N Second operation unit 72 Second operation panel creation unit 73 Composition unit 74 Monitor unit 75 Angle detection unit

Claims (7)

First operating means capable of inputting examination information including imaging conditions for imaging a subject or display conditions of image data generated by the imaging conditions;
Image data generating means for ultrasonically imaging the subject to generate image data based on information by input from the operating means;
Display means for displaying the image data generated by the image data generation means;
A support for rotatably supporting the display means;
Detecting means for detecting a rotated angle of the display means;
Second operation means capable of inputting the examination information arranged on the display means,
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the range in which the examination information arranged in the display unit can be input changes according to the angle detected by the detection unit. The first operation means has a first input device capable of inputting the inspection information,
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second operation unit includes a second input device corresponding to a preset input device among the first input devices. The first operation means is disposed in front of the screen of the display means for displaying the image data generated by the image data generation means,
The second input device is disposed on the right side of the first operation means that approaches the screen when the angle detected by the detection means when the screen is rotated clockwise is within a predetermined range. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus corresponds to the first input device. The first operation means is disposed in front of the screen of the display means for displaying the image data generated by the image data generation means,
The second input device is arranged on the left side of the first operation unit that approaches the screen when an angle detected by the detection unit when the screen is rotated counterclockwise is within a predetermined range. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus corresponds to the first input device.   The ultrasonic diagnosis according to claim 2, wherein the second input device is arranged in a peripheral portion of a screen of the display unit on which the image data generated by the image data generation unit is displayed. apparatus. When the angle detected by the detection means is within a predetermined range, the image data generated by the image data generation means is displayed on the display means and the second operation means is arranged,
The image data generated by the image data generation unit is displayed on the display unit when the angle detected by the detection unit is out of a predetermined range. Ultrasonic diagnostic equipment.   2. The ultrasonic diagnosis according to claim 1, wherein the second operation unit is a touch panel arranged on a screen of the display unit on which the image data generated by the image data generation unit is displayed. apparatus.

Images