JP2010252839A - Ultrasonic probe and ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ultrasonic probe which can be restored from a fault at a low cost by exchanging only a piezoelectric element, especially an organic piezoelectric element, which tends to be a cause of a fault, and an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. <P>SOLUTION: At least an acoustic lens and a plurality of piezoelectric elements for reception are integrated and made into a unit, and the ultrasonic probe is configured such that the unit is exchangeable. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes a piezoelectric element for measurement for measuring the performance of the piezoelectric elements for the reception or a counter for measuring cumulative using time, and a notification means for executing notification for notifying a user of the time to exchange the unit. A control means executes the notification when the performance of the piezoelectric element for the reception is degraded to a prescribed reference or below, or when the cumulative using time goes beyond the prescribed time. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention generates an ultrasonic image inside a subject based on an ultrasonic probe that transmits an ultrasonic signal into the subject and receives a reflected wave, and an electrical signal converted by the ultrasonic probe. The present invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus.

  Ultrasound generally refers to sound waves of 16000 Hz or higher and can be examined non-destructively, harmlessly and in real time, and thus is applied to various fields such as defect inspection and disease diagnosis. One of them is an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that scans the inside of a subject with ultrasound and images the internal state of the subject based on a reception signal generated from a reflected wave of the ultrasound coming from inside the subject. is there. This ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus is smaller and less expensive for medical use than other medical imaging apparatuses, has no radiation exposure such as X-rays, is highly safe, and has a blood flow utilizing the Doppler effect. It has various features such as display capability. For this reason, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes a circulatory system (for example, coronary artery of the heart), a digestive system (for example, gastrointestinal), an internal system (for example, liver, pancreas and spleen), and a urinary system (for example, kidney and bladder). Widely used in obstetrics and gynecology.

  An ultrasonic probe that transmits and receives an ultrasonic wave (ultrasonic signal) to a subject is used in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. An ultrasonic probe uses a piezoelectric phenomenon to generate an ultrasonic wave (ultrasonic wave signal) by mechanical vibration based on an electric signal transmitted, and an ultrasonic wave generated due to mismatch of acoustic impedance inside a subject. A plurality of piezoelectric elements that receive a reflected wave of an (ultrasonic signal) and generate a reception signal that is an electrical signal are provided, and the plurality of piezoelectric elements are arranged in a two-dimensional array, for example (see, for example, a patent) Reference 1).

  Conventionally, when an ultrasonic probe breaks down due to long-term use of the ultrasonic probe, etc., the ultrasonic probe itself has been replaced. However, most of the causes of failure of the ultrasonic probe are the components in the case of the ultrasonic probe housing. Therefore, a technology that replaces most of the parts such as the piezoelectric elements provided in the case of the ultrasonic probe and parts around the piezoelectric elements without replacing the ultrasonic probe itself is proposed. (See Patent Document 2).

JP 2004-088056 A JP 2008-188174 A

  The cause of the failure of the ultrasonic probe is mostly due to the failure of the piezoelectric element provided therein, and in particular, the piezoelectric element using the organic piezoelectric material is compared with the piezoelectric element using the inorganic piezoelectric material. It is easy to deteriorate and often causes failure. For this reason, if all the contents of the ultrasonic probe casing are replaced at once, parts that are still usable can be replaced.

  An object of the present invention is to provide an ultrasonic probe and an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that can replace a piezoelectric element that is likely to cause a failure, particularly an organic piezoelectric element, and can recover from the failure at low cost.

  The above object is achieved by the invention described below.

1. A plurality of transmitting piezoelectric elements for transmitting the first ultrasonic signal into the subject;
Receiving a second ultrasonic signal generated by reflecting the first ultrasonic signal in the subject and converting it into an electrical signal; and a plurality of receiving piezoelectric elements made of an organic piezoelectric material;
Output means for outputting the electrical signal to the outside;
An acoustic lens disposed between the plurality of receiving piezoelectric elements and the subject,
An ultrasonic probe, wherein at least the acoustic lens and the plurality of receiving piezoelectric elements are integrated into a unit, and the unit is configured to be replaceable.

  2. 2. The ultrasonic probe according to 1 above, wherein the organic piezoelectric material is a polymer of vinylidene fluoride or a copolymer of vinylidene fluoride and trifluoroethylene.

  3. 3. The ultrasonic probe according to 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of transmitting piezoelectric elements are composed of inorganic piezoelectric elements.

  4). The plurality of receiving piezoelectric elements are stacked on the plurality of transmitting piezoelectric elements in a direction in which the plurality of transmitting piezoelectric elements transmit the first ultrasonic signal to the subject. The ultrasonic probe according to any one of 1 to 3 above.

5). The ultrasonic probe according to any one of 1 to 4, and
An ultrasonic image in the subject is generated from an electric signal included in an electric signal output from the ultrasonic probe and having a frequency corresponding to at least a fundamental frequency or a harmonic frequency of the first ultrasonic signal. An image processing unit to
A display unit for displaying the ultrasonic image;
A measuring piezoelectric element that transmits an ultrasonic signal to measure the performance of the receiving piezoelectric element;
A notification means for notifying a user of the replacement time of the unit;
Control means for controlling at least the notification means and the piezoelectric element for measurement;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit performs the notification when the performance deteriorates below a predetermined standard.

  6). 6. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to 5, wherein the measurement piezoelectric element is at least one transmission piezoelectric element among the plurality of transmission piezoelectric elements.

  7). 7. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to 5 or 6, wherein the predetermined reference is that an electric signal converted by the receiving piezoelectric element is a predetermined value or more.

8). The ultrasonic probe according to any one of 1 to 4, and
An ultrasound image in the subject is generated from an electrical signal included in the electrical signal output by the ultrasound probe and having a frequency corresponding to at least a fundamental frequency or a harmonic frequency of the first ultrasound signal. An image processing unit to
A display unit for displaying the ultrasonic image;
A counter for measuring a cumulative usage time obtained by accumulating the usage time of the reception piezoelectric element or the transmission piezoelectric element;
A notification means for notifying a user of the replacement time of the unit;
Control means for controlling at least the notification means and the counter;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, wherein the control unit performs the notification when the accumulated usage time has passed a predetermined time.

  It is possible to provide an ultrasonic probe and an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that can replace only a piezoelectric element that is likely to cause a failure, particularly an organic piezoelectric element, and can recover from the failure at low cost.

It is a figure which shows the external appearance structure of the ultrasound diagnosing device S in embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structure of the ultrasonic diagnosing device S in embodiment. It is a figure which shows the structure of the ultrasound probe 2 in the ultrasound diagnosing device S in embodiment. It is a schematic diagram of the state which separated the component structure of the ultrasonic probe 2 in embodiment into the 1st piezoelectric part 221 which has an inorganic piezoelectric element, and the 2nd piezoelectric part 223 which has an organic piezoelectric element. FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of the component configuration of the ultrasound probe 2 according to the embodiment, which is separated from the first piezoelectric portion 221 and the second piezoelectric portion 223 and viewed from an oblique direction. It is a perspective view of the housing | casing of the ultrasound probe 2 in embodiment. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the ultrasound probe 2 in a state where a unit 71 is separated. FIG. It is a fracture perspective view of unit 71 in an embodiment. It is a schematic diagram showing the fitting method of the signal wire | line 34 and the socket 73 in embodiment. It is a perspective view of the component structure of the ultrasonic probe 2 in embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the lid portion 111 is separated in the ultrasonic probe 2 configured to be able to separate the lid portion 111 from the ultrasonic probe housing body 112 in the embodiment. It is a flowchart figure which counts the accumulation usage time of the organic piezoelectric element 21 in embodiment. It is a flowchart figure which measures the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21 in embodiment by the conversion capability to an electric signal.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below. In addition, the structure which attached | subjected the same code | symbol in each figure shows that it is the same structure, The description is abbreviate | omitted.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an external configuration of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a component configuration of an ultrasonic probe in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus S transmits ultrasonic waves (hereinafter also referred to as a first ultrasonic signal) to a subject H such as a living body (not shown), and the subject H The ultrasonic probe 2 that receives the reflected wave of the ultrasonic wave reflected by the laser beam (hereinafter also referred to as a second ultrasonic signal) is connected to the ultrasonic probe 2 and the cable 3, and is connected to the ultrasonic probe. The ultrasonic probe 2 transmits the first ultrasonic signal to the subject H by transmitting a transmission signal of an electrical signal to the cable 2 via the cable 3 and received by the ultrasonic probe 2. Ultrasound diagnosis for imaging the internal state of the subject H as an ultrasound image based on the received signal of the electrical signal generated by the ultrasound probe 2 in response to the second ultrasound signal from the subject H The apparatus main body 1 is provided.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus main body 1 includes an operation input unit 11, a transmission unit 12, a reception unit 13, a signal processing unit 14, an image processing unit 15, a display unit 16, A control unit 17, a notification lamp driving unit 18, and a storage unit 20 are provided.

  The operation input unit 11 inputs data such as a command for instructing start of diagnosis and personal information of the subject H, for example, and is an operation panel or a keyboard provided with a plurality of input switches.

  The transmission unit 12 is a circuit that supplies a transmission signal of an electrical signal to the ultrasonic probe 2 via the cable 3 under the control of the control unit 17 and generates a first ultrasonic signal in the ultrasonic probe 2. is there. The transmission unit 12 includes, for example, a high voltage pulse generator that generates a high voltage pulse. The receiving unit 13 is a circuit that receives a reception signal of an electrical signal from the ultrasound probe 2 via the cable 3 under the control of the control unit 17, and outputs the reception signal to the signal processing unit 14. The receiving unit 13 includes, for example, an amplifier that amplifies the received signal with a predetermined amplification factor set in advance, an analog-digital converter that converts the received signal amplified by the amplifier from an analog signal to a digital signal, and the like. Configured.

  The signal processing unit 14 is a circuit that processes a predetermined signal under the control of the control unit 17, and outputs the reflected reception signal subjected to the signal processing to the image processing unit 15. The reflected reception signal is a signal generated by receiving the second ultrasonic signal.

  Under the control of the control unit 17, the image processing unit 15 generates an ultrasonic image of the internal state in the subject H using, for example, a harmonic imaging technique based on the reflected reception signal signal-processed by the signal processing unit 14. Circuit. If the harmonic frequency component included in the second ultrasonic signal is received and the harmonic imaging technique is used, a higher-definition ultrasonic image than the ultrasonic image generated using the fundamental frequency component can be obtained. In the present embodiment, either a harmonic frequency component or a fundamental frequency component may be employed. When the harmonic frequency component is used, a higher-definition ultrasonic image can be generated by using third-order or higher harmonics.

  The display unit 16 is a device that displays an image of the internal state in the subject H generated by the image processing unit 15 under the control of the control unit 17. The display unit 16 is, for example, a display device such as a CRT display, LCD, EL display, or plasma display, or a printing device such as a printer.

  As will be described later, the notification lamp driving unit 18 has a function of driving a notification lamp 19 that notifies the user when the life of the receiving piezoelectric element that receives the second ultrasonic signal has expired.

  The storage unit 20 stores programs, constants, results obtained by the image processing unit 15, and the like related to control procedures performed by the control unit 17.

  The control unit 17 includes, for example, a microprocessor, a storage element, and peripheral circuits thereof. The operation input unit 11, the transmission unit 12, the reception unit 13, the signal processing unit 14, the image processing unit 15, and the display unit 16 are provided. This is a circuit that performs overall control of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus S by controlling the notification lamp driving unit 18 and the storage unit 20 in accordance with the function.

  The ultrasonic probe 2 includes a notification lamp 19 and an input / output terminal 4. The notification lamp 19 emits light before the end of the life of the receiving piezoelectric element that receives the second ultrasonic signal, thereby notifying the user that the end of the life of the receiving piezoelectric element is approaching. Encourage replacement of piezoelectric elements.

  The input / output terminal 4 is output means for outputting an electrical signal obtained by converting the second ultrasonic signal by the piezoelectric unit 22 to the outside, as will be described later. In the present embodiment, it also has a function as input means for transmitting a signal from the transmission unit 12 to the ultrasonic probe 2. The input / output terminal 4 is configured to be detachable from one end of the cable 3.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the component structure of the ultrasonic probe 2 includes an acoustic braking member 26, an acoustic matching layer 31, a piezoelectric unit 22, an acoustic matching layer 23, and an acoustic lens, in addition to the notification lamp 19. 24.

  The acoustic braking member 26 is a flat plate member made of a material that absorbs ultrasonic waves, and absorbs ultrasonic waves radiated from the piezoelectric portion 22 toward the acoustic braking member 26.

  The piezoelectric unit 22 includes a piezoelectric material, and converts signals between an electric signal and an ultrasonic signal by using a piezoelectric phenomenon. The piezoelectric unit 22 converts a transmission electrical signal input from the transmission unit 12 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus main body 1 via the cable 3 into a first ultrasonic signal, transmits the first ultrasonic signal, and receives the first ultrasonic signal. The converted second ultrasonic signal is converted into an electric signal, and this electric signal (reception signal) is output to the receiving unit 13 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus body 1 via the cable 3. When the ultrasonic probe 2 is brought into contact with the subject H, the first ultrasonic signal generated by the piezoelectric unit 22 is transmitted into the subject H, and the second ultrasonic signal from within the subject H is transmitted. Received by the piezoelectric unit 22.

  For example, in this embodiment, the piezoelectric unit 22 includes a piezoelectric material, and can convert signals between an electric signal and an ultrasonic signal by using a piezoelectric phenomenon. The piezoelectric portions 221 and 223 are provided, and the first and second piezoelectric portions 221 and 223 are stacked on each other.

  In the present embodiment, the first and second piezoelectric portions 221 and 223 are stacked on each other via the intermediate layer 222. The intermediate layer 222 is a member for laminating the first piezoelectric part 221 and the second piezoelectric part 223, and matches the acoustic impedance between the first piezoelectric part 221 and the second piezoelectric part 223.

  As described above, the piezoelectric portion 22 includes two layers of the first and second piezoelectric portions 221 and 223. The first piezoelectric unit 221 includes a plurality of transmitting piezoelectric elements that transmit the first ultrasonic signal. The second piezoelectric unit 223 includes a plurality of receiving piezoelectric elements that receive the second ultrasonic signal.

  Therefore, the first piezoelectric unit 221 can be made more suitable for transmission, and the second piezoelectric unit 223 can be made more suitable for reception. Accordingly, the first and second piezoelectric portions 221 and 223 can be optimized as the first ultrasonic signal transmitting piezoelectric element and the second ultrasonic signal receiving piezoelectric element, respectively, and a higher-accuracy image is obtained. It becomes possible. Further, since the first and second piezoelectric portions 221 and 223 are stacked, the size can be reduced.

  The first piezoelectric unit 221 has an inorganic piezoelectric element array including a plurality of inorganic piezoelectric elements, for example. The second piezoelectric unit 223 includes, for example, an organic piezoelectric element array including a plurality of organic piezoelectric elements.

  The inorganic piezoelectric element array includes a plurality of inorganic piezoelectric elements 30, an acoustic separation portion 32 that is manufactured by filling a gap between the inorganic piezoelectric elements 30 with an acoustic separation material, and a common ground electrode stacked on the inorganic piezoelectric elements 30. 25.

  The acoustic matching layer 31 has an acoustic impedance that is intermediate between the acoustic impedances of the acoustic braking member 26 and the inorganic piezoelectric element 30, and matches the acoustic impedance of the acoustic braking member 26 and the inorganic piezoelectric element 30.

  Each inorganic piezoelectric element 30 includes electrodes 102 and 103 on opposite surfaces of the piezoelectric element 101 made of an inorganic piezoelectric material. The plurality of inorganic piezoelectric elements 30 are arranged one-dimensionally (or two-dimensionally) in a plan view at a predetermined interval from each other, and are disposed on the acoustic braking member 26.

  The plurality of inorganic piezoelectric elements 30 are configured to transmit ultrasonic waves. More specifically, an electrical signal is input to the plurality of inorganic piezoelectric elements 30 from the transmitter 12 via the cable 3 and a signal line 33 (not shown). The electric signal is input between the electrode 102 and the electrode 103 of the inorganic piezoelectric element 30. The plurality of inorganic piezoelectric elements 30 transmit the first ultrasonic signal by converting the electric signal into an ultrasonic signal.

  The acoustic separation unit 32 is made of a low acoustic impedance resin having a value that is significantly different from the acoustic impedance of the inorganic piezoelectric element 30. The acoustic separation unit 32 functions as an acoustic separation material due to the great difference in acoustic impedance. Has a function of reducing mutual interference. The acoustic separator 32 can reduce crosstalk between the inorganic piezoelectric elements 30.

  The common ground electrode 25 is made of a conductive material, is grounded by an unillustrated wiring, and is laminated in a straight line across the plurality of inorganic piezoelectric elements 30 to thereby form the inorganic piezoelectric elements 30. Each electrode 103 is electrically grounded.

  The acoustic matching layer 23 is a member that matches the acoustic impedance of the second piezoelectric portion 223 and the acoustic impedance of the acoustic lens 24.

  The organic piezoelectric element 21 includes a piezoelectric element 105 made of a flat organic piezoelectric material having a predetermined thickness, a plurality of separated electrodes 106 formed on one main surface of the piezoelectric element 105, and a piezoelectric element 105. The other main surface is configured to include an electrode 107 that is uniformly formed over substantially the entire surface. The piezoelectric element 105 is a single sheet-like piezoelectric element.

  By forming a plurality of electrodes 106 on one main surface of the piezoelectric element 105, the organic piezoelectric element array 4 includes an organic piezoelectric element 21 including one electrode 107, the piezoelectric element 105, and the electrode 106 in a two-dimensional shape. Each piezoelectric element operates individually.

  The plurality of organic piezoelectric elements 21 in the organic piezoelectric element array 4 do not need to be individually separated like the inorganic piezoelectric elements 22 in order to function individually, and can be configured as an integral sheet.

  In FIG. 3, a portion formed by the electrode 107, the piezoelectric element 105, and the electrode 106, such as a portion indicated by 21, can be regarded as one organic piezoelectric element, that is, the organic piezoelectric element 21.

The thickness of the inorganic piezoelectric element is appropriately set depending on, for example, the frequency of ultrasonic waves to be transmitted and the type of inorganic piezoelectric material. Examples of the inorganic piezoelectric material include so-called PZT, quartz, lithium niobate (LiNbO ₃ ), potassium tantalate niobate (K (Ta, Nb) O ₃ ), barium titanate (BaTiO ₃ ), lithium tantalate (LiTaO _3). And strontium titanate (SrTiO ₃ ). In the present embodiment, an inorganic piezoelectric element that can increase the transmission power in this way is used for the first piezoelectric portion 221.

  The thickness of the organic piezoelectric element in the present embodiment is appropriately set depending on, for example, the frequency of the ultrasonic wave to be received and the type of the organic piezoelectric material. For example, when receiving an ultrasonic wave having a center frequency of 8 MHz Then, the thickness of this organic piezoelectric element is about 50 μm.

  As the organic piezoelectric material, for example, a polymer of vinylidene fluoride or a copolymer of vinylidene fluoride and trifluoroethylene can be used. In the case of a copolymer of vinylidene fluoride and trifluoroethylene, since the electromechanical coupling constant (piezoelectric effect) in the thickness direction varies depending on the copolymerization ratio, for example, the former copolymerization ratio is preferably 60 to 99 mol%. The optimum value varies depending on the method of using an organic binder used when the inorganic piezoelectric element and the organic piezoelectric element are stacked. The most preferable range of the former copolymerization ratio is 85 to 99 mol%. A polymer in which 85 to 99 mol% of vinylidene fluoride and 1 to 15 mol% of perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether, perfluoroalkoxyethylene, perfluorohexaethylene, etc. are used as an inorganic piezoelectric element for transmission and an organic piezoelectric element for reception In this combination, it is possible to suppress the fundamental frequency wave in the transmission and increase the sensitivity of reception of the harmonic frequency component (for example, the third harmonic frequency component).

  The copolymer of vinylidene fluoride and trifluoroethylene is relatively excellent in processability such as thinning and large area, can be made in any shape and form, has low elastic modulus, and low dielectric constant Therefore, when used as a piezoelectric element that receives an ultrasonic signal, it has a feature that enables highly sensitive detection. Further, these organic piezoelectric materials are suitable as piezoelectric materials in harmonic imaging technology that requires high-frequency characteristics and broadband characteristics.

  In addition, for example, polyurea resin formed from a ureine group formed from a diisocyanate compound such as polycyanovinylidene, 4,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) and a diamine compound such as 4,4'-diaminodiphenylmethane (MDA). Organic piezoelectric materials such as these are also suitable.

  Further, as described above, in the present embodiment, the first piezoelectric unit 221 of the piezoelectric unit 22 receives an electrical signal from the transmission unit 12 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus body 1 via the cable 3, and this electrical signal is input to the first piezoelectric unit 22. This is converted into an ultrasonic signal, and the converted first ultrasonic signal is transmitted to the subject H through the intermediate layer 222, the second piezoelectric unit 223, the acoustic matching layer 23, and the acoustic lens 24. The second piezoelectric unit 223 of the piezoelectric unit 22 receives the second ultrasonic signal from the subject H via the acoustic lens 24 and the acoustic matching layer 23, and converts the received second ultrasonic signal into an electrical signal. The converted electrical signal is output as a reception signal to the reception unit 13 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus body 1 via the cable 3. In the present embodiment, as described above, the first piezoelectric portion 221 is an inorganic piezoelectric element, and the transmission power can be increased with a relatively simple structure. Therefore, an ultrasonic wave having such a piezoelectric portion 22 is provided. The probe 2 is suitable for a harmonic imaging technique that needs to transmit the first ultrasonic signal of the fundamental wave with a relatively large power in order to obtain a reflected wave of a harmonic, and a more accurate ultrasonic image. Can be provided. In the present embodiment, as described above, the second piezoelectric portion 223 is an organic piezoelectric element, and the frequency band can be widened with a relatively simple structure. The ultrasonic probe 2 is suitable for a harmonic imaging technique that needs to receive a second ultrasonic signal of higher harmonics, and can provide a more accurate ultrasonic image.

  In the present embodiment, the first and second piezoelectric units 221 and 223 in the piezoelectric unit 22 are arranged in the direction in which the first piezoelectric unit 221 transmits the first ultrasonic signal in the direction of the subject H. 223 is stacked on the first piezoelectric portion 221. More specifically, the second piezoelectric part 223 is laminated on the first piezoelectric part 221 with the intermediate layer 222 interposed. Thus, the small piezoelectric probe 2 can be configured by stacking and integrating the second piezoelectric portion 223 on the first piezoelectric portion 221.

  In such an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus S, the ultrasonic probe 2 may break down due to secular change or the like. The cause of the failure of the ultrasonic probe is mostly due to the failure of the piezoelectric element provided inside. In particular, a piezoelectric element using an organic piezoelectric material is likely to cause a failure because its performance tends to fall below a predetermined standard indicating an acceptable level due to deterioration as compared with a piezoelectric element using an inorganic piezoelectric material.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus capable of replacing a piezoelectric element that is likely to cause a failure, particularly an organic piezoelectric element, and recovering from the failure at low cost is provided.

  Since the failure occurs due to functional deterioration, the organic piezoelectric element is replaced when it is determined that the performance has deteriorated below a predetermined standard.

  First, the component configuration of the ultrasonic probe 2 in which the organic piezoelectric element can be replaced will be described.

  FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing a state in which the component configuration of the ultrasound probe 2 is separated into a first piezoelectric part 221 having an inorganic piezoelectric element and a second piezoelectric part 223 having an organic piezoelectric element.

  As described above, the component configuration of the ultrasonic probe 2 includes the acoustic braking member 26, the acoustic matching layer 31, the piezoelectric unit 22, the acoustic matching layer 23, and the acoustic lens 24. The second piezoelectric part 223 in the piezoelectric part 22 has an organic piezoelectric element, and the first piezoelectric part 221 has an inorganic piezoelectric element. The user replaces the second piezoelectric part 223 having the organic piezoelectric element by separating it from the first piezoelectric part 221 as shown in FIG. In FIG. 4, the intermediate layer 222 located between the second piezoelectric portion 223 and the first piezoelectric portion 221 is shown to be provided on the second piezoelectric portion 223 side, but the first second piezoelectric portion 223 and the second piezoelectric portion are shown. Either of the parts 223 may be provided. Alternatively, two intermediate layers 222 having the same acoustic impedance may be provided and separated so as to be provided in each of the first piezoelectric portion 221 and the second piezoelectric portion 223.

  FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view of the component configuration of the ultrasound probe 2 as viewed from an oblique direction, with the first piezoelectric portion 221 and the second piezoelectric portion 223 separated from each other. In the component configuration of the ultrasonic probe 2, a piezoelectric element array in which piezoelectric elements are arranged one-dimensionally will be described as an example. However, a piezoelectric element array arranged in two dimensions may be used.

  A signal line 33 for applying a voltage from the outside is connected to the electrode 103 in the inorganic piezoelectric element 30. The signal line 33 is an assembly of conducting wires that transmit an external signal to each of the inorganic piezoelectric elements 30.

  A signal line 34 for applying a voltage from the outside is connected to the electrode 106 in the organic piezoelectric element 21. The signal line 34 is an assembly of conducting wires that transmit signals from the outside to each of the organic piezoelectric elements 21.

  Next, the housing of the ultrasonic probe 2 will be described. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the housing of the ultrasonic probe 2. The upper surface of the acoustic lens 24 is exposed at the upper portion of the ultrasonic probe 2, and when the ultrasonic probe 2 is brought into contact with the subject H, the upper surface of the acoustic lens 24 comes into contact with the subject H. Thus, the first ultrasonic signal propagates into the subject H without passing through the air. As will be described later, the ultrasonic probe 2 is provided with an LED (not shown) for notifying the user that the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21 has deteriorated below a predetermined standard. The light emission is visible to the user.

  In the ultrasonic probe 2, as described above, in order to be configured to be separable into the first piezoelectric portion 221 having an inorganic piezoelectric element and the second piezoelectric portion 223 having an organic piezoelectric element, for example, as shown in FIG. As described above, the ultrasonic probe 2 is configured to be separable into the ultrasonic probe housing main body 72 and the unit 71 which is an exchange unit. FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of the ultrasonic probe 2 with the unit 71 separated. To remove the ultrasonic probe casing main body 72 and the unit 71, a screw hole (not shown) is formed in the contact portion between the ultrasonic probe casing main body 72 and the unit 71 so that the user can easily remove the unit. A known fixing mechanism such as a mechanism for fixing by tightening a screw (not shown) from the 71 side can be adopted. In addition, an O-ring groove 74 is formed on the contact surface between the ultrasonic probe casing main body 72 and the unit 71, and the O-ring is fitted into the ultrasonic probe casing main body 72 and the unit 71. It can be fixed with good adhesion, and waterproof performance can be secured. On the unit 71 side, a second piezoelectric portion 223 having an organic piezoelectric element is provided.

  FIG. 8 is a cutaway perspective view of the unit 71. As described above, the unit 71 includes the second piezoelectric portion 223 and the like, and is fixed to the casing of the unit 71 using a mechanism (not shown). By loading and fixing the unit 71 to the ultrasonic probe housing main body 72, the first piezoelectric part 221 having the separated inorganic piezoelectric element and the second piezoelectric part 223 having the organic piezoelectric element are not loaded. Design to touch. When the unit 71 is loaded on the ultrasonic probe housing main body 72, the signal line 34 provided in the second piezoelectric portion 223 in the unit 71 is provided on the ultrasonic probe housing main body 72 side. Fit into the socket 73. By doing so, each of the organic piezoelectric elements 21 in the second piezoelectric unit 223 receives the second ultrasonic signal reflected from the subject H and converts it into an electric signal, and ultrasonic diagnosis is performed via the cable 3. The data is transmitted to the receiving unit 13 provided in the apparatus main body 1.

  An outline of fitting the signal line 34 into the socket 73 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a method for fitting the signal line 34 and the socket 73. As shown in FIG. 9A, the socket 73 is a female terminal, and the signal line 34 is a male terminal. The signal line 34 includes a conductive wire 91 connected to each organic piezoelectric element 21 and a casing that bundles the conductive wires. In the socket 73, conductive portions 92 that are electrically connected to the organic piezoelectric elements 21 are arranged in parallel. As shown in FIG. 9 (b), when the signal line 34 located away from the socket 73 is fitted as shown in FIGS. 9 (c) and (d), each conducting wire 91 and the conducting portion 92 come into contact with each other. And it is designed to conduct.

  An electrical signal is supplied to the inorganic piezoelectric element 30 in the first piezoelectric unit 221 from the transmission unit 12 provided in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus main body 1 via the cable 3 and the signal line 33.

  As described above, the ultrasonic probe 2 is configured to be separable into the first piezoelectric part 221 having the inorganic piezoelectric element and the second piezoelectric part 223 having the organic piezoelectric element 21.

  Since the intermediate layer 222 exists between the first piezoelectric portion 221 and the second piezoelectric portion 223, the intermediate layer 222 is separated when the organic piezoelectric element 21 is replaced.

  By the way, the inorganic piezoelectric element 30 has a longer life than the organic piezoelectric element 21 because its performance deteriorates below a predetermined standard and cannot withstand the use of ultrasonic diagnosis, that is, the life is long. . Therefore, there is a demand for replacing the inorganic piezoelectric element 30. Since the inorganic piezoelectric element 30 is present on the housing main body side of the organic piezoelectric element 21, it is easier to replace the organic piezoelectric element 21 together with the organic piezoelectric element 21 than to replace only the inorganic piezoelectric element 30, and in terms of cost. desirable. Therefore, in addition to the case where the organic piezoelectric element 21 is separated and replaced with the inorganic piezoelectric element 30 as described above, the ultrasonic probe 2 itself is regarded as one unit and the ultrasonic probe housing main body. May be exchangeable. The replacement of the inorganic piezoelectric element 30 used with the organic piezoelectric element 21 will be described below. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the component configuration of the ultrasonic probe 2. The entire component configuration of the ultrasonic probe 2 is replaced as a unit.

  FIG. 11 is a schematic view showing a state in which the lid portion 111 is separated in the ultrasonic probe 2 having a configuration in which the lid portion 111 can be separated from the ultrasonic probe housing main body 112.

  The ultrasonic probe 2 includes an ultrasonic probe housing main body 112 and a cover part 111. The ultrasonic probe 2 has a detachable mechanism (not shown) mounted on the ultrasonic probe casing main body 112 and the ultrasonic probe 2 so that the component configuration of the ultrasonic probe 2 is installed on the ultrasonic probe casing main body 112 side. Yes. The signal lines 33 and 34 in the ultrasonic probe 2 are fitted in the sockets 73 and 113, respectively.

  The removal and fixing mechanism of the ultrasonic probe housing main body 112 and the lid portion 111 is the same as the removal and fixing mechanism described in FIG. Similarly, the O-ring groove 114 is formed on the contact surface between the ultrasonic probe housing main body 112 and the lid portion 111, and the O-ring is fitted to ensure the waterproof performance and the like.

  The replaceable unit as described above is replaced when the organic piezoelectric element 21 or the inorganic piezoelectric element 30 fails as described above. In particular, the organic piezoelectric element 21 progresses in deterioration of performance faster than the inorganic piezoelectric element 30. Further, if the user can know that the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21 has deteriorated below a predetermined standard, or that the organic piezoelectric element 21 is likely to deteriorate below the predetermined standard, a failure will occur in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus S. Can be prevented in advance. Therefore, in this embodiment, a flow (hereinafter also referred to as a notification flow) for notifying the user that the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 1 has deteriorated below a predetermined standard is adopted. Specifically, a method of measuring and judging the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21 on demand is adopted (hereinafter also referred to as notification flow 1).

  Further, even if the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21 is not actually measured, an accumulated usage time in which the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21 falls below a predetermined time is obtained in advance, and the usage time of the organic piezoelectric element 21 is counted in ultrasonic diagnosis. Then, it may be a method of determining whether or not the accumulated usage time is less than a predetermined standard (hereinafter also referred to as notification flow 2). Here, the cumulative usage time is the usage time of the organic piezoelectric element 21 as a receiving piezoelectric element. This notification flow 2 can also be applied to the inorganic piezoelectric element 30 as a transmitting piezoelectric element.

  First, the notification flow 1 will be described. In the notification flow 1, a predetermined ultrasonic signal is transmitted to a predetermined measurement piezoelectric element, an electric signal converted by the organic piezoelectric element 21 is measured on demand, and the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21, that is, an electric signal (voltage value) is measured. It is determined whether the ability to convert to) has deteriorated below a predetermined standard.

  A piezoelectric element for measurement, which is a piezoelectric element that generates a predetermined ultrasonic signal, may be provided separately, or a piezoelectric element already provided in the ultrasonic probe 2 may be used. For example, the inorganic piezoelectric element 30 may be used, or a part of the piezoelectric elements of the organic piezoelectric element 21 may be used. As an example, FIG. 13 shows a flow of transmitting an ultrasonic signal using the inorganic piezoelectric element 30 and directly receiving the transmitted ultrasonic signal by the organic piezoelectric element 21 to measure the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21. explain. FIG. 13 is a flowchart for measuring the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21 by the ability to convert to an electric signal.

  The following flow may be performed immediately before the ultrasonic diagnosis is performed, or may be performed while the ultrasonic diagnosis is being performed. For example, the control unit 17 may be programmed in advance so that the control unit 17 automatically performs this flow at a predetermined time. Further, for example, the control unit 17 may be programmed to perform this flow after the user turns on the power of the ultrasound diagnostic apparatus S in order to perform ultrasound diagnosis. It is assumed that the following flow is performed after the user first turns on the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus S in order to perform ultrasonic diagnosis. First, the user turns on the power switch provided in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus S and turns on the power (step S1). Then, the control unit 17 causes the inorganic piezoelectric element 30 to transmit an ultrasonic signal having a predetermined amplitude value after a predetermined time has elapsed (step S2). At this time, it is desirable that the ultrasonic probe 2 is not in contact with the subject H. If it is in contact with the subject H, an ultrasonic signal reflected from the subject H is received, which is not preferable. A notification that the ultrasonic probe 2 is not brought into contact with the subject H may be displayed on the display unit 16.

  The ultrasonic signal transmitted by the inorganic piezoelectric element 30 is directly received by the organic piezoelectric element 21 without passing through the subject (step S3). A plurality of organic piezoelectric elements 21 are prepared, and at least one of the organic piezoelectric elements 21 is used to receive an ultrasonic signal transmitted from the inorganic piezoelectric element 30. The selected organic piezoelectric element 21 converts the ultrasonic signal transmitted by the inorganic piezoelectric element 30 into an electrical signal, specifically, a voltage. The performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21 is determined based on whether or not the converted voltage value is equal to or higher than a predetermined voltage value. Therefore, if the voltage value of the converted electric signal is equal to or higher than the predetermined voltage value (Yes in step S4), the control unit 17 determines that it is not necessary to replace the organic piezoelectric element 21, and the flow ends. If the voltage value of the converted electrical signal is smaller than the predetermined voltage value (No in step S4), the control unit 17 determines that the organic piezoelectric element 21 needs to be replaced, and the control unit 17 notifies the notification lamp driving unit 18. The notification lamp 19 provided to the ultrasonic probe 2 is turned on to notify the user that it is time to replace the organic piezoelectric element 21 (step S5), and the flow ends.

  Since there is little difference in the speed at which the performance of each organic piezoelectric element 21 deteriorates, the performance of all the organic piezoelectric elements 21 can be measured by measuring the performance of at least one organic piezoelectric element 21. If the number of the organic piezoelectric elements 21 to be measured is increased and the converted electric signals are measured and compared with a predetermined voltage value using, for example, an average value thereof, the performance of the organic piezoelectric elements 21 can be improved more actually. It is desirable because it can be judged immediately.

  Ideally, it is desirable to measure the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21 on the basis of electric signals converted by all the organic piezoelectric elements 21. The ultrasonic signals transmitted by the inorganic piezoelectric elements 30 arranged in an array are expected to have a larger amplitude value in the middle of the array than in the periphery of the array. Therefore, in the organic piezoelectric element array laminated on the inorganic piezoelectric element array, the middle of the organic piezoelectric element array receives an ultrasonic signal having a larger amplitude value than the peripheral part.

  Therefore, when measuring the electrical signals converted by all the organic piezoelectric elements 21, the performance of each organic piezoelectric element 21 is judged in accordance with the difference in the positions of the middle and peripheral portions of the organic piezoelectric element array. It is desirable that the predetermined voltage value for comparing the electric signal converted by the organic piezoelectric element 21 in the middle of the organic piezoelectric element array is set to be higher so as to be able to do so.

  As described above, in this flow, the inorganic piezoelectric element 30 corresponds to a piezoelectric element for measurement, transmits an ultrasonic signal for measuring the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21, and is converted from an electrical signal converted by the organic piezoelectric element 21. The performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21 can be measured.

  In addition, an ultrasonic signal is transmitted using the inorganic piezoelectric element 30, and the transmitted ultrasonic signal is not directly received by the organic piezoelectric element 21, but the transmitted ultrasonic signal is a reference object of the subject (for example, The performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21 may be measured by receiving an ultrasonic signal reflected and returned from a Kyoto Kagaku Co., Ltd. brand name breast ultrasound accuracy management phantom.

  Next, the notification flow 2 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is a flowchart for measuring the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21 by the cumulative usage time.

  First, the user inputs a first ultrasonic signal transmission instruction in order to perform an ultrasonic diagnosis on the subject H in the operation input unit 11 of the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus S. In response to the user's input instruction, the control unit 17 instructs the transmission unit 12 to start transmitting the first ultrasonic signal (step S11). Simultaneously with the transmission of the first ultrasonic signal, the control unit 17 counts the transmission time using, for example, a clock counter (not shown) provided in the control unit 17 (step S12). When the user's ultrasonic diagnosis is completed, the user similarly performs an operation for ending the transmission of the first ultrasonic signal in the operation input unit 11 (step S13). The control unit 17 instructs the transmission unit 12 to end the transmission of the first ultrasonic signal, and ends the transmission time count using the clock counter (step S14). The time during which the control unit 17 causes the transmission unit 12 to transmit the first ultrasonic signal is cumulatively added to the cumulative usage time of the first ultrasonic signal every time transmission of the first ultrasonic signal is completed, Recording is performed in the recording unit 20 (step S15).

  The control unit 17 accesses and takes out the accumulated usage time of the first ultrasonic signal and the specified replacement time for replacing the organic piezoelectric element 21 recorded in advance in the recording unit 20 from the recording unit 20. If it is determined that the accumulated usage time of the first ultrasonic signal is equal to or longer than the specified replacement time (Yes in step S16), the control unit 17 instructs the notification lamp driving unit 18 to instruct the ultrasonic probe 2. The provided notification lamp 19 is turned on to notify the user that it is time to replace the organic piezoelectric element 21 (step S17), and the flow ends.

  When it is determined that the accumulated usage time of the first ultrasonic signal is shorter than the specified replacement time (No in step S16), the organic piezoelectric element 21 can be used continuously, and the flow ends.

  The specified replacement time is a time during which the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21 deteriorates below a predetermined standard, and is confirmed beforehand by experiments or the like. The specified replacement time may be set to a time shortly before the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21 reaches a predetermined standard. A sufficient replacement time can be set before the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21 reaches a predetermined standard and a failure occurs.

  The comparison between the accumulated usage time of the first ultrasonic signal and the specified exchange time may be performed while the first ultrasonic signal is being transmitted. The user can be notified of the replacement time of the organic piezoelectric element 21 more realistically.

  As described above, in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to this embodiment, the measurement piezoelectric element that transmits an ultrasonic signal or the cumulative usage time of the reception piezoelectric element is measured in order to measure the performance of the reception piezoelectric element. Counter, a notification means for notifying the user of the replacement time of the unit, and a control means, when the performance has deteriorated to a predetermined standard or when the cumulative use time has passed a predetermined time, By notifying the user, the user can be informed that the life of the receiving piezoelectric element is approaching, and can prompt the user to replace the receiving piezoelectric element. This can prevent the diagnosis from being hindered. It is possible to provide an ultrasonic probe and an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that can replace only a piezoelectric element that is likely to cause a failure, particularly an organic piezoelectric element, and can recover from the failure at low cost.

  Further, in the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present embodiment, the measurement piezoelectric element is configured such that at least one transmission piezoelectric element among the plurality of transmission piezoelectric elements is also used, and a predetermined output is provided to the transmission piezoelectric element. Since the ultrasonic signal of the value is transmitted, the replacement time of the unit is determined based on a predetermined standard from the electric signal that the receiving piezoelectric element directly receives and converts the ultrasonic signal, so that the performance of the organic piezoelectric element 21 is By measuring the performance of at least one organic piezoelectric element 21, it is possible to measure the performance of all the organic piezoelectric elements 21 approximately.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, the organic piezoelectric material uses a vinylidene fluoride polymer or a vinylidene fluoride / trifluoroethylene copolymer to detect the second ultrasonic signal with high sensitivity. And a clearer ultrasonic image can be obtained.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, by using an inorganic piezoelectric element as a transmitting piezoelectric element, it is possible to increase the transmission power and obtain a large second ultrasonic signal, so that it is more accurate. It is possible to provide a simple ultrasonic image.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the plurality of receiving piezoelectric elements are stacked on the plurality of transmitting piezoelectric elements in the direction in which the plurality of transmitting piezoelectric elements transmit the first ultrasonic signal to the subject. Therefore, the ultrasonic probe 2 can be reduced in size.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus main body 2 Ultrasonic probe 3 Cable 11 Operation input part 12 Transmission part 13 Reception part 14 Signal processing part 15 Image processing part 16 Display part 17 Control part 18 Notification lamp drive part 19 Notification lamp 20 Storage part 21 Organic piezoelectric element 22 Piezoelectric part 23 Acoustic matching layer 24 Acoustic lens 25 Common ground electrode 26 Acoustic braking member 30 Inorganic piezoelectric element 31 Acoustic matching layer 32 Acoustic separation part 33, 34 Signal line 61 LED window 71 Unit 72 Ultrasonic probe housing Body body 73 Socket 74 Groove 103 Electrode 106 Electrode 221 First piezoelectric part 222 Intermediate layer 223 Second piezoelectric part

Claims (8)

A plurality of transmitting piezoelectric elements for transmitting the first ultrasonic signal into the subject;
Receiving a second ultrasonic signal generated by reflecting the first ultrasonic signal in the subject and converting it into an electrical signal; and a plurality of receiving piezoelectric elements made of an organic piezoelectric material;
Output means for outputting the electrical signal to the outside;
An acoustic lens disposed between the plurality of receiving piezoelectric elements and the subject,
An ultrasonic probe, wherein at least the acoustic lens and the plurality of receiving piezoelectric elements are integrated into a unit, and the unit is configured to be replaceable.   The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1, wherein the organic piezoelectric material is a polymer of vinylidene fluoride or a copolymer of vinylidene fluoride and trifluoroethylene.   The ultrasonic probe according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of transmitting piezoelectric elements are composed of inorganic piezoelectric elements.   The plurality of receiving piezoelectric elements are stacked on the plurality of transmitting piezoelectric elements in a direction in which the plurality of transmitting piezoelectric elements transmit the first ultrasonic signal to the subject. The ultrasonic probe according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The ultrasonic probe according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
An ultrasonic image in the subject is generated from an electric signal included in an electric signal output from the ultrasonic probe and having a frequency corresponding to at least a fundamental frequency or a harmonic frequency of the first ultrasonic signal. An image processing unit to
A display unit for displaying the ultrasonic image;
A measuring piezoelectric element that transmits an ultrasonic signal to measure the performance of the receiving piezoelectric element;
A notification means for notifying a user of the replacement time of the unit;
Control means for controlling at least the notification means and the piezoelectric element for measurement;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit performs the notification when the performance deteriorates below a predetermined standard.   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the measurement piezoelectric element is at least one transmission piezoelectric element among the plurality of transmission piezoelectric elements.   The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the predetermined reference is that an electrical signal converted by the receiving piezoelectric element is a predetermined value or more. The ultrasonic probe according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
An ultrasonic image in the subject is generated from an electric signal included in an electric signal output from the ultrasonic probe and having a frequency corresponding to at least a fundamental frequency or a harmonic frequency of the first ultrasonic signal. An image processing unit to
A display unit for displaying the ultrasonic image;
A counter that measures the accumulated usage time by accumulating the usage time of the reception piezoelectric element or the transmission piezoelectric element;
A notification means for notifying a user of the replacement time of the unit;
Control means for controlling at least the notification means and the counter;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, wherein the control unit performs the notification when the accumulated usage time has passed a predetermined time.

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