KR102264756B1 - Wireless probe and method for power controlling of an wireless probe - Google Patents

Abstract

The wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention receives a first power supply, transmits an ultrasound signal to an object, receives an ultrasound echo signal from the object, and receives an acoustic transmission/reception module for scanning the object, a second power supply, A signal processing module that generates a pulse for generating the ultrasound signal and generates ultrasound data using the ultrasound echo signal, a wireless communication module that receives a third power supply and transmits/receives predetermined data to and from an external medical device, wireless a control unit for controlling supply of at least one of the first power source, the second power source, and the third power source based on the operating state of the probe, and according to the control of the control unit, the first power source, the second power source, and A power supply unit for supplying or blocking at least one of the third power sources may be included, and power consumed by the wireless probe may be reduced.

Description

A wireless probe and a method for controlling the power of a wireless probe according to the method {WIRELESS PROBE AND METHOD FOR POWER CONTROLLING OF AN WIRELESS PROBE}

The present invention relates to a wireless probe and a method for controlling power of a wireless probe according thereto.

Specifically, the present invention relates to a wireless probe capable of reducing power consumption and a method for controlling power of the wireless probe according thereto.

The ultrasound diagnosis apparatus transmits an ultrasound signal generated from a transducer of a wireless probe to an object, and receives information of an ultrasound echo signal reflected from the object to obtain an image of an internal portion of the object. In particular, the ultrasound diagnosis apparatus is used for medical purposes such as observing the inside of an object, detecting a foreign substance, and measuring an injury. These ultrasound diagnostic apparatuses are widely used together with other imaging apparatuses because they have high stability compared to diagnostic apparatuses using X-rays, display images in real time, and are safe because there is no radiation exposure.

In the ultrasound diagnosis apparatus, a wireless probe connected to the main body of the ultrasound diagnosis apparatus through a wireless network has been developed so that a user can operate the probe without being limited by space. The wireless probe does not include a separate power line and is powered by an internal battery. Specifically, for ultrasound diagnosis, a wireless probe that is wirelessly connected to a main body or a wireless probe that is included in a portable ultrasound diagnosis apparatus having a portable size is being developed.

Since the wireless probe is supplied with power using an internal battery, it is necessary to minimize power consumption. Therefore, there is a need to provide a wireless probe capable of minimizing power consumption while not inconvenient for a user to perform an ultrasound scan operation using the wireless probe, and a power supply method according thereto.

An object of the present invention is to provide a wireless probe capable of minimizing power consumption and a method for controlling power of the wireless probe according thereto.

The wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention receives a first power supply, transmits an ultrasound signal to an object, receives an ultrasound echo signal from the object, and receives an acoustic transmission/reception module for scanning the object, a second power supply, A signal processing module that generates a pulse for generating the ultrasound signal and generates ultrasound data using the ultrasound echo signal, a wireless communication module that receives a third power supply and transmits/receives predetermined data to and from an external medical device, wireless a control unit for controlling supply of at least one of the first power source, the second power source, and the third power source based on the operating state of the probe, and according to the control of the control unit, the first power source, the second power source, and and a power supply unit for supplying or blocking at least one of the third power sources.

Also, the controller may individually supply or cut off each of the first power, the second power, and the third power based on the operating state of the wireless probe.

Also, when the wireless probe is performing a scan operation, the controller may control to supply the first power, the second power, and the third power.

Also, when the wireless probe completes the scan operation, the controller may control to cut off the first power and supply at least one of the second power and the third power.

Also, when the wireless probe completes the scan operation and does not complete the ultrasound data processing operation, the controller may control to cut off the first power and supply the second power and the third power. .

Also, when the wireless probe completes the scan operation and the ultrasound data processing operation, the controller may control to cut off the first power and the second power and supply the third power.

Also, when the manipulation of the radio probe is not detected for a first time period, the controller may control to cut off the supply of the first power and the second power and supply the third power.

Also, when the manipulation of the radio probe is not detected for a second time period, the controller may control to cut off all of the first power, the second power, and the third power.

In addition, if the operation of the radio probe is not detected for the second time period, the control unit cuts off all of the first power, the second power, and the third power and controls the radio probe to enter a standby state. can

In addition, when the manipulation of the radio probe is not detected for a third time period, the control unit cuts off all supplies of the first power, the second power, and the third power, and controls the radio probe to be powered off. .

In addition, the wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a sensing unit for detecting whether a user manipulates the wireless probe.

In addition, the sensing unit may include at least one of a gyro sensor, a position sensor, an acceleration sensor, a temperature sensor, a temperature sensor, and a pressure sensor.

In addition, when it is determined that the wireless probe scans the object based on the detection result, the sensing unit may generate a first event signal having a first signal level and transmit it to the control unit.

In addition, the sound transceiving module receives at least one transducer that generates the ultrasonic signal when a predetermined voltage is applied, an ultrasonic generator that supplies a driving signal to the transducer, and the ultrasonic echo signal received from the transducer. It may include a focused ultrasound receiver.

In addition, the first power supply is at least one of a power supply for supplying the predetermined voltage, an acoustic transmission beamforming power supply for generating the focused transmission ultrasound signal, and an acoustic reception beamforming power supply for generating the reception focused ultrasound echo signal. may contain one.

Also, the second power may include at least one of a power used to generate the pulse and a power used to process at least one of the ultrasound data and an ultrasound image corresponding to the ultrasound data.

In addition, the third power source may include at least one of a pairing power source used to be linked with the medical device and a power source used to adjust the sensitivity of a signal for transmitting and receiving the predetermined data.

In addition, the controller may generate information indicating a supply state of at least one of the first power source, the second power source, and the third power source, and control the generated information to be transmitted to the medical device.

In addition, the wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a display unit for displaying a user interface screen indicating supply states of the first power, the second power, and the third power.

In addition, the wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a display unit for displaying a user interface screen for setting supply control of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power. .

In addition, when the supply state of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power is changed, the wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention outputs a notification signal for allowing the user to recognize the change of state. It may further include a notification unit.

Also, the notification unit may include at least one of a speaker, a lamp, a vibrator, and a display unit.

Also, when the wireless probe is powered on, the controller may control a user interface screen including a security setting menu for allowing manipulation of the wireless probe to be output.

Also, the power supply unit may include a battery that charges power and supplies at least one of the first power source, the second power source, and the third power source using the charged power source.

In addition, the power supply may receive wireless power from the outside, and supply at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power using the received wireless power.

In addition, the method for controlling power of a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention includes recognizing an operating state of the wireless probe, and applying an ultrasound signal to an object and receiving an ultrasound echo signal from the object based on the operating state The first power supplied to the sound transceiver module for scanning the object, the second power supplied to a signal processing module that generates a pulse for generating the ultrasound signal, and generates ultrasound data using the ultrasound echo signal and controlling the supply of at least one of third power supplied to a wireless communication module for transmitting and receiving predetermined data to and from an external medical device.

Also, the controlling of the power supply may include individually supplying or blocking each of the first power, the second power, and the third power based on the operating state of the wireless probe.

1 is a diagram illustrating a wireless probe and a main body constituting an ultrasound diagnosis apparatus.
2 is a block diagram illustrating a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention.
3 is a block diagram illustrating a wireless probe according to another embodiment of the present invention.
4 is a diagram for explaining a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention.
5 is a diagram for explaining a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention.
6 is another diagram for explaining a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention.
7 is a diagram illustrating a user interface screen indicating a power state of a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention.
8 is another diagram illustrating a user interface screen indicating a power state of a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention.
9 is a diagram illustrating a user interface screen for setting power of a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention.
10 is a diagram illustrating a method for controlling power of a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. However, the present invention may be embodied in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. And in order to clearly explain the present invention in the drawings, parts irrelevant to the description are omitted, and similar reference numerals are attached to similar parts throughout the specification.

Throughout the specification, when a part is "connected" with another part, this includes not only the case of being "directly connected" but also the case of being "electrically connected" with another element interposed therebetween. . In addition, when a part "includes" a certain component, this means that other components may be further included rather than excluding other components unless otherwise stated. In addition, terms such as “…unit” and “…module” described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented as hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

Throughout the specification, the term “ultrasound image” refers to an image of an object obtained using ultrasound. Also, a subject may include a human or animal, or a part of a human or animal. For example, the object may include organs such as liver, heart, uterus, brain, breast, abdomen, or blood vessels. Also, the object may include a phantom, and the phantom may mean a material having a volume very close to the density and effective atomic number of an organism.

In addition, throughout the specification, a "user" may be a medical professional, such as a doctor, a nurse, a clinical pathologist, a medical imaging specialist, or a technician repairing a medical device, but is not limited thereto.

1 is a diagram illustrating a wireless probe and a main body constituting an ultrasound diagnosis apparatus.

Referring to FIG. 1 , the ultrasound diagnosis apparatus includes a wireless probe 110 and a main body 120 .

The wireless probe 110 is wirelessly connected to the main body 120 through a predetermined network 130 , transmits an ultrasound signal to an object, and receives an echo signal reflected from the object to obtain ultrasound data. Then, an ultrasound image may be generated using the acquired ultrasound data, and the generated ultrasound image may be transmitted to the main body 120 . Alternatively, the wireless probe 110 transmits the acquired ultrasound data to the main body 120 , and in this case, the main body 120 may generate an ultrasound image by using the transmitted ultrasound data.

The main body 120 transmits/receives predetermined data to and from the wireless probe 110 , and may generate ultrasound images of various modes by using the ultrasound data received from the wireless probe 110 . Also, the operation of the wireless probe 110 may be controlled based on a user input. The body 120 may be implemented as a cart type as well as a portable type. Examples of the body 120 may include a cart-type ultrasound system, a fax viewer, a smart phone, a laptop computer, a PDA, a tablet PC, and the like, but is not limited thereto.

A state in which the wireless probe 110 and the main body 120 can continuously transmit and receive predetermined data through the wireless network 130 while the user scans a predetermined body part of the patient, which is the object, using the wireless probe 110 . will be in

The wireless probe 110 only transmits and receives predetermined data to and from the main body 120 , but cannot receive power from the main body 120 , and receives power using a battery (not shown) provided by itself.

The battery (not shown) of the wireless probe 110 has a limit in power capacity. Accordingly, if the battery is not saved, the wireless probe 110 may not be used due to the discharge of the battery of the wireless probe 110 regardless of the user's intention.

The wireless probe according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may minimize power consumption by efficiently controlling the power consumed. A wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present application will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 2 to 9 .

2 is a block diagram illustrating a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

A wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention is an ultrasound probe that scans an object, and a probe that performs an ultrasound scanning operation by receiving power from an internally included battery without receiving power through a power line, as shown in FIG. 1 . It may be a wireless probe connected to the main body together. Alternatively, it may be a portable ultrasound diagnosis device such as a smart device capable of ultrasound scanning including a transducer.

Referring to FIG. 2 , a wireless probe 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a sound transmission/reception module 210 , a signal processing module 220 , a wireless communication module 230 , a control unit 240 , and a power supply unit 250 . includes

The sound transceiver module 210 receives the first power, transmits an ultrasound signal to the object, receives the ultrasound echo signal from the object, and scans the object. Specifically, the sound transmission/reception module 210 includes a transducer (not shown), and uses the transducer to perform an ultrasound scan of an object. Here, the first power is a supply power corresponding to power consumed by the sound transceiving module 210 . That is, when the sound transmission/reception module 210 receives power from the power supply unit 250 as much as the power required to perform the ultrasound scan operation, the power supplied by the power supply unit 250 to the sound transmission/reception module 210 is referred to as first power. Specifically, the sound transmission/reception module 210 may apply a high voltage, which is an analog voltage, to the transducer (not shown), in this case, the first power source may include the analog voltage described above. have.

The signal processing module 220 receives the second power, generates a pulse for generating an ultrasound signal, and generates ultrasound data using the ultrasound echo signal. Specifically, the signal processing module 220 generates, adjusts, and controls a pulse for generating an ultrasonic signal generated by the sound transmission/reception module 210 . Also, the signal processing module 220 may process the ultrasound echo signal received from the sound transceiver module 210 to generate ultrasound data or an ultrasound image using the ultrasound data. Here, the second power is a supply power corresponding to power consumed by the signal processing module 220 . That is, when the signal processing module 220 receives from the power supply unit 250 as much power required to perform the ultrasonic scan operation, the power supplied by the power supply unit 250 to the signal processing module 220 is referred to as a second power.

Specifically, the signal processing module 220 requires a digital voltage having a predetermined frequency, a predetermined clock speed, or a predetermined sampling rate in generating and adjusting the above-described pulse. and the second power source may include the digital power source described above.

The wireless communication module 230 receives the third power and transmits and receives predetermined data to and from an external medical device. Here, the medical device (not shown) refers to any electronic device that can be linked to the wireless probe 200 through a wireless network. Specifically, the medical device (not shown) may correspond to the main body 120 described above in FIG. 1 , and includes a cart-type ultrasound system, a fax viewer, a smart phone, a laptop computer, a PDA, and a tablet. It may be a PC or the like. In addition, the wireless communication module 230 and a medical device (not shown) that transmits and receives predetermined data may be not only a server or a medical device in a hospital, but also a portable terminal of a doctor or a patient, and a CT, MRI, X-ray system and It could also be another kind of medical imaging system.

For example, the wireless communication module 230 may transmit ultrasound data or an ultrasound image generated by the signal processing module 220 to the medical device, and the medical device may generate and display the ultrasound image using the transmitted ultrasound data. have.

The controller 240 may individually supply or cut off each of the first power, the second power, and the third power based on the operating state of the wireless probe 200 .

Specifically, the controller 240 may control the supply of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power based on an event signal for controlling the power supply. Specifically, the event signal refers to a control signal for selectively supplying or blocking at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power. Specifically, the event signal is a signal indicating the operation state of the wireless probe, and may be a signal indicating the operation state of at least one of the sound transmission/reception module 210 , the signal processing module 220 , and the wireless communication module 230 . . The event signal will be described in detail below with reference to FIG. 4 .

The power supply unit 250 supplies at least one of the first power source, the second power source, and the third power source under the control of the controller 240 .

Specifically, the power supply unit 250 may include a battery 251 that charges power and supplies at least one of a first power source, a second power source, and a third power source using the charged power. The battery 251 is charging power, and may supply power to each of the internal components included in the wireless probe 200 using the charged power.

For example, the battery 251 is configured as a rechargeable battery, and when the charged power is discharged, it may be charged again using power supplied through the power line. In addition, the battery 251 may be charged by wireless power transmitted from the outside.

Also, the power supply unit 250 may receive wireless power transmitted from the outside. In addition, at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power may be supplied using the received wireless power. Specifically, the power supply unit 250 may receive a wireless power signal received from the outside, for example, the main body 120 , etc., and store and use power generated by converting the received wireless power signal.

Specifically, as a wireless power transmission method, an electromagnetic induction method based on an electromagnetic induction phenomenon generated by a wireless power signal, and an electromagnetic resonance method based on an electromagnetic resonance phenomenon generated by a wireless power signal of a specific frequency. , and an electromagnetic radiation (radiation) method based on electromagnetic radiation (ie, a non-radiative wireless energy transmission method), a wireless power transmission method using ultrasonic waves (see patent US Patents 6798716 by Charych Arthur for energy transmission using ultrasound), and the like.

The power supply unit 250 may receive power using at least one of the aforementioned wireless power transmission methods. Specifically, the power supply unit 250 may externally receive wireless power and convert the received wireless power to be suitable to be supplied to each component included in the wireless probe 200 . That is, the power supply unit 250 may convert the received wireless power to be less than or equal to a rated voltage and a rated current of the wireless probe 200 . For example, the power supply unit 250 includes an SMPS (Switched-Mode Power Supply) (not shown), a boosting device (not shown), and/or a step-down device (not shown) internally, and using this, wireless power can be converted In addition, the battery 251 included in the power supply unit 250 may be charged by the received wireless power. The battery 251 may supply power to each of the internal components included in the wireless probe 200 using power charged by wireless power.

In the wireless probe 200, the above-described three modules, the sound transmission/reception module 210, the signal processing module 220, and the wireless communication module 230, focusing on the point that can operate independently of each other, the wireless probe ( 200 ), the first power supplied to the sound transmission/reception module 210 , the second power supplied to the signal processing module 220 , and the third power supplied to the wireless communication module 230 , which are three main power sources. classified by power. In addition, the above-described three types of power are selectively supplied or cut off.

That is, in the wireless probe 200 , the sound transmission/reception module 210 , the signal processing module 220 , and the wireless communication module 230 , which are the three modules described above, can operate independently of each other, and a predetermined module according to the operating state Even if the power of the module is cut off, the operation of other modules is not affected. Accordingly, in consideration of the current operating state of the wireless probe, power supplied to the sound transmission/reception module 210 , the signal processing module 220 , and the wireless communication module 230 is individually supplied or cut off. Accordingly, the wireless probe 200 according to the embodiment of the present invention can minimize power consumption. In addition, even if power consumption is minimized, the wireless probe 200 may be used without limitation without affecting the operation performed by the wireless probe 200 .

3 is a block diagram illustrating a wireless probe according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 3 , a wireless probe 300 according to another embodiment of the present invention corresponds to the wireless probes 100 and 200 described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 . Specifically, the sound transmission/reception module 310, the signal processing module 320, the wireless communication module 330, the control unit 340, and the power supply unit 350 included in the wireless probe 300 each include the wireless probe ( 200 , the sound transmission/reception module 210 , the signal processing module 220 , the wireless communication module 230 , the control unit 240 , and the power supply unit 250 correspond to the same. Accordingly, in describing the wireless probe 300 , a description overlapping with those in FIGS. 1 to 2 will be omitted. In addition, the wireless probe 300 illustrated in FIG. 3 has a display unit 360 , a detection unit 370 , a notification unit 380 , and a user interface unit 390 compared to the wireless probe 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 . It may further include at least one of.

The sound transmission/reception module 310 receives the first power, transmits an ultrasound signal to the object, receives an ultrasound echo signal from the object, scans the object, and the ultrasound transmitter 311, the transducer 315 and the ultrasound It may include a receiver 316 . Here, the transducer 315 is an ultrasonic scanning element, and the sound transmission/reception module 210 includes at least one transducer, but in FIG. 3 it is illustrated as a 'transducer 315' for convenience.

The ultrasound transmitter 311 supplies a driving signal to the transducer 315 so that the transducer 315 can generate a transmission-focused ultrasound signal. Specifically, the ultrasound transmitter 311 may include a pulse generator 312 , a transmission delay unit 313 , and a pulser 314 .

The pulse generator 312 generates a pulse for forming a transmission ultrasound according to a predetermined pulse repetition frequency (PRF).

The transmission delay unit 313 applies a delay time for determining transmission directionality to the pulse. Here, each pulse to which the delay time is applied corresponds to a plurality of piezoelectric vibrators (not shown) included in the transducer 315 , respectively. Here, the piezoelectric vibrator is also called a piezo element. Specifically, the transmission delay unit 313 transmits and focuses the transmitted ultrasound to generate a pulse for generating the transmitted focused ultrasound signal.

The pulser 314 applies a driving signal (or a driving pulse) to the transducer 315 at a timing corresponding to each pulse to which a delay time is applied.

The transducer 315 vibrates according to a pulse, which is an applied electrical signal, and generates ultrasonic waves, which are acoustic energy, and transmits them to the object. Then, an ultrasound echo signal that is an ultrasound signal reflected from the object is received.

The transducer 315 may include an acoustic lens (not shown), a piezoelectric element (not shown), a matching layer (not shown), and a sound absorbing layer (not shown).

The piezoelectric element is formed of a piezoelectric effect element that mutually converts an electrical signal and an acoustic signal. Here, the piezoelectric effect material may be a piezoelectric ceramic that causes a piezoelectric effect, a single crystal, or a composite piezoelectric material in which the material and a polymer are combined. When a pulse that is an electrical signal generated by the pulser 314 is applied to the piezoelectric element, an ultrasonic signal may be generated within the piezoelectric element. Here, the pulse applied to the piezoelectric element is a voltage signal and has a predetermined voltage value.

A matching layer (not shown) is disposed on the front surface of the piezoelectric element (not shown). Then, the acoustic impedance of the ultrasonic wave generated from the piezoelectric element (not shown) is changed stepwise so that the acoustic impedance of the ultrasonic wave is close to the acoustic impedance of the object. Here, the front surface of the piezoelectric element (not shown) may mean a surface closest to the object among the surfaces of the piezoelectric element (not shown) while ultrasonic waves are applied to the object, and the rear surface may mean a surface opposite to the front surface. The matching layer (not shown) is also referred to as an acoustic matching layer.

The sound absorbing layer (not shown) supports the piezoelectric element (not shown) from the rear side of the piezoelectric element (not shown), and can absorb ultrasonic waves that are transmitted to the back of the piezoelectric element (not shown) and are not directly used for inspection or diagnosis have. In addition, a plurality of electrodes for applying a predetermined voltage to the piezoelectric element (not shown) may be formed in the sound absorbing layer (not shown).

An acoustic lens (not shown) is disposed on the front surface of the transducer 315, and focuses the ultrasonic waves generated by the piezoelectric element (not shown). The acoustic lens (not shown) may be formed of a material such as silicone rubber having an acoustic impedance close to the object.

The ultrasound receiver 316 receives and focuses the ultrasound echo signal received from the transducer 315 to generate the received focused ultrasound echo signal. Specifically, the ultrasound receiver 316 may receive and focus the ultrasound echo signal received from the transducer 315 to generate ultrasound data.

Specifically, the ultrasound receiver 316 may include an amplifier 317 , an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 318 , a reception delay unit 319 , and a summation unit 321 .

Specifically, the amplifier 317 amplifies the ultrasonic echo signal for each channel, and the ADC 318 analog-digitizes the amplified ultrasonic echo signal. The reception delay unit 319 applies a delay time for determining reception directionality to the digitally converted ultrasound echo signal. Here, the channel means a channel for each element of the transducer.

Then, the summing unit 321 generates ultrasound data by adding the ultrasound echo signals processed by the reception delay unit 319 . Meanwhile, the ultrasound receiver 316 may not include the amplifier 317 according to its implementation form. That is, when the ultrasonic echo signal reception sensitivity of the transducer 315 is improved or the number of processing bits of the ADC 318 is improved, and there is no need to amplify the received ultrasonic echo signal, the amplifier 317 may be omitted. may be

Specifically, the first power supplied to the sound transmission/reception module 310 is power corresponding to a voltage applied to generate an ultrasound signal from the transducer 315, and an acoustic transmission beamforming power source for generating a focused transmission ultrasound signal. and at least one of an acoustic reception beamforming power source for generating a reception focused ultrasound echo signal.

Specifically, the sound transmission beamforming power is power required by the ultrasound receiver 311, and refers to power required to focus the beam of the transmitted ultrasound signal by applying a delay time to the ultrasound signal transmitted to the object. In addition, the acoustic reception beamforming power is power required by the ultrasound receiver 316 and refers to power required to adjust dynamic focusing of an ultrasound signal reflected from an object.

Specifically, the voltage to be applied to the transducer 315 in order to generate an ultrasonic signal (hereinafter, 'transducer supply high voltage') is a voltage applied to the piezoelectric element, and may be a high voltage around +100V and -100V. In addition, in the case of a 2D or 3D wireless probe, since it may include hundreds to thousands of channels or more, grouping hundreds to thousands of channels over a plurality of steps, and grouping hundreds to thousands of channels An ASIC circuit for stepwise control may be used. When the ASIC circuit is included in the ultrasonic receiver 311 , the power consumed by the sound transceiver module 310 may further include an ASIC operating power, for example, a voltage of around +-40V may be used.

In addition, the sound transmission beamforming power may include operation power of the pulse generator 312 , the transmission delay unit 313 , and the pulser 314 . In addition, the sound reception beamforming power source may include operating power of the amplifier 317 , the ADC 318 , the reception delay unit 319 , and the summing unit 321 .

Accordingly, the first power is a power corresponding to power required for the operation of the sound transceiving module 310 as described above.

The signal processing module 320 may include a driving control unit 325 and an image processing unit 326 .

The driving controller 325 may generate a control signal for controlling the ultrasonic signal generating operation of the ultrasonic receiving unit 311 . Specifically, in order to focus a beam onto an object, a delay time of the transmitted ultrasound signal must be differently set according to a depth, a focal point, and the like. The driving controller 325 may generate a control signal for setting such a delay time. In addition, the pulse generated by the pulser 314 has a predetermined frequency value. In this case, a sampling signal corresponding to the frequency value to be applied to the pulser 314 must be generated. Accordingly, the driving controller 325 may generate the above-described sampling signal. Accordingly, the driving controller 325 needs to be supplied with a driving voltage required to generate a control signal and a sampling signal for setting a delay time.

The image processing unit 326 receives and processes ultrasound data transmitted from the ultrasound receiving unit 316 . Specifically, the image processing unit 326 may perform signal processing such as noise removal and data conversion using the ultrasound data, and may scan-convert the ultrasound data to generate an ultrasound image signal.

Also, the image processing unit 326 may directly generate the displayed ultrasound image. Specifically, the image processing unit 326 generates an A-mode (amplitude mode), B-mode (brightness mode), M-mode (motion mode), and Doppler mode images by using the ultrasound data transmitted from the ultrasound receiver 316 . can do.

Specifically, the second power supplied to the signal processing module 320 includes operating power for operating the driving control unit 325 and the image processing unit 326 . Specifically, the second power may include at least one of a power used to generate a pulse by the pulse generator 312 and a power used to generate at least one of ultrasound data and an ultrasound image corresponding to the ultrasound data. have. For example, the second power is a voltage required for the driving controller 325 to generate a control signal for setting a delay time, a voltage required to generate a sampling signal supplied to the pulser 314 , and an ultrasonic wave from the image processing unit 326 . It may include at least one of a driving voltage required for data processing and image processing.

The wireless communication module 330 may include at least one communication module for performing wireless communication with the medical device. Specifically, the wireless communication module 330 may include at least one of a short-range communication module 331 , a wired communication module 332 , and a mobile communication module 333 .

The short-range communication module 331 means a module for short-distance communication within a predetermined distance. Short-distance communication technology according to an embodiment of the present invention includes wireless LAN, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Wi-Fi Direct (WFD), ultra wideband (UWB), infrared communication ( IrDA, infrared Data Association), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), NFC (Near Field Communication), etc. may be included, but is not limited thereto.

The wired communication module 332 means a module for communication using an electrical signal or an optical signal, and in wired communication technology according to an embodiment, a pair cable, a coaxial cable, an optical fiber cable, an Ethernet cable, etc. may be included.

The mobile communication module 333 transmits/receives a radio signal to and from at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network. Here, the wireless signal may include various types of data according to transmission/reception of a voice call signal, a video call signal, or a text/multimedia message.

The wireless communication module 330 may transmit/receive predetermined data to and from an external medical device (not shown) through various communication modules included internally.

The third power is power required for the wireless communication module 330 to operate, and is a pairing power used to be linked with a medical device, and a sensitivity control circuit for adjusting the sensitivity of a signal for transmitting and receiving predetermined data. It may include at least one of an operating power source. In order for the wireless probe 300 to transmit/receive predetermined data to and from an external medical device, the wireless probe 300 and the medical device should be linked to each other through a wireless network. For such a connection, the wireless probe 300 and the medical device must be synchronized to continuously communicate at predetermined intervals. Accordingly, the third power supply is pairing power, which is power required to maintain the wireless communication module 330 and the medical device in a state in which the medical device is interconnected, power required to transmit and receive predetermined data, and power to adjust the signal sensitivity of the transmitted and received data. may include

The controller 340 controls supply of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power based on the operating state of the wireless probe 300 . Specifically, based on the operating state of the wireless probe 300 , each of the first power, the second power, and the third power may be individually supplied or cut off. Specifically, the controller 340 may control the supply of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power according to the event signal indicating the operating state of the wireless probe 300 .

The display unit 360 displays a predetermined screen under the control of the controller 340 . Specifically, the display unit 360 includes a display panel (not shown), and may display a user interface screen, a medical image screen, and the like on the display panel.

The sensing unit 370 may detect an operating state of the wireless probe. Specifically, the sensing unit 370 may determine whether the user operates the wireless probe. Specifically, the sensing unit 370 may determine whether the user is performing a scan operation using the wireless probe or not.

When the supply state of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power is changed, the notification unit 380 may output a notification signal for allowing the user to recognize the change in the supply state of the power. Specifically, the notification unit 380 may include at least one of a speaker, a lamp, a vibrator, and a display unit.

The user interface unit 390 may generate and output a user interface screen for receiving a predetermined command or data from a user. In addition, a predetermined command or data is received from the user through the user interface screen. The user may recognize predetermined information by viewing the user interface screen displayed through the display unit 360 , and may input predetermined commands or data through the user interface unit 390 .

For example, the user interface unit 390 may include a mouse, a keyboard, or an input device including hard keys for inputting predetermined data. For example, the user may input predetermined data or commands by manipulating at least one of a mouse, a keyboard, and other input devices included in the user interface unit 390 .

As another example, the user interface unit 390 may be formed of a touch pad. Specifically, the user interface unit 390 may include a touch pad (not shown) coupled to a display panel (not shown) included in the display unit 360 . In this case, the user interface screen is output on the display panel. Then, when a predetermined command is input through the user interface screen, the touch pad detects it and transmits the sensed information to the controller 340 . Then, the controller 340 may interpret the sensed information to recognize and execute a predetermined command input by the user.

Specifically, when the user interface unit 390 is formed of a touch pad, when the user touches a predetermined point on the user interface screen, the user interface unit 390 detects the location of the touched point. Then, the sensed location information may be transmitted to the controller 340 . Then, the controller 340 may recognize the user's request or command corresponding to the menu displayed at the detected position, and may perform the recognized request or command.

Specifically, when the scan operation of the object is being performed, the controller 340 may control to supply all of the first power, the second power, and the third power.

Also, when the scan operation of the object is completed, the controller 340 may control to cut off the first power and supply at least one of the second power and the third power. Specifically, when the scanning operation of the object is completed and the ultrasound data processing operation is not completed, the controller 340 may control to cut off the first power and supply the second power and the third power. Then, when the scan operation of the object and the processing operation of the ultrasound data are completed, the controller 340 may control to cut off the first power and the second power and supply the third power.

In addition, if the user does not operate the wireless probe 300 for the first time, the controller 340 may control to cut off the supply of the first power and the second power and supply the third power. Here, the first time is a time required for acquiring and processing ultrasound data, and may be set differently according to product specifications such as a data processing speed of the wireless probe 300 . Specifically, for the first time, after the sound transmission/reception module 310 completes the scan of the object, the signal processing module 320 processes the ultrasound data obtained by scanning the object to generate data to be transmitted to an external medical device. You can set the time it takes to complete. Also, the first time may be set by the user.

Specifically, when the first time elapses after the user does not operate the wireless probe 300 , the controller 340 supplies only the third power including the pairing power for connection with the medical device, and the first and The supply of the second power may be cut off.

Also, if the user does not operate the wireless probe 300 for a second time period greater than the first time period, the controller 340 may cut off all of the first power, the second power, and the third power. The second time period may be set in consideration of a time required to complete transmission of the ultrasound data or ultrasound image generated by the signal processing module 320 from the wireless communication module 330 to the external medical device. In addition, the second time may be set by the user. When the supply of the first power, the second power, and the third power is all cut off, the wireless probe 300 enters the standby state.

In addition, if the user does not operate the wireless probe 300 for a third time period greater than the second time period, the controller 340 completely turns off the wireless probe 300 to maintain the standby state of the wireless probe 300 . It is possible to prevent the generation of standby power for

Also, before completely turning off the wireless probe 300 , the controller 340 may store the current state and environment settings of the wireless probe 300 . Accordingly, when the user turns on and operates the wireless probe 300 again, the controller 340 may reboot the wireless probe 300 using previously stored state and environment settings. Hereinafter, the process in which the wireless probe 300 is completely turned off so that it does not consume even standby power is referred to as 'power off', and the wireless probe 300 is powered off again in the power-off state to operate This is called 'power on'.

As described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, based on the operating state of the wireless probe 300 , the voltage supplied to the sound transmission/reception module 210 , the signal processing module 220 , and the wireless communication module 230 . By selectively supplying or blocking each of them, only the power required in the current operating state of the wireless probe 300 may be selectively supplied. Accordingly, it is possible to effectively cut off unnecessary power in consideration of the current operating state, thereby reducing power consumption of the wireless probe 300 .

Specifically, the operating state of the wireless probe 300 may be determined according to the detection result of the sensing unit 370 , and the control unit 340 may control the first power, the second power, and a third power supply state.

The sensing unit 370 may include at least one of a touch sensor such as a gyro sensor, a position sensor, an acceleration sensor, a temperature sensor, and a pressure sensor. The operation of the sensing unit 370 will be described in detail below with reference to FIG. 4 .

Also, the controller 340 may decrease or increase the power level of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power according to the operating state of the wireless probe 300 . For example, when the amount of power charged in the power supply unit 350 decreases below a predetermined threshold value, the level of the above-described high voltage included in the first power supply may be decreased by a predetermined offset. For example, when the amount of power charged in the power supply unit 350 is reduced to 30% or less, the controller 340 may control the high voltage to be supplied to the transducer 315 to be reduced from 100V to 70V. As described above, when the first power is reduced and applied, the signal value of the acquired ultrasound signal may decrease, but the duration time of the ultrasound scan operation may be increased.

4 is a diagram for explaining a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 4A , the sensing unit 370 includes a temperature sensor (not shown) and a pressure that allows the user 420 to determine whether a scan operation is performed by contacting the wireless probe 410 . At least one of a touch sensor (not shown) such as a sensor may be included. For example, when the sensing unit 370 includes a temperature sensor, the sensing unit 370 detects the user's body temperature when the user 420 touches the wireless probe 410 , and the user 420 . It may be determined that the user is operating the wireless probe 410 .

In addition, when the sensing unit 370 includes a touch sensor, when the user 420 touches the wireless probe 410 , it is detected and it is determined that the user 420 is operating the wireless probe 410 . can judge

Referring to FIG. 4B , the sensing unit 370 may include at least one of a gyro sensor (not shown) and a position sensor (not shown). The gyro sensor detects whether the force is applied in the direction of gravity, and the position sensor detects the position of the wireless probe 410 .

In general, when the wireless probe 410 is not in use, the user transmits the wireless probe 410 in order to protect the acoustic lens 411 disposed outside the transducer 411 of the wireless probe 410 . It hangs on the cradle 430 with the ducer 411 facing up. In addition, when the user scans an object using the wireless probe 410 , the wireless probe 410 is erected and used with the acoustic lens 411 downward. The gyro sensor or the position sensor detects whether the wireless probe 410 is erected with the acoustic lens 411 upward, as shown in FIG. 4 (b), or the acoustic lens 411 is erected downward. can

As a result of the detection of the gyro sensor or the position sensor, when it is determined that the wireless probe 410 is standing or lying with the acoustic lens 411 upward as shown in FIG. ) can be judged as not being manipulated. In addition, if it is determined that the wireless probe 410 is standing with the acoustic lens 411 facing down, it may be determined that the user is operating the wireless probe 410 .

Referring to FIG. 4C , the sensing unit 370 may include an acceleration sensor (not shown). When the user brings the wireless probe 410 into contact with the object 450 and moves it, the acceleration sensor detects the aforementioned movement and determines that the user is operating the wireless probe 410 . Also, when the acceleration sensor does not detect the movement of the wireless probe 410 , it may be determined that the user is not operating the wireless probe 410 .

Also, the wireless probe 410 may not include the sensing unit 370 , and may determine whether a scan operation is being performed by periodically transmitting an ultrasound signal. In general, when scanning an object, a gel for ultrasound diagnosis is applied to the acoustic lens of the wireless probe 410 in contact with the object so that the ultrasound signal is better transmitted to the object. At this time, the shape of the ultrasonic echo signal received by the wireless probe 410 is different between the case where the ultrasonic gel is applied and the case where the ultrasonic gel is not applied. Accordingly, the controller 340 of the wireless probe 410 may determine whether the scan operation of the object is being performed by transmitting the ultrasound signal at predetermined time intervals and observing the shape of the received ultrasound echo signal accordingly.

As described above, it is possible to determine the operating state of the wireless probe 410, specifically, whether a scan operation is being performed, according to the detection result of the sensing unit 370, and accordingly, the control unit 340 controls the power supply. can do.

For example, when it is determined that the wireless probe 300 scans an object based on the detection result of the detection unit 370 , the controller 340 controls to supply the first power, the second power, and the third power can do.

Specifically, when it is determined that the wireless probe 300 is scanning an object, the sensing unit 370 may output an event signal as a first event signal. In addition, when it is determined that the wireless probe 300 is not scanning the object, the event signal may be output as the second event signal. Here, the first event signal and the second event signal may have different signal levels. For example, when the first event signal has a signal value of a logic high level, the second event signal may have a signal value of a logic low level. The controller 340 may determine whether the wireless probe 300 scans the object based on the signal level of the event signal output from the detector 370 .

5 is a diagram for explaining a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention. When the supply state of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power is changed, the notification unit 380 may output a notification signal for allowing the user to recognize the change in the supply state of the power.

Referring to FIG. 5A , the wireless probe 510 provides a notification sound indicating that the supply state of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power is changed through the speaker included in the notification unit 380 . can be printed out.

For example, the speaker included in the notification unit 380 may output a notification sound once when the scan operation is completed and the first power supplied to the sound transmission/reception module 310 is cut off, and the scanning operation continues and when the second power supplied to the signal processing module 320 is cut off after the ultrasonic data processing operation is all completed, two notification sounds may be output. In addition, when the second time has elapsed after the scan operation is completed, the speaker may output a notification sound three times. In addition, after three alarm sounds are output, the wireless probe 300 may be changed to an OFF state immediately.

In addition, the notification sound output from the notification unit 380 may be output as a different sound by distinguishing between when power is supplied and when power is cut off.

Referring to (b) of FIG. 5 , the wireless probe 520 provides a physical vibration that notifies a change in the supply state of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power through the vibrator included in the notification unit 380 . can create

For example, the vibrator may generate one vibration when the scan operation is completed and the first power supplied to the sound transceiver module 310 is cut off, and the scan operation and the ultrasonic data processing operation are all completed. , when the second power supplied to the signal processing module 320 is cut off, two vibrations may be generated. In addition, if the second time has elapsed after the scan operation is completed, three vibrations may be generated.

In addition, the vibrator may generate vibrations having different vibration times when the power supply is cut off and when the power supply is started.

Referring to FIG. 5C , the wireless probe 530 notifies that the supply state of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power is changed through the lamp 531 included in the notification unit 380 . It can be lit to inform.

For example, the lamp is turned on once when the scan operation is completed and the first power supplied to the sound transmission/reception module 310 is cut off, and the scan operation and the ultrasonic data processing operation are all completed continuously, so that the signal processing module When the second power supplied to 320 is cut off, it may be lit twice. In addition, if the second time has elapsed after the scan operation is completed, the light may be lit three times.

In addition, the lamp may be lit with different colors when power is supplied and disconnected.

Referring to (d) of FIG. 5 , the wireless probe 530 changes the supply state of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power through the user interface screen displayed on the display panel 541 . A notification screen can be output.

The user interface screen for notifying the power supply state and the change of the power supply state will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 6 to 9 .

6 is another diagram for explaining a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The wireless probe 300 includes a display unit 360 by itself, and displays a user interface screen informing of a change in the power supply state and/or the power supply state through a display panel (not shown) of the display unit 360. can Here, the user interface screen may be generated by the control unit 340 or the user interface unit 390 .

Referring to FIG. 6A , the wireless probe 610 corresponds to the wireless probe 300 of FIG. 3 . The screen 620 displayed on the display panel of the wireless probe 610 includes a user interface screen 623 indicating a power supply state. Also, the screen 620 may further include an ultrasound image 621 representing the object scanned by the transducer 611 . Here, the ultrasound image 621 is an image generated using ultrasound data acquired by the sound transceiving module 310 .

Also, when the supply state of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power is changed, the user interface screen 623 may output a message notifying the change of the power supply state.

Referring to FIG. 6B , the medical device 650 is a medical device that can be connected to the wireless probe 300 through a wireless network, and transmits predetermined data through the wireless communication module 330 of the wireless probe 300 . can be received

The controller 340 of the wireless probe 300 may transmit information including supply states of the first power, the second power, and the third power to the medical device 650 . Also, when the supply state of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power is changed, the controller 340 may transmit information including the change of the power supply state to the medical device 650 . Also, the controller 340 may generate a user interface screen informing of a change in the power supply state and/or a power supply state, and transmit the generated user interface screen to the medical device 650 . Also, the wireless probe 300 may transmit information including a power supply state to the medical device 650 every predetermined period. Also, when a change in the power supply state occurs, the wireless probe 300 may update information including the aforementioned power supply state and transmit it to the medical device 650 .

Then, based on at least one of the information including the power supply state transmitted from the wireless probe 300 , the information including the change in the power supply state, and the user interface screen, the medical device 650 performs the wireless probe 300 . A user interface screen 651 informing of a change in the power supply state and/or the power supply state may be displayed.

Accordingly, the user can easily determine the supply state of the first power, the second power, and the third power of the wireless probe 300 .

7 is a diagram illustrating a user interface screen indicating a power state of a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 7 , the screen 700 is displayed on at least one of the wireless probe 610 and the medical device 650 , and includes a user interface screen 710 .

Referring to FIG. 7 , the user interface screen 710 shows the power of the sound transmission/reception module 310 , the signal processing module 320 , and the wireless communication module 330 , which are each component in the wireless probe 610 , as shown. Indicates the supply status.

For example, if a check mark 722 is placed on the item 720 indicating the power supply state, it indicates that power is being supplied to the corresponding module. Also, if item 720 is not checked 722, it indicates that power is not supplied to the corresponding module.

Also, the user interface screen 710 may include information (not shown) indicating the amount of power remaining in the power supply unit 350 . Although not shown on the user interface screen 710 of FIG. 7 , information indicating the amount of current remaining power, such as 'battery amount: 70%', may be included.

In addition, although not shown in the user interface screen 710 of FIG. 7 , the user interface screen 710 manually controls the power supply of the sound transmission/reception module 310 , the signal processing module 320 , and the wireless communication module 330 . It may further include a menu for adjusting the . In addition, the amount of power consumed by each of the sound transmission/reception module 310 , the signal processing module 320 , and the wireless communication module 330 may be displayed. Accordingly, the user may selectively cut off the power supply of the module that currently consumes a lot of power.

8 is another diagram illustrating a user interface screen indicating a power state of a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 8 , the screen 800 is displayed on at least one of the wireless probe 610 and the medical device 650 , and includes a user interface screen 810 .

Referring to FIG. 8 , the screen 800 may further include an ultrasound image 850 representing an object scanned by the sound transceiving module 310 .

Referring to FIG. 8 , the user interface screen 810 includes a first item 820 indicating a power supply state of the sound transceiving module 310 and a second item 830 indicating a power supply state of the signal processing module 320 . and a third item 840 indicating a power supply state of the wireless communication module 330 .

In addition, each item (eg, 820 ) may include a sub-item for at least one power required in each module to display the power supply status for the sub-item. For example, as the power required by the sound transmission/reception module 310, the acoustic transmission beamforming power for generating a transmitted focused ultrasound signal indicated by 'Tx Beamformer', and the piezoelectric element (PZT) of the transducer indicated by 'PZT applied power' ), and an acoustic reception beamforming power supply for generating a reception focused ultrasound signal indicated by 'Rx Beamformer'.

Referring to FIG. 8 , a first item 820 may indicate a power supply state of each of the sound transmission beamforming power, the PZT applied power, and the sound reception beamforming power.

9 is a diagram illustrating a user interface screen for setting power of a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 9 , the display unit 360 displays a user interface screen 900 for setting related to the supply of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power according to the control of the controller 340 . can do. Specifically, the user interface screen 900 is for setting whether to use the 'auto On/Off function', which is a function for the control unit 340 to control the supply of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power. An item 910 including a menu key 911 may be included.

Also, the user interface screen 900 may include an item 920 including a menu key 921 for setting a time at which the probe is powered off when the probe is not operated for a predetermined period of time. Specifically, the user may individually set at least one of the first time, the second time, and the third time through the user interface screen 900 .

Also, when the wireless probe 300 is powered on, the controller 340 may set security in order to determine whether to allow the operation of the wireless probe 300 . Specifically, the wireless probe 300 can be used and operated by anyone due to its portability. Accordingly, a security setting is made so that only an authorized person can operate the wireless probe 300 , and only a user who satisfies the set security requirements can be allowed to operate the wireless probe 300 .

Specifically, when the wireless probe 300 is powered on, the controller 340 may control to output a user interface screen including a security setting menu for allowing manipulation of the wireless probe.

Specifically, when the wireless probe 300 is powered on, the controller 340 receives at least one of text information such as a password, a pattern, and a fingerprint through the security setting menu, and receives the input text information, pattern, and It is determined whether at least one of the fingerprints is the same as at least one of the registered text information, pattern, and fingerprint, and only when it is determined that the fingerprint is identical, the wireless probe 300 may be controlled to operate. In addition, when the wireless probe 300 is powered on, the controller 340 controls to output a security setting menu indicating security settings, and subsequently performs biometric information recognition such as face recognition and iris recognition, and the recognized result It is possible to control the wireless probe 300 to operate only when it is determined that is the same as the registered information.

In addition, when security setting is performed using text information, pattern, or fingerprint, the controller 340 outputs a user interface screen for receiving text information, pattern, or fingerprint through the display unit 360, and outputs Text information, a pattern, or a fingerprint may be input through the displayed user interface screen.

In addition, when performing security settings by performing biometric information recognition such as face recognition and iris recognition, the wireless probe 300 may further include a biometric information recognition camera (not shown) for biometric information recognition, and the controller 340 ) may receive a recognition result input through a biometric information recognition camera (not shown), and determine whether the recognized result is the same as the registered information.

Also, the user interface screen 900 may include an item 930 including a menu key 931 for determining whether to set the aforementioned security.

Also, the user interface screen 900 may further include an item 940 indicating a power supply state of each component included in the wireless probe 300 .

10 is a diagram illustrating a method for controlling power of a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention. The method for controlling power of a wireless probe according to an embodiment of the present invention has the same technical concept of the wireless probe according to the embodiment of the present invention described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9 . Therefore, hereinafter, a description overlapping with the wireless probe (eg, 300 ) according to the embodiment of the present invention described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9 will be omitted. Also, a method 1000 for controlling power of a wireless probe will be described below with reference to the wireless probe 300 illustrated in FIG. 3 .

The wireless probe power control method 1000 recognizes the operating state of the wireless probe 300 (step 1010). Operation 1010 may be performed by the sensing unit 370 . Specifically, the event signal detected by the sensing unit 370 may be received. And, based on the input event signal, the operation state of the wireless probe 300 may be recognized.

Based on the operation state of the wireless probe 300 recognized in step 1010, the first power supplied to the sound transceiver module 310 for scanning the object by transmitting the ultrasound signal to the object and receiving the ultrasound echo signal from the object, the ultrasound A second power supply to the signal processing module 320 that generates a pulse for generating a signal and generates ultrasound data using the ultrasound echo signal, and a wireless communication module 330 that transmits/receives predetermined data to and from an external medical device ) control the supply of at least one of the third power supplied to (step 1020). Step 1020 may be performed by the controller 340 .

Also, in step 1020, each of the first power, the second power, and the third power may be individually supplied or cut off based on the operating state of the wireless probe.

As described above, in the wireless probe and the method for controlling the power of the wireless probe according to the embodiment of the present invention, the power consumed and supplied by the wireless probe 300 is classified into a first power, a second power and a third power. , power consumption of the wireless probe can be minimized by selectively controlling the supply and cut-off of the first power, the second power, and the third power according to the operating state of the wireless probe.

Those of ordinary skill in the art related to the embodiments of the present invention will understand that it can be implemented in a modified form without departing from the essential characteristics of the description. Therefore, the disclosed methods are to be considered in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. The scope of the present invention is indicated in the claims rather than in the detailed description of the invention, and all differences within the equivalent scope should be construed as being included in the scope of the present invention.

110: radio probe
120: body
130: network
200: radio probe
210: sound transceiver module
220: signal processing module
230: wireless communication module
240: control unit
250: power unit

Claims (21)

an acoustic transmission/reception module configured to transmit an ultrasound signal to an object using a first power source and receive an ultrasound echo signal from the object to scan the object;
a signal processing module that generates a pulse for generating the ultrasound signal using a second power source and generates ultrasound data using the ultrasound echo signal;
a wireless communication module for transmitting and receiving predetermined data to and from the medical device by using a third power source;
a controller configured to control supply of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power based on an operating state of the portable ultrasound diagnosis apparatus;
a power supply unit configured to supply or cut off at least one of the first power source, the second power source, and the third power source according to the control of the control unit; and
a display unit;
the control unit
and when the portable ultrasound diagnosis apparatus completes a scan operation, the first power is turned off and at least one of the second power and the third power is supplied. According to claim 1, wherein the control unit
and controlling to supply the first power, the second power, and the third power when the portable ultrasound diagnosis apparatus is performing a scan operation. According to claim 1, wherein the control unit
and controlling to supply the third power and cut off the supply of the first power and the second power when the manipulation of the portable ultrasound diagnosis device is not detected for a first time. According to claim 1, wherein the control unit
and controlling to cut off all of the first power, the second power, and the third power when the manipulation of the portable ultrasound diagnosis apparatus is not detected for a second time period. According to claim 1,
The portable ultrasound diagnosis apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a sensing unit configured to detect whether a user operates the portable ultrasound diagnosis apparatus. The method of claim 1, wherein the sound transceiver module
at least one transducer generating the ultrasonic signal when a predetermined voltage is applied;
an ultrasonic generator for supplying a driving signal to the transducer; and
and an ultrasound receiver configured to receive and focus the ultrasound echo signal received from the transducer. The method of claim 6, wherein the first power supply is
at least one of a power supply for supplying the predetermined voltage, an acoustic transmission beamforming power supply for generating the transmitted focused ultrasound signal, and an acoustic reception beamforming power supply for generating the received and focused ultrasound echo signal,
The second power supply is
at least one of a power used to generate the pulse and a power used to process at least one of the ultrasound data and an ultrasound image corresponding to the ultrasound data
The third power is
and at least one of a pairing power used to be linked with the medical device and a power used to adjust the sensitivity of a signal for transmitting and receiving the predetermined data. According to claim 1, wherein the control unit
and generating information indicating a supply state of at least one of the first power source, the second power source, and the third power source and controlling the generated information to be transmitted to the medical device. According to claim 1,
and the display unit displays a user interface screen indicating supply states of the first power, the second power, and the third power. According to claim 1,
and the display unit displays a user interface screen for setting supply control of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power. According to claim 1,
The signal processing module is configured to generate an ultrasound image from the ultrasound data,
The display unit is configured to display the ultrasound image,
Portable ultrasound diagnostic device. According to claim 1,
further comprising an input device for receiving commands or data;
Portable ultrasound diagnostic device. According to claim 1,
The display unit is configured to display a user interface screen for receiving a command or data input,
Portable ultrasound diagnostic device. According to claim 1, wherein the power supply unit
and a battery configured to charge a power source and supplying at least one of the first power source, the second power source, and the third power source using the charged power source. According to claim 1, wherein the power supply unit
The portable ultrasound diagnosis apparatus according to claim 1, wherein wireless power is received from the outside and at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power is supplied using the received wireless power. According to claim 1,
and a sensor for detecting a position of the portable ultrasound diagnosis apparatus
Portable ultrasound diagnostic device. According to claim 1,
wherein the control unit is configured to operate the portable ultrasound diagnosis apparatus based on an input related to a security setting;
Portable ultrasound diagnostic device. transmitting an ultrasound signal to an object using a first power source and receiving an ultrasound echo signal from the object to scan the object;
generating a pulse for generating the ultrasound signal using a second power source and generating ultrasound data using the ultrasound echo signal;
transmitting and receiving predetermined data to and from the medical device through wireless communication using a third power source;
controlling, by a controller, supply of at least one of the first power, the second power, and the third power based on an operating state of the portable ultrasound diagnosis apparatus;
supplying or blocking at least one of the first power source, the second power source, and the third power source by a power supply unit under the control of the control unit;
displaying at least one ultrasound image; and
and turning off the first power and controlling at least one of the second power and the third power to be supplied when the portable ultrasound diagnosis device completes a scan operation. 19. The method of claim 18,
and controlling to supply the first power, the second power, and the third power when the portable ultrasound diagnosis apparatus is performing a scan operation. 19. The method of claim 18,
and controlling to supply the third power and cut off the supply of the first power and the second power when the manipulation of the portable ultrasound diagnosis apparatus is not detected for a first time. control method. 19. The method of claim 18,
and controlling to cut off all of the first power, the second power, and the third power when the manipulation of the portable ultrasound diagnosis apparatus is not detected for a second time. .

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