JP4170725B2 - Ultrasonic diagnostic equipment - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, and more particularly to an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that displays a spatial model corresponding to a three-dimensional echo data capturing space on a display screen.
[0002]
[Prior art]
The ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data (3D probe) is a probe for forming a three-dimensional echo data capturing space (three-dimensional space) in a living body. The 3D probe is used when forming a three-dimensional image of a living tissue or when forming a tomographic image (tissue image, blood flow image) or the like corresponding to a cut surface set in a three-dimensional space. As 3D probes, 2D array transducers (including sparse array type) are used to scan ultrasonic beams two-dimensionally, 1D array transducers are mechanically scanned, single transducers are mechanically two-dimensional What is scanned is known.
[0003]
Incidentally, in a probe having a conventional 1D array transducer, generally, a protruding physical marker is provided on the side surface of the case corresponding to one end of the 1D array transducer (a reference end corresponding to the start point of electronic scanning). Yes. When displaying a tomographic image, a display marker corresponding to the physical marker is displayed on the side (right side or left side) corresponding to the reference end in the tomographic image. By specifying the side on which the display marker is displayed, it is possible to grasp whether the viewpoint of the tomographic image is on the near side or the far side.
[0004]
In addition, there are Japanese Patent Application Nos. 2002-183999, 2002-209075, and 2002-141188 as unpublished patent applications of the applicant of the present application related to the present application.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
By the way, some conventional apparatuses display a space model (for example, a wire frame) simulating a three-dimensional space on a display screen. Using the spatial model, for example, the position of the cut surface can be confirmed or designated. However, in such a conventional apparatus, it is difficult to intuitively recognize the positional relationship or coordinate relationship between the space model and the 3D probe.
[0006]
An object of the present invention is to provide a user with convenience in image observation in an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus.
[0007]
Another object of the present invention is to make it easy to recognize the correspondence between a 3D probe and a spatial model in an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus that displays a three-dimensional spatial model.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
(1) An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is for capturing three-dimensional echo data by scanning an ultrasonic beam in the first scanning direction and the second scanning direction to form a three-dimensional echo data capturing space. An ultrasonic probe, a physical marker unit provided on an outer surface of the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data, for recognizing the first scanning direction and the second scanning direction, and the tertiary Spatial model generation means for generating a spatial model as an image corresponding to the original echo data capturing space, and probe model generation for generating a probe model as an image corresponding to the ultrasonic probe for capturing the three-dimensional echo data A display on which a combination of the spatial model and the probe model is displayed on the display screen, and is associated with the physical marker portion on the probe model. Manufacturers part that is displayed.
[0009]
According to the above configuration, the 3D echo data capturing ultrasonic probe (3D probe) is provided with the physical marker unit, while the spatial model and the probe model are displayed on the display screen. A display marker portion associated with the physical marker portion is displayed on the probe model. That is, the positional relationship or coordinate relationship between the three-dimensional echo data capturing space (three-dimensional space) and the space model can be recognized from the correspondence relationship between the physical marker unit and the display marker unit. In particular, since the probe model is displayed in combination with the space model, there is an advantage that the coordinate system of the space model can be intuitively recognized.
[0010]
The physical marker portion is preferably composed of a plurality of physical markers, and particularly preferably composed of two physical markers, but may be composed of a single physical marker. Alternatively, for example, different physical markers may be provided on the four side surfaces of the 3D probe. Similarly, the display marker section is preferably composed of a plurality of display markers, and particularly preferably composed of two display markers, but is composed of a single display marker or four display markers. Is also possible. Here, it is desirable that the physical marker unit and the display marker unit have the same configuration. For example, each marker is preferably a simple figure, but may be a character.
[0011]
Preferably, the probe model and the spatial model are each represented as a stereoscopic image on the display screen, and the ultrasonic probe for capturing the three-dimensional echo data and the three-dimensional echo data capturing space Depending on the positional relationship, they are displayed in an integrally coupled state.
[0012]
The surface corresponding to the transmission / reception surface of the probe model may be joined to the upper surface (surface on the transmission / reception side) of the space model, or it may be separated. In any case, for example, even if there is a change in viewpoint, it is desirable that they change their posture while maintaining the spatial relationship between the two models.
[0013]
Preferably, the outer shape of the probe model is expressed by a plurality of lines. The probe model is an abstraction of an actual 3D probe, and preferably has an outer shape close to the outer shape of the 3D probe. However, the probe model may be three-dimensionally represented by a simple box, pyramid, or the like. If the probe model is a line drawing, the calculation is simple, and if necessary, the probe model may be expressed as a perspective image or a three-dimensional image (an image in which the back side of the surface is hidden when viewed from the viewpoint). In the latter case, each surface may be colored. The size ratio between the probe model and the space model may be the same as or close to the size ratio between the actual 3D probe and the three-dimensional space.
[0014]
Desirably, selection means for selecting the shape of the probe model according to the type of the ultrasonic probe for taking in three-dimensional echo data to be used is included. The type of 3D probe may be obtained by input information or by automatic acquisition. By expressing the probe model as an image close to the appearance of the 3D probe, a realistic impression can be obtained.
[0015]
Preferably, the space model is a wire frame expressing the three-dimensional echo data capturing space or a solid corresponding to the space using a plurality of lines. The shape of the space model may coincide with the shape of the three-dimensional space, or may be a three-dimensional shape that includes or corresponds to the shape. Other spatial models other than the wire frame can also be adopted, but the display process is simple according to the wire frame, and the other image can be observed even if another image is inserted and displayed inside the wire frame. There is an advantage of not disturbing too much.
[0016]
The 3D probe may have a 2D array transducer (sparse array type), or a 1D array transducer and a mechanical scanning mechanism. In any case, a three-dimensional space can be formed by two-dimensional scanning with an ultrasonic beam.
[0017]
Preferably, the physical marker unit includes a first physical marker for specifying an orientation of a first scanning surface formed by scanning the ultrasonic beam in the first scanning direction, and the second scanning direction. And a second physical marker for specifying the orientation of the second scanning surface formed by scanning the ultrasonic beam.
[0018]
In general, a scanning surface (or tomographic image) has a front surface and a back surface. For example, it is desirable to provide a physical marker on the front surface side (or back surface side) of the scanning surface. In general, there are also a start point and an end point in the scanning direction. For example, the position of the physical marker may be shifted to the start point side (or the end point side), or the correlation between the two physical markers. As an alternative, two physical markers may be provided so that one marker identifies the starting point side of the other marker.
[0019]
The first physical marker and the second physical marker are configured to be distinguishable from each other. For example, it is desirable that one or more of the outer shape, the color, the size, and the like are different. Moreover, you may provide the uneven | corrugated difference. In addition, you may provide the single physical marker which exhibits both the function of a 1st physical marker and a 2nd physical marker in the specific corner | angular part of a probe.
[0020]
Preferably, the display marker includes a first display marker associated with the first physical marker and a second display marker associated with the second physical marker. Preferably, the first display marker has a form corresponding to the first physical marker, and the second display marker has a form corresponding to the second physical marker.
[0021]
Preferably, the probe model is configured as a stereoscopic image having a first side surface and a second side surface, the first display marker is displayed on or near the first side surface of the probe model, The second display marker is displayed on or near the two side surfaces.
[0022]
Preferably, a display position of the first display marker in the probe model is set in correspondence with a display position of the first physical marker in the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data, and the three-dimensional echo is set. Corresponding to the display position of the second physical marker in the data acquisition ultrasonic probe, the display position of the second display marker in the probe model is set.
[0023]
Preferably, the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data includes a first side surface and a third side surface intersecting with the second scanning direction, and a second side surface and a fourth side surface intersecting with the first scanning direction. And the first physical marker is provided on at least one of the first side surface and the second side surface of the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data, and for capturing the three-dimensional echo data The second physical marker is provided on at least one of the second side surface and the fourth side surface of the ultrasonic probe.
[0024]
Preferably, the probe model includes the first side surface and the third side surface corresponding to the first side surface and the third side surface of the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data, and the three-dimensional echo data acquisition. And a second side surface and a fourth side surface corresponding to the second side surface and the fourth side surface of the embedded ultrasonic probe, and at least one of the first side surface and the third side surface of the probe model. The first display marker is displayed on one side, and the second display marker is displayed on at least one of the second side surface and the third side surface of the probe model.
[0025]
(2) The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention has a substantially rectangular horizontal cross section, scans an ultrasonic beam in the first scanning direction and the second scanning direction, and generates three-dimensional echo data. An ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data forming a capture space, and a first side surface and a third side surface intersecting the second scanning direction in the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data The first physical marker formed on at least one of the second physical surface and the second physical surface formed on at least one of the second side surface and the fourth side surface intersecting the first scanning direction in the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data. A physical marker, a spatial model generating means for generating a spatial model as an image corresponding to the three-dimensional echo data capturing space, and the ultrasonic wave for capturing the three-dimensional echo data displayed in a state coupled with the spatial model And a probe model generating means for generating a probe model as an image corresponding to the touch element, on the display screen, on or near at least one of the first side surface and the third side surface of the probe model. A first display marker associated with the first physical marker is displayed, and is associated with the second physical marker on or near at least one of the second side surface and the fourth side surface of the probe model. the second display marker that is still appears.
[0026]
Preferably, the first physical marker and the second physical marker are formed at a predetermined height level in the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data, and the first display marker and the second display marker Are displayed at a predetermined height level in the probe model corresponding to the formation positions of the first physical marker and the second physical marker in the ultrasonic probe for taking in three-dimensional echo data.
[0027]
Each physical marker may be provided in the lower part of the 3D probe (end near the transmission / reception surface). In that case, each display marker may be displayed on the lower part of the probe model (the end close to the surface corresponding to the transmission / reception surface).
[0028]
Preferably, each of the first display marker and the second display marker has an original shape as a graphic mark, and the first display marker has a shape corresponding to the posture of the first side surface of the probe model viewed from the viewpoint. And the second display marker is displayed on the second side surface in a shape corresponding to the posture of the second side surface of the probe model as viewed from the viewpoint.
[0029]
Desirably, it includes viewpoint changing means for changing the viewpoint, and according to the change of the viewpoint, the shapes of the space model and the probe model change, and the shapes of the first display marker and the second display marker change. To do.
[0030]
Preferably, separately from the wire frame and the probe model on the display screen, three tomographic images corresponding to three cross sections intersecting each other set for the three-dimensional echo data capturing space are displayed, In addition, at least one of the first display marker and the second display marker is displayed on or near each tomographic image.
[0031]
Desirably, an arbitrary cross section setting means for user setting an arbitrary cross section at an arbitrary position and angle in the three-dimensional echo data capturing space is included, and the arbitrary cross section of the arbitrary cross section is included in the wire frame on the display screen. According to the position and angle, an arbitrary tomographic image corresponding to the arbitrary cross section is displayed.
[0032]
Preferably, a three-dimensional image representing a tissue in the three-dimensional echo data capturing space is displayed in the wire frame on the display screen. Various methods of 3D image processing can be used, but for example, a volume rendering method or the like may be employed.
[0033]
(3) In addition, the ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention scans an ultrasonic beam in the first scanning direction and the second scanning direction to form a three-dimensional echo data capturing space that forms a three-dimensional echo data capturing space. Ultrasonic probe, a first physical marker provided on a first side of the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data, and a first of the ultrasonic probe for acquiring three-dimensional echo data A second physical marker provided on two side surfaces, and a probe model generating means for generating a probe model as an image corresponding to the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data, on the display screen, A first display marker corresponding to the first physical marker is displayed on a first side surface of the probe model, and a second corresponding to the second physical marker is displayed on a second side surface of the probe model. table Markers that are displayed.
[0034]
Preferably, the first physical marker is provided at a position displaced in the first scanning direction from the center on the first side surface of the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data, and the second physical marker is The three-dimensional echo data capturing ultrasonic probe is provided on the second side surface at a position displaced from the center thereof in the second scanning direction.
[0035]
Preferably, the first display marker is displayed at a position displaced from the center of the first side surface of the probe model in a direction corresponding to the first scanning direction, and the second display marker is the first side of the probe model. The two side surfaces are displayed at positions displaced from the center in a direction corresponding to the second scanning direction.
[0036]
Preferably, the first physical marker and the second physical marker are provided at positions displaced toward the scanning reference point side of the ultrasonic beam, and the first display marker and the second display marker are scanned with the ultrasonic beam. It is displayed at a position displaced to the side corresponding to the reference point side.
[0037]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0038]
FIG. 1 shows a preferred embodiment of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration thereof. The 3D probe 10 is a three-dimensional echo data capturing ultrasonic probe connected to the apparatus main body via a cable. That is, it is possible to scan the ultrasonic beam B in both the θ direction (first scanning direction) and the φ direction (second scanning direction), and thereby the three-dimensional echo data capturing space (three-dimensional space) V. Is formed. In FIG. 1, the depth direction is represented by r, and a scanning surface formed by electronic scanning of the ultrasonic beam B is represented by S. The scanning surface S is an r-θ scanning surface (first scanning surface) defined by the θ direction and the depth direction (ultrasonic beam direction) as the first scanning direction. On the other hand, the r-φ scanning plane (second scanning plane) is defined by the depth direction and the φ direction, which is the second scanning direction, and is orthogonal to the r-θ scanning plane.
[0039]
In the present embodiment, the 3D probe 10 has a 2D array transducer formed by two-dimensionally arranging a plurality of vibration elements. That is, the ultrasonic beam can be electronically scanned in both the θ direction and the φ direction. A so-called sparse 2D array transducer may be used as the 2D array transducer. Further, a three-dimensional space V may be formed by providing a 1D array transducer and a mechanism for mechanically scanning it.
[0040]
Examples of ultrasonic beam electronic scanning methods include electronic sector scanning and electronic linear scanning. The same applies to the mechanical scanning method, and examples include mechanical sector scanning and mechanical linear scanning. When electronic sector scanning is applied in both the θ direction and the φ direction, when the convex scanning is performed in the θ direction and the mechanical sector scanning is performed in the φ direction, the three-dimensional space V is substantially a pyramid as a whole. It becomes a shape. On the other hand, when electronic linear scanning is applied in two scanning directions, the three-dimensional space V has a cubic shape. Depending on the shape of the three-dimensional space V, the shape of each tomographic image to be described later varies in principle. However, each tomographic image may be cut into a predetermined shape and displayed.
[0041]
The 2D array transducer (not shown) is provided in the case 12 of the 3D probe 10. Specifically, the 2D array transducer is provided in the vicinity of the inside of the wave transmitting / receiving surface 13. The wave transmission / reception surface 13 is a surface abutted on the body surface. Although the present invention is particularly preferably applied to the 3D probe used in contact with the body surface as described above, it can also be applied to a 3D probe inserted into a body cavity. In that case, it is desirable to include an X-ray contrast medium in each physical mark so that each physical mark described later can be observed by X-rays or the like.
[0042]
As shown in FIG. 1, a physical mark portion 16 is formed in the lower portion (end portion on the living body side) of the case 12. In the present embodiment, the physical mark portion 16 is composed of a first physical mark 18 and a second physical mark 20.
[0043]
The first physical mark 18 is provided on the first side surface 12A in this example among the four side surfaces 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D of the case 12. The first side surface 12A is a side surface on the origin (in principle, the starting point of scanning) side in the φ direction among two side surfaces that are parallel when the r-θ scanning surface is vertical. As described above, in the present embodiment, the first physical mark 18 exists on the front surface side (or back surface side) of the r-θ scanning surface and specifies the direction thereof. In the present embodiment, the first physical mark 18 has a round shape and is provided at a position displaced from the vertical center line of the first side surface 12A in the x direction (to the second side surface 12B side). That is, it is provided by being displaced toward the scanning start point side (or the scanning end point side) in the θ direction, whereby the scanning start point (or scanning end point) can be visually specified. Note that the scanning start point and the scanning end point can be switched by electronic control.
[0044]
Similarly to the above, the second physical mark 20 is provided on the second side surface 12B among the four side surfaces 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D of the case 12. The second side surface 12B is the side surface on the origin (the principle starting point of scanning) side in the θ direction among the two side surfaces that are parallel when the r-φ scanning surface is vertical. As described above, in the present embodiment, like the first physical mark 18, the second physical mark 20 exists on the front surface side (or back surface side) of the r-φ scanning surface, and the direction thereof is specified. In the present embodiment, the second physical mark 20 is different in shape from the first physical mark 18 and has a quadrangular shape. The second side surface 12B is provided at a position displaced from the vertical center line in the y direction (to the third side surface 12C side). That is, it is provided by being displaced toward the scanning start point side (or the scanning end point side) in the φ direction, whereby the scanning start point (or scanning end point) can be visually specified.
[0045]
It is desirable that the first physical mark 18 and the second physical mark 20 have different colors and shapes. For example, the first physical mark 18 has an orange round shape, and the second physical mark 20 has a green square shape. Is desirable. Of course, as long as the physical marks 18 and 20 can be easily visually identified, various forms can be adopted. For example, one of the two physical marks 18 and 20 may be a convex portion and the other may be a concave portion. One or the other may be an arrow indicating the scanning direction.
[0046]
In FIG. 1, the physical marks 18 and 20 are provided at the lower ends of the side surfaces, but may be provided at other parts. However, it is desirable to provide the physical marks 18 and 20 at positions where the physical marks 18 and 20 are not concealed by the operator's hand in the state where the case 12 is held. Further, physical marks may be provided on all of the four side surfaces 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D. Furthermore, although a simple figure as a symbol is used as a physical mark in this embodiment, it can be configured as a character or a word.
[0047]
Therefore, as is apparent from the above description, the first physical mark 18 specifies the orientation of the surface of the first scanning surface formed in the first scanning direction, and similarly, the second physical mark 20 is The orientation of the surface of the second scanning surface formed in the second scanning direction is specified. In addition, since each of them is provided in a displaced manner, the starting point of each electronic scanning can be easily specified, and the first scanning direction and the first scanning direction can also be determined from the relationship in which one is provided on the starting side of the other electronic scanning. The starting point of electronic scanning in the two scanning directions can be easily recognized.
[0048]
The case 12 generally has a color such as white or gray, but it is desirable that the colors of the physical marks 18 and 20 be different from the color of the case 12. The physical marks 18 and 20 are preferably made of, for example, a rubber material and have a different texture from the case 12 made of resin or the like.
[0049]
In addition, when the 3D probe 10 is connected to the apparatus main body, its type or identifier is automatically recognized, thereby obtaining information on the 3D probe (probe type, probe shape, scanning method, physical mark shape, color, etc.). It is desirable to perform a wire frame and probe model display process and a display mark display process, which will be described later.
[0050]
The transmission unit 30 functions as a transmission beam former, and supplies a transmission signal with a predetermined delay relationship to a plurality of vibration elements constituting the array transducer. As a result, a transmission beam is formed in the 3D probe 10. The receiving unit 32 functions as a reception beam former that performs phasing addition on reception signals output from a plurality of vibration elements. In order to improve the frame rate, a plurality of reception beams may be simultaneously formed per transmission beam formation.
[0051]
The above-described three-dimensional space V is formed by two-dimensional scanning of the ultrasonic beam. In this case, the ultrasonic beam may be scanned in the θ direction, and the scanning surface S formed thereby may be formed for each position in the φ direction, or the ultrasonic beam may be scanned in the φ direction, The scanning plane formed thereby may be formed at each position in the θ direction. In any case, the scanning sequence is set so that a three-dimensional space is formed.
[0052]
The signal processing unit 34 includes, for example, a detector and a logarithmic converter. Of course, when performing Doppler signal processing, a quadrature detector, an autocorrelation circuit, or the like may be provided. In any case, the received signal (echo data) processed by the signal processing unit 34 is stored in the 3D memory 36. In storing the echo data, the address of the 3D memory 36 is associated with φ, θ, r, and each echo data is stored at an address associated with the three-dimensional coordinate in the three-dimensional space V. However, when 3D image formation and tomographic image formation can be performed sequentially, the 3D memory 36 can be excluded, or a frame memory, a line memory, or the like may be provided instead.
[0053]
In storing data in the 3D memory 36, the data may be stored not in the transmission / reception coordinate system (polar coordinate system) as described above but in the orthogonal coordinate system (x, y, z). The designation of each cross section in the triplane display described later may be performed by specifying r, θ, and φ, or may be performed by specifying x, y, and z.
[0054]
Next, the image processing unit (display processing unit) 37 will be described. In the present embodiment, the image processing unit 37 has a plurality of modules. The function of each module is realized by hardware or by software. Specifically, the image processing unit 37 includes a three-dimensional image forming unit 38, an arbitrary tomographic image forming unit 52, a first tomographic image forming unit 54, a second tomographic image forming unit 56, a third tomographic image forming unit 58, A spatial model creation unit 60, a probe model creation unit 64, and an image composition unit 62 are provided.
[0055]
The three-dimensional image forming unit 38 uses a volume rendering method or the like based on each echo data captured in the three-dimensional space V, for example, to thereby generate a three-dimensional image (projected image) of the tissue existing in the three-dimensional space V. ). Various methods other than the above can be adopted as a method for forming a three-dimensional image. For example, a maximum value method or an integration method can be used. In this embodiment, it is possible to express a three-dimensional image in a wire frame as a space model to be described later. Of course, a three-dimensional image can be displayed alone.
[0056]
The arbitrary tomographic image forming unit 52 is a module that forms an arbitrary tomographic image corresponding to an arbitrary cut plane designated by the user at an arbitrary position and angle in the three-dimensional space V. As is well known, the tomographic image is configured as a B-mode image (two-dimensional tomographic image). This arbitrary tomographic image can be expressed in a wire frame in this embodiment. In this case, the posture of the wire frame is automatically set in relation to the viewpoint, and at the same time, the posture of the arbitrary tomographic image is automatically set in relation to the wire frame.
[0057]
The first tomographic image forming unit 54, the second tomographic image forming unit 56, and the third tomographic image forming unit 58 are modules that form three tomographic images when performing so-called triplane display. The first tomographic image corresponds to, for example, an r-θ cross section or an xz cross section, the second tomographic image corresponds to, for example, an r-φ cross section or yz cross section, and the third tomographic image corresponds to, for example, a θ-φ cross section or x Corresponds to the -y cross section. It is possible to arbitrarily set the position of each cross section and express it as three orthogonal tomographic images for a desired organ.
[0058]
The space model creation unit 60 is a module that creates a wire frame as a space model. The wire frame can be constructed by setting a viewpoint at an arbitrary position, and the above-described three-dimensional image or arbitrary tomographic image can be expressed in the wire frame as necessary. The wire frame is composed of a plurality of lines, which are expressed in three dimensions.
[0059]
The probe model creation unit 64 is a module that creates a probe model displayed together with the wire frame. The probe model is an image simulating the 3D probe 10, and may have a realistic external shape similar to that of the 3D probe 10, or may be more abstracted and expressed as a simple prismatic or pyramidal box. . The probe model is composed of a plurality of lines, which are expressed in three dimensions. In that case, processing such as coloring may be performed on each surface visible from the viewpoint. The probe model and the wire frame are spatially connected, and even if the viewpoint is changed, the spatial positional relationship between them is maintained, and the posture changes as a unit. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 later, the upper surface of the wire frame (corresponding to the surface on the transmitting / receiving side) and the lower surface of the probe model (surface corresponding to the transmitting / receiving surface) are joined, that is, Models are displayed in combination. Therefore, the space model creation unit 60 and the probe model creation unit 64 may be configured by a single module.
[0060]
In the present embodiment, as will be described later, the first display mark is displayed on the first side surface (corresponding to the first side surface 12A of the 3D probe 10) in the probe model, and the second side surface (the second side surface 12B of the 3D probe 10). The second display mark is displayed. The first display mark corresponds to the first physical mark 18 described above, and the second display mark corresponds to the second physical mark 20 described above. That is, when the probe model and the space model are displayed as images by the correspondence between the two physical marks and the two display marks, the positional relationship between the probe model and the space model, the 3D probe 10 and the three-dimensional space V or Coordinate relationships can be easily recognized. Incidentally, the first display mark and the second display mark are also displayed on or near each tomographic image as necessary. Each display mark and its display example will be described later.
[0061]
The image composition unit 62 is a module that composes the images created by the modules described above, and thereby configures a display screen. The image data of the display image formed by the image processing unit 37 is displayed on the display unit 46, and the image is displayed on the display screen.
[0062]
The control unit 48 performs operation control of each component shown in FIG. An operation panel 50 constituted by a keyboard, a trackball or the like is connected to the control unit 48. Using this operation panel 50, the user can change the viewpoint, and can specify the position or angle of each tomographic image. Furthermore, the operation panel 50 can be used to set image processing conditions and ultrasonic transmission / reception conditions in the image processing unit 37.
[0063]
FIG. 2 shows the correspondence between the physical marks 18 and 20 and the display marks 118 and 120. Here, (E) shows the relationship between the 3D probe 10 and an organ (for example, heart) 100 to be subjected to ultrasonic diagnosis, where reference numeral 102 represents the central axis (vertical axis) of the three-dimensional space V. ing. As described above, the first physical mark 18 and the second physical mark 20 are provided on the first side surface and the second side surface of the 3D probe 10, respectively.
[0064]
In (D), a wire frame 104 and a probe model 105 are shown. The wire frame 104 is displayed as a spatial model representing a three-dimensional space on the display screen. In the present embodiment, the wire frame 104 is represented by a plurality of lines (straight lines), and the overall shape thereof is a cube (a rectangular parallelepiped). However, the wire frame may have a substantially pyramid shape including an arc line. The probe model 105 is displayed as a model representing the 3D probe 10 on the display screen. In the present embodiment, the probe model 105 is represented as a line drawing having a three-dimensional shape convex upward.
[0065]
The wire frame 104 has six surfaces in this embodiment, and specifically has four side surfaces, an upper surface, and a lower surface. Here, the black arrows point to the respective surfaces, and 104A, 104B, 104C, and 104D are the first side surface, the second side surface, the third side surface, and the fourth side surface, respectively. Reference numerals 104E and 104F denote an upper surface and a lower surface. Here, the upper surface 104E is a surface on the side where the 3D probe exists.
[0066]
On the other hand, the probe model 105 also has four side surfaces corresponding to the four side surfaces 12A to 12D (see FIG. 1) of the 3D probe 10. In FIG. 2, the first side surface and the second side surface appear therein (the third side surface and the fourth side surface are hidden from the relationship with the viewpoint position), and the first display mark 118 is provided on the first side surface. The second display mark 120 is shown on the second side. Specifically, the circular first display mark 118 is displayed at the lower right corner of the first side surface, and the square second display mark 120 is displayed at the lower right corner of the second side surface. As shown in FIG. 1, a circular first physical mark 18 is provided at the lower right corner of the first side surface 12A of the 3D probe 10, and a square second physical mark 20 is provided at the lower left corner of the second side surface 12B. This corresponds to what is provided.
[0067]
More specifically, the first display mark 118 and the 22nd display mark 120 together constitute a display marker portion. As described above, the first display mark 118 corresponds to the first physical mark 18 and has the same form and color. That is, the first display mark 118 has a circular shape (original shape), and the color thereof is, for example, the same orange color as that of the first physical mark 18. The second display mark 120 has a quadrangular shape (original shape) like the second physical mark 20, and its color is green. That is, the first physical mark 18 and the second physical mark 20 are provided on the first side surface 12A and the second side surface 12B of the 3D probe 10, respectively. Similarly, in the probe model 105, the first side surface and the second side surface are also provided. The first display mark 118 and the second display mark 120 are displayed on the screen, respectively. Therefore, when the probe model 105 displayed together with the space model 104 is observed, the positional relationship or coordinate relationship between the probe model 105 and the 3D probe (or three-dimensional space) can be clearly understood.
[0068]
The first display mark 118 and the second display mark 120 are expressed by being deformed from the original shape according to the orientation of the side surface of the probe model to which the first display mark 118 and the second display mark 120 are attached. That is, for example, when the first side faces the viewpoint, the first display mark 118 is displayed with its original shape, but when the first side viewed from the viewpoint is inclined, the deformation rate according to the inclination is displayed. The first display mark 118 is crushed (flattened) and displayed. The same applies to the second display mark 120.
[0069]
In the present embodiment, the viewpoint can be freely changed, and as is apparent from the above description, the shape of each display mark 118, 120 changes with the change of the viewpoint. In addition, when each display mark 118,120 wraps around to the back side when viewed from the viewpoint, it is hidden by other side surfaces, but each display mark 118,120 is formed according to the shape viewed from the viewpoint using a perspective image. In addition to this, the user may be made aware of the back side of each of the display marks 118 and 120 by, for example, lowering their luminance slightly or changing the display method.
[0070]
In the present embodiment, planes 106, 108, and 110 representing three cross sections set by the user are displayed on the wire frame 104. Here, the plane 108 corresponds to, for example, an r-θ section or an xz section, and the plane 106 corresponds to, for example, an r-φ section or a yz section. The plane 110 corresponds to, for example, a θ-φ cross section or an xy cross section. Incidentally, although the plane 110 shows a so-called horizontal section, the horizontal section may be a plane or a spherical surface.
[0071]
In (C), a tomographic image 124 corresponding to the plane 108 is shown. A first display mark 118 is attached in the vicinity of the tomographic image 124. As described above, the first physical mark 18 exists on the positive side of the first scanning plane (θ-r plane), and on the scanning origin side (right side in the drawing) in the first scanning direction (θ direction). The first display mark 118 is displayed on the upper right side (corner) of the tomographic image 124 reflecting the displacement (see FIG. 1). When the back surface of the plane 108 is displayed as the tomographic image 124, the first display mark 118 is displayed on the left side of the tomographic image 124. In this case, the display form may be slightly changed so that the first display mark 118 is expressed as a halftone or is recognized as the back side. The same applies to the second display mark 120.
[0072]
(B) shows a tomographic image 122 corresponding to the plane 106. In this example, the second display mark 120 is attached to the upper right part (corner part) of the tomographic image 122. As described above, the second physical mark 20 exists on the positive side of the first scanning plane (r-φ plane), and on the scanning origin side (right side in the drawing) in the second scanning direction (φ direction). The second display mark 120 is displayed on the upper right part (corner) of the tomographic image 122 reflecting the displacement (see FIG. 1).
[0073]
In (A), a tomographic image 126 corresponding to the plane 110 is shown. In this case, since the surface of the plane 110 is displayed as a tomographic image 126 as viewed from the direction of 104E, the first display mark 118 and the second display mark 120 are displayed as a tomographic image as shown in FIG. It is displayed around 126 while maintaining its positional relationship basically.
[0074]
FIG. 3 shows an example of an image displayed on the display screen 130 in the display unit 46. In this example, a wire frame 104 having a probe model 105 and three tomographic images (triplanes 122, 124, 126) are shown on a display screen 130. In the probe model 105, as described with reference to FIG. 2, two display marks associated with two physical marks are represented, and the tomographic images 122, 124, and 126 are also represented in order to represent their coordinate relationships. One or both of the first display mark and the second display mark are added.
[0075]
In the example shown in FIG. 3, lines L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, and L6 representing the positions of other tomographic images, that is, the positions of the cut surfaces, are represented on each tomographic image. This shows the positions of the other two planes when attention is paid to a certain plane in the orthogonal relationship of the three planes as shown in FIG. This is a known technique.
[0076]
Next, FIG. 4 shows a wire frame 104 containing a three-dimensional image 138. In other words, the three-dimensional image formed by the three-dimensional image forming unit 38 shown in FIG. Even in such a case, the first display mark 118 and the second display mark 120 are displayed on the first side surface and the second side surface of the probe model 105 displayed on the upper portion of the wire frame 104. Accordingly, in observing the three-dimensional image 138, it is possible to easily grasp the coordinate relationship between the probe model and the wire frame, the three-dimensional space, and the 3D probe.
[0077]
FIG. 5 shows an arbitrary tomographic image 134 in the wire frame 104. The arbitrary tomographic image 134 is formed based on echo data on the cut surface designated by the user at an arbitrary position and angle. By displaying the arbitrary tomographic image 134 together with the wire frame 104, three-dimensional It is possible to intuitively recognize the position of an arbitrary cut surface in the space. In this case, since the first display mark 118 and the second display mark 120 are shown on the first side surface and the second side surface of the probe model 105 displayed on the upper part of the wire frame 104 in the same manner as described above, The position of the cut surface can be intuitively recognized in relation to the space or the coordinate system of the 3D probe.
[0078]
Further, as shown in (B), the viewpoint can be changed in the three-dimensional representation of the wire frame 104 provided with the probe model 105. Also in this case, the shape of the probe model 105 and the wire frame 104 changes with the change of the viewpoint, and the display position and shape of the first display mark 118 and the second display mark 120 also change accordingly. Similarly, the shape of the arbitrary tomographic image 134 also changes. Therefore, for example, if an arbitrary cutting plane is set in an oblique direction with respect to the three-dimensional space and then the viewpoint is changed so that it faces the viewpoint side, then the arbitrary cutting plane on the arbitrary cutting plane in relation to the three-dimensional space. It becomes possible to recognize the organizational structure more accurately.
[0079]
The above viewpoint change is possible even when the three-dimensional display shown in FIG. 4 is performed. In this case as well, the shape of the probe model 105 and the wire frame 104 changes along with the viewpoint change. Thus, the positions and shapes of the display marks 118 and 120 also change.
[0080]
In the above embodiment, the three-dimensional image or arbitrary tomographic image can be displayed separately from (on the outside of) the wire frame. Even in that case, it is desirable to display the first display mark and the second display mark as necessary.
[0081]
In the above embodiment, a plurality of probe model shapes may be prepared, and the shape may be selected according to the type of 3D probe connected to the apparatus main body. In this case, when the 3D probe is connected, identification information may be automatically obtained from the 3D probe side, and shape selection may be performed based on the identification information. Further, the shape data of the probe model may be automatically read from the 3D probe side.
[0082]
【The invention's effect】
ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the convenience on image observation can be aimed at a user in an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a preferred embodiment of an ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a relationship between a space model including a probe model and each tomographic image.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a triplane display including a space model with a probe model.
FIG. 4 shows a wire frame with a probe model having a three-dimensional image.
FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a viewpoint change for a wire frame having a probe model and having an arbitrary tomographic image;
[Explanation of symbols]
10 3D probe (3D echo data capturing ultrasonic probe), 16 physical mark section, 18 first physical mark, 20 second physical mark, 30 transmission section, 32 reception section, 34 signal processing section, 36 3D Memory, 37 image processing unit (display processing unit), 38 three-dimensional image forming unit, 52 arbitrary tomographic image forming unit, 54 first tomographic image forming unit, 56 second tomographic image forming unit, 58 third tomographic image forming unit, 60 spatial model creation unit, 62 image synthesis unit, 64 probe model creation unit.

Claims (23)

A three-dimensional echo data capturing ultrasonic probe that scans an ultrasonic beam in the first scanning direction and the second scanning direction to form a three-dimensional echo data capturing space;
A physical marker portion provided on the outer surface of the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data, for recognizing the first scanning direction and the second scanning direction;
A spatial model generating means for generating a spatial model as an image corresponding to the three-dimensional echo data capturing space;
Probe model generating means for generating a probe model as an image corresponding to the ultrasonic probe for capturing the three-dimensional echo data;
Viewpoint changing means for changing the viewpoint for stereoscopically displaying the spatial model and the probe model on a display screen;
Including
On the display screen, the space model and the probe model are displayed in combination, and on the probe model , a display marker portion whose original shape is the same shape as the physical marker portion is displayed ,
The display marker portion is displayed in an original shape when it is directly facing the viewpoint, and is displayed in a shape that is a modification of the original shape when it is not directly facing the viewpoint,
By changing the viewpoint, the three-dimensional shape of the spatial model and the probe model is changed, and the shape of the display marker unit is changed.
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. The apparatus of claim 1.
The probe model and the space model, before SL according to the positional relationship of the three-dimensional echo data capturing ultrasonic probe and the three-dimensional echo data acquisition space, is displayed in a state bound integrally with each other An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. The apparatus of claim 1.
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, wherein the probe model has an outer shape represented by a plurality of lines. The apparatus of claim 1.
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising: selection means for selecting a shape of the probe model according to a type of an ultrasonic probe for taking in three-dimensional echo data used. The apparatus of claim 1.
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the space model is a wire frame expressing the three-dimensional echo data capturing space or a solid corresponding to the space using a plurality of lines. The apparatus of claim 1.
The physical marker part is
A first physical marker for specifying a direction of a first scanning plane formed by scanning the ultrasonic beam in the first scanning direction;
A second physical marker for specifying the orientation of a second scanning surface formed by scanning the ultrasonic beam in the second scanning direction;
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising: The apparatus of claim 6.
The display marker is
A first display marker associated with the first physical marker;
A second display marker associated with the second physical marker;
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising: The apparatus of claim 7.
The first display marker has a form corresponding to the first physical marker,
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, wherein the second display marker has a form corresponding to the second physical marker. The apparatus of claim 7.
The probe model is configured as a three-dimensional image having a first side and a second side,
The first display marker is displayed on or near the first side surface of the probe model;
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, wherein the second display marker is displayed on or near the second side surface of the probe model. The apparatus of claim 6.
The display position of the first display marker in the probe model is set in correspondence with the display position of the first physical marker in the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data,
The ultrasonic wave characterized in that the display position of the second display marker in the probe model is set corresponding to the display position of the second physical marker in the ultrasonic probe for taking in three-dimensional echo data. Diagnostic device. The apparatus of claim 6.
The ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data is:
A first side surface and a third side surface intersecting the second scanning direction;
A second side surface and a fourth side surface intersecting the first scanning direction;
Have
The first physical marker is provided on at least one of the first side surface and the second side surface of the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data,
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, wherein the second physical marker is provided on at least one of the second side surface and the fourth side surface of the ultrasonic probe for taking in three-dimensional echo data. The apparatus of claim 11.
The probe model is
A first side and a third side corresponding to the first side and the third side of the ultrasonic probe for taking in three-dimensional echo data; and
A second side and a fourth side corresponding to the second side and the fourth side of the ultrasonic probe for taking in three-dimensional echo data;
Have
The first display marker is displayed on at least one of the first side surface and the third side surface of the probe model,
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, wherein the second display marker is displayed on at least one of the second side surface and the fourth side surface of the probe model. A three-dimensional echo data capturing ultrasonic probe that has a substantially rectangular shape in a horizontal section and scans an ultrasonic beam in the first scanning direction and the second scanning direction to form a three-dimensional echo data capturing space. When,
A first physical marker formed on at least one of the first side surface and the third side surface intersecting the second scanning direction in the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data;
A second physical marker formed on at least one of the second side surface and the fourth side surface intersecting the first scanning direction in the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data;
A spatial model generating means for generating a spatial model as an image corresponding to the three-dimensional echo data capturing space;
Probe model generation means for generating a probe model as an image displayed in a state coupled with the spatial model and corresponding to the ultrasonic probe for capturing the three-dimensional echo data;
Viewpoint changing means for changing the viewpoint for stereoscopically displaying the spatial model and the probe model on a display screen;
Including
On the display screen, a first display marker whose original shape is the same shape as the first physical marker is displayed on or near at least one of the first side surface and the third side surface of the probe model, And a second display marker whose original shape is the same shape as the second physical marker is displayed on or near at least one of the second side surface and the fourth side surface in the probe model ,
The first display marker portion is displayed in an original shape when it is directly facing the viewpoint, and is displayed in a shape obtained by deforming the original shape when it is not directly facing the viewpoint,
The second display marker portion is displayed in an original shape when it is directly facing the viewpoint, and is displayed in a shape obtained by deforming the original shape when it is not directly facing the viewpoint,
2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the three-dimensional shape of the space model and the probe model is changed by the change of the viewpoint, and the shapes of the first display marker and the second display marker are changed . The apparatus of claim 13.
The first physical marker and the second physical marker are formed at a predetermined height level in the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data,
The first display marker and the second display marker correspond to the formation positions of the first physical marker and the second physical marker in the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data, in the probe model. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized by being displayed at a predetermined height level. The apparatus of claim 13.
The color of the first display marker is the same as the color of the first physical marker;
The color of the second display marker is the same as the color of the second physical marker,
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus. The apparatus of claim 13.
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, wherein the viewpoint changing means is means for changing the viewpoint by a user . The apparatus of claim 13.
Separately from the wire frame as the space model and the probe model on the display screen, three tomographic images corresponding to three cross sections intersecting each other set for the three-dimensional echo data capturing space are displayed. An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus characterized in that at least one of the first display marker and the second display marker is displayed on or near each tomographic image. The apparatus of claim 13.
An arbitrary cross section setting means for user setting an arbitrary cross section at an arbitrary position and angle in the three-dimensional echo data capturing space;
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, wherein an arbitrary tomographic image corresponding to the arbitrary cross section is displayed in the wire frame on the display screen in accordance with the position and angle of the arbitrary cross section. The apparatus of claim 13.
An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, wherein a three-dimensional image representing a tissue in the three-dimensional echo data capturing space is displayed in a wire frame as the space model on the display screen. A three-dimensional echo data capturing ultrasonic probe that scans an ultrasonic beam in the first scanning direction and the second scanning direction to form a three-dimensional echo data capturing space;
A first physical marker provided on a first side of the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data;
A second physical marker provided on the second side surface of the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data;
Probe model generating means for generating a probe model as an image corresponding to the ultrasonic probe for capturing the three-dimensional echo data;
Viewpoint changing means for changing the viewpoint for stereoscopically displaying the spatial model and the probe model on a display screen;
Including
On the display screen, a first display marker whose original shape is the same shape as the first physical marker is displayed on the first side surface of the probe model, and on the second side surface of the probe model. Displays a second display marker whose original shape is the same as the second physical marker ,
The first display marker portion is displayed in an original shape when it is directly facing the viewpoint, and is displayed in a shape obtained by deforming the original shape when it is not directly facing the viewpoint,
The second display marker portion is displayed in an original shape when it is directly facing the viewpoint, and is displayed in a shape obtained by deforming the original shape when it is not directly facing the viewpoint,
2. The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the three-dimensional shape of the space model and the probe model is changed by the change of the viewpoint, and the shapes of the first display marker and the second display marker are changed . The apparatus of claim 20.
The first physical marker is provided at a position displaced from the center in the first scanning direction on the first side surface of the ultrasonic probe for capturing three-dimensional echo data.
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, wherein the second physical marker is provided at a position displaced from the center thereof in the second scanning direction on the second side surface of the ultrasonic probe for taking in three-dimensional echo data. . The apparatus of claim 21.
The first display marker is displayed at a position displaced from the center thereof in a direction corresponding to the first scanning direction on the first side surface of the probe model,
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, wherein the second display marker is displayed at a position displaced from a center thereof in a direction corresponding to the second scanning direction on a second side surface of the probe model. The apparatus of claim 22.
The first physical marker and the second physical marker are provided at positions displaced toward the scanning reference point side of the ultrasonic beam,
The ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus, wherein the first display marker and the second display marker are displayed at positions displaced to a side corresponding to a scanning reference point side of the ultrasonic beam.

Images