Systems and methods of establishing a secondary connection at an ultrasound imaging machine, for providing access to an ultrasound image feed

The present embodiments relate generally to methods for providing viewing access to an ultrasound image feed generated at an ultrasound imaging machine. A multi-use display device may form a first link-layer connection with the ultrasound image machine for transmitting commands that control imaging parameters of the ultrasound image feed. The multi-use display device may then: determine link-layer connection parameters that allow the ultrasound imaging machine to form a second link-layer connection with a receiving device (the receiving device having no link-layer connection with the ultrasound imaging machine), and provide the connection parameters to the receiving device. The ultrasound imaging machine forms a second link-layer connection with the receiving device, based the connection parameters. The second link-layer connection is then used for receiving, at the receiving device, the ultrasound image feed controlled by the multi-use display device.

Ultrasound imaging instrument visualization

A method includes transitioning, via a micro-processor, an ultrasound imaging system (100) running in a first mode (128), in which a first location and a first orientation of an elongate needle (106) of an instrument (102) at a surface (111) of an object (110) is determined based on a first signal from a tracking device (112) at least on the instrument, to a second different mode, in which a second location and a second orientation of the needle within the object is determined based on an ultrasound image representing the object, in response to determining the needle penetrated the surface of the object, wherein a beam steering angle with which the ultrasound image is acquired is determined based on the first location and the first orientation of the needle, and displaying the ultrasound image.

Systems and methods for determining a heart rate of an imaged heart in an ultrasound image feed

The present embodiments relate generally to systems, methods, and apparatus for determining a heart rate of an imaged heart in an ultrasound image feed. A plurality of ultrasound images can first be acquired. For each ultrasound image of the plurality of ultrasound images, the image can be divided into a plurality of regions; where each region is positioned so that the region corresponds to a substantially similar region location present across the plurality of ultrasound images. For each region location on each of the plurality of ultrasound images, a statistical calculation on image data of the region location can be performed. For each region location, a frequency of change in the statistical calculation over the plurality of ultrasound images can then be determined. The region location having a dominant determined frequency of change in the statistical calculation (over the plurality of ultrasound images) can be identified as a region of interest (ROI). The heart rate can be calculated ...

Ultrasound imaging system

An ultrasound imaging system includes a transducer, an ultrasound module, and a computer. The ultrasound module provides signal pre-processing and is highly programmable. The ultrasound module has several independently programmable functional units. The computer performs real-time scan conversion, display, data collection, user interface and input and output data exchange. The operational mode of the ultrasound module can be set under software control from the computer. The ultrasound imaging system is versatile, software-unreadable, and can perform a wide range of imaging applications in real-time. Several ultrasound imaging systems can be integrated as clients in a network of ultrasound devices having a client/server architecture for archiving, reporting and remote-control purposes.

Dispositif pour l'exécution de traitements thermiques enchaînés en continu sous vide

L'invention concerne un dispositif qui permet d'effectuer en continu ces opérations de traitements thermiques enchaînés sous vide. Il est constitué d'un collecteur de vide 1, pourvu d'orifices correspondant à plusieurs cellules (ex : 15 et 16), et à une cellule de chargement/déchargement. L'ensemble est maintenu sous vide par un dispositif de pompage 9. Le collecteur renferme une couronne tournante 10, supportant 2 ascenseurs 11 et 12, permettant d'assurer le transfert des charges d'une cellule à l'autre. L'entrée et la sortie des charges dans le dispositif se fait par une potence ou autre moyen, qui assure le transfert de la cellule de chargement/déchargement.

Ultrasound imaging system

An ultrasound imaging system includes a transducer, an ultrasound module, and a computer. The ultrasound module provides signal pre-processing and is highly programmable. The ultrasound module has several independently programmable functional units. The computer performs real-time scan conversion, display, data collection, user interface and input and output data exchange. The operational mode of the ultrasound module can be set under software control from the computer. The ultrasound imaging system is versatile, software-upgradable, and can perform a wide range of imaging applications in real-time. Several ultrasound imaging systems can be integrated as clients in a network of ultrasound devices having a client/server architecture for archiving, reporting and remote-control purposes.

Systems and methods for remote graphical feedback of ultrasound scanning technique

An apparatus and method for providing remote expert feedback to an operator of an ultrasound imaging machine. The remote feedback consists of graphical icons that are dragged and dropped onto a video stream of the patient being scanned or the ultrasound image being captured and shared in real-time with the local operator to help improve their scanning technique.

ULTRASOUND SYSTEMS INCORPORATING SPATIAL POSITION SENSORS AND ASSOCIATED METHODS

An ultrasound probe is equipped with a transducer element array and an internally located position marker trackable by a position sensing system or the like. The position marker is supported by a movement and rotation constraining fixture. The fixture is rigidly connected to the transducer element array of the probe. The fixture constrains the position and orientation of the position marker to match a spatial reference relationship with the transducer element array in the position marker's constrained degrees of freedom. The position marker may moved along and rotated in its unconstrained degrees of freedom to match the spatial reference relationship with the transducer element array.

Ultrasound pulse-wave doppler measurement of blood flow velocity and/or turbulence

Apparatus and methods for measuring and analyzing blood flow in vessels in the bodies of living subjects are provided. The true velocity vector, or a projection thereof onto a scan plane, for blood flowing at a location in a vessel is determined from multiple Doppler velocity components. The true velocity vector is displayed as a directional marker on an image comprising the vessel. The true velocity magnitude and angle, and scalar blood flow characteristics derived therefrom, are plotted as a functions of time and/or position across the depiction of the blood vessel in the image. Time intervals for which blood flow characteristic data is displayed and/or determined may be user configurable.

Dispositif d'injection de gaz sous pression et débit élevés dans une enceinte étanche avec récupération du gaz

L'invention concerne un dispositif qui permet l'injection de gaz dans une enceinte étanche 1 avec un débit et une pression appropriés, tout en permettant la récupération du gaz en fin de cycle, pour sa réutilisation au cycle suivant. Il est constitué d'une baudruche 8 contenue dans un réservoir 7, et relié à l'enceinte par une canalisation 2. Le réservoir est mis sous pression par une vanne 10, ou à l'air libre par une vanne 9. Un raccord 11 avec vanne 12 permet le remplissage de la baudruche. Après mise sous pression du réservoir 7, on permet l'entrée du gaz dans l'enceinte, en ouvrant la vanne 3. La même vanne permet de retransférer le gaz dans la baudruche après avoir remis le réservoir à l'air libre. Un circuit bipasse avec pompe à vide 4 complète le fonctionnement du système lors du remplissage initial de la baudruche, ou pour parfaire la vidange de l'enceinte. Un circuit bipasse 14 permet les appoints de remplissage après fermeture de la vanne 3.

Methods and apparatus for performing multiple modes of ultrasound imaging using a single ultrasound transducer

The present embodiments relate generally to ultrasound imaging methods and apparatus that allow for multiple modes of imaging using a single ultrasound transducer having a plurality of transducer elements. In an embodiment, there is provided an ultrasound imaging machine that is: operable in a first imaging mode in which the plurality of transducer elements are activated; and operable in a second imaging mode different from the first imaging mode, and in the second imaging mode, a subset of the plurality of transducer elements are activated so that ultrasound signals are steered from the subset of the plurality of transducer elements, where any remaining transducer elements of the plurality of transducer elements not part of the subset are inactive when operating in the second imaging mode.

FREEHAND ULTRASOUND IMAGING SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GUIDING FINE ELONGATE INSTRUMENTS

An ultrasound system has an ultrasound transducer equipped with a position marker and a needle equipped with a position marker. The position markers allow the position and orientation of the transducer and needle to be determined. Displays indicating a projection of the longitudinal axis of the needle onto a plane of an ultrasound image acquired via the transducer and displays indicating a projection of a reference position onto a plane of an ultrasound image acquired via the transducer are provided. Displays indicating in real-time whether the needle is substantially within the plane of the ultrasound image are provided.

METHOD AND SYSTEM, USING AN AI MODEL, FOR IDENTIFYING AND PREDICTING OPTIMAL FETAL IMAGES FOR GENERATING AN ULTRASOUND MULTIMEDIA PRODUCT

A multi-media product is created from fetal ultrasound images, during scanning of a fetus using an ultrasound scanner, and employs a specifically trained artificial intelligence (AI) model to execute on a computing device communicably connected to an ultrasound scanner, wherein the AI model is trained so that when the AI model is deployed, the computing device identifies and selects one or more fetal anatomical features, in whole or part, imaged in fetal ultrasound imaging data generated during ultrasound scanning as part of a clinical exam of the fetus, wherein the selected one or more fetal anatomical features are visually appealing for entertainment and keepsake purposes and are not part of a clinical assessment of the health or growth of the fetus and wherein after acquiring a new fetal ultrasound image during ultrasound scanning, the AI model selects the one or more fetal anatomical features, in whole or part, which are visually appealing for entertainment and keepsake purposes and ...

Systems and methods for rendering models based on medical imaging data

A method of creating a 3D model, which is a visual representation of at least one physiological parameter, the method comprises deploying an AI model to execute on a computing device communicably connected to a medical imaging device, said medical imaging device acquiring medical imaging data, wherein the AI model is trained so that when it is deployed, the computing device identifies at least one physiological parameter from medical imaging data; acquiring, at the computing device, new medical imaging data; processing, using the AI model, the new medical imaging data to identify at least one physiological parameter (the “at least one identified physiological parameter”); employing the at least one identified physiological parameter to select a corresponding 3D model; and modifying the corresponding 3D model to alter one or more model parameters therein, to match the at least one identified physiological parameter, thereby customizing the visual appearance of the corresponding 3D model.

C-Mode Ultrasound Image Data Visualization

An ultrasound imaging apparatus () includes a transducer array () configured to acquire a 3D plane of US data parallel to the transducer array. The transducer array includes a 2D array of transducer elements (). The ultrasound imaging apparatus further includes a 3D US data processor () that visually enhances the structure of tissue of interest and extracts voxels representing tissue of interest therefrom. The ultrasound imaging apparatus further includes a display (), located opposite the transducer array, that displays the extracted voxels representing the tissue of interest the 3D plane of US 3D US data. 1. An ultrasound imaging apparatus , comprising:a transducer array configured to acquire a 3D plane of US data parallel to the transducer array, wherein the transducer array includes a 2D array of transducer elements;a 3D US data processor that visually enhances the structure of tissue of interest and extracts voxels representing tissue of interest therefrom; anda display, located opposite the transducer array, that displays the extracted voxels representing the tissue of interest the 3D plane of US 3D US data.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , the 3D US data processor claim 1 , comprising:a registration processor that spatially registers the extracted voxels with the 2D array of transducer elements.3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the extracted voxels are spatially registered with the 2D array of transducer elements to visually appear to be below an area of contact between the transducer array and an object being scanned.4. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the registration processor identifies a view point of the extracted voxels claim 2 , wherein the view point is perpendicular to the display.5. The apparatus of claim 2 , to wherein the registration processor identifies a view point of the extracted voxels claim 2 , wherein the view point is not perpendicular to the display.6. The apparatus of claim 1 , the 3D US data processor claim 1 , comprising:a tissue ...

Methods and apparatus for performing multiple modes of ultrasound imaging using a single ultrasound transducer

The present embodiments relate generally to ultrasound imaging methods and apparatus that allow for multiple modes of imaging using a single ultrasound transducer having a plurality of transducer elements. In an embodiment, there is provided an ultrasound imaging machine that is: operable in a first imaging mode in which the plurality of transducer elements are activated; and operable in a second imaging mode different from the first imaging mode, and in the second imaging mode, a subset of the plurality of transducer elements are activated so that ultrasound signals are steered from the subset of the plurality of transducer elements, where any remaining transducer elements of the plurality of transducer elements not part of the subset are inactive when operating in the second imaging mode.

Optimized method of performing spatial transformation

A method of spatial transformation, such as scan conversion, uses a packed data table. The raw data and the data table are read sequentially, and the resulting image is computed.

Method of quenching after a low-pressure carburization

A method for quenching steel parts having undergone a low-pressure thermal processing, which consists of submitting the parts to a high-pressure air flow.

Low-pressure carburising method

The invention relates to a low-pressure carburising method comprising alternating low-pressure enrichment steps and diffusion steps in the presence of a neutral gas. During the enrichment steps, an enriching gas and neutral gas mixture is used, the proportion of the neutral gas being between 5 and 50% by volume of the enriching gas. The enriching gas can be, for example, acetylene (C2H2).

SPATIAL NEEDLE GUIDANCE SYSTEM AND ASSOCIATED METHODS

Methods and apparatus for positioning a elongate hollow member at a desired location in a body in a medical procedure are provided. A position marker is removably disposed within a sheath. The sheath may be disposable. The sheath and enclosed position marker may be inserted into a lumen of a member to be positioned. The position in space of the position marker may be monitored by a position sensor to provide real-time information regarding a position of the member. The spatial relationship between the position marker and member may be fixed by securing the mounting member to the sheath and securing the sheath to the member.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DISPLAYING AN ULTRASOUND IMAGE IN RESPONSE TO SCREEN SIZE

Ultrasound images are adjusted according to the size of the display area available to display them, so that image detail is displayed with a large enough physical size to discern comfortably. A translation ratio is determined for translating the physical distance traversed by the ultrasound signals of an ultrasound images to a corresponding physical distance on a screen of the display device. If the ratio is not below a threshold, the image is displayed in full. If the ratio is below the threshold, the image is cropped, optionally scaled, and displayed in the available area. Scaling and cropping may be based on window size and threshold window size. The parameters of the ultrasound scan may be controlled based on the scaling, cropping, or available screen size. User interface features may be displayed on the screen depending on how much area is available when the image is displayed. 1. A method for adapting display of an ultrasound image on a display device , the ultrasound image being generated from ultrasound signals transmitted and received by an ultrasound scanner , the method comprising:determining a physical distance traversed by the ultrasound signals to generate the ultrasound image;determining a translation ratio for translating the physical distance traversed by the ultrasound signals to a corresponding physical distance on a screen of the display device, were the ultrasound image be fitted to an available physical area of the screen of the display device; generating a test ultrasound image at the minimum threshold translation ratio,', 'performing a cropping operation on the test ultrasound image to generate a cropped test ultrasound image, and', 'determining if the cropped test ultrasound image fits the available physical area of the screen of the display device;, 'if the determined translation ratio is less than a minimum threshold translation ratio,'} scaling the cropped test ultrasound image generated from the cropping operation so that the scaled and ...

ULTRASOUND MACHINE HAVING SCALABLE RECEIVE BEAMFORMER ARCHITECTURE COMPRISING MULTIPLE BEAMFORMERS WITH COMMON COEFFICIENT GENERATOR AND RELATED METHODS

An apparatus and method for generating high quality, high frame rate images in a handheld or hand-carried ultrasound imaging machine. The apparatus includes a time-multiplexed beamformer coefficient generator that supplies the necessary delay and weight coefficients to process multiple beams in parallel via a beamforming coefficient bus. This approach reduces the required hardware and power consumption to satisfy the physical space and power requirements of a handheld probe. To improve image quality, the ultrasound machine may optionally use synthetic aperture to improve penetration and resolution. The ultrasound machine may also use pulse inversion harmonics to improve image quality by improving signal-to-noise ratio. 1. An ultrasound machine comprising:an ultrasound transmitter;a transducer, connected to the ultrasound transmitter and comprising a plurality of transducer elements, each of the plurality of transducer elements operative to generate an output signal in response to receiving ultrasound echo signals; a plurality of beamformer channels, each of the plurality of beamformer channels connected to receive the output signal from a corresponding one of the plurality of transducer elements, each of the plurality of beamformer channels comprising a variable delay having an output carrying a delayed value of the corresponding output signal wherein the delayed value is delayed relative to a reference time in an amount determined by a delay value in a first data storage location corresponding to the beamformer channel, the first data storage location operable to receive and store the delay value for the corresponding beamformer channel;', 'a summing circuit connected to receive and sum delayed values of the corresponding output signals to yield a scanline value;, 'a plurality of beamformers, each of the beamformers comprising a beamformer coefficient generator configured to generate the delay values for the channels of all of the plurality of beamformers;', 'a ...

Freehand ultrasound imaging systems and methods for guiding fine elongate instruments

An ultrasound system has an ultrasound transducer equipped with a position marker and a needle equipped with a position marker. The position markers allow the position and orientation of the transducer and needle to be determined. Displays indicating a projection of the longitudinal axis of the needle onto a plane of an ultrasound image acquired via the transducer and displays indicating a projection of a reference position onto a plane of an ultrasound image acquired via the transducer are provided. Displays indicating in real-time whether the needle is substantially within the plane of the ultrasound image are provided.

Gas-heated carburizing equipment

A cell and an equipment for thermally processing steel parts under low pressure, including heating means formed of several radiant gas tubes distributed around a useful volume of a tight chamber, and control means provided with at least one mode of pulse regulation of the heating means.

Freehand ultrasound imaging systems and methods providing position quality feedback

An ultrasound system has an ultrasound transducer equipped with a position marker and a needle equipped with a position marker. The position markers allow the position and orientation of the transducer and needle to be determined. A display depicts an ultrasound image acquired via the transducer and a graphical element representative of a projection of the longitudinal axis of the needle onto a plane of the ultrasound image. The quality of the position and orientation information from the position markers is monitored, and when quality is below a quality threshold the display indicates this fact.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR RENDERING MODELS BASED ON MEDICAL IMAGING DATA

A method of creating a 3D model, which is a visual representation of at least one physiological parameter, the method comprises deploying an AI model to execute on a computing device communicably connected to a medical imaging device, said medical imaging device acquiring medical imaging data, wherein the AI model is trained so that when it is deployed, the computing device identifies at least one physiological parameter from medical imaging data; acquiring, at the computing device, new medical imaging data; processing, using the AI model, the new medical imaging data to identify at least one physiological parameter (the “at least one identified physiological parameter”); employing the at least one identified physiological parameter to select a corresponding 3D model; and modifying the corresponding 3D model to alter one or more model parameters therein, to match the at least one identified physiological parameter, thereby customizing the visual appearance of the corresponding 3D model.

Ultrasonic imaging system having computer coupled to receive and process raw data

An ultrasound machine is configured for developing new modes for obtaining images or other useful information from ultrasound signals. The machine has a data processor configured to control a transmit circuit to generate ultrasound signals. Echo signals are received and digitized to yield RF data that is stored in a memory accessible to the data processor. A user can operate design mode application software to change the manner in which the RF data is processed to yield images or other useful information. New modes can be developed rapidly. The data processor may comprise a conventional personal computer equipped with suitable interfaces. An ultrasound machine may include and use a floating point processor for processing ultrasound signals.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETECTING A POOR COOLING ENVIRONMENT OF AN ULTRASOUND SCANNER

Ultrasound scanners that are initialized and placed to the side in a sterile bag for use in a sterile environment may suffer overheating and cut out early, because the bag represents a poor cooling environment. The rate of increase in temperature of a scanner is monitored and a determination is made as to whether the scanner is in a regular environment or a poor cooling environment. If the scanner is in a poor cooling environment, the scanner is switched from a regular state of operation to a poor cooling state of operation. In the poor cooling state of operation, the scanner settings consume less power and generate less heat on the whole than the regular scanner settings. The scanner reverts to higher power settings as and when needed to perform the desired scan. The user interface on an associated display device also changes in response to the scanner entering the poor cooling state of operation. 1. A method for determining whether an ultrasound scanner is operating in a regular environment or a poor cooling environment , comprising:detecting, by a sensor, a temperature of the ultrasound scanner;obtaining from the sensor, by a processor, signals indicative of the temperature;measuring, by the processor, a rate of change of the temperature;comparing, by the processor, the rate to a threshold;in response to the rate being above the threshold, determining, by the processor, that the ultrasound scanner is in the poor cooling environment; andin response to the rate being below the threshold, determining, by the processor, that the ultrasound scanner in the regular environment.2. The method of claim 1 , comprising claim 1 , in response to determining that the ultrasound scanner is in the poor cooling environment:sending, by the processor, a signal indicative of the poor cooling environment to a display device wirelessly connected to the ultrasound scanner.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the display device changes a user interface element displayed on the display ...

Speckle reduction and compression improvement of ultrasound images

An apparatus and method for generating high quality, high frame rate images in a handheld or hand-carried ultrasonic imaging machine. The apparatus includes an image enhancer to reduce speckle noise and improve the compressibility of the resulting image. This approach reduces the required hardware and power consumption to satisfy the physical space, power, and limited processing power of a handheld probe and enables high quality images to be transmitted efficiently over low-bandwidth connections.

Rapid cooling method for parts by convective and radiative transfer

A rapid cooling method for metal parts, using a pressurized cooling gas, characterized in that the cooling gas comprises one (or several) principal gas(es) absorbing infra-red radiation, selected in such a way as to improve thermal transfer to the part by combining radiative and convective transfer pheonomena in order to optimize the convective transfer coefficient.

Method and system for defining cut lines to generate a 3D fetal representation

A plurality of ultrasound frames of a fetus are acquired using an ultrasound scanner, which may be oriented arbitrarily with respect to the fetus during the acquisition. The ultrasound frames are processed against an artificial intelligence model to predict a different cut line on each of the ultrasound frames. Each cut line is predicted to be exterior to an image of the fetus appearing on the ultrasound frame. The different cut lines on the plurality of ultrasound frames are then used to identify ultrasound data in the image frames to generate a 3D representation of the fetus.

Systems and methods for remote graphical feedback of ultrasound scanning technique

An apparatus and method for providing remote expert feedback to an operator of an ultrasound imaging machine. The remote feedback consists of graphical icons that are dragged and dropped onto a video stream of the patient being scanned or the ultrasound image being captured and shared in real-time with the local operator to help improve their scanning technique.

Transmitter pod for medical ultrasound machine

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DEFINING CUT LINES TO GENERATE A 3D FETAL REPRESENTATION

A plurality of ultrasound frames of a fetus are acquired using an ultrasound scanner, which may be oriented arbitrarily with respect to the fetus during the acquisition. The ultrasound frames are processed against an artificial intelligence model to predict a different cut line on each of the ultrasound frames. Each cut line is predicted to be exterior to an image of the fetus appearing on the ultrasound frame. The different cut lines on the plurality of ultrasound frames are then used to identify ultrasound data in the image frames to generate a 3D representation of the fetus.

Ultrasound systems and methods for optimizing multiple imaging parameters using a single user interface control

The present embodiments relate generally to ultrasound imaging systems and methods that provide a user interface on the touchscreen display. The user interface includes an ultrasound image feed and a single control for modifying imaging depth of the ultrasound image feed. When input via the single control is received to modify the imaging depth, the system: adjusts frequency of ultrasound signals being used to acquire the ultrasound image feed; adjusts a beamformer parameter of the ultrasound signals being used to acquire the ultrasound image feed; receives first image data of the ultrasound image feed based on the adjusted frequency and the adjusted beamformer parameter; based on the first image data, adjusts Time Gain Compensation (TGC) of the ultrasound image feed; and receives second image data of the ultrasound image feed based on the adjusted frequency, beamformer parameter and TGC. Display of the second image data on the touchscreen display is then optimized without receipt of additional ...

Ultrasound machine having scalable receive beamformer architecture comprising multiple beamformers with common coefficient generator and related methods

An apparatus and method for generating high quality, high frame rate images in a handheld or hand-carried ultrasound imaging machine. The apparatus includes a time-multiplexed beamformer coefficient generator that supplies the necessary delay and weight coefficients to process multiple beams in parallel via a beamforming coefficient bus. This approach reduces the required hardware and power consumption to satisfy the physical space and power requirements of a handheld probe. The ultrasound machine may optionally turn off or operate beamformers in a standby mode. The ultrasound machine may also use pulse inversion harmonics to improve image quality by improving signal-to-noise ratio.

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PRODUCING VIDEO RECORDS OF USE OF MEDICAL ULTRASOUND IMAGING SYSTEMS

Methods and apparatus for producing a video record of a use of a medical ultrasound system are provided. An ultrasound image video signal and a synthetic display element signal produced by an ultrasound system are encoded as at least one data stream. The at least one data stream is stored in a multimedia container file. The ultrasound video signal and synthetic display element signal may be encoded as different data streams. In some embodiments, the ultrasound video signal and synthetic display element signal are combined in a single video signal, which is encoded as a video data stream. In some embodiments, a subject image video signal is produced by a camera, and this signals is encoded and stored with an associated ultrasound image video signal in a video container.

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR CONFIGURING ULTRASOUND SYSTEMS FOR ULTRASOUND EXAMINATIONS

A method for configuring an ultrasound system for an examination comprises displaying a plurality of examination categories for selection by a user, receiving a user-selected examination category, identifying any probes connected to the ultrasound system, determining which of the connected probes are suitable for the user-selected examination category, for each suitable connected probe, displaying an indication identifying the suitable connected probe for selection by the user, receiving a user-selected probe identification, and, activating a selected probe indicated by the user-selected probe identification for data acquisition.

Ultrasound systems incorporating spatial position sensors and associated methods

An ultrasound probe is equipped with a transducer element array and an internally located position marker trackable by a position sensing system or the like. The position marker is supported by a movement and rotation constraining fixture. The fixture is rigidly connected to the transducer element array of the probe. The fixture constrains the position and orientation of the position marker to match a spatial reference relationship with the transducer element array in the position marker's constrained degrees of freedom. The position marker may moved along and rotated in its unconstrained degrees of freedom to match the spatial reference relationship with the transducer element array.

Dongle for outputting an ultrasound image acquired at an ultrasound machine controlled by a multi-use display device, and related methods

The present embodiments relate generally to methods for providing viewing access to an ultrasound image feed generated at an ultrasound imaging machine. A multi-use display device may form a first link-layer connection with the ultrasound image machine for transmitting commands that control imaging parameters of the ultrasound image feed. The multi-use display device may then: determine link-layer connection parameters that allow the ultrasound imaging machine to form a second link-layer connection with a receiving device (the receiving device having no link-layer connection with the ultrasound imaging machine), and provide the connection parameters to the receiving device. The ultrasound imaging machine forms a second link-layer connection with the receiving device, based the connection parameters. The second link-layer connection is then used for receiving, at the receiving device, the ultrasound image feed controlled by the multi-use display device.

WIRELESS NETWORK HAVING PORTABLE ULTRASOUND DEVICES

A patient monitoring system has one or more ultrasound devices that monitor patients. The ultrasound devices can communicate to a central station by way of a wireless data communication network. Ultrasound images acquired by the ultrasound devices may be displayed at the central station. Alarms may be generated based upon conditions detected by the ultrasound devices. An ultrasound device may have a strap that permits it to be held in place with a transducer against the skin of a subject to permit ultrasound observation of the subject either continuously or intermittently over an extended period. 1. A patient monitoring system comprising:at least one ultrasound device comprising an ultrasound transceiver,an ultrasound transducer connected to transmit and receive ultrasound signals,a control and data processing system configured to cause the ultrasound device to operate intermittently to generate first images of a structure within a subject that is being monitored and by processing ultrasound signals received at the ultrasound transducer by applying first processing to the ultrasound signals to generate the first ultrasound images,a local display operable to display the first ultrasound images, a wireless network interface, anda retaining mechanism which allows the ultrasound device to be held in place with the ultrasound transducer against a subject for extended monitoring of a structure within the subject; anda station connected to a network to receive ultrasound data from the ultrasound device by way of the wireless network interface and network, the station comprising a station display and a processor configured to further process the ultrasound data from the ultrasound device according to second processing different from the first processing to generate second ultrasound images for display on the station display;wherein the ultrasound device or the station is configured to process the ultrasound data to detect the presence of voids within the subject and to ...

Landmarks for ultrasound imaging

An ultrasound imaging system has a 3D location system and a data store for recording locations within a patient. Navigation to target locations is facilitated by providing graphical elements superposed on a 2-dimensional image. The size and/or color of the graphical elements are controlled in real time based on distance of the target location(s) from a current image plane. This provides intuitive visual feedback and can be achieved with low computational requirements.

Ultrasound scanner clip-on

Gas-heated carburizing equipment

A cell and an equipment for thermally processing steel parts under low pressure, including heating means formed of several radiant gas tubes distributed around a useful volume of a tight chamber, and control means provided with at least one mode of pulse regulation of the heating means.

Hand-held ultrasound system having sterile enclosure

A sterile enclosure is provided for enclosing a hand-held ultrasound device to prevent any material on the ultrasound device from contaminating a sterile environment in which the ultrasound device is used. The enclosure has an opening for insertion of the ultrasound device into the enclosure, a closure for closing the opening, an acoustically-transparent transducer portion for covering an active face of a transducer of the ultrasound device, and a transparent display portion overlaying a display of the ultrasound device. In some embodiments a detachable or integrally formed needle guide is provided with the enclosure, for holding and guiding a needle so that the needle is projected into a field of view of the transducer of the ultrasound device.

Method and system for detecting a poor cooling environment of an ultrasound scanner

Ultrasound scanners that are initialized and placed to the side in a sterile bag for use in a sterile environment may suffer overheating and cut out early, because the bag represents a poor cooling environment. The rate of increase in temperature of a scanner is monitored and a determination is made as to whether the scanner is in a regular environment or a poor cooling environment. If the scanner is in a poor cooling environment, the scanner is switched from a regular state of operation to a poor cooling state of operation. In the poor cooling state of operation, the scanner settings consume less power and generate less heat on the whole than the regular scanner settings. The scanner reverts to higher power settings as and when needed to perform the desired scan. The user interface on an associated display device also changes in response to the scanner entering the poor cooling state of operation.

Method and system for defining cut lines to generate a 3D fetal representation

A plurality of ultrasound frames of a fetus are acquired using an ultrasound scanner, which may be oriented arbitrarily with respect to the fetus during the acquisition. The ultrasound frames are processed against an artificial intelligence model to predict a different cut line on each of the ultrasound frames. Each cut line is predicted to be exterior to an image of the fetus appearing on the ultrasound frame. The different cut lines on the plurality of ultrasound frames are then used to identify ultrasound data in the image frames to generate a 3D representation of the fetus.

FREEHAND ULTRASOUND IMAGING SYSTEMS AND METHODS PROVIDING POSITION QUALITY FEEDBACK

An ultrasound system has an ultrasound transducer equipped with a position marker and a needle equipped with a position marker. The position markers allow the position and orientation of the transducer and needle to be determined. A display depicts an ultrasound image acquired via the transducer and a graphical element representative of a projection of the longitudinal axis of the needle onto a plane of the ultrasound image. The quality of the position and orientation information from the position markers is monitored, and when quality is below a quality threshold the display indicates this fact.

Method and system for switching between a spectral doppler mode and a two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound imaging mode in an ultrasound imaging system

An ultrasound scanner in a spectral Doppler mode, in which a corresponding two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound imaging mode (e.g., B-mode) image is frozen, is switched temporarily to the 2D-mode in response to a continuous contact on a touchscreen. During the continuous contact, the spectral Doppler mode is interrupted, the 2D-mode image becomes live, and the gate for the spectral Doppler mode may be adjusted by a movement of the continuous contact on the touchscreen. Upon termination of the continuous contact, the system reverts back to the spectral Doppler mode, which now operates within the adjusted gate, and the 2D-mode image is frozen. A brief contact may be used to check the position of the gate against a live 2D-mode image without adjusting it.

HANDHELD ULTRASOUND IMAGING SYSTEMS

A handheld ultrasound device is provided, having a transducer assembly for emitting and receiving sonic signals, a configurable signal processing unit, and a data processor configured to provide configuration data to the signal processing unit. The configuration data defines a beamforming configuration, filtering configuration and envelope detection configuration for an operational mode. The operational mode may be selected by the user or may be determined based on a detected type of the transducer assembly. 1. A hand-holdable ultrasound system comprising:a detachable transducer assembly comprising a plurality of transducer elements, the transducer assembly interchangeable with one or more other transducer assemblies, the transducer assembly suitable for ultrasound imaging in a corresponding one of a plurality of operational modes of the ultrasound system;a driving circuit operable to deliver driving signals to excite the transducer elements of the transducer assembly to emit ultrasound signals, the driving circuit comprising a plurality of transmit pulsers;a receive circuit operable to receive reflected ultrasound signals detected at the transducer assembly and to condition the received reflected ultrasound signals to yield conditioned signals, the receive circuit comprising one or more analog to digital converters arranged to digitize the received reflected ultrasound signals;a configurable signal processing unit connected to receive the digitized conditioned signals and to process the conditioned signals, the configurable signal processing unit comprising a field programmable gate array;a processor unit comprising one or more data processors and a memory, the memory storing software instructions for execution by the one or more processors and a plurality of sets of configuration data, each of the plurality of sets of configuration data corresponding to a corresponding one of the operational modes of the plurality of operational modes;a display operable to display ...

HIGHLY CONFIGURABLE MEDICAL ULTRASOUND MACHINE AND RELATED METHODS

An ultrasound machine is operated by executing a protocol. Executing the protocol configures the ultrasound machine, controls for operating the ultrasound machine and a display for the ultrasound machine. Protocols may be defined to provide a streamlined configuration of controls for operating the ultrasound machine, and to provide instructions that guide a user's operation of the ultrasound machine.

Ultrasound Imaging Instrument Visualization

A method includes transitioning, via a micro-processor, an ultrasound imaging system () running in a first mode (), in which a first location and a first orientation of an elongate needle () of an instrument () at a surface () of an object () is determined based on a first signal from a tracking device () at least on the instrument, to a second different mode, in which a second location and a second orientation of the needle within the object is determined based on an ultrasound image representing the object, in response to determining the needle penetrated the surface of the object, wherein a beam steering angle with which the ultrasound image is acquired is determined based on the first location and the first orientation of the needle, and displaying the ultrasound image. 1. A method , comprising:transitioning, via a micro-processor, an ultrasound imaging system running in a first mode, in which a first location and a first orientation of an elongate needle of an instrument at a surface of an object is determined based on a first signal from a tracking device at least on the instrument, to a second different mode, in which a second location and a second orientation of the needle within the object is determined based on an ultrasound image representing the object, in response to determining the needle penetrated the surface of the object, wherein a beam steering angle with which the ultrasound image is acquired is determined based on the first location and the first orientation of the needle; anddisplaying the ultrasound image.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:determining the beam steering angle is an angle at which a transmitted ultrasound beam of the ultrasound imaging system traverses a direction approximately perpendicular to a shaft of the needle.3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising:segmenting a sub-region of the ultrasound including pixels representing the needle;superimposing the segmented sub-region over a second ultrasound image, ...

Systems and methods for automatic time gain compensation in a handheld ultrasound imaging system

An apparatus and method for automatically calculating and applying time gain compensation in a handheld or hand-carried ultrasonic imaging machine. The apparatus include an autogain unit to calculate the time gain compensation based on a processed ultrasound image. The image is divided into regions, and the image intensity is used to mask regions which satisfy a threshold. Masked regions are used to calculate a gain curve which is then spatially and temporally smoothed. Means are providing for masking entire columns of regions to remove areas where the probe is not in contact. This approach may allow less experienced users to achieve high quality images without the difficult and time-consuming task of manually adjusting the time gain compensation.

Optimized method of performing spatial transformation

A method of spatial transformation, such as scan conversion, uses a packed data table. The raw data and the data table are read sequentially, and the resulting image is computed.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DEFINING CUT LINES TO GENERATE A 3D FETAL REPRESENTATION

A plurality of ultrasound frames of a fetus are acquired using an ultrasound scanner, which may be oriented arbitrarily with respect to the fetus during the acquisition. The ultrasound frames are processed against an artificial intelligence model to predict a different cut line on each of the ultrasound frames. Each cut line is predicted to be exterior to an image of the fetus appearing on the ultrasound frame. The different cut lines on the plurality of ultrasound frames are then used to identify ultrasound data in the image frames to generate a 3D representation of the fetus.

Compound ultrasound imaging method

A compound ultrasound imaging method includes the steps of acquiring component frames with different scanline properties, such as different angles, scanline durations, control voltages, etc., and compounding them in real-time.

Method and system for displaying an ultrasound image in response to screen size

Ultrasound images are adjusted according to the size of the display area available to display them, so that image detail is displayed with a large enough physical size to discern comfortably. A translation ratio is determined for translating the physical distance traversed by the ultrasound signals of an ultrasound images to a corresponding physical distance on a screen of the display device. If the ratio is not below a threshold, the image is displayed in full. If the ratio is below the threshold, the image is cropped, optionally scaled, and displayed in the available area. Scaling and cropping may be based on window size and threshold window size. The parameters of the ultrasound scan may be controlled based on the scaling, cropping, or available screen size. User interface features may be displayed on the screen depending on how much area is available when the image is displayed.

LANDMARKS FOR ULTRASOUND IMAGING

An ultrasound imaging system has a 3D location system and a data store for recording locations within a patient. Navigation to target locations is facilitated by providing graphical elements superposed on a 2-dimensional image. The size and/or color of the graphical elements are controlled in real time based on distance of the target location(s) from a current image plane. This provides intuitive visual feedback and can be achieved with low computational requirements. 1. Ultrasound imaging apparatus comprising:an ultrasound probe configured to transmit ultrasound signals and to receive ultrasound echo signals;an ultrasound system configured to process the ultrasound echo signals to yield a two-dimensional ultrasound image representing an image plane within a subject;a display connected to display the ultrasound image;a position-sensing system configured to monitor a position and orientation of the ultrasound probe in a coordinate system to yield probe position and orientation information; process the probe position and orientation information to determine: a display location in the ultrasound image corresponding to a perpendicular projection of a predetermined location onto the image plane and a distance between the predetermined location and the image plane; and', 'superimpose on the ultrasound image on the display location marking indicia at the display location and having one or more appearance characteristics determined at least in part by the distance between the predetermined location and the image plane., 'a processor configured to2. An apparatus according to wherein the position sensing system comprises a fiducial sensor configured to be applied at a predetermined fixed location relative to a subject claim 1 , the position sensing system is configured to monitor a position and orientation of the fiducial sensor to yield fiducial position and orientation information and the processor is configured to use the fiducial position and orientation information in ...

Method and system for displaying an ultrasound image in response to screen size

Ultrasound images are adjusted according to the size of the display area available to display them, so that image detail is displayed with a large enough physical size to discern comfortably. A translation ratio is determined for translating the physical distance traversed by the ultrasound signals of an ultrasound images to a corresponding physical distance on a screen of the display device. If the ratio is not below a threshold, the image is displayed in full. If the ratio is below the threshold, the image is cropped, optionally scaled, and displayed in the available area. Scaling and cropping may be based on window size and threshold window size. The parameters of the ultrasound scan may be controlled based on the scaling, cropping, or available screen size. User interface features may be displayed on the screen depending on how much area is available when the image is displayed.

Ultrasound imaging system

An ultrasound imaging system includes a transducer, an ultrasound module, and a computer. The ultrasound module provides signal pre-processing and is highly programmable. The ultrasound module has several independently programmable functional units. The computer performs real-time scan conversion, display, data collection, user interface and input and output data exchange. The operational mode of the ultrasound module can be set under software control from the computer. The ultrasound imaging system is versatile, software-upgradable, and can perform a wide range of imaging applications in real-time. Several ultrasound imaging systems can be integrated as clients in a network of ultrasound devices having a client/server architecture for archiving, reporting and remote-control purposes.

Systems and methods for initiating creation of a patient account on a medical imaging system during a medical imaging examination

The present embodiments relate generally to a system and method for creation of a patient account on a medical imaging system during a medical imaging examination. The method may involve operating a processor to: acquire a set of medical imaging data during the medical imaging examination, the set of medical imaging data being acquired in association with a logged-in medical professional account on the medical imaging system; display a new patient account prompt to initiate creation of the patient account; receive a patient identifier to initiate the creation of the patient account; and use the patient identifier to initiate the creation of the patient account, the patient account to be used for accessing at least a portion of the set of medical imaging data acquired during the medical imaging examination.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PLACING A GATE AND/OR A COLOR BOX DURING ULTRASOUND IMAGING

A method for positioning one or both of a gate and a color box on an ultrasound image generated during scanning of an anatomical feature using an ultrasound scanner comprises deploying an artificial intelligence (AI) model to execute on a computing device communicably connected to the ultrasound scanner, wherein the AI model is trained so that when the AI model is deployed, the computing device generates a prediction of at least one of an optimal position, size, or angle for the gate and/or an optimal location/size of the color box on the ultrasound image generated during ultrasound scanning of the anatomical feature, thereafter enabling the acquisition of corresponding Doppler mode signals.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR RENDERING MODELS BASED ON MEDICAL IMAGING DATA

A method of creating a 3D model, which is a visual representation of at least one physiological parameter, the method comprises deploying an AI model to execute on a computing device communicably connected to a medical imaging device, said medical imaging device acquiring medical imaging data, wherein the AI model is trained so that when it is deployed, the computing device identifies at least one physiological parameter from medical imaging data; acquiring, at the computing device, new medical imaging data; processing, using the AI model, the new medical imaging data to identify at least one physiological parameter (the “at least one identified physiological parameter”); employing the at least one identified physiological parameter to select a corresponding 3D model; and modifying the corresponding 3D model to alter one or more model parameters therein, to match the at least one identified physiological parameter, thereby customizing the visual appearance of the corresponding 3D model.

Ultrasound cart

Systems and methods for determining a heart rate of an imaged heart in an ultrasound image feed

The present embodiments relate generally to systems, methods, and apparatus for determining a heart rate of an imaged heart in an ultrasound image feed. A plurality of ultrasound images can first be acquired. For each ultrasound image of the plurality of ultrasound images, the image can be divided into a plurality of regions; where each region is positioned so that the region corresponds to a substantially similar region location present across the plurality of ultrasound images. For each region location on each of the plurality of ultrasound images, a statistical calculation on image data of the region location can be performed. For each region location, a frequency of change in the statistical calculation over the plurality of ultrasound images can then be determined. The region location having a dominant determined frequency of change in the statistical calculation (over the plurality of ultrasound images) can be identified as a region of interest (ROI). The heart rate can be calculated ...

Gas hardening cell

A cell for hardening steel parts by circulation of a gas in a tight enclosure, including at least one static aspirator for circulating the gas, the gas present at the inlet of the static aspirator being at a pressure greater than the atmospheric pressure.

Compound ultrasound imaging method

A compound ultrasound imaging method includes the steps of acquiring component frames with different scanline properties, such as different angles, scanline durations, control voltages, etc., and compounding them in real-time.

Spatial needle guidance system and associated methods

Methods and apparatus for positioning a elongate hollow member at a desired location in a body in a medical procedure are provided. A position marker is removably disposed within a sheath. The sheath may be disposable. The sheath and enclosed position marker may be inserted into a lumen of a member to be positioned. The position in space of the position marker may be monitored by a position sensor to provide real-time information regarding a position of the member. The spatial relationship between the position marker and member may be fixed by securing the mounting member to the sheath and securing the sheath to the member.

Ultrasound scanner

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DISPLAYING AN ULTRASOUND IMAGE IN RESPONSE TO SCREEN SIZE

Ultrasound images are adjusted according to the size of the display area available to display them, so that image detail is displayed with a large enough physical size to discern comfortably. A translation ratio is determined for translating the physical distance traversed by the ultrasound signals of an ultrasound images to a corresponding physical distance on a screen of the display device. If the ratio is not below a threshold, the image is displayed in full. If the ratio is below the threshold, the image is cropped, optionally scaled, and displayed in the available area. Scaling and cropping may be based on window size and threshold window size. The parameters of the ultrasound scan may be controlled based on the scaling, cropping, or available screen size. User interface features may be displayed on the screen depending on how much area is available when the image is displayed.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SWITCHING BETWEEN A SPECTRAL DOPPLER MODE AND A TWO-DIMENSIONAL (2D) ULTRASOUND IMAGING MODE IN AN ULTRASOUND IMAGING SYSTEM

An ultrasound scanner in a spectral Doppler mode, in which a corresponding two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound imaging mode (e.g., B-mode) image is frozen, is switched temporarily to the 2D-mode in response to a continuous contact on a touchscreen. During the continuous contact, the spectral Doppler mode is interrupted, the 2D-mode image becomes live, and the gate for the spectral Doppler mode may be adjusted by a movement of the continuous contact on the touchscreen. Upon termination of the continuous contact, the system reverts back to the spectral Doppler mode, which now operates within the adjusted gate, and the 2D-mode image is frozen. A brief contact may be used to check the position of the gate against a live 2D-mode image without adjusting it.

Systems and methods of establishing a secondary connection at an ultrasound imaging machine, for providing access to an ultrasound image feed

The present embodiments relate generally to methods for providing viewing access to an ultrasound image feed generated at an ultrasound imaging machine. A multi-use display device may form a first link-layer connection with the ultrasound image machine for transmitting commands that control imaging parameters of the ultrasound image feed. The multi-use display device may then: determine link-layer connection parameters that allow the ultrasound imaging machine to form a second link-layer connection with a receiving device (the receiving device having no link-layer connection with the ultrasound imaging machine), and provide the connection parameters to the receiving device. The ultrasound imaging machine forms a second link-layer connection with the receiving device, based the connection parameters. The second link-layer connection is then used for receiving, at the receiving device, the ultrasound image feed controlled by the multi-use display device.

Handheld ultrasound imaging systems

A handheld ultrasound device is provided, having a transducer assembly for emitting and receiving sonic signals, a configurable signal processing unit, and a data processor configured to provide configuration data to the signal processing unit. The configuration data defines a beamforming configuration, filtering configuration and envelope detection configuration for an operational mode. The operational mode may be selected by the user or may be determined based on a detected type of the transducer assembly.

Ultrasound pulse-wave doppler measurement of blood flow velocity and/or turbulence

Apparatus and methods for measuring and analyzing blood flow in vessels in the bodies of living subjects are provided. The true velocity vector, or a projection thereof onto a scan plane, for blood flowing at a location in a vessel is determined from multiple Doppler velocity components. The true velocity vector is displayed as a directional marker on an image comprising the vessel. The true velocity magnitude and angle, and scalar blood flow characteristics derived therefrom, are plotted as a functions of time and/or position across the depiction of the blood vessel in the image. Time intervals for which blood flow characteristic data is displayed and/or determined may be user configurable.

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR LOCATING ARTERIES AND VEINS USING ULTRASOUND

A method for targeting a blood vessel comprises acquiring ultrasound data, automatically determining a target sample volume, acquiring Doppler ultrasound data, and communicating an indicator of flow characteristics in the target sample volume. The ultrasound data is for a plane within a body. The target sample volume is determined at an intersection of a trajectory of an insertable instrument with the plane. The Doppler ultrasound data is acquired for at least the target sample volume at the intersection. The indicator of flow characteristics is based on the Doppler ultrasound data. An associated apparatus is also described. 1. A method for targeting a blood vessel , the method comprising:acquiring ultrasound data for a plane within a body;automatically determining a target sample volume at an intersection of a trajectory of an insertable instrument with the plane;acquiring Doppler ultrasound data at least for the target sample volume at the intersection; andcommunicating an indicator of flow characteristics in the target sample volume, the indicator based on the Doppler ultrasound data.2. The method of wherein communicating the indicator of flow characteristics in the target sample volume comprises presenting a Doppler shift determined from the Doppler ultrasound data audibly.3. The method of wherein communicating the indicator of flow characteristics in the target sample volume comprises displaying a time-velocity Doppler ultrasound spectrum determined from the Doppler ultrasound data.5. The method of wherein the flow characteristic value comprises a measure of pulsatility of flow at the target sample volume.6. The method of wherein the flow characteristic value comprises a measure of resistivity of flow at the target sample volume.8. The method of wherein the flow characteristic value comprises a velocity magnitude value and wherein an appearance of the indicator is coded according to the velocity magnitude value.9. The method of wherein one or more of the ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A SCREEN IN RESPONSE TO A WIRELESS ULTRASOUND SCANNER

Mobile ultrasound scanners require a screen that acts as a display and user interface, yet there is often no convenient location for the screen. A mobile ultrasound scanner is therefore set up as a user interface to control a screen that is already in-situ. The ultrasound scanner wirelessly communicates with a separate interface module that controls a previously paired screen. When the scanner is in range of the interface module, the screen switches on. The interface module operates in an ultrasound scanning mode and optionally a user navigation mode, to which the screen display corresponds. The scanner operator can perform an ultrasound scan and provide user inputs without having to touch the screen. The scanner may have at least one physical button for operator input and/or a multi-axis accelerometer/gyroscope that detects gestures made using the scanner. 1. A method for establishing a wireless communication link between an ultrasound scanner and an interface that controls a screen , the method comprising:broadcasting, by the ultrasound scanner, an identification signal;detecting, by the ultrasound scanner, a request from the interface to establish a communication link with the ultrasound scanner;establishing, by the ultrasound scanner, the communication link;sending, by the ultrasound scanner to the interface, data from an ultrasound scan; andsending, by the ultrasound scanner to the interface, a parameter that is used by the interface to convert the data into an ultrasound media for display on the screen.2. The method of claim 1 , comprising the ultrasound scanner operating as a Wi-Fi™ hotspot or using a Bluetooth™ communication protocol to broadcast the identification signal and establish the communication link.3. The method of claim 1 , performed by the ultrasound scanner without human intervention claim 1 , after the ultrasound scanner is switched on.4. The method of claim 1 , comprising:detecting, by the ultrasound scanner, a mode of the ultrasound scanner, ...

Systems and methods of establishing a communication session for live review of ultrasound scanning

An application running in a mobile device displays an ultrasound image obtained by a connected ultrasound scanner. A button is displayed on the device, which, when activated, automatically connects the device to a remote reviewer in a virtual videoconferencing room, without the operator of the scanner needing to input user credentials. Upon activating the button, or otherwise triggering the request for a review, pre-stored login credentials are automatically retrieved and used for connecting the operator to the room. The remote reviewer may be connected to the room upon accepting the request for review, without having to input user credentials, which are pre-stored and automatically retrieved.

Highly configurable medical ultrasound machine and related methods

An ultrasound machine is operated by executing a protocol. Executing the protocol configures the ultrasound machine, controls for operating the ultrasound machine and a display for the ultrasound machine. Protocols may be defined to provide a streamlined configuration of controls for operating the ultrasound machine, and to provide instructions that guide a user's operation of the ultrasound machine.

ULTRASOUND MACHINE HAVING SCALABLE RECEIVE BEAMFORMER ARCHITECTURE COMPRISING MULTIPLE BEAMFORMERS WITH COMMON COEFFICIENT GENERATOR AND RELATED METHODS

An apparatus and method for generating high quality, high frame rate images in a handheld or hand-carried ultrasound imaging machine. The apparatus includes a time-multiplexed beamformer coefficient generator that supplies the necessary delay and weight coefficients to process multiple beams in parallel via a beamforming coefficient bus. This approach reduces the required hardware and power consumption to satisfy the physical space and power requirements of a handheld probe. The ultrasound machine may optionally turn off or operate beamformers in a standby mode. The ultrasound machine may also use pulse inversion harmonics to improve image quality by improving signal-to-noise ratio.

METHOD AND SYSTEM TO ASSESS MEDICAL IMAGES FOR SUITABILITY IN CLINICAL INTERPRETATION

A method and system for assessing medical images for suitability in clinical interpretation is described herein. The method and system involve: acquiring a medical image; inputting the medical image into a machine learning model, wherein the machine learning model is configured to determine a quality value based on the medical image; determining whether the quality value meets a quality threshold associated with a target clinical application; and when the quality value meets the quality threshold associated with the target clinical application, permitting clinical interpretation of the medical image for the target clinical application.

System and method for connecting and controlling wireless ultrasound imaging system from electronic device

An ultrasound imaging system comprising a multi-use electronic display device and an ultrasound imaging device. The multi-use electronic display device is capable of communicating with one or more ultrasound imaging devices and selecting which to connect with based on at least one of previously store information, user input, and information gathered from the ultrasound imaging devices. The multi-use electronic display device may communicate with the ultrasound imaging devices while they are in a low power standby state. This approach reduces the complexity of the pairing process and provides a means for quickly and easily selecting between multiple ultrasound imaging devices.

Low-pressure cementation method

The invention relates to a low-pressure carburising method comprising alternating low-pressure enrichment steps and diffusion steps in the presence of a neutral gas. During the enrichment steps, an enriching gas and neutral gas mixture is used, the proportion of the neutral gas being between 5 and 50% by volume of the enriching gas. The enriching gas can be, for example, acetylene (C₂H₂).

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING A HEART RATE OF AN IMAGED HEART IN AN ULTRASOUND IMAGE FEED

The present embodiments relate generally to systems, methods, and apparatus for determining a heart rate of an imaged heart in an ultrasound image feed. A plurality of ultrasound images can first be acquired. For each ultrasound image of the plurality of ultrasound images, the image can be divided into a plurality of regions; where each region is positioned so that the region corresponds to a substantially similar region location present across the plurality of ultrasound images. For each region location on each of the plurality of ultrasound images, a statistical calculation on image data of the region location can be performed. For each region location, a frequency of change in the statistical calculation over the plurality of ultrasound images can then be determined. The region location having a dominant determined frequency of change in the statistical calculation (over the plurality of ultrasound images) can be identified as a region of interest (ROI). The heart rate can be calculated based on the determined frequency of change of the ROI. 1. A method of determining a heart rate of an imaged heart in an ultrasound image feed , the method comprising:acquiring a plurality of ultrasound images;for each ultrasound image of the plurality of ultrasound images, dividing the image into a plurality of regions, wherein each region is positioned so that the region corresponds to a substantially similar region location present across the plurality of ultrasound images;for each region location on each of the plurality of ultrasound images, performing a statistical calculation on image data of the region location;for each region location, determining a frequency of change in the statistical calculation over the plurality of ultrasound images;determining the region location having a dominant determined frequency of change in the statistical calculation over the plurality of ultrasound images;identifying a selected region location having the dominant determined frequency as a ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INITIATING CREATION OF A PATIENT ACCOUNT ON A MEDICAL IMAGING SYSTEM DURING A MEDICAL IMAGING EXAMINATION

The present embodiments relate generally to a system and method for creation of a patient account on a medical imaging system during a medical imaging examination. The method may involve operating a processor to: acquire a set of medical imaging data during the medical imaging examination, the set of medical imaging data being acquired in association with a logged-in medical professional account on the medical imaging system; display a new patient account prompt to initiate creation of the patient account; receive a patient identifier to initiate the creation of the patient account; and use the patient identifier to initiate the creation of the patient account, the patient account to be used for accessing at least a portion of the set of medical imaging data acquired during the medical imaging examination.

Ultrasound machine having scalable receive beamformer architecture comprising multiple beamformers with common coefficient generator and related methods

An apparatus and method for generating high quality, high frame rate images in a handheld or hand-carried ultrasound imaging machine. The apparatus includes a time-multiplexed beamformer coefficient generator that supplies the necessary delay and weight coefficients to process multiple beams in parallel via a beamforming coefficient bus. This approach reduces the required hardware and power consumption to satisfy the physical space and power requirements of a handheld probe. To improve image quality, the ultrasound machine may optionally use synthetic aperture to improve penetration and resolution. The ultrasound machine may also use pulse inversion harmonics to improve image quality by improving signal-to-noise ratio.

Method and system for displaying an ultrasound image in response to screen size

Ultrasound images are adjusted according to the size of the display area available to display them, so that image detail is displayed with a large enough physical size to discern comfortably. A translation ratio is determined for translating the physical distance traversed by the ultrasound signals of an ultrasound images to a corresponding physical distance on a screen of the display device. If the ratio is not below a threshold, the image is displayed in full. If the ratio is below the threshold, the image is cropped, optionally scaled, and displayed in the available area. Scaling and cropping may be based on window size and threshold window size. The parameters of the ultrasound scan may be controlled based on the scaling, cropping, or available screen size. User interface features may be displayed on the screen depending on how much area is available when the image is displayed.

Hand-held ultrasound imaging device having removable transducer arrays

A hand-held ultrasonic imaging device is provided with a removable transducer array. The imaging device has a housing, a display on the housing, and a transducer assembly including a transducer array detachably coupled to the housing. The imaging device may detect the type of transducer array that is coupled to the housing and select a corresponding functional mode for the transducer array. The transducer array may be coupled at different angles to the housing. The transducer array may be coupled to the housing by a pivotable swivel connector.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DISPLAYING AN ULTRASOUND IMAGE IN RESPONSE TO SCREEN SIZE

Ultrasound images are adjusted according to the size of the display area available to display them, so that image detail is displayed with a large enough physical size to discern comfortably. A translation ratio is determined for translating the physical distance traversed by the ultrasound signals of an ultrasound images to a corresponding physical distance on a screen of the display device. If the ratio is not below a threshold, the image is displayed in full. If the ratio is below the threshold, the image is cropped, optionally scaled, and displayed in the available area. Scaling and cropping may be based on window size and threshold window size. The parameters of the ultrasound scan may be controlled based on the scaling, cropping, or available screen size. User interface features may be displayed on the screen depending on how much area is available when the image is displayed.

Ultrasound unit

Ultrasound apparatus with improved heat dissipation and methods for providing same

The present embodiments relate generally to ultrasound apparatus with improved heat dissipation and methods for providing same. The ultrasound apparatus may have a housing that encloses a transducer array and at least one integrated circuit (IC) for driving the transducer array during operation. The housing may have an interior surface and an exterior surface, and the housing can be made substantially of metal. A post is disposed between the at least one IC and the interior surface of the housing. The post can be coupled directly to the interior surface of the housing so that heat generated from the at least one IC is transferred via the post to the housing and dissipated via the exterior surface.

System and method for locating an ultrasound imaging device from a multi-use electronic display device

An ultrasound imaging system comprising a multi-use electronic display device and an ultrasound imaging device. The multi-use electronic display device is capable of communicating with one or more ultrasound imaging devices and selecting which to connect with based on at least one of previously store information, user input, and information gathered from the ultrasound imaging devices. The multi-use electronic display device may communicate with the ultrasound imaging devices while they are in a low power standby state. This approach reduces the complexity of the pairing process and provides a means for quickly and easily selecting between multiple ultrasound imaging devices.

ULTRASOUND APPARATUS WITH IMPROVED HEAT DISSIPATION AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING SAME

The present embodiments relate generally to ultrasound apparatus with improved heat dissipation and methods for providing same. The ultrasound apparatus may have a housing that encloses a transducer array and at least one integrated circuit (IC) for driving the transducer array during operation. The housing may have an interior surface and an exterior surface, and the housing can be made substantially of metal. A post is disposed between the at least one IC and the interior surface of the housing. The post can be coupled directly to the interior surface of the housing so that heat generated from the at least one IC is transferred via the post to the housing and dissipated via the exterior surface. 1. An ultrasound imaging apparatus , comprising:a transducer array;at least one integrated circuit (IC) for driving the transducer array during operation of the ultrasound imaging apparatus; anda metallic housing enclosing at least one of the transducer array or the at least one IC;wherein the metallic housing comprises a grip portion and a non-grip portion, and the grip portion is covered with an insulating polymer-based material, and the non-grip portion is uncovered such that an exterior surface of the metallic housing is exposed at the non-grip portion for dissipation of heat generated by the transducer array or the at least one IC.2. The ultrasound imaging apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the grip portion comprises at between 0% -49% of the external surface area of the metallic housing.3. The ultrasound imaging apparatus of claim 1 , wherein surface area of the grip portion comprises between 10 claim 1 ,000 millimeters squared (mm) to 12 claim 1 ,000 mm.4. The ultrasound imaging apparatus of claim 1 , wherein when the ultrasound imaging apparatus is held at the grip portion by a hand claim 1 , and the hand serves as a heat sink to dissipate heat through the insulating polymer-based material.5. The ultrasound imaging apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the insulating polymer- ...

Methods and apparatus for performing multiple modes of ultrasound imaging using a single ultrasound transducer

The present embodiments relate generally to ultrasound imaging methods and apparatus that allow for multiple modes of imaging using a single ultrasound transducer having a plurality of transducer elements. In an embodiment, there is provided an ultrasound imaging machine that is: operable in a first imaging mode in which the plurality of transducer elements are activated; and operable in a second imaging mode different from the first imaging mode, and in the second imaging mode, a subset of the plurality of transducer elements are activated so that ultrasound signals are steered from the subset of the plurality of transducer elements, where any remaining transducer elements of the plurality of transducer elements not part of the subset are inactive when operating in the second imaging mode.

Speckle reduction and compression improvement of ultrasound images

An apparatus and method for generating high quality, high frame rate images in a handheld or hand-carried ultrasonic imaging machine. The apparatus includes an image enhancer to reduce speckle noise and improve the compressibility of the resulting image. This approach reduces the required hardware and power consumption to satisfy the physical space, power, and limited processing power of a handheld probe and enables high quality images to be transmitted efficiently over low-bandwidth connections.

ULTRASOUND SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OPTIMIZING MULTIPLE IMAGING PARAMETERS USING A SINGLE USER INTERFACE CONTROL

The present embodiments relate generally to ultrasound imaging systems and methods that provide a user interface on the touchscreen display. The user interface includes an ultrasound image feed and a single control for modifying imaging depth of the ultrasound image feed. When input via the single control is received to modify the imaging depth, the system: adjusts frequency of ultrasound signals being used to acquire the ultrasound image feed; adjusts a beamformer parameter of the ultrasound signals being used to acquire the ultrasound image feed; receives first image data of the ultrasound image feed based on the adjusted frequency and the adjusted beamformer parameter; based on the first image data, adjusts Time Gain Compensation (TGC) of the ultrasound image feed; and receives second image data of the ultrasound image feed based on the adjusted frequency, beamformer parameter and TGC. Display of the second image data on the touchscreen display is then optimized without receipt of additional user input. 1. A method of controlling viewing of an ultrasound image feed being acquired by an ultrasound acquisition unit , the method comprising:providing a user interface on an electronic display unit communicably coupled to the ultrasound acquisition unit, the user interface comprising the ultrasound image feed and a control for modifying imaging depth of the ultrasound image feed;receiving input via the control for modifying the imaging depth of the ultrasound image feed; and adjusting a preset of the ultrasound image feed to a first configuration, if the received input modifies the imaging depth to a shallow depth; and', 'adjusting the preset of the ultrasound image feed to a second configuration different from the first configuration, if the received input modifies the imaging depth to a deep depth., 'upon receipt of the input,'}2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the shallow depth comprises imaging depths of between 1-6 centimeters.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein ...

ULTRASOUND APPARATUS WITH IMPROVED HEAT DISSIPATION AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING SAME

The present embodiments relate generally to ultrasound apparatus with improved heat dissipation and methods for providing same. The ultrasound apparatus may have a housing that encloses a transducer array and at least one integrated circuit (IC) for driving the transducer array during operation. The housing may have an interior surface and an exterior surface, and the housing can be made substantially of metal. A post is disposed between the at least one IC and the interior surface of the housing. The post can be coupled directly to the interior surface of the housing so that heat generated from the at least one IC is transferred via the post to the housing and dissipated via the exterior surface. 1. An ultrasound imaging apparatus , comprising:a housing enclosing a transducer array and at least one integrated circuit (IC) for driving the transducer array during operation of the ultrasound imaging apparatus, wherein the housing comprises an interior surface and an exterior surface, and the housing is made substantially of metal;wherein a post is disposed between the at least one IC and the interior surface of the housing, the post being coupled directly to the interior surface of the housing so that heat generated from the at least one IC is transferred via the post to the housing and dissipated via the exterior surface.2. The ultrasound imaging apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the post is made of the metal.3. The ultrasound imaging apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the post is coupled directly to the at least one IC.4. The ultrasound imaging apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the post is in indirect physical contact with the at least one IC through at least one or more intermediate circuit boards.5. The ultrasound imaging apparatus of claim 4 , further comprising a circuit board having: a surface facing the interior surface of the housing claim 4 , and a surface not facing the interior surface of the housing claim 4 , and the at least one IC is coupled directly to the ...

Systems and methods of establishing a communication session for live review of ultrasound scanning

An application running in a mobile device displays an ultrasound image obtained by a connected ultrasound scanner. A button is displayed on the device, which, when activated, automatically connects the device to a remote reviewer in a virtual videoconferencing room, without the operator of the scanner needing to input user credentials. Upon activating the button, or otherwise triggering the request for a review, pre-stored login credentials are automatically retrieved and used for connecting the operator to the room. The remote reviewer may be connected to the room upon accepting the request for review, without having to input user credentials, which are pre-stored and automatically retrieved.

System and method for locating an ultrasound imaging device from a multi-use electronic display device

An ultrasound imaging system comprising a multi-use electronic display device and an ultrasound imaging device. The multi-use electronic display device is capable of communicating with one or more ultrasound imaging devices and selecting which to connect with based on at least one of previously store information, user input, and information gathered from the ultrasound imaging devices. The multi-use electronic display device may communicate with the ultrasound imaging devices while they are in a low power standby state. This approach reduces the complexity of the pairing process and provides a means for quickly and easily selecting between multiple ultrasound imaging devices.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REMOTE GRAPHICAL FEEDBACK OF ULTRASOUND SCANNING TECHNIQUE

An apparatus and method for providing remote expert feedback to an operator of an ultrasound imaging machine. The remote feedback consists of graphical icons that are dragged and dropped onto a video stream of the patient being scanned or the ultrasound image being captured and shared in real-time with the local operator to help improve their scanning technique 1. An ultrasound imaging device comprising:a hand-holdable probe comprising a transducer;transmit and receive circuits respectively operable to drive the transducer to transmit ultrasound energy to a patient and to receive signals generated by the transducer in response to ultrasound energy received from the patient;an image processing circuit comprising a beamformer configured to process the received signals to yield ultrasound image data;a data interface connected to transmit the ultrasound image data to a remote interface and to receive signals from the remote interface, the signals including position correction messages relating to positional correction for the probe;a display connected to display the ultrasound image data in a first display area and to display positional correction symbols determined by the messages in a second display area.2. An ultrasound imaging device according to wherein the positional correction symbols comprise predetermined icons stored in the ultrasound imaging device claim 1 , each of the predetermined icons comprising an arrow indicating a particular desired motion of the probe.3. An ultrasound imaging device according to wherein each of the icons includes a depiction of the probe.4. An ultrasound imaging device according to wherein the icons include:icons depicting tilting the probe forward and backward;icons depicting rocking the probe right and left; andicons depicting rotating the probe clockwise and counter-clockwise.5. An ultrasound imaging device according to wherein the icons further include icons depicting moving the probe to the left claim 4 , right claim 4 , forward ...

DONGLE FOR OUTPUTTING AN ULTRASOUND IMAGE ACQUIRED AT AN ULTRASOUND MACHINE CONTROLLED BY A MULTI-USE DISPLAY DEVICE, AND RELATED METHODS

The present embodiments relate generally to methods for providing viewing access to an ultrasound image feed generated at an ultrasound imaging machine. A multi-use display device may form a first link-layer connection with the ultrasound image machine for transmitting commands that control imaging parameters of the ultrasound image feed. The multi-use display device may then: determine link-layer connection parameters that allow the ultrasound imaging machine to form a second link-layer connection with a receiving device (the receiving device having no link-layer connection with the ultrasound imaging machine), and provide the connection parameters to the receiving device. The ultrasound imaging machine forms a second link-layer connection with the receiving device, based the connection parameters. The second link-layer connection is then used for receiving, at the receiving device, the ultrasound image feed controlled by the multi-use display device. 1. A dongle having a port for connecting an image output device , the dongle comprising a processor for executing software instructions that cause the processor to:connect to an ultrasound machine, the ultrasound machine being connected to a multi-use display device that transmits commands to the ultrasound machine;receive an ultrasound image feed generated at the ultrasound machine, the ultrasound image feed being based on commands from the multi-use display device; andwhen the image output device is connected to the port, output one or more images from the ultrasound image feed to the image output device.2. The dongle of claim 1 , wherein prior to outputting the one or more images from the ultrasound image feed to the image output device claim 1 , the processor is further configured to:receive a signal marking the one or more images from the ultrasound image feed to be outputted to the image output device; andbased on the signal, marking the one or more images to be outputted to the image output device.3. The dongle ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AUTOMATIC TIME GAIN COMPENSATION IN A HANDHELD ULTRASOUND IMAGING SYSTEM

An apparatus and method for automatically calculating and applying time gain compensation in a handheld or hand-carried ultrasonic imaging machine. The apparatus include an autogain unit to calculate the time gain compensation based on a processed ultrasound image. The image is divided into regions, and the image intensity is used to mask regions which satisfy a threshold. Masked regions are used to calculate a gain curve which is then spatially and temporally smoothed. Means are providing for masking entire columns of regions to remove areas where the probe is not in contact. This approach may allow less experienced users to achieve high quality images without the difficult and time-consuming task of manually adjusting the time gain compensation. 1. An ultrasound imaging method comprising:acquiring ultrasound data by transmitting ultrasound signals and receiving ultrasound echo signals and amplifying the ultrasound echo signals according to gains that vary with echo delay times according to a current time-gain curve;processing the ultrasound data to yield an ultrasound image comprising a plurality of rows and columns, the rows of the ultrasound image associated with corresponding echo delay times;determining a time-gain compensation curve by:determining a representative pixel value for each of a plurality of regions of the ultrasound image, the regions arranged in a plurality of rows each of the plurality of rows of regions comprising a plurality of the regions, wherein a plurality of rows of the ultrasound image each extend through the plurality of regions of a different one of the rows of regions;for each of the plurality of rows of regions combining those of the representative values which satisfy an inclusion condition into a combined representative value associated with a corresponding echo delay time;for the combined representative values determining corresponding gain offset amounts by which the gains of the time-gain curve differ from desired gains for the ...

TRANSDUCER ADAPTERS FOR ALLOWING MULTIPLE MODES OF ULTRASOUND IMAGING USING A SINGLE ULTRASOUND TRANSDUCER

The present embodiments relate generally to ultrasound imaging systems. The ultrasound imaging systems may include an ultrasound imaging transducer operable to acquire ultrasound image data and a transducer adapter configured to detachably couple to the ultrasound imaging transducer. The transducer adapter may provide a different footprint from the ultrasound imaging transducer native footprint to enable the ultrasound imaging transducer adapter to acquire ultrasound image data in a substantially similar way to ultrasound transducers with different transducer geometry. The ultrasound imaging transducer may include a sensor for detecting an attachment state of the transducer adapter. The ultrasound imaging transducer may modify one or more imaging parameters when the transducer is attached to the ultrasound imaging transducer. 1. An ultrasound imaging transducer assembly , comprising:an ultrasound imaging transducer having transducer elements configured in a curved geometry; and a proximal surface for mating to the transducer, the proximal surface having a curvature corresponding to the curved geometry of the transducer elements; and', 'a distal surface at a distal end of the transducer assembly, the distal surface having a geometry that is substantially planar., 'a transducer adapter for coupling to the ultrasound imaging transducer, wherein the transducer adapter comprises a pass-through volume for permitting ultrasound energy to be transmitted through the transducer adapter, the pass-through volume comprising2. The ultrasound imaging transducer assembly of claim 1 , wherein the ultrasound imaging transducer is configured to determine an adapter type of the transducer adapter.3. The ultrasound imaging transducer assembly of claim 2 , wherein the ultrasound imaging transducer further comprises a sensor for determining the adapter type of the transducer adapter.4. The ultrasound imaging transducer assembly of claim 3 , wherein the transducer adapter includes a radio ...

Speckle reduction and compression improvement of ultrasound images

An apparatus and method for generating high quality, high frame rate images in a handheld or hand-carried ultrasonic imaging machine. The apparatus includes an image enhancer to reduce speckle noise and improve the compressibility of the resulting image. This approach reduces the required hardware and power consumption to satisfy the physical space, power, and limited processing power of a handheld probe and enables high quality images to be transmitted efficiently over low-bandwidth connections.

Methods and apparatus for performing multiple modes of ultrasound imaging using a single ultrasound transducer

The present embodiments relate generally to ultrasound imaging methods and apparatus that allow for multiple modes of imaging using a single ultrasound transducer having a plurality of transducer elements. In an embodiment, there is provided an ultrasound imaging machine that is: operable in a first imaging mode in which the plurality of transducer elements are activated; and operable in a second imaging mode different from the first imaging mode, and in the second imaging mode, a subset of the plurality of transducer elements are activated so that ultrasound signals are steered from the subset of the plurality of transducer elements, where any remaining transducer elements of the plurality of transducer elements not part of the subset are inactive when operating in the second imaging mode.

ULTRASOUND PULSE-WAVE DOPPLER MEASUREMENT OF BLOOD FLOW VELCOITY AND/OR TURBULENCE

Apparatus and methods for measuring and analyzing blood flow in vessels in the bodies of living subjects are provided. The true velocity vector, or a projection thereof onto a scan plane, for blood flowing at a location in a vessel is determined from multiple Doppler velocity components. The true velocity vector is displayed as a directional marker on an image comprising the vessel. The true velocity magnitude and angle, and scalar blood flow characteristics derived therefrom, are plotted as a functions of time and/or position across the depiction of the blood vessel in the image. Time intervals for which blood flow characteristic data is displayed and/or determined may be user configurable. 1. A system for displaying blood flow information concerning blood in a vessel , the system comprising:an ultrasound transducer that receives ultrasound signals;a controller that produces an ultrasound image of the vessel from the ultrasound signals, wherein the ultrasound image includes a representation of the vessel;a display that displays the ultrasound image;wherein the controller constructs and displays a user-positionable cursor overlaid over a sub-portion of the representation of the vessel in the displayed ultrasound image, and the user-positionable cursor identifies a single sub-sample volume of interest in the vessel;wherein the controller, for each of a plurality of different time intervals, determines a different true velocity vector of blood passing through the same single sub-sample volume located in the vessel from the ultrasound signals, and constructs a plurality of vector-markers, each vector-marker including a graphical indicator that indicates a magnitude and an angle of a different one of the true velocity vectors, wherein each of the graphical indicators includes an arrow with a line segment having a first end, a second opposing end, and a head disposed at the first end; andwherein the controller displays, concurrently, the arrows with the second ends at a ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GENERATING AN ULTRASOUND MULTIMEDIA PRODUCT

The present embodiments relate generally to systems and methods for generating a multimedia product. The embodiments may include: identifying a plurality of ultrasound media items from a fetal ultrasound scan, where each of the plurality of ultrasound media items have different respective attributes; and applying a theme to the plurality of ultrasound media items to generate the multimedia product. The theme may include an effect to be applied to at least one ultrasound media item of the plurality of ultrasound media items, and the applying may include adapting one of: the effect, and the attribute of the at least one ultrasound media item, to the other. 120.-. (canceled)21. A system for generating a multimedia product comprising:a viewing computing device; and a plurality of ultrasound media items having associated metadata, the plurality of ultrasound media items being generated from a fetal ultrasound scan;', 'a mapping of metadata values to anatomical features of a fetus;', 'a mapping of the anatomical features of a fetus to options for one or more multimedia effects;', 'underlying data associated with the options for the one or more multimedia effects; and', read metadata associated with at least one ultrasound media item of the plurality of ultrasound media items;', 'based on the mapping of metadata values to anatomical features of a fetus, determine an anatomical feature of a fetus, corresponding to the read metadata, that is viewable in the at least one ultrasound media item;', 'based on the mapping of the anatomical features of a fetus to options for the one or more multimedia effects, identify an option for a multimedia effect of the one or more multimedia effects; and', 'apply the multimedia effect, with the identified option, to the at least one ultrasound media item, to generate one or more frames of the multimedia product;, 'a multimedia product generator comprising software instructions executable by at least one processor at the server or at the ...

ULTRASOUND SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR OPTIMIZING MULTIPLE IMAGING PARAMETERS USING A SINGLE USER INTERFACE CONTROL

The present embodiments relate generally to ultrasound imaging systems and methods that provide a user interface on the touchscreen display. The user interface includes an ultrasound image feed and a single control for modifying imaging depth of the ultrasound image feed. When input via the single control is received to modify the imaging depth, the system: adjusts frequency of ultrasound signals being used to acquire the ultrasound image feed; adjusts a beamformer parameter of the ultrasound signals being used to acquire the ultrasound image feed; receives first image data of the ultrasound image feed based on the adjusted frequency and the adjusted beamformer parameter; based on the first image data, adjusts Time Gain Compensation (TGC) of the ultrasound image feed; and receives second image data of the ultrasound image feed based on the adjusted frequency, beamformer parameter and TGC. Display of the second image data on the touchscreen display is then optimized without receipt of additional user input. 1. An ultrasound imaging system , comprising:a touchscreen display; anda processor configured to execute instructions that cause the processor to provide a user interface on the touchscreen display, the user interface comprising an ultrasound image feed and a single control for modifying imaging depth of the ultrasound image feed; adjust frequency of ultrasound signals being used to acquire the ultrasound image feed,', 'adjust a beamformer parameter of the ultrasound signals being used to acquire the ultrasound image feed,', 'receive first image data of the ultrasound image feed based on the adjusted frequency and the adjusted beamformer parameter,', 'based on the first image data, adjust Time Gain Compensation (TGC) of the ultrasound image feed, and', 'receive second image data of the ultrasound image feed based on the adjusted frequency, beamformer parameter and TGC;, 'wherein upon receipt of input via the single control to modify the imaging depth of the ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONNECTING AND CONTROLLING WIRELESS ULTRASOUND IMAGING SYSTEM FROM ELECTRONIC DEVICE

An ultrasound imaging system comprising a multi-use electronic display device and an ultrasound imaging device. The multi-use electronic display device is capable of communicating with one or more ultrasound imaging devices and selecting which to connect with based on at least one of previously store information, user input, and information gathered from the ultrasound imaging devices. The multi-use electronic display device may communicate with the ultrasound imaging devices while they are in a low power standby state. This approach reduces the complexity of the pairing process and provides a means for quickly and easily selecting between multiple ultrasound imaging devices. 1. An ultrasound imaging method comprising , by a multi-use electronic display device:using a first wireless communication protocol, acquiring imaging device selection information from each of one or more ultrasound imaging devices;selecting one of the one or more ultrasound imaging devices for use in an ultrasound procedure based on the selection information;establishing a primary wireless communication link with the selected one of the ultrasound imaging devices according to a second wireless communication protocol different from the first wireless communication protocol;commanding the selected one of the ultrasound imaging devices to acquire ultrasound image data;receiving the ultrasound image data by way of the primary wireless communication link; anddisplaying the received ultrasound image data on a screen of the multi-use electronic display device.2. A method according to comprising claim 1 , by the multi-use electronic display device:determining from the selection information a controllable function of the ultrasound imaging device;in response to determining the controllable function, configuring the multi-use electronic display device to provide at least one user interface control for the controllable function.3. A method according to wherein the selection information comprises link ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING A HEART RATE OF AN IMAGED HEART IN AN ULTRASOUND IMAGE FEED

The present embodiments relate generally to systems, methods, and apparatus for determining a heart rate of an imaged heart in an ultrasound image feed. A plurality of ultrasound images can first be acquired. For each ultrasound image of the plurality of ultrasound images, the image can be divided into a plurality of regions; where each region is positioned so that the region corresponds to a substantially similar region location present across the plurality of ultrasound images. For each region location on each of the plurality of ultrasound images, a statistical calculation on image data of the region location can be performed. For each region location, a frequency of change in the statistical calculation over the plurality of ultrasound images can then be determined. The region location having a dominant determined frequency of change in the statistical calculation (over the plurality of ultrasound images) can be identified as a region of interest (ROI). The heart rate can be calculated based on the determined frequency of change of the ROI. 1. A method of determining a heart rate of an imaged heart in an ultrasound image feed , the method comprising:acquiring a plurality of ultrasound images;calculating a difference between at least two successive images in the plurality of ultrasound images to determine pixel displacement of one or more pixel locations across the at least two successive images;identifying a location showing motion of the one or more pixel locations as a region of interest (ROI);for the ROI, performing a statistical calculation on image data of the region location over the plurality of ultrasound images;determining a frequency of change in the statistical calculation at the ROI over the plurality of ultrasound images;determining the dominant determined frequency of change in the statistical calculation at the ROI over the plurality of ultrasound images; andcalculating the heart rate based on the determined dominant frequency of change at the ROI ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REMOTE GRAPHICAL FEEDBACK OF ULTRASOUND SCANNING TECHNIQUE

An apparatus and method for providing remote expert feedback to an operator of an ultrasound imaging machine. The remote feedback consists of graphical icons that are dragged and dropped onto a video stream of the patient being scanned or the ultrasound image being captured and shared in real-time with the local operator to help improve their scanning technique 1. An ultrasound imaging system comprising: a transducer;', 'transmit and receive circuits respectively operable to drive the transducer to transmit ultrasound energy and to receive signals generated by the transducer in response to reflected ultrasound energy; and', 'an image processing circuit configured to process the received signals to yield ultrasound image data; and, 'a probe comprising an ultrasound image buffer configured to store a plurality of frames of the ultrasound image data;', 'a camera operable to generate a video stream;', 'a video stream buffer configured to store a plurality of frames of the video stream generated from the camera; and', 'a data interface connected to transmit, to a remote interface, the plurality of frames of the ultrasound image data and the plurality of frames of the video stream generated from the camera, wherein the data interface is configured to receive a freeze message from the remote interface, and the freeze message identifies both a selected one of the plurality of frames of the video stream generated by the camera and a selected one of the plurality of frames of the ultrasound image data; and', 'a display connected to, upon receipt of the freeze message, display both the selected one of the plurality of frames of the video stream and the selected one of the plurality of frames of the ultrasound image data, so that a position and orientation of the probe for acquiring the selected one of the plurality of frames of the ultrasound image data is shown in the selected one of the plurality of frames of the video stream., 'a local user interface device communicably ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF ESTABLISHING A SECONDARY CONNECTION AT AN ULTRASOUND IMAGING MACHINE, FOR PROVIDING ACCESS TO AN ULTRASOUND IMAGE FEED

The present embodiments relate generally to methods for providing viewing access to an ultrasound image feed generated at an ultrasound imaging machine. A multi-use display device may form a first link-layer connection with the ultrasound image machine for transmitting commands that control imaging parameters of the ultrasound image feed. The multi-use display device may then: determine link-layer connection parameters that allow the ultrasound imaging machine to form a second link-layer connection with a receiving device (the receiving device having no link-layer connection with the ultrasound imaging machine), and provide the connection parameters to the receiving device. The ultrasound imaging machine forms a second link-layer connection with the receiving device, based the connection parameters. The second link-layer connection is then used for receiving, at the receiving device, the ultrasound image feed controlled by the multi-use display device. 1. A method of providing security for view access of an ultrasound image feed generated at an ultrasound imaging machine , the method comprising , at a multi-use display device:forming a first connection with the ultrasound image machine, the first connection being for transmitting commands that control imaging parameters of the ultrasound image feed, wherein the first connection is formed by a first application executing on the multi-use display device and the first application is associated with a first institution profile;determining connection parameters that allow the ultrasound imaging machine to form a second connection with a receiving device that is different from the multi-use display device; determines if the second institution profile corresponds to the first institution profile, and', 'if the second institution profile corresponds to the first institution profile, the receiving device forms the second connection with the ultrasound imaging machine using the connection parameters, the second connection ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF ESTABLISHING A SECONDARY CONNECTION AT AN ULTRASOUND IMAGING MACHINE, FOR PROVIDING ACCESS TO AN ULTRASOUND IMAGE FEED

The present embodiments relate generally to methods for providing viewing access to an ultrasound image feed generated at an ultrasound imaging machine. A multi-use display device may form a first link-layer connection with the ultrasound image machine for transmitting commands that control imaging parameters of the ultrasound image feed. The multi-use display device may then: determine link-layer connection parameters that allow the ultrasound imaging machine to form a second link-layer connection with a receiving device (the receiving device having no link-layer connection with the ultrasound imaging machine), and provide the connection parameters to the receiving device. The ultrasound imaging machine forms a second link-layer connection with the receiving device, based the connection parameters. The second link-layer connection is then used for receiving, at the receiving device, the ultrasound image feed controlled by the multi-use display device. 1. A method of providing viewing access to an ultrasound image feed generated at an ultrasound imaging machine , the method comprising , at a multi-use display device:forming a first link-layer connection with the ultrasound image machine, the first link-layer connection being for transmitting commands that control imaging parameters of the ultrasound image feed;determining link-layer connection parameters that allow the ultrasound imaging machine to form a second link-layer connection with a receiving device, the receiving device having no link-layer connection with the ultrasound imaging machine; andproviding the connection parameters to the receiving device, wherein the receiving device forms a second link-layer connection with the ultrasound imaging machine using the connection parameters, the second link-layer connection being used for receiving, at the receiving device, the ultrasound image feed controlled by the multi-use display device.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first link-layer connection and the ...

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PERFORMING AT LEAST THREE MODES OF ULTRASOUND IMAGING USING A SINGLE ULTRASOUND TRANSDUCER

This disclosure relates to methods and apparatus for performing at least three modes of ultrasound imaging using a single ultrasound transducer. In a first mode, transducer elements are activated so that ultrasound signals are transmitted from the contact surface at one or more directions normal to the contact surface. In a second mode, a first subset of the transducer elements are activated so that parallel ultrasound signals are transmitted from the contact surface. In a third mode, a second subset of the transducer elements are activated so that ultrasound signals are steered from the second subset of transducer elements. 1. An ultrasound imaging method , comprising:imaging in a first mode using a transducer comprising a plurality of transducer elements and a contact surface, wherein when imaging in the first mode, the plurality of transducer elements are activated and a first plurality of ultrasound signals are transmitted from the contact surface at one or more directions normal to the contact surface;imaging in a second mode different from the first mode, wherein when imaging in the second mode, a first subset of the plurality of transducer elements are activated and a second plurality of parallel ultrasound signals are transmitted from the contact surface; andimaging in a third mode different from the first mode and the second mode, wherein when imaging in the third mode, a second subset of the plurality of transducer elements are activated and a third plurality of ultrasound signals are steered from the second subset of the plurality of transducer elements.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of transducer elements are configured in a curved geometry.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein when imaging in the second mode claim 1 , a plurality of apertures within the first subset of the plurality of transducer elements are sequentially pulsed.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein when imaging in the second mode claim 3 , the method further comprises ...

System and method for connecting and controlling wireless ultrasound imaging system from electronic device

An ultrasound imaging system comprising a multi-use electronic display device and an ultrasound imaging device. The multi-use electronic display device is capable of communicating with one or more ultrasound imaging devices and selecting which to connect with based on at least one of previously store information, user input, and information gathered from the ultrasound imaging devices. The multi-use electronic display device may communicate with the ultrasound imaging devices while they are in a low power standby state. This approach reduces the complexity of the pairing process and provides a means for quickly and easily selecting between multiple ultrasound imaging devices.

Device for the carbon dioxide quenching of steel components after they have been subjected to a thermochemical treatment operation such as cementation

A device (10) for quenching with carbon dioxide comprises: (A) a quenching enclosure (12); (B) a high pressure reservoir (14) containing carbon dioxide; (C) a system (16, 18) for circulating carbon dioxide from the high pressure reservoir to the quenching enclosure; (D) a recuperation system (20, 22, 28, 36) for circulating at least part of the carbon dioxide present in the enclosure after a quenching operation towards the high pressure reservoir. The recuperation system comprises a low pressure reservoir (20), a system (22, 24) for circulating carbon dioxide from the enclosure to the low pressure reservoir and a system (26, 28, 29, 30) for circulating carbon dioxide from the low pressure reservoir to the high pressure reservoir.

GAS QUENCHING CELL

LOW PRESSURE CEMENTING PROCESS

The invention relates to a low-pressure carburising method comprising alternating low-pressure enrichment steps and diffusion steps in the presence of a neutral gas. During the enrichment steps, an enriching gas and neutral gas mixture is used, the proportion of the neutral gas being between 5 and 50 % by volume of the enriching gas. The enriching gas can be, for example, acetylene (C2H2).

MODULAR VACUUM HEAT TREATMENT PLANT

LOW PRESSURE CEMENTING PROCESS

Device for the hot physicochemical treatment of mechanical components, notably for the cementation of steel components comprises hot cleaning enclosure, hot physicochemical enclosure and transport system

A device (10) for the hot physicochemical treatment of mechanical components (24, 32) comprises: (A) a hot cleaning enclosure (30) for the components; (B) a hot physicochemical treatment enclosure (12); (C) a transport system (34, 36) for automatically transporting cleaned components from the cleaning enclosure to the inlet (17, 20) of the physicochemical treatment enclosure with a transport time such that the difference between the temperature of the cleaned components leaving the cleaning enclosure and the ambient temperature outside the cleaning enclosure reduces by half. An independent claim is also included for a method of hot physicochemical treatment using this device./.

GAS QUENCHING CELL

L'invention concerne une cellule de trempe sous gaz d'une charge (14), comprenant des tôles de guidage (24) et un élément de brassage (20) entraîné par un moteur (18) pour provoquer un écoulement de gaz entre la charge et un échangeur (22). L'élément de brassage est une hélice à pas réglable.

GAS QUENCHING CELL

Gas-heated carburizing equipment

A cell and an equipment for thermally processing steel parts under low pressure, including heating means formed of several radiant gas tubes distributed around a useful volume of a tight chamber, and control means provided with at least one mode of pulse regulation of the heating means.

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CHEMICAL CHEMICAL PROCESSING OF MECHANICAL PARTS

GAS QUENCHING CELL

L'invention concerne une cellule (20) de trempe de pièces d'acier par circulation d'un fluide gazeux dans une enceinte étanche (23), comportant au moins un aspirateur statique (26) pour organiser la circulation du fluide gazeux. The invention relates to a cell (20) for hardening steel parts by circulating a gaseous fluid in a sealed enclosure (23), comprising at least one static vacuum cleaner (26) for organizing the circulation of the gaseous fluid.

RAPID COOLING PROCESS OF PARTS BY CONVECTIVE AND RADIATIVE TRANSFER

A device for carrying out sequential thermal treatments under a vacuum

A device for treating parts under a controlled atmosphere comprises an airtight chamber (2); treatment cells (31) mounted on the airtight chamber and able to communicate with the airtight chamber for allowing the part to be transferred from the treatment cell to the airtight chamber; a loading-unloading cell (15), each cell comprising means (19) for gripping the part and keeping same suspended in this cell; at least one device (21) for transferring the part from one cell to another through the airtight chamber (2).

DEVICE FOR EXECUTING HEAT TREATMENTS CONTINUOUS IN VACUUM CONTINUOUS

L'invention concerne un dispositif qui permet d'effectuer en continu ces opérations de traitements thermiques enchaînés sous vide. Il est constitué d'un collecteur de vide 1, pourvu d'orifices correspondant à plusieurs cellules (ex : 15 et 16), et à une cellule de chargement/déchargement. L'ensemble est maintenu sous vide par un dispositif de pompage 9. Le collecteur renferme une couronne tournante 10, supportant 2 ascenseurs 11 et 12, permettant d'assurer le transfert des charges d'une cellule à l'autre. L'entrée et la sortie des charges dans le dispositif se fait par une potence ou autre moyen, qui assure le transfert de la cellule de chargement/déchargement. The invention relates to a device which enables these heat treatment operations to be carried out continuously under vacuum. It consists of a vacuum manifold 1, provided with orifices corresponding to several cells (eg 15 and 16), and to a loading / unloading cell. The assembly is kept under vacuum by a pumping device 9. The collector contains a rotating ring 10, supporting two elevators 11 and 12, making it possible to transfer the charges from one cell to another. The entry and exit of the loads in the device is done by a jib crane or other means, which ensures the transfer of the loading / unloading cell.

DEVICE FOR TEMPERING STEEL PARTS

PROCESS FOR LOW PRESSURE RECYCLING

System and method for connecting and controlling wireless ultrasound imaging system from electronic device

An ultrasound imaging system comprising a multi-use electronic display device and one or more ultrasound imaging devices. The multi-use electronic display device is capable of communicating with the one or more ultrasound imaging devices and selecting which to connect with based on at least one of previously stored information, user input, and information gathered from the ultrasound imaging devices. The multi-use electronic display device may communicate with the one or more ultrasound imaging devices while they are in a low power standby state. This approach reduces the complexity of the pairing process and provides a means for quickly and easily selecting between multiple ultrasound imaging devices.

Modular vacuum thermal processing installation

The present invention relates to a chained thermal processing installation under rarefied atmosphere including several processing cells linked in a horizontal plane to a common air-tight chamber provided with handling means for transferring a load from one cell to another. The common chamber is a cylinder with a horizontal axis, at least one end of which is arranged to receive a module in the form of a cylindrical extension to which additional cells are connected.

Quenching process after low pressure carburising

A method for quenching steel components after being subjected to a heat treatment process, such as cementation, at low pressure (Pcem), is characterised in that it consists of submitting the components to a flow of air at an elevated pressure (Ptrem), of between 5 and 50 bars. The duration of the hardening process is below 15 minutes and preferably less than 2 minutes. The heat treatment installation using this method for treating steel components is also claimed and incorporates a plurality of treatment cells and handling equipment for transferring the components between the different treatment cells.

Device for injecting gas under high pressure and high flow rate into an airtight chamber and recovery of the gas

A DEVICE FOR INJECTING GAS UNDER HIGH PRESSURE AND HIGH FLOW RATE INTO AN AIRTIGHT CHAMBER AND RECOVERY OF THE GAS ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE A device permitting to fill a treatment chamber (1) with a compressed gas. to evacuate the gas present in the treatment chamber and to store it, comprises a gas storage tank (2) comprised of a rigid tank (3) and an elastic tank (4); a first pipe (5) with a first valve (6) coupling the elastic tank to the chamber; a second pipe (11) coupling the elastic tank to the chamber, through a pumping means (12); a compressed air inlet (9) for filling with compressed air the space (7) between the elastic tank (4) and the rigid tank (3); and a second valve (13) allowing space (7) to be vented.

Modular vacuum heat treatment system

(57)【要約】 【課題】 多数の処理セルを受け入れることができる、 気薄大気の下で連結された熱処理装置を提供する。 【解決手段】 一方のセルから他方のセルへ負荷（２ ４）を移動させるハンドリング手段（１８、２２）を提 供する共通気密チャンバに対して水平面に連接されたい くつかの処理セル（１４，１５、１６）を含む、気薄大 気の下で連結された熱処理装置において、共通チャンバ は水平軸を有するシリンダ（１０）であり、その少なく とも一方の端は、追加のセル（１４′）が接続されたシ リンダ状伸長部（１０′）の形状のモジュール（８）を 受け取るように配列されているものである。

DEVICE FOR THE INJECTION OF PRESSURIZED GASES AND HIGH FLOW RATES IN A SEALED HOUSING WITH GAS RECOVERY

L'invention concerne un dispositif qui permet l'injection de gaz dans une enceinte étanche 1 avec un débit et une pression appropriés, tout en permettant la récupération du gaz en fin de cycle, pour sa réutilisation au cycle suivant. Il est constitué d'une baudruche 8 contenue dans un réservoir 7, et relié à l'enceinte par une canalisation 2. Le réservoir est mis sous pression par une vanne 10, ou à l'air libre par une vanne 9. Un raccord 11 avec vanne 12 permet le remplissage de la baudruche. Après mise sous pression du réservoir 7, on permet l'entrée du gaz dans l'enceinte, en ouvrant la vanne 3. La même vanne permet de retransférer le gaz dans la baudruche après avoir remis le réservoir à l'air libre. Un circuit bipasse avec pompe à vide 4 complète le fonctionnement du système lors du remplissage initial de la baudruche, ou pour parfaire la vidange de l'enceinte. Un circuit bipasse 14 permet les appoints de remplissage après fermeture de la vanne 3. The invention relates to a device which allows the injection of gas into a sealed enclosure 1 with an appropriate flow rate and pressure, while allowing the recovery of the gas at the end of the cycle, for its reuse in the following cycle. It consists of a balloon 8 contained in a tank 7, and connected to the enclosure by a pipe 2. The tank is pressurized by a valve 10, or in the open air by a valve 9. A connector 11 with valve 12 allows the filling of the balloon. After the reservoir 7 is pressurized, the gas is allowed to enter the enclosure, by opening the valve 3. The same valve allows the gas to be transferred back into the bladder after having put the reservoir back in the open air. A bypass circuit with vacuum pump 4 completes the operation of the system during the initial filling of the balloon, or to complete the emptying of the chamber. A bypass circuit 14 allows topping up after closing the valve 3.

Rapid cooling method for parts by convective and radiative transfer

Un procédé de refroidissement rapide de pièces métalliques à l~aide d~un gaz de refroidissement sous pression, se caractérisant en ce que le gaz de refroidissement comprend un (ou plusieurs) gaz principal absorbant le rayonnement infra-rouge, choisi de façon à améliorer le transfert thermique à la pièce en conjuguant les phénomènes de transferts radiatif et convectif, et de façon à optimiser le coefficient de transfert convectif.

GAS-HEATED CEMENTATION SYSTEM

Rapid cooling of metal components involves using a cooling gas mixture including a gas that absorbs infrared radiation to improve heat transfer within the component by convection and radiation

Rapid cooling of metal components is carried with a cooling gas under pressure. The cooling gas includes one or more gases that absorb infrared radiation, to improve the heat transfer of the component in conjunction with the phenomena of radiation and convection transfer, and to improve the coefficient of convection transfer. A Independent claim is given for utilization of the method in an installation for the rapid cooling of metal components with the aid of a gas under pressure, optimized to operate with nitrogen, using a cooling gas including 20-80% of a gas absorbing infrared radiation and 80-20% of hydrogen and/or helium. The composition of the gas is adjusted so that it is not necessary to provide any significant modifications to the installation.

Device for continuous subsequent vacuum heat treatments.

A plant for the treatment of components in a controlled atmosphere, comprising a leakproof vessel (2) and treatment cells (31) attached to the leakproof vessel and capable of communicating with the leakproof vessel to allow the transfer of the component between the treatment cell and the leakproof vessel; a loading and unloading cell (15), each cell comprising a means for grasping (19) the component to keep it suspended in this cell; at least one device (21) for handling the component (17), arranged inside the leakproof vessel (2) and allowing the component to be transferred between the loading and unloading cell (15) and a treatment cell, the component passing through the leakproof enclosure (2). <IMAGE>

Ultrasound systems and methods for optimizing multiple imaging parameters using a single user interface control

The present embodiments relate generally to user interfaces of ultrasound imaging systems. The user interface includes an ultrasound image feed and a single control for modifying imaging depth. When input via the single control is received to modify the imaging depth, the system: adjusts frequency of ultrasound signals being used to acquire the ultrasound image feed; adjusts a beamformer parameter of the ultrasound signals being used to acquire the ultrasound image feed; receives first image data of the ultrasound image feed based on the adjusted frequency and the adjusted beamformer parameter; based on the first image data, adjusts Time Gain Compensation (TGC) of the ultrasound image feed; and receives second image data of the ultrasound image feed based on the adjusted frequency, beamformer parameter and TGC. Display of the second image data on the touchscreen display is then optimized without receipt of additional user input.

Ultrasound imaging system

Hand-held ultrasound system having sterile enclosure

A sterile enclosure is provided for enclosing a hand-held ultrasound device to prevent any material on the ultrasound device from contaminating a sterile environment in which the ultrasound device is used. The enclosure has an opening for insertion of the ultrasound device into the enclosure, a closure for closing the opening, an acoustically-transparent transducer portion for covering an active face of a transducer of the ultrasound device, and a transparent display portion overlaying a display of the ultrasound device. In some embodiments a detachable or integrally formed needle guide is provided with the enclosure, for holding and guiding a needle so that the needle is projected into a field of view of the transducer of the ultrasound device.

Apparatus for performing sequences of continous heat treatments in vacuum

A plant for the treatment of components in a controlled atmosphere, comprising a leakproof vessel (2) and treatment cells (31) attached to the leakproof vessel and capable of communicating with the leakproof vessel to allow the transfer of the component between the treatment cell and the leakproof vessel; a loading and unloading cell (15), each cell comprising a means for grasping (19) the component to keep it suspended in this cell; at least one device (21) for handling the component (17), arranged inside the leakproof vessel (2) and allowing the component to be transferred between the loading and unloading cell (15) and a treatment cell, the component passing through the leakproof enclosure (2). <IMAGE>

C-mode ultrasound image data visualization

Rapid cooling method for parts by convective and radiative transfer

Un procédé de refroidissement rapide de pièces métalliques à l’aide d’un gaz de refroidissement sous pression, se caractérisant en ce que le gaz de refroidissement comprend un (ou plusieurs) gaz principal absorbant le rayonnement infra-rouge, choisi de façon à améliorer le transfert thermique à la pièce en conjuguant les phénomènes de transferts radiatif et convectif, et de façon à optimiser le coefficient de transfert convectif.

Ultrasound pulse-wave doppler measurement of blood flow velocity and/or turbulence

Apparatus and methods for measuring and analyzing blood flow in vessels in the bodies of living subjects are provided. The true velocity vector, or a projection thereof onto a scan plane, for blood flowing at a location in a vessel is determined from multiple Doppler velocity components. The true velocity vector is displayed as a directional marker on an image comprising the vessel. The true velocity magnitude and angle, and scalar blood flow characteristics derived therefrom, are plotted as a functions of time and/or position across the depiction of the blood vessel in the image. Time intervals for which blood flow characteristic data is displayed and/or determined may be user configurable.

Gasabschreckkammer

Verfahren zur niederdruck-aufkohlung

System and method for connecting and controlling wireless ultrasound imaging system from electronic device

System and method for connecting and controlling wireless ultrasound imaging system from electronic device

Modulare einrichtung zur wärmebehandlung unter vakuum

Verfahren zum schnellen abkühlen von werkstücken durch konvektiver und strahlungs-übertragung

Systems and methods of establishing a communication session for live review of ultrasound scanning

An application running in a mobile device displays an ultrasound image obtained by a connected ultrasound scanner. A button is displayed on the device, which, when activated, automatically connects the device to a remote reviewer in a virtual videoconferencing room, without the operator of the scanner needing to input user credentials. Upon activating the button, or otherwise triggering the request for a review, pre-stored login credentials are automatically retrieved and used for connecting the operator to the room. The remote reviewer may be connected to the room upon accepting the request for review, without having to input user credentials, which are pre-stored and automatically retrieved.

Aufkohlungsanlage mit gasaufheizung