US 2001/0044582 A1 · Method of generating image data and ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus using the same

Abstract

A method of generating three-dimensional image data by transmitting beams to an object from a transmitting part and detecting beams reflected from the object by using a two-dimensional sensor array having a plurality of sensors. The method includes the steps of: (a) storing detection signals obtained by the plurality of sensors during a predetermined period after transmission; (b) obtaining image data about at least one measured point included in the object on the basis of a detection signal output from at least one of the plurality of sensors at a time point obtained from relationship between a distance from the transmission part to at least one of the plurality of sensors through the at least one measured point and a transmission velocity of the beams passing through the object; and (c) obtaining image data by repeating step (b) while changing the time point.

Claims16

Dependent claims

A method of generating three-dimensional image data by transmitting beams to an object to be measured by using transmitting means and detecting beams reflected from said object by using a two-dimensional sensor array including a plurality of sensors, said method comprising the steps of:

(a) sequentially storing detection signals obtained by said plurality of sensors during a predetermined period of time after transmission;
(b) obtaining image data about at least one measured point included in said object on the basis of a detection signal output from at least one of said plurality of sensors at a time point obtained from relationship between a distance from said transmitting means to at least one of said plurality of sensors through the at least one measured point and a transmission velocity of the beams passing through said object;
and
(c) obtaining image data by repeating step (b) while changing said time point.

1 more element

An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus comprising:

driving signal generating means for generating driving signals;
ultrasonic transmitting means for transmitting ultrasonic waves to an object to be measured on the basis of driving signals generated by said driving signal generating means;
a two-dimensional sensor array including a plurality of sensors for detecting ultrasonic waves reflected from said object to generate detection signals;
signal processing means for processing the detection signals obtained by said plurality of sensors;
control means for controlling action timing of said driving signal generating circuit and said signal processing means;
storage means for storing the detection signals output from said signal processing means during a predetermined period after transmission;
and
image processing means for obtaining three-dimensional image data on the basis of the detection signals output from said plurality of sensors at respective time points obtained from relationship between respective distances from said ultrasonic transmitting means to respective sensors through respective measured points and a transmission velocity of the ultrasonic waves passing through said object.

5 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Method of generating image data and ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus using the same

Life of this patent

Method of generating image data and ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus using the same

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims16