U.S. patent application number 14/504792 was filed with the patent office on 2015-01-15 for peripheral ultrasound device.
This patent application is currently assigned to GUARDSMAN SCIENTIFIC, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is GUARDSMAN SCIENTIFIC, INC.. Invention is credited to Daniel P. Vezina.
Application Number | 20150018689 14/504792 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42285784 |
Filed Date | 2015-01-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150018689 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Vezina; Daniel P. |
January 15, 2015 |
PERIPHERAL ULTRASOUND DEVICE
Abstract
Implementations described and claimed herein provide systems and
methods for acquiring circulatory system information from one or
more patients. In one implementation, a device for acquiring
ultrasound-generated data includes a housing, an imaging mechanism,
and an adjustment mechanism. The housing has an interfacing surface
with an opening, and the imaging mechanism is positioned in the
opening. The imaging mechanism is rotatable in a plane generally
parallel to the interfacing surface and pivotal about an axis
generally orthogonal to the interfacing surface. The adjustment
mechanism is positioned within the housing and associated with the
imaging mechanism to cause the imaging mechanism to rotate in the
plane or pivot about the axis. The adjustment mechanism comprises
an orientation adjuster having an orientation actuator and a
direction adjuster having a direction actuator.
Inventors: |
Vezina; Daniel P.; (Park
City, UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
GUARDSMAN SCIENTIFIC, INC. |
Park City |
UT |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
GUARDSMAN SCIENTIFIC, INC.
Park City
UT
|
Family ID: |
42285784 |
Appl. No.: |
14/504792 |
Filed: |
October 2, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12646617 |
Dec 23, 2009 |
8876720 |
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14504792 |
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12536247 |
Aug 5, 2009 |
8348847 |
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12646617 |
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61224621 |
Jul 10, 2009 |
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61140767 |
Dec 24, 2008 |
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61086254 |
Aug 5, 2008 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
600/459 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 8/4466 20130101;
A61B 8/4227 20130101; G01S 7/52079 20130101; A61B 8/13 20130101;
A61B 8/4281 20130101; G16H 30/40 20180101; G16H 40/63 20180101;
A61B 8/4461 20130101; A61B 8/4236 20130101; A61B 8/4209 20130101;
A61B 8/00 20130101; A61B 5/02028 20130101; A61B 8/0883 20130101;
A61B 8/46 20130101; A61B 6/503 20130101; A61B 8/06 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
600/459 |
International
Class: |
A61B 8/00 20060101
A61B008/00; A61B 8/13 20060101 A61B008/13; A61B 8/06 20060101
A61B008/06 |
Claims
1. A device for acquiring ultrasound-generated data, comprising: a
housing having an interfacing surface with an opening; an imaging
mechanism positioned in the opening and being rotatable in a plane
generally parallel to the interfacing surface and being pivotal
about an axis generally orthogonal to the interfacing surface; and
an adjustment mechanism positioned within the housing and
associated with the imaging mechanism to cause the imaging
mechanism to rotate in the plane or pivot about the axis, the
adjustment mechanism comprising an orientation adjuster having an
orientation actuator and a direction adjuster having a direction
actuator.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the orientation adjuster
comprises an annular ring having gear teeth on a periphery thereof
and the orientation actuator is a stationary screw positioned
tangentially to the periphery of the annular ring.
3. The device of claim 1, wherein the direction adjuster includes a
ball gear with gear teeth on an arcuate surface thereof and the
direction actuator is a stationary screw positioned tangentially to
the arcuate edge of the semicircular gear.
4. The device of claim 1, further comprising a control module in
data communication with the imaging mechanism and the adjustment
mechanism.
5. The device of claim 4, wherein the control module further
comprises an imaging mechanism component configured to control the
sending and receiving of ultrasonic signals from the imaging
mechanism.
6. The device of claim 5, wherein the control module further
comprises an adjustment mechanism component configured to control
orientation and direction adjustments of the imaging mechanism.
7. The device of claim 4, wherein the control module further
comprises a gating component adapted to continuously adjust the
imaging direction to accommodate cyclical motion of a patient due
to breathing.
8. A device for acquiring data from a patient, the device
comprising: a securing system having an anchor configured to adhere
to a target surface; an opening defined in an interfacing surface
of a housing, the securing system configured to connect to the
housing; an imaging mechanism having an ultrasound transducer
configured to send and receive ultrasound signals along an imaging
direction, the imaging mechanism positioned in the opening and
adjustable relative to the interfacing surface to adjust the
imaging direction; an orientation adjuster having an orientation
guide operably connected to an orientation actuator, the
orientation guide positioned parallel to and offset from the
interfacing surface, the orientation actuator having a first motor
configured to move the orientation guide to adjust the imaging
mechanism about a first axis orthogonal to the interfacing surface;
and a direction adjuster having a direction guide operably
connected to a direction actuator, the direction guide extending
from the imaging mechanism along a plane orthogonal to the
interfacing surface, the direction actuator having a second motor
configured to move the direction guide to adjust the imaging
mechanism about a second axis parallel to the interfacing
surface.
9. The device of claim 8, wherein the orientation guide includes an
annular ring.
10. The device of claim 9, wherein the orientation actuator
includes a screw driven by the first motor, the screw positioned
tangentially along a periphery of the annular ring.
11. The device of claim 8, wherein the direction guide includes a
gear.
12. The device of claim 11, wherein the direction actuator includes
a screw driven by the second motor, the screw positioned
tangentially to an arcuate edge of the gear.
13. The device of claim 8, wherein the anchor includes a patch
having an adhesive membrane to adhere the securing system to the
patient.
14. The device of claim 8, wherein the anchor includes at least one
of: one or more straps; one or more hooks; one or more loops; one
or more elastics; one or more hook and loop bands; one or more
belts; or one or more tie-downs.
15. The device of claim 8, wherein the securing system includes one
or more straps connected to the anchor, the one or more straps
configured to connect the housing.
16. A device for acquiring data from a patient, the device
comprising: a securing system having an anchor configured to adhere
to a target surface; an opening defined in an interfacing surface
of a probe, the securing system configured to connect to the probe;
an imaging mechanism having an ultrasound transducer configured to
send and receive ultrasound signals along an imaging direction, the
imaging mechanism positioned in the opening and adjustable relative
to the interfacing surface to adjust the imaging direction; an
annular ring positioned offset from the interfacing surface and
configured to adjust the imaging mechanism about a first axis
orthogonal to the interfacing surface; and a gear extending from
the imaging mechanism and configured to adjust the imaging
mechanism about a second axis parallel to the interfacing
surface.
17. The device of claim 16, wherein the imaging mechanism is
positioned within the annular ring and supported by a pivot pin
extending parallel to the interfacing surface.
18. The device of claim 16, wherein the securing system includes a
recognition module configured to communicate with the probe, the
recognition module including at least one of: an embedded
electronic computerized chip; a bar code; a circuit; or a wireless
communication link.
19. The device of claim 16, wherein the securing system is
configured to connect to the housing using at least one of: one or
more straps; one or more belts; one or more paired hook and loop
straps; a tube; a slide track; a press fit connection; a latching
connection; or a magnetic connection.
20. The device of claim 16, wherein the anchor includes at least
one of: one or more patches; one or more straps; one or more hooks;
one or more loops; one or more elastics; one or more hook and loop
bands; one or more belts; or one or more tie-downs.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 12/646,617 filed Dec. 23, 2009, which
application is a continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 12/536,247 filed
Aug. 5, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,348,847 dated Jan. 8, 2013, and
entitled System and Method for Managing a Patient. Application Ser.
No. 12/536,247 claims the benefit under U.S.C. .sctn.119(e) to U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 61/086,254, filed Aug. 5, 2008
and titled "System, Apparatus and Method to Guide Clinical
Hemodynamic Management of Patients Requiring Anesthetic Care,
Perioperative Care and Critical Care Using Ultrasound;" U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 61/140,767, filed Dec. 24, 2008
and titled "Peripheral Ultrasound System for Automated and
Uninterrupted Data Acquisition;" and U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/224,621, filed Jul. 10, 2009 and titled "System
(Apparatus and Method) to Guide Clinical Hemodynamic Management of
Patients Requiring Anesthetic Care, Perioperative Care and Critical
Care Using Cardiac Ultrasound." The contents of each of the
above-mentioned applications are hereby incorporated by reference
herein in their entireties.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to acquiring circulatory
system information from a patient. More particularly, the present
disclosure relates to acquiring cardiac data points reflecting the
function of the heart. Still more particularly, the present
disclosure relates to a device and a method for automatically and
uninterruptedly acquiring cardiac ultrasound-generated data points
allowing a health care provider to optimize the hemodynamic and
fluid management of patients.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Proper circulatory function is essential to sustain and
prolong life. From a more practical standpoint, circulatory
function can be a factor affecting health care costs resulting from
length of stay in the hospital, complications, hospital
readmissions, and mortality. According to some professionals,
ensuring the adequacy of circulatory function is one of the most
important clinical goals of healthcare providers for anesthetic,
perioperative, or critical care procedures. Currently, the American
Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) endorses the use of the EKG
monitor, systemic blood pressure (BP), pulse oximeter, and urine
output (UO), known as the conventional parameters, as the basic
standard of care for assessing circulatory function. However, these
conventional parameters may not always provide suitable information
for managing circulatory function.
[0004] Using conventional parameters may be clinically acceptable
for patients with normal cardiovascular function. However,
conventional parameters often provide incomplete information for
patients with cardiovascular risk factors and/or comorbidities. For
example, in surgical and critical care settings, managing the
circulatory function of a congestive heart failure (CHF) patient
with conventional parameters can lead a practitioner to deliver
inappropriate amounts of intravenous (IV) fluid and/or maintain an
inappropriate level of blood pressure leading to volume overload of
the circulatory system of the patient. As a result of the
incomplete information, many patients currently undergoing surgical
procedures and/or requiring critical care medicine may not receive
optimal hemodynamic management. This can lead to cardiovascular
complications like acute episodes of CHF, atrial arrhythmias,
length of stay in the hospital, hospital readmission after
discharge, and even mortality. This result is both detrimental to
the health of the patient and costly to the health care system.
[0005] This weakness in the standard of care is exacerbated by the
fact that CHF, with normal (diastolic dysfunction) or reduced
(systolic dysfunction) contractile function, is the leading
admission diagnosis for medicine and cardiology services in the
United States. Further adding to the problem is that diastolic
dysfunction, often the underlying cause of CHF, is common among the
baby boomer population. For individuals over 65, 53.8% suffer from
some degree of diastolic dysfunction. (40.7% mild and 13.1%
moderate or severe). The number of individuals over 65 has been
projected to increase by 50% from 2000 to 2020 and as a result, the
baby boomer population is recognized as a driving force for
healthcare services.
[0006] Conventional circulatory function parameters may provide
incomplete information for patients with cardiovascular risk
factors and/or comorbidities. CHF is an example of one of those
conditions and is also a common condition among the baby boomer
population and the population as a whole. The health related and
economic costs associated with complications, readmissions, and
mortality rates need to be addressed. Accordingly, there is a need
for a more capable system for managing the hemodynamics of
patients.
SUMMARY
[0007] Implementations described and claimed herein provide systems
and methods for acquiring circulatory system information from one
or more patients. In one implementation, a device for acquiring
ultrasound-generated data includes a housing, an imaging mechanism,
and an adjustment mechanism. The housing has an interfacing surface
with an opening, and the imaging mechanism is positioned in the
opening. The imaging mechanism is rotatable in a plane generally
parallel to the interfacing surface and pivotal about an axis
generally orthogonal to the interfacing surface. The adjustment
mechanism is positioned within the housing and associated with the
imaging mechanism to cause the imaging mechanism to rotate in the
plane or pivot about the axis. The adjustment mechanism comprises
an orientation adjuster having an orientation actuator and a
direction adjuster having a direction actuator.
[0008] In another implementation, a securing system has an anchor
configured to adhere to a target surface. An opening is defined in
an interfacing surface of a housing, and the securing system is
configured to connect to the housing. An imaging mechanism has an
ultrasound transducer configured to send and receive ultrasound
signals along an imaging direction. The imaging mechanism is
positioned in the opening and adjustable relative to the
interfacing surface to adjust the imaging direction. An orientation
adjuster has an orientation guide operably connected to an
orientation actuator. The orientation guide is positioned parallel
to and offset from the interfacing surface, and the orientation
actuator has a first motor configured to move the orientation guide
to adjust the imaging mechanism about a first axis orthogonal to
the interfacing surface. A direction adjuster has a direction guide
operably connected to a direction actuator. The direction guide
extends from the imaging mechanism along a plane orthogonal to the
interfacing surface, and the direction actuator has a second motor
configured to move the direction guide to adjust the imaging
mechanism about a second axis parallel to the interfacing
surface.
[0009] In another implementation, a securing system has an anchor
configured to adhere to a target surface. An opening is defined in
an interfacing surface of a probe, and the securing system is
configured to connect to the probe. An imaging mechanism has an
ultrasound transducer configured to send and receive ultrasound
signals along an imaging direction. The imaging mechanism is
positioned in the opening and adjustable relative to the
interfacing surface to adjust the imaging direction. An annular
ring is positioned offset from the interfacing surface and
configured to adjust the imaging mechanism about a first axis
orthogonal to the interfacing surface. A gear extends from the
imaging mechanism and is configured to adjust the imaging mechanism
about a second axis parallel to the interfacing surface.
[0010] Other implementations are also described and recited herein.
Further, while multiple implementations are disclosed, still other
implementations of the presently disclosed technology will become
apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed
description, which shows and describes illustrative implementations
of the presently disclosed technology. As will be realized, the
presently disclosed technology is capable of modifications in
various aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of
the presently disclosed technology. Accordingly, the drawings and
detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature
and not limiting.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0011] FIG. 1 shows a patient having a plurality of devices
positioned on the patient in locations conducive to collection of
cardiac ultrasound-generated data points.
[0012] FIG. 2 shows a close-up view of one of the devices of FIG. 1
in position on the patient;
[0013] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a probe of one of the
devices of FIGS. 1 and 2, according to certain implementations;
[0014] FIG. 4 shows a close-up perspective view thereof;
[0015] FIG. 5 shows a partial perspective view of the probe of
FIGS. 3 and 4;
[0016] FIG. 6 shows another partial perspective view of the probe
of FIGS. 3 and 4;
[0017] FIG. 7 depicts an exemplary system including a device
according to certain implementations;
[0018] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a probe according to
certain implementations;
[0019] FIG. 9 depicts and exemplary device according to certain
implementations;
[0020] FIG. 10 shows a close-up perspective view of a securing
system of the device of FIGS. 1-2;
[0021] FIG. 11 shows an additional close-up perspective view
thereof;
[0022] FIG. 12 shows a schematic view of a probe according to
certain implementations;
[0023] FIG. 13 shows a schematic view of a probe according to
certain implementations;
[0024] FIGS. 14 and 15 show a device including a probe and a
securing system according to certain implementations;
[0025] FIGS. 16a-b and 17 show a device including a probe and a
securing system 102 according to certain implementations;
[0026] FIGS. 18 and 19 show a device including a probe and a
securing system according to certain implementations;
[0027] FIG. 20 shows a device including a probe and a securing
system according to certain implementations;
[0028] FIG. 21 shows a device according to certain
implementations;
[0029] FIG. 22 shows a device according to certain implementations;
and
[0030] FIG. 23 shows a device according to certain
implementations;
[0031] FIG. 24 shows an implementation of a direction guide
according to certain implementations;
[0032] FIG. 25 shows an implementation of a direction actuator
according to certain implementations;
[0033] FIG. 26 shows an implementation of a direction actuator
according to certain implementations.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0034] The present disclosure relates to devices and methods for
acquiring ultra-generated data points from a patient. In
particular, the present disclosure includes discussion of a device
including an ultrasound probe and a securing system. In contrast to
handheld devices, the securing system can allow for securely
positioning a probe on a patient allowing for hands-free capture of
ultrasound images. The ultrasound image captured can be manually or
automatically adjusted by manual or automatic manipulation of a
transducer of the probe such that uninterrupted data acquisition
can be performed. The device can be used to acquire cardiac
ultrasound-generated data, particularly relating to blood flow
inside and in structures connected to the heart.
[0035] The device can be used, for example, with the System for
Managing a Patient described in patent application Ser. No.
12/536,247 referenced above. In some implementations, the device
can be used with a computer, such as a laptop computer, a desktop
computer, and the like. In either case, one device can be used or
multiple devices can be used to facilitate efficient acquisition of
ultrasound-generated data by placing the devices at multiple
vantage points on a patient.
[0036] Referring to FIG. 1, a patient is shown with five devices
100a-e in position on the generally anterior surface of the body.
In the implementation shown, for example, the devices 100a-e can be
placed in cardiac viewing windows such as the transthoracic
parasternal window, the transthoracic apical window, the sub-costal
window, and the suprasternal notch window. Additional devices 100
can be used to image more superficial and/or non-cardiac
structures.
[0037] Referring now to FIG. 2, a close-up view of one of the
devices 100 of FIG. 1 is shown. As shown, the device can include a
securing system 102 and a probe 104. The securing system 102 can be
positioned on the patient and can be adapted to adhere or otherwise
anchor itself to the surface of the patient. The securing system
102 can further be configured to receive the probe 104 and connect
to the probe 104 thereby securing the probe 104 to the location on
the patient at which the securing system 102 is secured. It is
noted that in some implementations, a securing system 102 may not
be provided and the probe 104 may be directly positioned on the
patient.
[0038] Each of the securing system 102 and the probe 104 will now
be described in detail. The probe 104 can be initially described
with reference to FIGS. 3-6 and the securing system 102 can be
described with respect to FIGS. 10 and 11. However, it is to be
understood that concepts are presented that are generic to some or
all of the implementations described in the specification and as
such are not limited to the implementations in the particular
figures referenced.
[0039] Beginning first with the probe 104, the probe 104 can be
adapted for connecting to the securing system 102 and can be
configured to send and receive ultrasound signals to capture
ultrasound-generated data from a patient. The probe 104 can further
be configured for adjustability to allow the signals to be sent and
received in a suitable orientation and direction relative to the
probe 104 position on the patient. Accordingly, the probe 104 can
include a base structure for connecting to the securing system 102,
an imaging mechanism for sending and receiving ultrasound signals,
and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the orientation and/or
direction of the imaging mechanism. In some implementations, the
probe 104 may also include a control module in the form of
hardware, software, or a combination thereof for controlling all or
a portion of the imaging and/or adjustment mechanism.
[0040] The base structure of the probe 104 can include a broad
range of items. The base can be configured to connect to the
securing system 102 and further support the imaging mechanism. To
this end, the base structure can include a housing, a frame, a
platform, a cage, a plate, a plurality of legs, or some combination
of these elements, for example. Other base structures can be used.
The base structure can be configured to interact with the securing
system 102 through interactive features such as, for example,
physical connections, electrical communications, data
communications, or other interactive features. The base can thus
include surfaces, ports, connection elements, electrical and/or
communicative contacts, or communicative surface images or
textures. Other interactive features can be provided.
[0041] Referring now to FIG. 3, in the implementation shown, the
base structure is in the form of a housing 106. The housing 106 can
be any shape including rectangular, square, round, elliptical or
any shape. In the implementation shown, the housing 106 has a
generally rectangular cross-section with radiused corners. At the
distal end of the housing 106, the lateral sides of the rectangular
cross-section follow an arcuate path and intersect with one another
to form an arcuate distal end wall. At the proximal end of the
housing 106, the lateral sides taper inward to narrow the
cross-section of the housing 106. The proximal end of the housing
106 can be adapted for connection to a lead 108.
[0042] The housing 106 can be configured to support an imaging
mechanism and as such can be a generally hollow structure. The
housing 106 can include shoulders, ledges, cavities, tabs, plates,
or other internal features adapted for connection of internal
components or parts. As shown, the housing 106 can include an
interactive feature in the form of an interfacing surface 110. The
interfacing surface 110 can be adapted for placement against the
securing system 102 and/or directed toward the patient. The
interfacing surface 110 of the probe 104 can include an opening 112
for exposing the imaging mechanism. The opening 112 can be any
shape. In the implementation shown, the opening 112 is a round
opening and is thus adapted to accommodate rotational adjustment of
the orientation of the imaging mechanism positioned therein.
[0043] Turning now to the imaging mechanism, this element of the
probe 104 can be configured to send and receive ultrasound signals.
Accordingly, the imaging mechanism can be in the form of an
ultrasound transducer 114. Other imaging mechanisms can be included
for other purposes such as X-ray, CT scan, MRI, or other image
generating mechanisms.
[0044] The ultrasound transducer 114 can be adapted for obtaining
information suitable for two-dimensional imaging, three-dimensional
imaging, B-mode, M-mode, color Doppler, and spectral Doppler
output. The transducer 114 can be built with piezoelectric crystals
adapted to emit ultrasonic signals. The transducer 114 can include
a suitable crystal array. For example, the transducer 114 can be
constructed with a phased array of crystals, a matrix of a phased
array of crystals, or a convex linear array. The phased array of
crystals may provide for a two dimensional pie-shaped
cross-sectional image. The matrix may provide for a three
dimensional image. The probe 104s adapted to image more superficial
elements can include transducers 114 constructed with a linear
array of crystals allowing for higher frequency imaging and may
provide for a rectangular image. The arrays can contain a small
number of elements (in the hundreds) up to a large number of
elements (in the thousands). The elements may be configured to
generate one or more two-dimensional images at the same time,
three-dimensional images or real-time three-dimensional images also
called four-dimensional images. The configuration of elements may
be a matrix or a mesh-like design of elements allowing volume
rendering of the imaged structures. Other arrangements of crystals
such as, for example, a circular array can be used and are within
the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, mechanical transducers could
be used in lieu of or in addition to the piezoelectric crystal type
transducers described.
[0045] The transducer 114 can have a signal emitting surface 116
adapted for interaction with the patient. As such, the signal
emitting surface 116 can be generally flat or contoured to suitably
engage the surface of a patient. The signal emitting surface 116
can be rectangular, square, or round. Other shapes can be
provided.
[0046] The transducer 114 can be mounted within the housing 106
such that it can rotate about an axis generally orthogonal to the
interfacing surface 110 of the housing 106. Additionally or
alternatively, the transducer 114 can be mounted within the housing
106 such that it can pivot about an axis generally parallel to the
interfacing surface 110. It is noted here that the transducer 114
can be mounted directly to the housing 106 where the mounting
allows for the rotation and/or pivoting described. In this
implementation, the adjustment mechanism described below can act on
the transducer 114 to adjust its orientation and/or direction.
Alternatively, the transducer 114 can be mounted to the housing 106
by way of the adjustment mechanism. The transducer 114 can be
positioned relative to the housing 106 in a position to interact
with the surface of a patient. In some implementations this may
include projecting beyond the interfacing surface 110 an amount
approximately equal to the thickness of the securing system 102. As
will be described and shown with respect to FIGS. 10 and 11, the
securing system 102 may include an opening 118 through which the
ultrasonic signals are directed and as such, the transducer 114 may
project into this opening 118 when connected thereto. In other
implementations, the transducer 114 may be mounted more flush with
the interfacing surface 110 or even recessed relative thereto.
[0047] Referring particularly to FIG. 4, in the implementation
shown, the imaging mechanism is in the form of a transducer 114
constructed with a phased array of crystals as depicted by the pie
shaped cross-section image 120 emanating from the signal emitting
surface 116. The signal emitting surface 116 is shown as a
generally flat rectangular surface and the transducer 114 is shown
to project slightly beyond the interfacing surface 110 of the
housing 106. In the present implementation, the transducer 114 is
shown mounted to the housing 106 by way of the adjustment mechanism
to be described next.
[0048] Turning now to the adjustment mechanism, this element of the
probe 104 can be configured to adjust the orientation and/or
direction of the imaging mechanism. For purposes of discussion, it
should be understood that the orientation relates to the rotational
orientation of the imaging mechanism in a plane parallel to the
interfacing surface 110 of the housing 106 and the direction
relates to a centerline of the profile of the cross-sectional image
120. As such, for a pie-shaped cross-section, for example, the
direction of the imaging mechanism, can be defined by a line
bisecting the pie-shaped profile and in the plane of the pie-shaped
profile. The adjustment mechanism may be configured to rotate the
imaging mechanism about a line extending generally orthogonal to
the interfacing surface 110. As such, the adjustment mechanism can
include an orientation adjusting mechanism. Alternatively or
additionally, the adjustment mechanism may be configured to pivot
the imaging mechanism about an axis extending generally parallel to
the interfacing surface 110. As such, the adjustment mechanism may
further include a direction adjusting mechanism.
[0049] The adjustment mechanism can include one or more actuation
mechanisms for inducing the adjustment of the imaging mechanism.
The actuation mechanisms can range between manual and automatic
mechanisms and combinations thereof can also be provided. In the
case of manual mechanisms, theses may include thumb screws, lever
arms, graspable rotating or sliding knobs, or accessible pivot or
translational shafts. Other manual adjustment mechanisms can be
provided. In the case of automatic adjustment mechanisms, these may
include piston type actuators, screw gear type actuators, rotating
gear type actuators, or compressed air systems. Other automatic
mechanisms can be provided. Regarding combinations of manual and
automatic mechanisms, in some implementations, the mechanisms
listed above as automatic mechanisms may be manually adjusted via
input received into a controller of the automatic mechanism.
[0050] These manual and automatic mechanisms may allow for
adjustment of the orientation and/or direction of the image
mechanism to more suitably capture the ultrasonic data. In some
implementations, the manual adjustment may be used to position the
image mechanism in the approximate orientation and direction and
the automatic mechanism may then refine the adjustment. It is noted
that, while the term manual has been described as adjustments that
are made by hand and automatic has been described as adjustments
made with mechanical or electromechanical devices, the term manual
can also include relying on a user interface to manually enter an
orientation and/or direction causing the actuating device to adjust
the image mechanism accordingly.
[0051] As mentioned above, this adjustment of the imaging mechanism
may include manipulating the imaging mechanism about its supports
on the base structure or the imaging mechanism may be supported by
the adjustment mechanism and the adjusting may occur through
adjustment of a portion of the adjustment mechanism. In the case of
an adjustment mechanism isolated from the support of the imaging
mechanism, the adjustment mechanism can include one or more
actuators configured to cause the imaging mechanism to move about
its support to the housing. For example, where the imaging
mechanism is supported by the base via a pivot pin, the adjustment
mechanism can include a longitudinally telescoping actuator that
presses or pulls on a side of the imaging mechanism offset from the
pivot axis thereby causing the imaging mechanism to pivot about the
pivot pin. In the case of an adjustment mechanism integral with the
support of the imaging mechanism, the adjustment mechanism can
include one or more actuators configured to cause a portion of the
adjustment mechanism to move and carry the imaging mechanism
therewith. For example, where the imaging mechanism is supported on
a rotating portion of the adjustment mechanism, an actuator may
cause the rotating portion to rotate causing the imaging mechanism
to rotate also. In other implementations portions of the actuation
mechanism can move with the imaging mechanism, while other portions
remain stationary relative to the base structure.
[0052] Referring now to FIG. 5, in the implementation shown, the
adjustment mechanism is configured to rotate the transducer 114
about an axis extending generally orthogonal to the interfacing
surface 110 and is further configured to pivot the transducer 114
about an axis extending generally parallel to the interfacing
surface 110. In this implementation, the orientation adjusting
mechanism can include an orientation guide 122 and an orientation
actuator 124. The direction adjusting mechanism can include a
direction guide 126 and a direction actuator 128.
[0053] The orientation guide 122 can be in the form of an annular
ring positioned in the housing 106 to rotate about an axis
extending generally orthogonal to the interfacing surface 110. In
this implementation, the housing 106 may include a generally
annularly extending channel. The channel can extend around an
inside surface defined by the shape of the opening 112 in the
housing 106 and the annular ring can be slidably positioned
therein. The annular ring can include a plurality of gear teeth on
an outer periphery thereof forming a rack engageable by the
orientation actuator 124.
[0054] The orientation actuator 124, in this implementation, can
include a stationary screw driven by a rotating motor. The
stationary screw can be positioned in a cavity within the housing
106 such that it can slidably rotate in the cavity without
translating. Alternatively or additionally, the stationary screw
can be supported by a shaft extending from the motor. The motor can
be mounted within the housing 106 in a cavity or via brackets,
mounting locations, or other techniques. The annularly extending
channel containing the annular ring can include an opening allowing
access to the annular ring by the orientation actuator 124. The
stationary screw can be positioned tangentially along the periphery
of the annular ring such that threads of the stationary screw
extend through the opening in the channel and engage the teeth on
the outer periphery of the annular ring. As such, actuation of the
rotating motor can rotate the stationary screw causing the annular
ring to rotate relative to the housing 106. The device shown can
allow for a full 360.degree. rotation of the annular ring.
[0055] In this implementation, the stationary screw shown is
positioned generally longitudinally with respect to the housing
106. However, it will be appreciated that the screw can be
reoriented with respect to the housing 106 and can function
similarly at any tangential orientation to the annular ring.
[0056] As best shown in FIG. 6, the transducer 114 of this
implementation can be pivotally supported within the annular ring
by, for example, a pivot pin 130 extending across the annular ring.
Due to the connection to the annular ring, the actuation of the
rotating motor of the orientation actuator 124 can, thus, cause
rotation of the transducer 114.
[0057] The direction guide 126 can be in the form of a gear. In the
implementation shown, the gear is a semicircular gear and is
positioned to extend from the transducer 114 in a plane generally
orthogonal to the interfacing surface 110 and further generally
orthogonal to the pivot pin 130 supporting the transducer 114. The
semicircular gear can be positioned on the transducer 114 such that
the center point of the gear is located at the pivot axis or pivot
pin 130 of the transducer 114. The semicircular gear can include
teeth extending along the periphery of the semicircular shape
forming a rack.
[0058] The direction actuator 128, in this implementation, can also
include a stationary screw driven by a rotating motor. The
stationary screw can be the same as that described with respect to
the orientation actuator 128 and can be supported in the same or
similar fashion. The stationary screw of the direction actuator can
be positioned tangentially along the periphery of the semicircular
gear such that the threads of the screw engage the teeth on the
gear causing the periphery of the gear to translate along the arc
defined by the radius of the gear. The connection of the gear to
the transducer 114 and the corresponding center point of the gear
with the pivot point of the transducer 114 can allow the transducer
114 to pivot thereby adjusting the direction of the transducer 114.
The direction of the transducer 114 can thus be adjusted from
approximately -60.degree. to approximately +60.degree. as shown in
FIG. 5. The range of direction of the transducer 114 can be larger
or smaller depending on the arc length of the semicircular gear and
any adjustment range can be provided. It is noted that the nature
of ultrasound transducers 114 causes them to function best when the
signals do not travel through materials with changing densities. As
such, in some implementations, the adjustment range of the
transducer 114 may be limited to angles allowing the signal
emitting surface 116 to maintain contact with the body surface, the
securing system 102, or an ultrasonic gel.
[0059] Additionally, in this implementation, the stationary screw
is shown positioned generally longitudinally with respect to the
housing 106. However, it will be appreciated that the screw can be
reoriented with respect to the housing 106 and can function
similarly at any tangential orientation to the gear. It is further
noted that the gear, while shown to extend rearward from the
transducer 114 can extend from the sides of the transducer 114 or a
gear encompassing a larger included angle can be provided such that
the gear extends along the rearward face and sides of the
transducer 114.
[0060] In the implementation shown, it can be appreciated that
orientation adjustments of the imaging mechanism can cause the gear
to rotate out of alignment with the screw of the direction actuator
128. Accordingly, in this implementation, the threads on the screw
and the gear teeth on the gear may include a degree of play
allowing the change in orientation of the gear without a loss of
function.
[0061] In another implementation, as shown in FIG. 24, a gear can
be provided that allows for the change in orientation between the
gear and the direction actuating screw. As shown, the gear can be a
ball gear 2126 and the gear teeth can be positioned on the sphere
and can pass around the sphere and maintain a radial distance from
an axis extending generally perpendicular to the interfacing
surface and centered on the annular ring. As such, when the
orientation of the imaging mechanism is adjusted, the curved gear
teeth on the ball gear will maintain alignment with the screw as
the imaging mechanism rotates.
[0062] In still another implementation, as shown in FIG. 25, the
direction actuator 128 can be affixed to the orientation guide 124
such that the direction actuator 128 rotates together with the gear
126 and maintains alignment therewith. As shown in FIG. 25, in one
implementation, the annular ring can include a support 129 in the
form of a strut, cage, semispherical surface or other structure
extending therefrom for mounting of the direction actuator 128
thereto. As shown, the support can allow for the suspending the
direction actuator 128 from the annular ring allowing for pivoting
motion of the imaging mechanism relative thereto. In one
implementation, as shown in FIG. 26, the direction actuator can be
rearranged such that the motor portion is adjacent to the screw
portion rather than in longitudinal connection. A support 1129
similar to that shown in FIG. 25 can be provided to support the
motor from the annular ring and geared, belted, or other system
1131 can be provided to transfer rotational motion from the motor
to the screw adjacent the motor.
[0063] Turning now to the control module 138, and referring still
to FIG. 6, this element of the probe 104 can include hardware,
software, or a combination thereof for controlling certain aspects
of probe 104 and/or system functionality. As such the control
module 138 can include some or all of an image mechanism component
132, an adjustment mechanism component 134, and an analysis
component 136. Each of these modules or components thereof, can
include software or a portion thereof, hardware or a portion
thereof, or a combination of software and hardware adapted to
perform a process. Each module or component thereof can be combined
or overlapped with or combined with modules or components
performing other tasks in the process. In some implementations,
this overlap or combination may include tasks or steps adjacent to
one another in a process, but in other implementations, the tasks
and steps may not be adjacent one another. Moreover, any module or
component thereof may or may not be included in the system
depending on the nature of the system desired. Additionally, the
control module 138 or any module or component thereof can each
include an input and output module adapted to receive or send
information from or to, respectively, other devices, modules, or
components. As such, these input and output modules can include
physical ports or connection to a bus where the input or output
module is of the hardware type. Other types of input and output
hardware can be used. In the case of software based input and
output modules, these can include lines of code causing a processor
to step or jump from one location to another or an application
programming interface, for example. Other types of software based
input and output can also be used.
[0064] The image mechanism component 132 can be configured to
control, for example, the transducer 114. As such, the image
mechanism component 132 can be configured to generate, transmit,
and receive ultrasound signals. The generation of ultrasound
signals can include beam forming and/or array beam forming.
Transmitting and receiving ultrasound signals can include one or
more processing functions for emitting ultrasonic signals and
capturing the results from the reflected signal. The image
mechanism component 132 may include task specific hardware or
software and can be in electrical communication with the transducer
114 via lead 115 as shown.
[0065] The adjustment mechanism component 134 can be configured to
control the adjustment mechanism. As such, the adjustment mechanism
component 134 can include hardware and or software that is adapted
to activate and deactivate one or more actuators associated with
the adjustment mechanism and further control the direction of
motion. For example the adjustment mechanism component 134 can be
configured to activate the rotating motors of FIG. 6 to turn the
stationary screws. The adjustment mechanism component can further
be adapted to control the direction of the motors such that the
stationary screws can turn in a particular direction and suitably
adjust the orientation and/or direction of the image mechanism. The
adjustment mechanism component can be in electrical communication
with the motors as shown, via leads 135a and 135b as shown.
[0066] This component 134 can be in communication with an analysis
system such as that described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
12/536,247 that is capable of analyzing ultrasonic images. As such,
the analysis system may trigger the adjustment mechanism component
134 to adjust the orientation or direction of the image mechanism
in one direction or another based on the quality of the image being
captured. In some implementations, the initial image may be
adjusted by the user via a manual adjustment on the probe 104 or
via an input adjustment into the analysis system. As such, the
initial calibration of the images may include user interaction or
the analysis system may do so by comparing the captured images to
standards or desired quality images.
[0067] In some implementations, the adjustment mechanism component
134 may include a gating component 135 configured to adjust the
orientation and/or position of the image mechanism to accommodate
movement of the patient due to breathing. In some implementations,
this gating component 135 can be in communication with motion
sensors adapted to sense the motion of a patient. Based on this
motion, the gating component 135 can further provide additional
information to the adjustment mechanism component 134 of the
control module 138 to cyclically adjust the adjustment mechanism
thereby maintaining the scanning plane in a consistent position
relative to the structures being viewed by the image mechanism. In
another implementation, the gating component 135 can be adapted to
monitor the image appearance and disappearance as the patient
breathes thereby being able to develop frequency and period
information particular to a given patient's current breathing
pattern. The magnitude of adjustment of the adjustment mechanism
can be related to the amplitude of the breathing of the patient. As
such, the gating component, having determined the frequency of
breathing, can gradually increase the magnitude of the adjustment
until the scanning plane maintains a substantially constant view of
the structure being viewed throughout the breathing cycle. This
gating component 135 can thus allow for uninterrupted acquisition
of ultrasound-generated data due to the consistency of the image
plane relative to the targeted structures as the image mechanism
moves together with the patient.
[0068] The analysis component 136 can include software and/or
hardware adapted to perform any and/or all of the methods and
processes described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/536,247
referenced above. For example, the analysis component 136 may
include software or hardware configured to analyze the received
ultrasound-generated data points and assist a user in managing the
hemodynamic status of a patient.
[0069] The control module 138 can be provided with one of several
different levels of control capability. In some implementations,
the control module 138 can include relatively little control
capability. In this implementation, the control module may include
the image mechanism component 132. In another implementation, the
control module 138 may further include the adjustment mechanism
component 134 and in still another implementation, the probe 104
may further include the analysis component 136. Where the control
module 138 is provided with less than all of the control related
components, these components can be provided by another system in
communication with the probe 104.
[0070] The control module 138 can be located within the probe 104
as shown, for example in FIG. 4. In this implementation, a lead 108
may extend proximally from the probe 104 to a system interface 190
adapted to communicate with a system 194, as shown in FIG. 7. In
this implementation, the probe 104 may have a relatively large
profile 192 (e.g., greater than 5 cm) as shown in FIG. 8. In
another implementation, as shown in FIG. 9, the control module 138
can be located relatively remote from the probe 104. In some
implementations, this remote distance can range from a few
centimeters to a foot. Positioning the control module 138 remote
from the probe 104 may allow the probe 104 to have a reduced
profile 192 (e.g., less than 5 cm). It is noted that the size of
the probe 104 can also be dependent on the size and orientation of
the image mechanism and the adjustment mechanism, where the image
mechanism size is further dependent on the type of piezoelectric
crystal arrangement being used.
[0071] The probe 104 can thus be used with varying levels of
support systems depending on the capability of the control module
138. At one end of the spectrum, the probe 104 can be interfaced
with a system 194 similar to that described in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/536,247. In this implementation, the probe
104 can have a control module 138 having the image mechanism
component 132 and control of the actuation mechanism and analysis
can be performed by the attached system 138. Alternatively, the
control module 138 can further include an adjustment mechanism
component 134 leaving the system to control the analysis. At the
other end of the spectrum, where the control module 138 includes
each of the image mechanism component 132, the adjustment mechanism
component 134, and the analysis component 136, the probe 104 may be
capable of use by interfacing the probe 104 with a user interface.
In this example, the probe 104 may, for example, be connected to a
USB port of a computer and a specialized ultrasound machine may or
may not be provided.
[0072] Having described one implementation of the probe 104 in
great detail, a securing system 102 will now be described. The
securing system 102 can be positioned on the patient and can be
adapted to adhere or otherwise anchor itself to the surface of the
patient. The securing system 102 can further be configured to
receive the probe 104 and connect to the probe 104 thereby securing
the probe 104 to the location on the patient at which the securing
system 102 is secured. As such, the securing system 102 can include
an anchoring member with an adhesive feature, a probe connecting
system, and a recognition module.
[0073] Regarding the anchoring member, this element may be
configured to adhere to the patient. The anchoring member can be a
generally planar member so as to provide a pad like location for
placement of the probe 104. Alternatively, the anchor member can be
a tubular or port type member to provide for insertion of the probe
104 therein. Other shapes and types of anchoring members can be
provided for receiving and connecting to the probe 104. The
anchoring member can include a patient interface 140 adapted for
placement against the skin of a patient. The patient interface can
include a relatively flat or slightly contoured surface. The
anchoring member can further include an adhesive feature. The
adhesive feature can be in the form of a biocompatible adhesive
membrane positioned on the patient interface 140 or the adhesive
feature can be a tape like feature having a size at least slightly
larger than the anchoring member. The tape-like feature can be
adapted to cover the anchoring member and secure the member to the
patient. The tape-like feature can include perforations to
accommodate the probe 104 or the tape-like feature may cover both
the probe 104 and the anchoring member. The securing system 102 can
also be secured on the patient body surface using an external
securing mechanism. The external securing mechanism may be either
straps, hooks, loops, elastics, hook and loop bands, belts and or
tie-downs attached to the edges to the material and wrapped around
the patient's body.
[0074] Referring to FIG. 10, the anchoring member shown is in the
form of a generally planar patch 142. The patch 142 is generally
rectangular, relatively thin, and flexible. The patch 142 may be a
multilayer patch a shown in FIG. 11 or a single layer may be
provided. The patch 142 may be made from soft flexible materials
that may conform to the contours of a patient's skin. As shown, the
anchoring member includes a patient interface 140 adapted for
contact with the patient. In the implementation shown, the patient
interface 140 can be coated with an adhesive membrane. In some
implementations, the adhesive membrane can be protected prior to
use with a protective peel-away membrane 144 in the form of
cellophane or other protective membrane fabric.
[0075] The securing system 102 may further include a probe
connecting system. This system can be provided by the anchoring
member due to the shape of the anchoring member as described above
(i.e., tubular anchor member) or a retention member can be
provided. For example the retention member may include a positive
mechanical connection on a surface of the anchor member opposite
the patient interface 140. The positive mechanical connection may
include a slide track with a locking position, a press fit
connection, or some other latching type connection. In another
alternative, a magnetic connection between the probe 104 and the
anchoring member can also be provided. In yet another alternative,
a retention member may be in the form of a strap system provided to
secure the probe 104 to the anchoring member. The strap system can
be a system of elastic straps, a belt type system, a pair of hook
and loop type straps or other strap securing system 102.
[0076] Referring again to FIG. 10, the probe 104 connecting system
can include one or more straps 146 adapted to sleevably receive the
probe 104. The straps 146 extend from the anchoring member and are
connected on each end to the anchoring member. In some
implementations, the straps 146 can be elastic straps and the
length of the unstretched strap 146 can be less than the peripheral
dimension of the probe 104 less the lateral dimension of the
interfacing surface 110 of the probe 104. As such, when the probe
104 is inserted into the patch 142, the strap 146 can stretch and
resist dislodgement of the probe 104. In another implementation,
the straps 146 are a more resilient material and slots can be
provided on the housing 106 of the probe 104 opposite the
interfacing surface 110. As such, when the probe 104 is inserted
into the patch 142, the straps 146 can slip into the slots
preventing the probe 104 from moving freely from the patch 142. In
still other implementations, the straps 146 can additionally or
alternatively include a hook and loop surface corresponding to a
hook and loop surface positioned on the probe 104. As such, once
inserted the probe 104 can be retained therein by the securing
restraint of the hook and loop connection to the straps 146.
[0077] As further shown in FIG. 10, the securing system 102 can
include an opening 118 to accommodate the image mechanism of the
probe 104. As such, the securing system 102 can be sized and
dimensioned to fit the probe 104 so as to allow the image mechanism
to align with the opening 118 in the securing system 102. In some
implementations, an ultrasonic gel can be provided to assure
continual contact between the imaging mechanism and the probe 104.
In other implementations, the opening 118 may be filled with a
material conducive to transmitting ultrasonic signals. For example,
the material may be a gel filed material or other material having a
density similar to the human body.
[0078] Regarding the probe 104 recognition module, the securing
system 102 can include a module adapted to recognize the presence
of a probe 104 and further act as a protection device against
unauthorized or inadvertent usage of the probes 104. In some
implementations, the recognition module can include an embedded
electronic computerized chip used to communicate with the control
module of the probe 104. The chip 148 can include, for example, a
code or other protection system to assure proper placement and use
of the probe 104. In some implementations, the chip may include a
calibration protocol that performs a calibration on the probe 104
upon attachment of the probe 104 to the securing system 102. In
other implementations, the recognition module includes a bar code
readable by an optical eye on the probe 104. In still other
implementations, the recognition module may include electrical
contacts on the securing system 102 wherein the electrical circuit
is completed when a probe 104 is attached. In still other
implementations, the recognition module can include a wireless type
communication between the securing system 102 and the probe 104,
such as, for example, radio frequency, Wi-Fi, or blue tooth type
receiver and/or transmitter.
[0079] Having described the device depicted in FIGS. 3-11 in great
detail, additional probe 104 implementations will now be disclosed
with a focus on alternative implementations of a base structure and
an adjustment mechanism and the relationships therebetween.
[0080] Referring to FIG. 12, a probe 204 is shown where the base
structure is in the form of a platform 206. The platform 206 may be
rigid, flexible and or moldable and may be connected to a securing
system 202. The platform 206 may include a fixed outer edge and an
adjustment mechanism may include a rotating circular inner edge
224, a movement mechanism 226, and at least one lateral sidebar
228.
[0081] The fixed outer edge of the platform 206 can interface with
the securing system 202 and can allow the circular inner edge to
rotate up to 360.degree.. The rotating inner edge 224 of the
platform 206 has a central opening 218 allowing the image mechanism
to be inserted therein. The shape of the central opening 218 may be
adjustable to fit with the shape of the image mechanism. The
movement mechanism 226 permitting the inner edge 224 of the
platform 206 to rotate within the fixed outer edge may be a track
system, a rail system, a friction-based system or a ball-bearing
system. The lateral sidebar 228 interfaces with the lateral side of
the image mechanism using a male-female pin system 230. One or more
sidebars 228 may be used. Each sidebar 228 may be a continuous
piece or a fenestrated piece that permits height adjustments. The
sidebar 228 allows the image mechanism to be adjusted according to
an elevation plane in relations to the patient's body surface. Once
optimally positioned, the sidebar male-female pin 230, the sidebar
height adjustment and the rotating inner edge 224 may be locked in
place. The locking mechanism may be an overhead clip, individual
tight screw systems or any other locking systems that would allow
the distal chamber to be locked in place. This implementation can
be manually adjusted through the use of the sidebar and rotation of
the movement mechanism.
[0082] Referring now to FIG. 13, a schematic diagram of a probe 304
is shown. The adjustment mechanism of the probe 304 may be built
inside a housing 306 similar to that described above. The mechanism
can include a rotatable platform 314, a driving shaft 322, an
elevation hinge 323, a rotation pulley or a screw 324, an elevation
pulley or a screw 326, and control cables 325, 328.
[0083] The image mechanism of the probe 304 can be mounted on the
internal rotatable platform 314. The platform 314 can rotate 360
degrees. The driving shaft 322 can be attached distally to the
midline portion of the rotatable platform 314 and proximally to the
rotation pulley or the screw mechanism 324. The rotation pulley or
screw 324 can have a lateral groove where the control cable 325 can
be inserted. The driving shaft 322 can also have an elevation hinge
323 that allows the rotatable platform 314 to be flexed forward and
backward. The elevation hinge 323 can be connected to an elevation
pulley or a crew 326. The elevation pulley or the screw 326 and the
control cable 328 can allow the hinge 323 to be flexed to the
desired elevation angle. The pulleys 324, 326 and control cables or
screw mechanisms 325, 328 may be attached to manually controlled
knobs or an electrical motor and controls.
[0084] Referring now to FIGS. 14 and 15, wherein FIG. 15 is a view
of section A-A cut on FIG. 14, another implementation of a device
400 including a probe 404 and a securing system 402 is shown. In
this implementation, a securing system 402 in the form of a patch
assembly can be provided and a housing 406 can be movably affixed
thereto to form an adjustment mechanism. The patch assembly may
have a flexible lower adhesive layer 440 for affixing the probe 404
to the patient skin surface and an upper base layer 441. The
adjustment mechanism may include a housing 406 rotatably coupled to
the base layer 441 in such a manner that allows the housing 406 to
rotate in a plane generally parallel to the base layer 441, as
indicated by arrows A in FIGS. 14 and 15. A tilt mechanism 422,
which may include knobs 424, extends through the housing 406 having
a pivot axis generally parallel to the base layer 441 and generally
perpendicular to a pivot axis of the housing 406, which is
generally perpendicular to the base layer 441. A transducer 414 may
be supported off of the tilt mechanism 422 and may be formed of a
single piezoelectric crystal or any one or more of the
above-mentioned arrays. The tilt mechanism 422 may be caused to
pivot about its pivot axis, as indicated by arrows B, to allow the
transducer 414 to be swung or pivoted as indicated by arrow C. A
conductor wire 408 may extend from the transducer 414 and out the
housing 406 to an interface 490 similar to that shown in FIGS. 7
and 9. The housing 406 may be rotated about its pivot axis and the
tilt mechanism 422 may be pivoted about its pivot axis. As a result
of its two perpendicular pivot axes, the adjustment mechanism may
be affixed to a patient and then the transducer 414 may be oriented
as needed by pivoting the tilt mechanism 422 and the housing 406
about their respective pivot axes as needed. While the housing 406
and knobs 424 may be physically grasped to bring about the desired
pivoting of the housing 406 and the tilt mechanism 422, motorized
or other powered means may be employed on the adjustment mechanism
to make the desired pivoting automated, in a manner similar to that
discussed with respect to FIG. 13. The interaction between the tilt
mechanism 422 and the housing 406 and between the housing 406 and
base 441 may be a ratchet type interaction such that the tilt
mechanism 422 and housing 406 stay in place once set in a position.
The base 441 and housing 406 may each include respective openings
418, 412 corresponding to the location of the transducer 414.
[0085] Referring now to FIGS. 16 and 17, wherein FIG. 17 is a
cross-sectional view A-A cut on FIG. 16, another implementation of
a device 500 with a probe 504 and a securing system 502 can be
seen. In this implementation, device 500 may include a securing
system 502 in the form of a patch assembly and a probe 504. The
patch assembly may have a flexible lower adhesive layer 540 for
affixing the probe 504 to the patient skin surface and an upper
base layer 541. The probe 504 may include a ring 522 rotatably
coupled to a portion 525 of the base layer 541 in such a manner
that allows the ring 522 to rotate in a plane generally parallel to
the base layer 541, as indicated by arrows A in FIGS. 16a and 17,
the ring 522 forming a portion of an adjustment mechanism. One or
more arms 524 may extend upward from the ring 522 to pivotally
support a tilt mechanism 526, which may include a housing 506 that
is pivotally supported from the arms 524 via axles or pivot pins
528, the tilt mechanism 526 forming another portion of the
adjustment mechanism. Thus, the tilt mechanism 526 has a pivot axis
generally parallel to the base layer 541 and generally
perpendicular to a pivot axis of the ring 522, which is generally
perpendicular to the base layer 541. An transducer 514 may be
supported off of the housing 506 of the tilt mechanism 526 and may
be formed of a single piezoelectric crystal or any one or more of
the above-mentioned arrays. The tilt mechanism 526 may be caused to
pivot about its pivot axis, as indicated by arrows B, to allow the
transducer 514 to be swung or pivoted as indicated by arrows C. A
conductor wire 508 may extend from the transducer 514 and out the
housing 506 to an interface 590 similar to that described with
respect to FIGS. 7 and 9. The ring 522 may be rotated about its
pivot axis and the tilt mechanism 526 may be pivoted about its
pivot axis. As a result of its two perpendicular pivot axes, the
device 500 may be affixed to a patient and then the transducer 514
may be oriented as needed by pivoting the tilt mechanism 526 and
the housing 506 about their respective pivot axes as needed. While
the arms 524 and housing 506 may be physically grasped to bring
about the desired pivoting of the ring 522 and the tilt mechanism
526, motorized or other powered means may be employed on the device
500 to make the desired pivoting automated, in a manner similar to
that discussed with respect to FIG. 13. The interaction between the
tilt mechanism 526 and the ring 522 and between the housing ring
522 and base 541 may be a ratchet type interaction such that the
tilt mechanism 526 and ring 522 stay in place once set in a
position. The base 541 and housing 506 may each include respective
openings 518, 512 corresponding to the location of the transducer
514. While the pivot axis of the tilt mechanism 526 may be near the
top of the housing 506, as indicated in FIGS. 16a and 17, in other
implementations, the pivot axis of the tilt mechanism 526 may be in
other locations, such as, for example, the near the bottom of the
housing 506, as depicted in FIG. 16b.
[0086] Referring now to FIGS. 18 and 19, yet another implementation
of a device 600 is shown. As shown the device 600 may include a
securing system 602 in the form of a patch assembly and may also
include a probe 604 attached to the securing system 602. The patch
assembly may have a flexible lower adhesive layer 640 for affixing
the device to the patient's skin surface and an upper base layer
641. The probe 604 may include a ring 622 rotatably coupled to a
portion 625 of the base layer 30 in such a manner that allows the
ring 622 to rotate in a plane generally parallel to the base layer
641, as indicated by arrows A in FIGS. 18 and 19, the ring 622
forming a portion of the adjustment mechanism. One or more loops
623 may extend upward from the ring 622 to slidably receive rocker
members 624 that are supported off of a transducer housing 606 via
arms 628 such that the rocker members 624 may slide through the
loops 623 causing the housing 606 to tilt as indicated by the arrow
B due to the arc shape of the rocker members 624, the loops 623 and
slidable rocker members 624 forming another portion of the
adjustment mechanism. Thus, the housing 606 has a pivot axis
generally parallel to the base layer 641 and generally
perpendicular to a pivot axis of the ring 622, which is generally
perpendicular to the base layer 641. A transducer 614 may be
supported off of the housing 606 and may be formed of a single
piezoelectric crystal or any one or more of the above-mentioned
arrays. The housing 606 may be caused to pivot about its pivot
axis, as indicated by arrows B, to allow the transducer 614 to be
swung or pivoted. A conductor wire 608 may extend from the
transducer 614 and out the housing 606 to the and interface 690
similar to that shown in FIGS. 7 and 9. The ring 622 may be rotated
about its pivot axis and the housing 606 may be pivoted about its
pivot axis. As a result of its two perpendicular pivot axes, the
device 600 may be affixed to a patient and then the transducer 614
may be oriented as needed by pivoting the housing 606 and the ring
622 about their respective pivot axes as needed. While the ring 622
and housing 606 may be physically grasped to bring about the
desired pivoting of the ring 622 and the tilt housing 606,
motorized or other powered means may be employed on the mechanism
to make the desired pivoting automated, in a manner similar to that
discussed with respect to FIG. 13. The interaction between the
arc-shaped rocker members 624 and the loop 623 and between the ring
622 and base 641 may be a ratchet type interaction such that the
tilt housing 606 and ring 622 stay in place once set in a position.
In a manner similar to that discussed above, the base 641 and
housing 606 may each include respective openings 618, 612
corresponding to the location of the transducer 614.
[0087] Referring to FIG. 20, yet another implementation of a device
700 is shown. The device 700 may include a securing system 702 in
the form of a patch assembly similar to those discussed above. The
device 700 may also include a probe 704 having an adjustment
mechanism in the form of a pair of parallel rails 722a, 722b, a
traveling rail 726, and a housing 706. The opposite ends of the
traveling rail 726 may be configured to displace along the parallel
rails 722a, 722b as indicated by arrows A. The housing 706 may be
configured to both slide along the traveling rail 726, as indicated
by arrow B, and pivot about the traveling rail 726, as indicated by
arrow C. As with the housings 706 discussed above, a transducer 714
may be located in the housing 706 as discussed above. The rail
arrangement and pivoting of the housing 706, as can be understood
from arrows A, B and C allows the housing 706 to be positioned as
desired to allow the transducer 714 to be aimed as desired. The
housing 706 may be grasped manually to position it as desired;
alternatively, the mechanism may be powered for automated
displacement and positioning of the housing 706.
[0088] Referring now to FIG. 21, yet another implementation of a
device 800 is shown. The device 800 may include a securing
mechanism 802 in the form of a patch assembly and may further
include a probe 804 with a housing 806, a transducer 814 and cable
808 similar to those discussed above. However, instead of being
pivotally coupled to the patch assembly, the housing 806 may be
coupled to the patch assembly via an adjustment mechanism in the
form of multiple deformable arms 822. These arms 822 may be formed
of a flexible material that retains a shape the arms 822 are
deformed into until physically caused to assume a new shape. Thus,
the housing 806 may be displaced to cause the arms 822 to deform or
deflect into a new shape that facilitates the transducer 814 being
positioned as desired, the arms 822 maintaining the housing 806 in
the desired position until acted upon. As can be understood from
FIG. 20, the arms 822 may be bent on a side as indicated by arrow
R, the arms 822 on the other side (indicated by arrow T) being in a
non-bent configuration. As a result, the housing 806 is tipped
relative to the patch assembly, thereby allowing the transducer 814
to be oriented as desired.
[0089] Referring now to FIG. 22, still another implementation of a
device 900 is shown. The device 900 may be configured to operate in
a manner similar to that depicted in FIG. 21, except the adjustment
mechanism shown in FIG. 21 as deformable arms 822 are replaced with
an according or gusset style body 922 between the housing 906 and
the patch. The accordion or gusset style body 922 may be formed of
a flexible material that, in combination with its gusset shape,
retains a deflection deformed into until physically caused to
assume a new deflection. Thus, the housing 906 may be displaced to
cause the gusset body 922 to deflect into a new shape that
facilitates the transducer 914 being positioned as desired, the
gusset body 922 maintaining the housing 906 in the desired position
until acted upon. As can be understood from FIG. 22, the gusset
body 922 may be compressed on a side as indicated by arrow R, the
gusset body 922 on the other side (indicated by arrow T) being in a
non-compressed or even extended configuration. As a result, the
housing 906 is tipped relative to the patch assembly, thereby
allowing the transducer 914 to be oriented as desired.
[0090] Referring now to FIG. 23, still another implementation of a
device 1000 is shown. The device 1000 may be configured to operate
in a manner similar to that depicted in FIG. 22, except the
adjustment mechanism is in the form of a gusset body 922 of FIG. 22
is replaced with a segmented body 1022 formed of multiple
semi-hemispherical bodies 1022a, 1022b, 1022c interlocked and
received within each other in a manner similar to that found with a
lamp having a flexible neck extending between the lamp's base and
head. As indicated by the dashed lines in FIG. 23, the bodies
1022a, 1022b, 1022c may be tipped within each other to allow the
segmented body 1022 to assume a shape and thereby position the
housing 1006 until the segmented body 1022 is acted on to assume
another deflected condition. Thus, the housing 1006 may be
displaced to cause the segmented body 1022 to deflect into a new
shape that facilitates the transducer 1014 being positioned as
desired, the segmented body 1022 maintaining the housing 1006 is
the desired position until acted upon. As can be understood from
FIG. 23, the segmented body 1022 may be tipped on a side so the
bodies 1022a, 1022b, 1022c are received in each other to a greater
extent as indicated by arrow R, the bodies 1022a, 1022b, 1022c on
the other side (indicated by arrow T) being in a less received
state relative to each other. As a result, the housing 1006 is
tipped relative to the patch assembly, thereby allowing the
transducer 1014 to be oriented as desired.
[0091] Although the present disclosure has been described with
reference to various implementations, persons skilled in the art
will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The
techniques of this disclosure may be embodied in a wide variety of
devices or apparatuses. Any components, modules, or units have been
described to emphasize functional aspects and does not necessarily
require realization by different hardware units, etc.
[0092] Accordingly, the techniques embodied/described herein may be
implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination
thereof. Any features described as modules or components may be
implemented together in an integrated logic device or separately as
discrete but interoperable logic devices. If implemented in
software, the techniques may be realized at least in part by a
computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when
executed, performs one or more of the methods described herein. The
computer-readable medium may comprise random access memory (RAM)
such as synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), read-only
memory (ROM), non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM),
electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), FLASH
memory, magnetic or optical data storage media, and the like.
[0093] If implemented in software, the software code may be
initially stored on a computer readable medium, and may be executed
by one or more processors, such as one or more digital signal
processors (DSPs), general purpose microprocessors, an application
specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable logic
arrays (FPGAs), or other equivalent integrated or discrete logic
circuitry. The term "processor," as used herein may refer to any of
the foregoing structure or any other structure suitable for
implementation of the techniques described herein. In addition, in
some aspects, the functionality described herein may be provided
within dedicated software modules or hardware modules configured
for encoding and decoding, or incorporated in a combined video
codec. Also, the techniques could be fully implemented in one or
more circuits or logic elements.
[0094] Many other aspects of this disclosure will become apparent
from the teaching above. Nothing in this disclosure should be
construed as any admission regarding prior art or known systems.
Any discussion of background material is provided for context, and
does not necessarily mean that such background material was known,
or that problems akin to background material were known.
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