Patent Description:
For example, <CIT> discloses a modular diagnostic ultrasound apparatus comprising a core unit, system electronics and an I/O port. The core unit comprises a housing and a system electronics package within the housing. The system electronics having one or more concatenated filters, including a front end transmit/receive circuit, a processor, a back end circuit for scan conversion, a system clock and a programmable system memory device. There is at least one I/O port connected to the front end and the back end of the system electronics package and extending through the core unit housing wherein all system data processing information is transmitted or received through the I/O port.

For example, <CIT> discloses an electrical and electronic connector module having six degrees of freedom. The connector module is particularly useful in advanced electrical and electronic wiring systems, such as multiplexed wiring systems, wherein many electrical functions or signals share common wire pathways. The connector module comprises a male header containing a plurality of male connector elements. A plurality of female connector elements disposed in a receptacle assembly is designed to align and mate with respective ones of the male connector elements disposed in the male header. The header and receptacle align by means of a pair of header shoulder bolts that seat within apertures disposed on distal ends of the receptacle. The mating of the male-female connectors is assured by reason that the receptacle is allowed to float within a housing, which forms part of the receptacle assembly.

For example, <CIT> discloses a lever apparatus for use in a personal computer that has a chassis with a wall and an interior portion that contains a frame configured to retain an ejectable structure therein. The frame has an ejector mechanism associated therewith for ejecting an ejectable structure therefrom, and the lever apparatus actuates the ejector mechanism to eject the ejectable structure from the frame. The lever apparatus comprises an elongated body pivotally that is coupled to the wall and that has an axis of rotation with respect to the wall. The elongated body may be pivotally coupled to the wall by a pin and hinge member The elongated body has a digit contact end external to the interior portion and an oppositely disposed cam end operable against the ejector mechanism. The cam end exerts a leverage force against the ejector mechanism when the elongated body is pivoted from a non-engaged position to an engaged position, to thereby eject the ejectable structure from the frame.

The present disclosure includes features which enhance the portability, usability, and configurability or portable ultrasound system.

The present disclosure provides a portable ultrasound system, a removable ultrasound module for the portable ultrasound system, and a system. The portable ultrasound system, the removable ultrasound module for the portable ultrasound system, and the system are as set out claims <NUM>-<NUM>.

Generally, the present disclosure relates to features for a portable ultrasound system. The features enhance the portability, configurability, and functionality of the portable ultrasound system. A portable ultrasound system is typically battery powered. The system may also be powered by mains power when available. The portable ultrasound system may be used for obstetrical and gynecological imaging (e.g., measuring the size of a fetus, checking the position of a fetus, etc.), cardiac imaging (e.g., identifying abnormal heart structures, measuring blood flow, etc.), urological imaging, etc. As portable ultrasound systems may be used in less than ideal conditions (e.g., no ready access to power, no formal work station, etc.), the features described herein help to address the problems associated with such use.

Referring to <FIG>, one embodiment of portable ultrasound system <NUM> is illustrated. Portable ultrasound system <NUM> may include display support system <NUM> for increasing the durability of the display system. Portable ultrasound system <NUM> may further include locking lever system <NUM> for securing ultrasound probes and/or transducers. Some embodiments of portable ultrasound system <NUM> include ergonomic handle system <NUM> for increasing portability and usability. Further embodiments include status indicator system <NUM> which displays, to a user, information relevant to portable ultrasound system <NUM>. Portable ultrasound system <NUM> may further include features such as an easy to operate and customizable user interface, adjustable feet, a backup battery, modular construction, cooling systems, etc..

Referring to <FIG>, a front view of one embodiment of portable ultrasound system <NUM> is illustrated. Main housing <NUM> houses components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In some embodiments, the components housed within main housing <NUM> include locking lever system <NUM>, ergonomic handle system <NUM>, and status indicator system <NUM>. Main housing <NUM> may also be configured to support electronics modules which may be replaced and/or upgraded due to the modular construction of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In some embodiments, portable ultrasound system <NUM> includes display housing <NUM>. Display housing <NUM> may include display support system <NUM>. In some embodiments, portable ultrasound system <NUM> includes touchpad <NUM> for receiving user inputs and displaying information, touchscreen <NUM> for receiving user inputs and displaying information, and main screen <NUM> for displaying information.

Referring to <FIG>, a block diagram shows internal components of one embodiment of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. Portable ultrasound system <NUM> includes main circuit board <NUM>. Main circuit board <NUM> carries out computing tasks to support the functions of portable ultrasound system <NUM> and provides connection and communication between various components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In some embodiments, main circuit board <NUM> is configured so as to be a replaceable and/or upgradable module.

To perform computational, control, and/or communication tasks, main circuit board <NUM> includes processing circuit <NUM>. Processing circuit <NUM> is configured to perform general processing and to perform processing and computational tasks associated with specific functions of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. For example, processing circuit <NUM> may perform calculations and/or operations related to producing an image from signals and or data provided by ultrasound equipment, running an operating system for portable ultrasound system <NUM>, receiving user inputs, etc. Processing circuit <NUM> may include memory <NUM> and processor <NUM> for use in processing tasks. For example, processing circuit may perform calculations and/or operations.

Processor <NUM> may be, or may include, one or more microprocessors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), circuits containing one or more processing components, a group of distributed processing components, circuitry for supporting a microprocessor, or other hardware configured for processing. Processor <NUM> is configured to execute computer code. The computer code may be stored in memory <NUM> to complete and facilitate the activities described herein with respect to portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In other embodiments, the computer code may be retrieved and provided to processor <NUM> from hard disk storage <NUM> or communications interface <NUM> (e.g., the computer code may be provided from a source external to main circuit board <NUM>).

Memory <NUM> can be any volatile or non-volatile computer-readable storage medium capable of storing data or computer code relating to the activities described herein. For example, memory <NUM> may include modules which are computer code modules (e.g., executable code, object code, source code, script code, machine code, etc.) configured for execution by processor <NUM>. Memory <NUM> may include computer executable code related to functions including ultrasound imagining, battery management, handling user inputs, displaying data, transmitting and receiving data using a wireless communication device, etc. In some embodiments, processing circuit <NUM> may represent a collection of multiple processing devices (e.g., multiple processors, etc.). In such cases, processor <NUM> represents the collective processors of the devices and memory <NUM> represents the collective storage devices of the devices. When executed by processor <NUM>, processing circuit <NUM> is configured to complete the activities described herein as associated with portable ultrasound system <NUM>.

Hard disk storage <NUM> may be a part of memory <NUM> and/or used for non-volatile long term storage in portable ultrasound system <NUM>. Hard disk storage <NUM> may store local files, temporary files, ultrasound images, patient data, an operating system, executable code, and any other data for supporting the activities of portable ultrasound device <NUM> described herein. In some embodiments, hard disk storage is embedded on main circuit board <NUM>. In other embodiments, hard disk storage <NUM> is located remote from main circuit board <NUM> and coupled thereto to allow for the transfer of data, electrical power, and/or control signals. Hard disk <NUM> may be an optical drive, magnetic drive, a solid state hard drive, flash memory, etc..

In some embodiments, main circuit board <NUM> includes communications interface <NUM>. Communications interface <NUM> may include connections which enable communication between components of main circuit board <NUM> and communications hardware. For example, communications interface <NUM> may provide a connection between main circuit board <NUM> and a network device (e.g., a network card, a wireless transmitter/receiver, etc.). In further embodiments, communications interface <NUM> may include additional circuitry to support the functionality of attached communications hardware or to facilitate the transfer of data between communications hardware and main circuit board <NUM>. In other embodiments, communications interface <NUM> may be a system on a chip (SOC) or other integrated system which allows for transmission of data and reception of data. In such a case, communications interface <NUM> may be coupled directly to main circuit board <NUM> as either a removable package or embedded package.

Some embodiments of portable ultrasound system <NUM> include power supply board <NUM>. Power supply board <NUM> includes components and circuitry for delivering power to components and devices within and/or attached to portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In some embodiments, power supply board <NUM> includes components for alternating current and direct current conversion, for transforming voltage, for delivering a steady power supply, etc. These components may include transformers, capacitors, modulators, etc. to perform the above functions. In further embodiments, power supply board <NUM> includes circuitry for determining the available power of a battery power source. In other embodiments, power supply board <NUM> may receive information regarding the available power of a battery power source from circuitry located remote from power supply board <NUM>. For example, this circuitry may be included within a battery. In some embodiments, power supply board <NUM> includes circuitry for switching between power sources. For example, power supply board <NUM> may draw power from a backup battery while a main battery is switched. In further embodiments, power supply board <NUM> includes circuitry to operate as an uninterruptable power supply in conjunction with a backup battery. Power supply board <NUM> also includes a connection to main circuit board <NUM>. This connection may allow power supply board <NUM> to send and receive information from main circuit board <NUM>. For example, power supply board <NUM> may send information to main circuit board <NUM> allowing for the determination of remaining battery power. The connection to main circuit board <NUM> may also allow main circuit board <NUM> to send commands to power supply board <NUM>. For example, main circuit board <NUM> may send a command to power supply board <NUM> to switch from source of power to another (e.g., to switch to a backup battery while a main battery is switched). In some embodiments, power supply board <NUM> is configured to be a module. In such cases, power supply board <NUM> may be configured so as to be a replaceable and/or upgradable module. In some embodiments, power supply board <NUM> is or includes a power supply unit. The power supply unit may convert AC power to DC power for use in portable ultrasound system <NUM>. The power supply may perform additional functions such as short circuit protection, overload protection, undervoltage protection, etc. The power supply may conform to ATX specification. In other embodiments, one or more of the above described functions may be carried out by main circuit board <NUM>.

Main circuit board <NUM> may also include power supply interface <NUM> which facilitates the above described communication between power supply board <NUM> and main circuit board <NUM>. Power supply interface <NUM> may include connections which enable communication between components of main circuit board <NUM> and power supply board <NUM>. In further embodiments, power supply interface <NUM> includes additional circuitry to support the functionality of power supply board <NUM>. For example, power supply interface <NUM> may include circuitry to facilitate the calculation of remaining battery power, manage switching between available power sources, etc. In other embodiments, the above described functions of power supply board <NUM> may be carried out by power supply interface <NUM>. For example, power supply interface <NUM> may be a SOC or other integrated system. In such a case, power supply interface <NUM> may be coupled directly to main circuit board <NUM> as either a removable package or embedded package.

With continued reference to <FIG>, some embodiments of main circuit board <NUM> include user input interface <NUM>. User input interface <NUM> may include connections which enable communication between components of main circuit board <NUM> and user input device hardware. For example, user input interface <NUM> may provide a connection between main circuit board <NUM> and a capacitive touchscreen, resistive touchscreen, mouse, keyboard, buttons, and/or a controller for the proceeding. In one embodiment, user input interface <NUM> couples controllers for touchpad <NUM>, touchscreen <NUM>, and main screen <NUM> to main circuit board <NUM>. In other embodiments, user input interface <NUM> includes controller circuitry for touchpad <NUM>, touchscreen <NUM>, and main screen <NUM>. In some embodiments, main circuit board <NUM> includes a plurality of user input interfaces <NUM>. For example, each user input interface <NUM> may be associated with a single input device (e.g., touchpad <NUM>, touchscreen <NUM>, a keyboard, buttons, etc.).

In further embodiments, user input interface <NUM> may include additional circuitry to support the functionality of attached user input hardware or to facilitate the transfer of data between user input hardware and main circuit board <NUM>. For example, user input interface <NUM> may include controller circuitry so as to function as a touchscreen controller. User input interface <NUM> may also include circuitry for controlling haptic feedback devices associated with user input hardware. In other embodiments, user input interface <NUM> may be a SOC or other integrated system which allows for receiving user inputs or otherwise controlling user input hardware. In such a case, user input interface <NUM> may be coupled directly to main circuit board <NUM> as either a removable package or embedded package.

Main circuit board <NUM> may also include ultrasound board interface <NUM> which facilitates communication between ultrasound board <NUM> and main circuit board <NUM>. Ultrasound board interface <NUM> may include connections which enable communication between components of main circuit board <NUM> and ultrasound board <NUM>. In further embodiments, ultrasound board interface <NUM> includes additional circuitry to support the functionality of ultrasound board <NUM>. For example, ultrasound board interface <NUM> may include circuitry to facilitate the calculation of parameters used in generating an image from ultrasound data provided by ultrasound board <NUM>. In some embodiments, ultrasound board interface <NUM> is a SOC or other integrated system. In such a case, ultrasound board interface <NUM> may be coupled directly to main circuit board <NUM> as either a removable package or embedded package.

In other embodiments, ultrasound board interface <NUM> includes connections which facilitate use of a modular ultrasound board <NUM>. Ultrasound board <NUM> may be a module (e.g., ultrasound module) capable of performing functions related to ultrasound imaging (e.g., multiplexing sensor signals from an ultrasound probe/transducer, controlling the frequency of ultrasonic waves produced by an ultrasound probe/transducer, etc.). The connections of ultrasound board interface <NUM> may facilitate replacement of ultrasound board <NUM> (e.g., to replace ultrasound board <NUM> with an upgraded board or a board for a different application). For example, ultrasound board interface <NUM> may include connections which assist in accurately aligning ultrasound board <NUM> and/or reducing the likelihood of damage to ultrasound board <NUM> during removal and or attachment (e.g., by reducing the force required to connect and/or remove the board, by assisting, with a mechanical advantage, the connection and/or removal of the board, etc.).

In embodiments of portable ultrasound system <NUM> including ultrasound board <NUM>, ultrasound board <NUM> includes components and circuitry for supporting ultrasound imaging functions of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In some embodiments, ultrasound board <NUM> includes integrated circuits, processors, and memory. Ultrasound board <NUM> may also include one or more transducer/probe socket interfaces <NUM>. Transducer/probe socket interface <NUM> enables ultrasound transducer/probe <NUM> (e.g., a probe with a socket type connector) to interface with ultrasound board <NUM>. For example, transducer/probe socket interface <NUM> may include circuitry and/or hardware connecting ultrasound transducer/probe <NUM> to ultrasound board <NUM> for the transfer of electrical power and/or data. Transducer/probe socket interface <NUM> may include hardware which locks ultrasound transducer/probe <NUM> into place (e.g., a slot which accepts a pin on ultrasound transducer/probe <NUM> when ultrasound transducer/probe <NUM> is rotated). In some embodiments, ultrasound board <NUM> includes two transducer/probe socket interfaces <NUM> to allow the connection of two socket type ultrasound transducers/probes <NUM>.

In some embodiments, ultrasound board <NUM> also includes one or more transducer/probe pin interfaces <NUM>. Transducer/probe pin interface <NUM> enables an ultrasound transducer/probe <NUM> with a pin type connector to interface with ultrasound board <NUM>. Transducer/probe pin interface <NUM> may include circuitry and/or hardware connecting ultrasound transducer/probe <NUM> to ultrasound board <NUM> for the transfer of electrical power and/or data. Transducer/probe pin interface <NUM> may include hardware which locks ultrasound transducer/probe <NUM> into place. In some embodiments, ultrasound transducer/probe <NUM> is locked into place with locking lever system <NUM>. In some embodiments, ultrasound board <NUM> includes more than one transducer/probe pin interfaces <NUM> to allow the connection of two or more pin type ultrasound transducers/probes <NUM>. In such cases, portable ultrasound system <NUM> may include one or more locking lever systems <NUM>. In further embodiments, ultrasound board <NUM> may include interfaces for additional types of transducer/probe connections.

With continued reference to <FIG>, some embodiments of main circuit board <NUM> include display interface <NUM>. Display interface <NUM> may include connections which enable communication between components of main circuit board <NUM> and display device hardware. For example, display interface <NUM> may provide a connection between main circuit board <NUM> and a liquid crystal display, a plasma display, a cathode ray tube display, a light emitting diode display, and/or a display controller or graphics processing unit for the proceeding or other types of display hardware. In some embodiments, the connection of display hardware to main circuit board <NUM> by display interface <NUM> allows a processor or dedicated graphics processing unit on main circuit board <NUM> to control and/or send data to display hardware. Display interface <NUM> may be configured to send display data to display device hardware in order to produce an image. In some embodiments, main circuit board <NUM> includes multiple display interfaces <NUM> for multiple display devices (e.g., three display interfaces <NUM> connect three displays to main circuit board <NUM>). In other embodiments, one display interface <NUM> may connect and/or support multiple displays. In one embodiment, three display interfaces <NUM> couple touchpad <NUM>, touchscreen <NUM>, and main screen <NUM> to main circuit board <NUM>.

In further embodiments, display interface <NUM> may include additional circuitry to support the functionality of attached display hardware or to facilitate the transfer of data between display hardware and main circuit board <NUM>. For example, display interface <NUM> may include controller circuitry, a graphics processing unit, video display controller, etc. In some embodiments, display interface <NUM> may be a SOC or other integrated system which allows for displaying images with display hardware or otherwise controlling display hardware. Display interface <NUM> may be coupled directly to main circuit board <NUM> as either a removable package or embedded package. Processing circuit <NUM> in conjunction with one or more display interfaces <NUM> may display images on one or more of touchpad <NUM>, touchscreen, <NUM>, and main screen <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, an exemplary embodiment of an ultrasound module <NUM> according to the present disclosure is illustrated. In some embodiments, ultrasound module <NUM> houses the ultrasound components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. The ultrasound components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> may be housed entirely or partially within ultrasound module <NUM>.

Advantageously, ultrasound module <NUM> may be configured to be removable from portable ultrasound system <NUM> as discussed later and in more detail with reference to <FIG> herein. This function may be supported by connectors facilitating the connection and disconnection of ultrasound module <NUM> as in more detail with reference to <FIG>. This allows portable ultrasound system <NUM> to accept different ultrasound modules <NUM>. Ultrasound modules <NUM> with varying specifications may be inserted into portable ultrasound system <NUM>. For example, an ultrasound module <NUM> with hardware targeted at specific clinical applications may be substituted or upgraded for an ultrasound module <NUM> dedicated to an expanded range of application. Advantageously, swapping in and out specialized ultrasound modules <NUM> allows the overall package of portable ultrasound system <NUM> to be smaller and lighter without sacrificing performance for various tasks. Additionally, the reconfigurable and module nature of portable ultrasound system <NUM> allows a user to customize portable ultrasound system <NUM> (e.g., through swapping ultrasound modules <NUM>). Additionally, the module nature of portable ultrasound system <NUM> provides an advantage of allowing a user to upgrade the ultrasound performance of the system by replacing an ultrasound module <NUM> with a different (e.g., more powerful, accurate, sophisticated, etc.) ultrasound module. A damaged ultrasound module (e.g., damaged by harsh operating conditions encountered by portable ultrasound system <NUM>) may be replaced easily due to the module nature of the ultrasound module <NUM>.

Ultrasound module <NUM> may include input interfaces for ultrasound equipment. In some embodiments, ultrasound module <NUM> includes one or more pin type ultrasound probe interfaces <NUM>. Pin type ultrasound interface <NUM> may allow an ultrasound probe to connect to an ultrasound board <NUM> included in ultrasound module <NUM>. For example, an ultrasound probe connected to pin type ultrasound interface <NUM> may be connected to ultrasound board <NUM> via transducer/probe pin interface <NUM>. In some embodiments, pin type ultrasound interface <NUM> allows communication between components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> (e.g., ultrasound module <NUM>, power supply module <NUM>, main circuit board module <NUM>, or other components included in or connected with portable ultrasound system <NUM>) and an ultrasound probe. For example, control signals may be provided to an ultrasound probe (e.g., controlling the ultrasound emissions of the probe) and data may be received by ultrasound module <NUM> from the probe (e.g., imaging data).

In some embodiments, ultrasound module <NUM> may include locking lever system <NUM> for securing an ultrasound probe. For example, an ultrasound probe may be secured in pin type ultrasound probe interface <NUM> by locking lever system <NUM>.

In further embodiments, ultrasound module <NUM> includes one or more socket type ultrasound probe interfaces <NUM>. Socket type ultrasound probe interfaces <NUM> may allow a socket type ultrasound probe to connect to an ultrasound board <NUM> included in ultrasound module <NUM>. For example, an ultrasound probe connected to socket type ultrasound probe interface <NUM> may be connected to ultrasound board <NUM> via transducer/probe socket interface <NUM>. In some embodiments, socket type ultrasound probe interface <NUM> allows communication between components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> (e.g., ultrasound module <NUM>, power supply module <NUM>, main circuit board module <NUM>, or other components included in or connected with portable ultrasound system <NUM>). For example, control signals may be provided to an ultrasound probe (e.g., controlling the ultrasound emissions of the probe) and data may be received by ultrasound module <NUM> from the probe (e.g., imaging data).

In further embodiments, ultrasound module <NUM> includes computation, control, or other support hardware. The support hardware may facilitate the ultrasound functions performed by ultrasound module <NUM>. For example, ultrasound module <NUM> may include processors, memory, integrated circuits, graphics processing units (GPU), central processing units (CPU), controllers, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or other computational hardware. Ultrasound module <NUM> may perform tasks such as controlling ultrasound probe output (e.g., controlling active transducer elements, beam steering, controlling ultrasound pulses, etc.), receiving ultrasound probe input, performing post-processing, generating images from input provided by an ultrasound probe, storing input data, storing images, or otherwise manipulating data and/or hardware related to ultrasound imaging.

In some embodiments, main circuit board <NUM> and/or power supply board <NUM> are configured to support ultrasound modules <NUM> using typically <NUM> channels or <NUM> channels for imaging but not limited to either <NUM> or <NUM> channel configurations. Advantageously, this allows for a user of the system to perform imaging tasks with a less expensive channel count ultrasound module <NUM> but switch to a higher channel count ultrasound module <NUM> when desired (e.g., to achieve greater resolution) easily and quickly due to the modular nature of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In some embodiments, the connections between ultrasound module <NUM> and other components is configured to facilitate this operation. For example, connectors may designed to accept multiple configurations of connectors on ultrasound module <NUM> (e.g., a <NUM> channel ultrasound module <NUM> may have fewer pins or other connection features than a <NUM> channel ultrasound module <NUM>). In other embodiments, the components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> and/or ultrasound module <NUM> may determine the number of channels used by a connected ultrasound module <NUM> and adjust parameters accordingly. For example, power provided to ultrasound module <NUM> may be increased or decreased, cooling fan speed may be increased or decreased, more or less memory may be allocated to systems of ultrasound module <NUM>, a user interface may be adjusted to display more, less, or different information, and/or other parameters of components or functions of portable ultrasound system <NUM> may be adjusted.

Ultrasound module <NUM> can connect to one or more of the other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> (e.g., power supply module <NUM> and main circuit board module <NUM>) by connectors configured to support the modularity of the ultrasound module <NUM>. For example, the connectors may be configured to ensure accurate and complete connection between ultrasound module <NUM> and other components while still allowing for the removal of ultrasound module <NUM>. The connectors are discussed with greater detail later and with reference to <FIG> herein. When connected to other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>, ultrasound module <NUM> may be housed within main housing <NUM> of portable ultrasound system <NUM> as depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>.

Referring now to <FIG>, power supply module <NUM> is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment. In some embodiments, power supply module <NUM> houses power supply board <NUM>. Power supply module <NUM> may perform and/or support the functions of power supply board <NUM> discussed with reference to <FIG> herein. These functions may include converting alternating current (e.g., from a mains power source) to direct current for use by components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>, voltage transformations, and/or other power supply functions. Power supply module <NUM> may also provide short circuit protection, overpower protection, overvoltage protections, undervoltage protection, overcurrent protection, over temperature protection, and/or other types of electrical protection to portable ultrasound system <NUM> and the components thereof. Power supply module <NUM> alone or in conjunction with main circuit board module <NUM> and/or ultrasound module <NUM> may switch between power sources (e.g., a main battery, backup battery, and mains power). For example, mains power may be used when available to power imaging functions carried out by ultrasound module <NUM>. When mains power is unavailable, power may be drawn from a battery power source. When the battery power source is depleted, a backup battery may provide an orderly shutdown of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. Power supply module <NUM> alone or in conjunction with main circuit board module <NUM> and/or ultrasound module <NUM> may switch between power sources and manage power functions such as an orderly shutdown of portable ultrasound system <NUM>.

In some embodiments, power supply module <NUM> includes components which facilitate the modularity of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In one embodiment, power supply module <NUM> includes a floating connector <NUM>. Floating connector <NUM> allows ultrasound module <NUM> to connect to power supply module <NUM>. This connection may allow for power and/or data transfer between power supply module <NUM> and ultrasound module <NUM>. Floating connector <NUM> is configured to move three dimensionally relative to power supply module <NUM> while still being electrically connected to the components of power supply module <NUM>. This is described in more detail with reference to <FIG>.

Advantageously, the movement of floating connector <NUM> helps to align and connect ultrasound module <NUM> to power supply module <NUM> and thus allows for easier insertion of ultrasound module <NUM> into portable ultrasound system <NUM>. Floating connector <NUM> may allow for connection between ultrasound module <NUM> and power supply module <NUM> to occur within a greater range of alignment tolerances as floating connector <NUM> is allowed to move relative to power supply module <NUM>. Thus, less precision in the alignment of ultrasound module <NUM> and power supply module <NUM> may be required when inserting an ultrasound module <NUM> into portable ultrasound system <NUM>. This may make it easier for a user to inset ultrasound modules <NUM> (e.g., with less attention to accuracy, greater speed, etc.). Advantageously, floating connector <NUM> may also reduce the stress experienced by connectors on the ultrasound module <NUM> by helping to guide the connectors into place with floating connector <NUM> while moving relative to power supply module <NUM>. The floating nature of floating connector <NUM> may increase the alignment tolerances of the two sets of connectors (e.g., on ultrasound module <NUM> and power supply module <NUM>) easing the connection process and helping to reduce stress. Advantageously, the reduced stress experienced by the connectors due to floating connector <NUM> may increase the life cycle of connectors on one or more of the ultrasound module <NUM> and the power supply module <NUM>. This may reduce the amount of repair and/or maintenance performed on ultrasound module <NUM> and/or power supply module <NUM> and increase the amount of uptime for portable ultrasound system <NUM>.

In some embodiments, power supply module <NUM> includes additional connectors and/or connections. For example, power supply module <NUM> may be connected to both ultrasound module <NUM> and main circuit board module <NUM>. Power supply module <NUM> may be connected to ultrasound module <NUM> with floating connector <NUM>. In some embodiments, power supply module <NUM> is also connected to main circuit board module <NUM> with a second floating connector <NUM>. In other embodiments, power supply module <NUM> is connected to main circuit board module <NUM> with a fixed connector. In still further embodiments, power supply module <NUM> may be connected to main circuit board <NUM> with fixed connections and/or wiring. For example, power supply module <NUM> and main circuit board <NUM> may be configured so as to not be separable during normal operation. During repair and/or replacement of components, power supply module <NUM> and main circuit board <NUM> may be separated. For example, connectors and/or wiring could be de-soldered from one or both of the modules.

In some embodiments, power supply module <NUM> may be configured so as to be a replaceable and/or upgradable module. Power supply module <NUM> may be a contained module containing power supply components. This may allow for the removal of a power supply module <NUM> and for power supply module <NUM> to be replaced. Advantageously, the contained nature of power supply module <NUM> may allow for easy replacement of a power supply module <NUM> in order to repair or upgrade the power supply components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. This may allow for quick repairs to be made and for upgrades to be made in order to support other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. For example, if an ultrasound module <NUM> is replaced with an ultrasound module <NUM> requiring different power specifications (e.g., a different operating voltage), then power supply module <NUM> may also be replaced to support the new ultrasound module <NUM>. The modular nature of power supply module <NUM> may facilitate the repair or replacement of power components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In some embodiments, power supply module <NUM> may be removed from portable ultrasound system <NUM> using a release lever. In other embodiments, power supply module <NUM> is attached to portable ultrasound system <NUM> (e.g., a frame and/or cover of the system) using screws, nuts and bolts, adhesive, and/or other fasteners.

Referring now to <FIG>, main circuit board module <NUM> is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment. In some embodiments, main circuit board module <NUM> houses main circuit board <NUM>. Main circuit board module <NUM> may perform and/or support the functions of main circuit board <NUM> discussed with reference to <FIG> herein. These functions may include performing general computations such as running an operating system for portable ultrasound system <NUM>, handling inputs and generating outputs, displaying images, running applications, managing resources and/or other tasks performed by general computing hardware. Main circuit board module <NUM> may also perform communication functions. For example, main circuit board module <NUM> may send or receive data using a wireless communication device such as a radio transceiver. Main circuit board module <NUM> may also control components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. For example, main circuit board module <NUM> may use power supply module <NUM> to switch between power sources in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, main circuit board module <NUM> includes components which facilitate the modularity of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In one embodiment, main circuit board module <NUM> includes a fixed connector <NUM>. Fixed connector <NUM> may allow main circuit board module <NUM> to connect to ultrasound module <NUM>. This connection may allow for power and/or data transfer between main circuit board module <NUM> and ultrasound module <NUM>. For example, main circuit board module <NUM> may send control instructions received through user input devices of portable ultrasound system <NUM> to ultrasound module <NUM>. Continuing the example, ultrasound module <NUM> may send image data (e.g., bitmaps, frame buffers, sensor data, or other information related to imaging with ultrasound) to main circuit board module <NUM> for further processing and/or display on displays of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. Fixed connector <NUM> may include features which allow for ultrasound modules <NUM> to be easily connected to or removed from main circuit board module <NUM>. This is described in more detail with reference to <FIG>.

In some embodiments, main circuit board module <NUM> includes additional connectors and/or connections. For example, main circuit board module <NUM> may be connected to both ultrasound module <NUM> and power supply module <NUM>. Main circuit board module <NUM> may be connected to ultrasound module <NUM> with fixed connector <NUM>. In some embodiments, main circuit board module <NUM> is also connected to power supply module <NUM> with a second fixed connector <NUM>. In other embodiments, main circuit board module <NUM> is connected to power supply module <NUM> with a floating connector. In still further embodiments, main circuit board <NUM> may be connected to power supply module <NUM> with fixed connections and/or wiring. For example, main circuit board <NUM> and power supply module <NUM> may be configured so as to not be separable during normal operation. During repair and/or replacement of components, main circuit board <NUM> and power supply module <NUM> may be separated. For example, connectors and/or wiring could be de-soldered or unconnected from one or both of the modules.

In some embodiments, main circuit board module <NUM> is configured so as to be a replaceable and/or upgradable module. Main circuit board module <NUM> may be a contained module containing computing components (e.g., such as the components discussed above with reference to main circuit board <NUM> and <FIG>). This may allow for the removal of a main circuit board module <NUM> and for main circuit board module <NUM> to be replaced. Advantageously, the contained nature of main circuit board module <NUM> may allow for easy replacement of a main circuit board module <NUM> in order to repair or upgrade the computing components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. This may allow for quick repairs to be made and for upgrades to be made in order to support other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In some embodiments, main circuit board module <NUM> may be removed from portable ultrasound system <NUM> using a release lever. In other embodiments, main circuit board module <NUM> is attached to portable ultrasound system <NUM> (e.g., a frame and/or cover of the system) using screws, nuts and bolts, adhesive, and/or other fasteners.

<FIG> illustrates an ultrasound module <NUM> connected to main circuit board module <NUM> and power supply module <NUM> according to an exemplary embodiment. In some embodiments, power and/or information is transferred between two or more of ultrasound module <NUM>, power supply module <NUM>, and main circuit board module <NUM>. In one embodiment, ultrasound module <NUM>, power supply module <NUM>, and main circuit board module <NUM> are configured such that a portable ultrasound module <NUM> may be removed and/or connected to power supply module <NUM> and main circuit board module <NUM> simultaneously. For example, power supply module <NUM> and main circuit board module <NUM> may be arranged such that their respective connectors are parallel and aligned with corresponding connectors on an ultrasound module <NUM>. As depicted in <FIG>, ultrasound module <NUM> may connect simultaneously to power supply module <NUM> and main circuit board module <NUM> through connectors on the rear of ultrasound module <NUM>.

Now referring to <FIG>, ultrasound module <NUM>, power supply module <NUM>, and main circuit board module <NUM> may be supported by a single frame <NUM>. In some embodiments, power supply module <NUM> and/or main circuit board module <NUM> are attached to frame <NUM>. For example, power supply module <NUM> and/or main circuit board module <NUM> may be attached to frame <NUM> with screws, nuts and bolts, adhesive, and/or other fasteners. Frame <NUM> may position the connectors on power supply module <NUM> and main circuit board module <NUM> such that an ultrasound module <NUM> may simultaneously connect or disconnect from both power supply module <NUM> and main circuit board module <NUM>. Frame <NUM> may also hold power supply module <NUM> and main circuit board module <NUM> in place while ultrasound module <NUM> is either connected or disconnected.

Other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> may also be attached to frame <NUM>. In some embodiments main housing <NUM> connects to frame <NUM>. Other components such as the display (e.g., display swivel mechanism) may be attached to frame <NUM>. In some embodiments, frame <NUM> secures ultrasound module <NUM> while it is inserted in portable ultrasound system <NUM>. This is discussed in greater detail with reference to <FIG>.

Referring now to <FIG>, an exemplary embodiment of portable ultrasound system <NUM> is illustrated showing an opening <NUM> to receive an ultrasound module <NUM>. In some embodiments, opening <NUM> is defined by frame <NUM> and/or main housing <NUM>. Opening <NUM> may be configured to allow an ultrasound module <NUM> to be inserted into portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In one embodiment, opening <NUM> is located on a side of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. For example, opening <NUM> may be located on the right side of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In other embodiments, opening <NUM> is located on a different side of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. For example, opening <NUM> may be located on the left face of main housing <NUM>, the front face of main housing <NUM>, the rear face of main housing <NUM>, or the bottom face of main housing <NUM>. In some embodiments, the geometry of ultrasound module <NUM>, power supply module <NUM>, and/or the geometry of main circuit board housing <NUM> may be configured to fit within main housing <NUM> and work as described herein with respect to an opening <NUM> located on one of the faces of main housing <NUM>.

In some embodiments, opening <NUM> is configured to prevent contaminates and/or particles from entering opening <NUM> when an ultrasound module <NUM> has been inserted. For example, opening <NUM> may be sized such that ultrasound module <NUM> overhangs opening <NUM> when inserted into portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In other embodiments, opening <NUM> may include features such as a sealing material, gasket, door, flap, or other feature configured to prevent containments and/or particles from entering opening <NUM> when an ultrasound module <NUM> is inserted.

With reference to <FIG>, portable ultrasound system <NUM> may include features which support the modularity of the system by assisting in the insertion and removal of an ultrasound module <NUM>. In some embodiments, portable ultrasound system <NUM> includes release lever <NUM>. Advantageously, release lever <NUM> may assist a user in removing ultrasound module <NUM> by disconnecting ultrasound module <NUM> from other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. Release lever <NUM> may be configured to apply a force perpendicular to a face of ultrasound module <NUM> and parallel to the axis on which ultrasound module <NUM> is connected to other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. This may reduce the sheering force experienced by the connectors during removal of an ultrasound module <NUM>. The connectors may experience a lower amount of sheering force when disconnected using release lever <NUM> than would be experienced if ultrasound module <NUM> was pulled out of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. This may advantageously reduce the chance of damaging a connector during removal of an ultrasound module <NUM> and/or increase the life of an ultrasound module and/or power supply module <NUM> and main circuit board module <NUM>.

In some embodiments, frame <NUM> may include elements or features which support the modular nature of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. For example, frame <NUM> may include features which align or otherwise position ultrasound module <NUM> for connection to other components such as power supply module <NUM> and/or main circuit board module <NUM>. Advantageously, frame <NUM> may assist a user in more accurately positioning ultrasound module <NUM> relative to power supply module <NUM> and/or main circuit board module <NUM> and thus ease the connection between these components when inserting ultrasound module <NUM> into portable ultrasound system <NUM>. Frame <NUM> may also include elements or features which assist in securely connecting ultrasound module <NUM> to power supply module <NUM> and/or main circuit board module <NUM>. Advantageously, this may prevent unintended disconnection of ultrasound module <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, an exemplary embodiment of portable ultrasound system <NUM> is illustrated including release lever access door <NUM>. In some embodiments, release lever access door <NUM> is located on the bottom of main housing <NUM>. In other embodiments, release lever access door <NUM> is located on other faces of main housing <NUM>. Release lever access door <NUM> covers release lever <NUM>. Advantageously, this prevents unintentional actuation of release lever <NUM> which may cause disconnection of ultrasound module <NUM>. As unintentional disconnection of ultrasound module <NUM> may disrupt imaging with portable ultrasound system <NUM> and/or cause other ill effects (e.g., loss of data) release lever access door <NUM> prevents unintentional disconnection of ultrasound module <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, the process of disconnecting an ultrasound module <NUM> from portable ultrasound system <NUM> is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment. As illustrated in <FIG>, release lever access door <NUM> may be normally closed while an ultrasound module <NUM> is connected to portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In some embodiments, release lever access door <NUM> includes a cutout <NUM>. Cutout <NUM> may allow a user to grab, apply leverage, or otherwise open release lever access door <NUM>. Cutout <NUM> may define an opening with main housing <NUM> which allows a user to apply force to the underside of release lever access door <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary embodiment of portable ultrasound system <NUM> with release lever access door <NUM> open. Opening release lever access door <NUM>, reveals release lever <NUM>. In some embodiments, release lever access door <NUM> rotates about an axis defined by hinge <NUM> and/or an axel. The axle may provide an axial link between main housing <NUM> and release lever access door <NUM>. The axle may define an axis about which release lever access door <NUM> rotates between an open position and a closed position. In some embodiments, the axle may be a rod or bar offset from an upper edge of main housing <NUM>. The axle may extend longitudinally between a first end and a second end, each of which may be attached to main housing <NUM>. In other embodiments, the axle may be a hinge, pivot joint, or other type of bearing providing a rotatable linkage between main housing <NUM> and release lever access door <NUM>.

Hinges <NUM> are shown extending from an edge of main housing <NUM>. Hinges <NUM> may be used to couple release lever access door <NUM> (e.g., releasably or permanently) to an axel and/or to main housing <NUM>. The coupling between hinges <NUM> and an axle may define an axis about which release lever access door <NUM> may rotate between an open position and a closed position. In some embodiments, hinges <NUM> may be configured to allow for release lever access door <NUM> to be removed or decoupled from main housing <NUM> when in the open position. For example, hinges <NUM> may only partially enclose an axel of main housing <NUM> and when rotated to the open position provide an opening which allows release lever access door <NUM> to be removed (e.g., allow the axel to pass through the opening in hinges <NUM>). In other embodiments, release lever access door <NUM> is configured such that release lever access door <NUM> is not removable from main housing <NUM>. For example, hinges <NUM> may enclose an axel of main housing <NUM> such that the axel may not pass through hinges <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary embodiment of portable ultrasound system <NUM> with release lever access door <NUM> removed. When opened and removed, release lever access door <NUM> reveals release lever <NUM>. With release lever access door <NUM> removed and release lever <NUM> visible but not actuated, ultrasound module <NUM> remains inserted in portable ultrasound system <NUM>. Ultrasound module <NUM> also remains connected to other systems (e.g., power supply module <NUM> and/or main circuit board module <NUM>).

Referring now to <FIG>, a user may actuate release lever <NUM> by rotating release lever <NUM> away from main housing <NUM>. In some embodiments, release lever <NUM> may extend above main housing <NUM> such that a user can grab, apply leverage, or otherwise actuate release lever <NUM>. Release lever <NUM> may be positioned relative to main housing <NUM> such that a user may apply force to the underside of release lever <NUM>. In some embodiments, a portion of release lever <NUM> extending inside main housing <NUM> applies force to ultrasound module <NUM> as release lever <NUM> is actuated by a user. This force may cause ultrasound module <NUM> to disconnect from other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> and/or be ejected from portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In some embodiments, release lever <NUM> applies force to ultrasound module <NUM> throughout its full range of motion. For example, if lease lever <NUM> has a range of motion between zero degrees and ninety degrees relative to main housing <NUM>, force may be applied during rotation of release lever <NUM> from any angle greater than zero degrees to the maximum rotation of ninety degrees.

In other embodiments, release lever <NUM> only applies force to ultrasound module <NUM> during a portion of full range of motion of release lever <NUM>. Release lever <NUM> may have one or more ranges during which no force is applied to ultrasound module <NUM> while release lever <NUM> is rotated through the ranges. For example, release lever <NUM> may rotate through zero degrees to twenty degrees without an internal (e.g., within main housing <NUM>) portion of release lever <NUM> contacting or otherwise applying force to ultrasound module <NUM>. Advantageously, this may prevent unintended removal of ultrasound module <NUM>. A user may have to rotate release lever <NUM> beyond a certain threshold angle in order to start applying force to ultrasound module <NUM> and thereby ensure that the user intends to disconnect ultrasound module <NUM>. In some embodiments, release lever <NUM> may be configured such that no force is applied to ultrasound module <NUM> as release lever <NUM> is rotated from a partially actuated to a fully actuated position. For example, release lever <NUM> may be configured such that the portion of release lever <NUM> internal to main housing <NUM> does not contact or otherwise apply force to ultrasound module <NUM> as release lever <NUM> is rotated between seventy and ninety degrees relative to main housing <NUM>. Advantageously, this may ensure that ultrasound module <NUM> is still held in place and prevents ultrasound module <NUM> from unintentionally slipping or falling out of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. Release lever <NUM> may be configured to prevent ultrasound module <NUM> from falling out of portable ultrasound system <NUM> as described above while still ensuring that enough force is applied to ultrasound module <NUM> for a sufficient range of rotation to allow a user to grab a partially extended ultrasound module <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, a partially extended ultrasound module <NUM> is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. After release lever <NUM> has been actuated, ultrasound module <NUM> is disconnected from other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> and ultrasound module <NUM> extends from portable ultrasound system <NUM> such that a user may grab ultrasound module <NUM> and remove it. In some embodiments, ultrasound module <NUM> is disconnected from other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> and/or is partially extended only after release lever <NUM> is fully actuated. In other embodiments, ultrasound module <NUM> may be disconnected from other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> and/or partially extended from main housing <NUM> without release lever <NUM> being fully actuated. In one embodiment, release lever <NUM> has a range of motion between zero and ninety degrees of rotation relative to main housing <NUM>. In other embodiments, the range of motion of release lever <NUM> is greater or lesser relative to main housing <NUM>. For example, release lever <NUM> may have a range of motion of zero to <NUM> degrees relative to main housing <NUM>. Continuing the example, release lever <NUM> may have a range of motion of zero to sixty degrees relative to main housing <NUM>. In some embodiments, fully actuating release lever <NUM> disconnects ultrasound module <NUM> and extends ultrasound module approximately <NUM> centimeters away from opening <NUM> and/or main housing <NUM>. In other embodiments, fully actuating release lever <NUM> causes ultrasound module <NUM> to be extended a greater or lesser amount.

<FIG> illustrates a portion of release lever <NUM> extending within main housing <NUM> according to an exemplary embodiment. Release lever <NUM> may extend within main housing <NUM> such that rotation of a portion of release lever <NUM> accessible to the user (e.g., exterior to main housing <NUM>) causes a corresponding rotation of a portion of release lever <NUM> internal to main housing <NUM>. In some embodiments, release lever <NUM> is a single component extending both internally and externally to main housing <NUM>. In other embodiments, release lever <NUM> may include multiple components configured to function as described herein.

Positioning of the lower portion (e.g., portion within main housing <NUM>) relative to the upper portion (e.g., portion extending from main housing <NUM> and/or covered by release lever access door <NUM>) may determine at what angle of rotation of release lever <NUM> force is applied to ultrasound module <NUM>. For example, if the lower portion of release lever <NUM> is configured to be in contact with ultrasound module <NUM> while release lever <NUM> has rotated zero degrees relative to main housing <NUM>, then any rotation of release lever <NUM> will begin to apply force to ultrasound module <NUM>. The lower portion of release lever <NUM> may alternatively be positioned such that it is not in contact with an inserted ultrasound module <NUM> while release lever <NUM> has not been rotated. Depending on the angle formed by the lower portion of release lever <NUM> relative to the upper portion, the angle of rotation at which release lever <NUM> begins to apply force to ultrasound module <NUM> may be adjusted. By altering this angle, the above described functions of release lever <NUM> may be achieved.

In some embodiments, main housing <NUM> may include one or more shoulders <NUM>. Shoulder <NUM> may guide, locate, prevent over insertion, and/or otherwise position ultrasound module <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, release lever <NUM> may be positioned relative to an inserted ultrasound module. The ultrasound module's position may in turn be defined by one or more shoulders <NUM>. The positioning of release lever <NUM> relative to shoulders <NUM> may define the characteristics of release lever <NUM> described above (e.g., at what rotation angle does release lever <NUM> begin to apply disconnecting force to ultrasound module <NUM>). For example, release lever <NUM> as depicted in <FIG> does not begin applying disconnecting force to ultrasound module <NUM> until it has rotated approximately thirty degrees due to a user input on the upper portion of release lever <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates one embodiment of release lever <NUM> and main housing <NUM> without an ultrasound module <NUM> inserted into portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In one embodiment, release lever <NUM> is coupled to main housing <NUM> by axel <NUM> and opening <NUM>. In some embodiments, axel <NUM> is coupled to flange <NUM> of main housing <NUM> such that axel <NUM> is held stationary. For example, axel <NUM> may be formed as part of main housing <NUM> through molding techniques, milled from main housing <NUM>, inserted into opening <NUM> of flange <NUM> such that axel <NUM> has an interference fit with flange <NUM>, coupled with an adhesive, or otherwise coupled to flange <NUM>. Release lever <NUM> may include a sleeve which rotates about axel <NUM>. Release lever <NUM> may rotate freely about axel <NUM>. The upper and/or lower portions of release lever <NUM> may be attached to the sleeve. In some embodiments, the sleeve is an integral part of release lever <NUM>. The sleeve and/or flange <NUM> may contain additional elements such as bearings.

In other embodiments, axel <NUM> is fixedly coupled to release lever <NUM>. Axel <NUM> may be one or more protrusions from release lever <NUM>. For example, axel <NUM> may be formed as an integral part of release lever <NUM> (e.g., by injection molding, milling, or another manufacturing technique). Axel <NUM> may be attached to release lever <NUM> using screws, nuts and bolts, adhesive, and/or other fasteners. Axel <NUM> may alternatively or in addition to the above techniques be inserted into a sleeve of release lever <NUM> such that the sleeve and axel <NUM> from an interference fit. Axel <NUM> may rotate freely within opening <NUM> of flange <NUM>. For example, opening <NUM> and axel <NUM> may have a running fit. In some embodiments, opening <NUM> of flange <NUM>, and/or axel <NUM> may be configured to support the rotation of axel <NUM> within opening <NUM>. For example, a bearing assembly may be used to support axel <NUM> with flange <NUM>.

In some embodiments, release lever <NUM> includes a cam portion <NUM>. Cam portion <NUM> may function as a cam and facilitate the transformation of the rotational movement of release lever <NUM> into linear motion for pushing (e.g., disconnecting and ejecting) ultrasound module <NUM>. The contact between cam portion <NUM> and ultrasound module <NUM> may be used to create linear motion of ultrasound module <NUM>. Advantageously, this linear motion of ultrasound module <NUM> may reduce stress on the connectors of ultrasound module <NUM>, power supply module <NUM>, and/or main circuit board module <NUM> during disconnection of ultrasound module <NUM>. In some embodiments, cam portion <NUM> has a cam profile to create uniform linear motion of ultrasound module <NUM> during the rotation of release lever <NUM> while disconnection ultrasound module <NUM>. In additional embodiments, cam portion <NUM> has a cam profile which is configured to reduce stress and/or wear on release lever <NUM> and/or ultrasound module <NUM> due to the contact between release lever <NUM> and ultrasound module <NUM>. Advantageously, this may increase the life span of release lever <NUM> and/or ultrasound module <NUM>. Cam portion <NUM> may also provide an advantage to a user of portable ultrasound system <NUM> by creating uniform linear motion throughout the rotation of release lever <NUM>. This may provide a user with predictable and repeatable disconnection of ultrasound module <NUM>. In further embodiments, cam portion <NUM> may have a different cam profile. For example, cam portion <NUM> may have a cam profile which produces more linear motion for each degree of rotation of release lever <NUM>. In other embodiments, cam portion <NUM> may have a cam profile which produces less linear motion per degree of release lever <NUM> rotation. This may allow for a release lever <NUM> with a greater range of rotation (e.g., <NUM> degrees).

In some embodiments, cam portion <NUM> extends for the entire length and/or width of the lower portion of release lever <NUM>. In other embodiments, cam portion <NUM> is a portion of the lower portion of release lever <NUM>.

In some embodiments, cam portion <NUM> has a cam profile which is configured to effect the range of motion of release lever <NUM> during which force is applied to ultrasound module <NUM>. Cam portion <NUM> may have a profile which creates or helps to create the functions described above with reference to <FIG>. For example, cam portion <NUM> may have a cam profile which results in no or little linear motion during a first range of rotation of release lever <NUM>, linear motion during a second range of rotation of release lever <NUM>, and no or little linear motion during a third range of rotation of release lever <NUM>. Alternative profiles may be used to generate other functions described with reference to <FIG>.

Advantageously, the configuration of cam portion <NUM> and/or the configuration of the upper and/or lower portions of the release lever <NUM> may provide a mechanical advantage to a user such that reduced force is required to disconnect an ultrasound module. This may make it easier for a user to disconnect and/or eject ultrasound module <NUM> from portable ultrasound system <NUM>. This may also enhance the portability and modularity of portable ultrasound system <NUM> by making it easier to swap ultrasound modules <NUM> depending on the application and/or other needs of the user.

With reference to <FIG>, ultrasound module <NUM> may be disconnected from components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> using mechanisms other than release lever <NUM> as depicted. In some embodiments, release lever <NUM> is driven by electromechanical components rather than directly by a user. For example, the lower portion of release lever <NUM> may be driven by an actuator, solenoid, electric motor, or other electromechanical system. An electromechanical device may be used to drive a cam which provides linear motion to ultrasound module <NUM>. In other embodiments, an electromechanical system may replace release lever <NUM>. For example, an actuator, solenoid, motor and cam, or other electromechanical system may directly apply force to ultrasound module <NUM> to cause linear motion, disconnection, and/or ejection of ultrasound module <NUM>.

In some embodiments, ultrasound module <NUM> is disconnected and/or ejected by the above described techniques in response to a user input received through a dedicated input mechanism. For example, the dedicated input mechanism may be a button, capacitive sensor, switch, knob, and/or other input device. The dedicated input mechanism may be accessed through a release lever access door <NUM> or like component. In other embodiments, the dedicated input mechanism is located elsewhere on portable ultrasound system <NUM>. For example, the dedicated input mechanism may be located on a side of portable ultrasound system <NUM>, included in a keyboard, located within main housing <NUM>, be located adjacent to a display and/or input screen, be included in a cover or housing of main screen <NUM>, or otherwise positioned in or on portable ultrasound system <NUM>.

In other embodiments, ultrasound module <NUM> is disconnected and/or ejected by the above described techniques in response to a user input received through a user interface of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. For example, the user interface of portable ultrasound system <NUM> may include an input element (e.g., a button, slider, radio button, field, or other graphical user interface element) which allows a user to disconnect and/or eject ultrasound module <NUM>. Continuing the example, a user may provide an input using a button of the user interface and touchscreen <NUM> which causes portable ultrasound system <NUM> to activate an electromechanical system and thereby disconnect and/or eject ultrasound module <NUM>.

In some embodiments, release lever <NUM> may include an interlock system. The interlock system may prevent disconnection and/or removal of ultrasound module <NUM>. For example, the interlock system may prevent removal of ultrasound module <NUM> during inappropriate times (e.g., while imaging is in process, while data is being exchanged between ultrasound module <NUM> and main circuit board module <NUM>, etc.) to prevent damage to components and/or loss of data. The interlock system may allow for removal of ultrasound module <NUM> when doing so will not cause harm. In one embodiment, the interlock system is controlled by main circuit board module <NUM>. When main circuit board module <NUM> detects that it is not safe to disconnect ultrasound module <NUM> main circuit board module <NUM> may engage a normally open interlock mechanism. In other embodiments, the interlock mechanism, is normally closed (e.g., engaged to prevent removal of ultrasound module <NUM>) and main circuit board module <NUM> disengages the interlock mechanism when it determines that it is safe to remove ultrasound module <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the interlock mechanism may not be a physical mechanism but may be expressed in programming of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. For example, a portable ultrasound system <NUM> may be programmed such that an electromechanical system which disconnects and/or ejects ultrasound module <NUM> may not be activated unless main circuit board module <NUM> determines that it is safe to disconnect and/or eject ultrasound module <NUM>.

In other embodiments, the interlock mechanism is or includes physical components. For example, the interlock mechanism may be a lock or other physical component which impedes or prevents movement of release lever <NUM> when engaged. In further embodiments, the interlock mechanism may be a lock or other components which prevents a user from opening release lever access door <NUM> when engaged. In other embodiments, components other than main circuit board module <NUM> may perform the above described functions. For example, components of ultrasound module <NUM> (e.g., processors, memory, integrated circuits, etc.) may perform the tasks described above with reference to main circuit board module <NUM>. In some embodiments, release lever access door <NUM> acts as an interlock mechanism.

Referring now to <FIG>, release lever <NUM> is depicted attached to main housing <NUM> and with frame <NUM> also attached to main housing <NUM> according to an exemplary embodiment. In some embodiments, release lever <NUM> is attached to main housing <NUM> which is in turn attached to frame <NUM>. In other embodiments, release lever <NUM> is attached to frame <NUM>. Frame <NUM> and/or main housing <NUM> may position an inserted ultrasound module <NUM> relative to other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. For example, features of main housing <NUM> and/or frame <NUM> may position ultrasound module <NUM> relative to release lever <NUM> such that release lever <NUM> functions as described above. Features of frame <NUM> and/or main housing <NUM> may position ultrasound module <NUM> such that ultrasound module <NUM> may be connected to power supply module <NUM> and/or main circuit board module <NUM>.

In some embodiments, main housing <NUM> includes one or more shoulders <NUM>. As previously discussed shoulder <NUM> may guide, locate, prevent over insertion, and/or otherwise position ultrasound module <NUM>. Shoulders <NUM> may position ultrasound module <NUM> laterally and/or along the axis of insertion of ultrasound module <NUM>. When ultrasound module <NUM> comes into contact with one or more shoulders <NUM>, it is prevented from moving further in that direction. Advantageously, this may prevent excessive force, due to over insertion, on connectors of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. This may also provide an advantage by aligning connectors on ultrasound module <NUM> with those on power supply module <NUM> and/or main circuit board module <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, a section of frame <NUM> is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment. In some embodiments, frame <NUM> includes one or more sides <NUM>. Sides <NUM> may position ultrasound module <NUM> laterally within opening <NUM> and in relation to other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In some embodiments, frame <NUM> includes one or more floor portions <NUM>. Floor portions <NUM> may position an ultrasound module vertically in relation to other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In some embodiments, floor portions <NUM> and/or sides <NUM> are positioned and/or configured such that ultrasound module <NUM> may be easily inserted and/or removed from portable ultrasound system <NUM>. For example, floor portions <NUM> and/or sides <NUM> may be positioned and/or configured to create a free running fit with an inserted or partially inserted ultrasound module <NUM>. In other embodiments, floor portions <NUM> and/or sides <NUM> are positioned and/or configured to create a fit with an inserted or partially inserted ultrasound module <NUM> such that ultrasound module <NUM> is held in place. For example, a close sliding fit may be used. Advantageously, this may hold ultrasound module <NUM> in place until sufficient force is applied by a user to remove ultrasound module <NUM> from portable ultrasound system <NUM>, thereby preventing ultrasound module <NUM> from slipping out of the system. In additional embodiments, other fits may be formed by frame <NUM> and ultrasound module <NUM>. In one embodiment, ultrasound module <NUM> is held in place by friction forces created by the connectors between ultrasound module <NUM> and power supply module <NUM> and/or main circuit board module <NUM>. This is described in greater detail with reference to <FIG>.

In other embodiments, ultrasound module <NUM> is held in place by additional components rather than by a fit with frame <NUM>. In one embodiment, frame <NUM> and/or ultrasound module <NUM> may include a friction material. The friction material may prevent ultrasound module <NUM> from sliding relative to frame <NUM> unless sufficient force is applied to overcome the static friction force created by the friction material. In other embodiments, ultrasound module <NUM> may be prevented from sliding due to plastically deformable protrusions included on frame <NUM> and/or ultrasound module <NUM>. The protrusions may keep ultrasound module <NUM> from moving relative to frame <NUM> until a sufficient force is applied to plastically deform the protrusion. In additional embodiments, release lever <NUM> may include a component which latches to or otherwise connects to ultrasound module <NUM>. Ultrasound module <NUM> may be releasably connected to release lever <NUM> which prevents movement of ultrasound module <NUM> relative to frame <NUM>. When release lever <NUM> is actuated, release lever <NUM> may unlatch from ultrasound module <NUM>. In some embodiments, a combination of the above described components and/or additional components may be used to prevent ultrasound module <NUM> from unintentionally sliding out of portable ultrasound system <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, frame <NUM> may include one or more guides <NUM>. Guides <NUM> may assist in inserting ultrasound module <NUM> into portable ultrasound system <NUM>. Guides <NUM> may be a sloped segment of floor portions <NUM>. Guides <NUM> may force an inserted ultrasound module <NUM> onto floor portion <NUM>. Guides <NUM> may also allow an ultrasound module <NUM> to be inserted which is not already vertically aligned with floor portions <NUM>. The slopping nature of guides <NUM> may cause insertion of ultrasound module <NUM> to align ultrasound module <NUM> vertically with floor portions <NUM>. Advantageously, this may make it easier for a user to insert ultrasound module <NUM> as a user does not need to precisely align ultrasound module <NUM> with features of frame <NUM> and/or connectors of other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. Guides <NUM> may more precisely align ultrasound module <NUM> with frame <NUM> and in turn more precisely align ultrasound module <NUM> with connectors associated with other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. Frame <NUM> may both support and assist in aligning ultrasound module <NUM>. In further embodiments, guides <NUM> are also included in sides <NUM> and assist in aligning ultrasound module <NUM> laterally.

Referring now to <FIG>, one embodiment of frame <NUM> is illustrated with ultrasound module <NUM> inserted. Sides <NUM> may align ultrasound module <NUM> laterally as described above. As illustrated, guides <NUM> extend below ultrasound module <NUM> when it is inserted in some embodiments. This allows ultrasound module <NUM> to be inserted without being vertically aligned with the surface of frame <NUM> on which is supported (e.g., floor portions <NUM>). This is further illustrated in <FIG> according to an exemplary embodiment. Guides <NUM> may be located on left and right side of ultrasound module <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, ultrasound module <NUM> includes two connectors according to some embodiments. Ultrasound module <NUM> may include female fixed connector <NUM>. Female fixed connector <NUM> may be a connector which receives a male fixed connector on another component of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. When female fixed connector <NUM> and a corresponding male fixed connector are in contact (e.g., when the male fixed connector is inserted into female fixed connector <NUM>), an electrical connection may be exist between the two connectors. The electrical connection may allow for transmission of data and/or electrical power between the two components which are connected using the fixed connector pair.

In one embodiment, ultrasound module <NUM> includes female fixed connector <NUM> for connecting to main circuit board module <NUM>. Main circuit board module <NUM> may include a male fixed connector for connecting to ultrasound module <NUM> via female fixed connector <NUM>.

Ultrasound module <NUM> may also include male floating connector <NUM>. In one embodiment, male floating connector <NUM> connects ultrasound module <NUM> to a female floating connector included in power supply module <NUM>. In some embodiments, male floating connector <NUM> does not float (e.g., does not move relative to ultrasound module <NUM> to facilitate the connection of misaligned connectors), but is instead configured to connect to a female floating connector included in power supply module <NUM>. The female floating connector may float as described herein with reference to <FIG>. In other embodiments, the male floating connector included in ultrasound module <NUM> floats and the female floating connector of power supply module <NUM> is fixed. In still further embodiments, both connectors of the floating connector pair float.

Advantageously, the features described herein with respect to <FIG> may allow for ultrasound module <NUM> to easily connect with other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> (e.g., power supply module <NUM> and/or main circuit board module <NUM>). The connectors may be configured to aid in alignment of the modules and/or connector components such as the contacts which allow data and/or power transfer between modules via electrical communication through the contacts. The connectors may be configured to self-align or to otherwise tolerate some misalignment between ultrasound module <NUM> and power supply module <NUM> and/or main circuit board module <NUM>. Advantageously this may make it easier for a user to insert and connect an ultrasound module <NUM> to portable ultrasound system <NUM>. Furthermore, wear and/or stress on components of the connectors (e.g., the contacts) may be reduced by handling misalignment and therefore increase the life cycle of the connectors.

In some embodiments, ultrasound module <NUM> and/or other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> may have different connections, a greater number of connections, a lesser number of connections, and/or other configurations than are described herein with reference to <FIG>. For example, ultrasound module <NUM> may have a male fixed connector <NUM> and/or a female floating connector <NUM> rather than the counterparts described above. In further embodiments, ultrasound module <NUM> may include additional and/or different connectors.

Referring now to <FIG> and <FIG>, a female fixed connector <NUM> of ultrasound module <NUM> and a male fixed connector <NUM> of main circuit board module <NUM> are illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment. The pair of fixed connectors (e.g., female fixed connector <NUM> and male fixed connector <NUM>) may allow for ultrasound module <NUM> to be in communication with main circuit board module <NUM>. This connection may allow for the transfer of data, instructions, control signals, information, electrical power, and/or other signals or information between ultrasound module <NUM> and main circuit board module <NUM>. Communication between ultrasound module <NUM> and main circuit board module <NUM> may take place via an electrical connection formed between contacts <NUM> on female fixed connector <NUM> of ultrasound module <NUM> and contacts <NUM> of male fixed connector <NUM> of main circuit board module <NUM>. When the connector pair is connected (e.g., male fixed connector <NUM> is inserted into female fixed connector <NUM>), contacts <NUM> and contacts <NUM> may be in physical communication thereby allowing electrical communication (e.g., contacts <NUM> and contacts <NUM> are made of one or more conducting materials).

In some embodiments, the fixed connector pair include elements to facilitate connection between female fixed connector <NUM> and male fixed connector <NUM>. These elements may align the two connectors and/or otherwise correct misalignment of the two connectors as ultrasound module <NUM> is inserted and/or connected to portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In some embodiments, female fixed connector <NUM> includes one or more guide slots <NUM>. Guide slots <NUM> may correspond to one or more guide shafts <NUM> of male fixed connector <NUM>. Guide slot <NUM> may be configured to receive a guide shaft <NUM> such that guide slot <NUM> may receive guide shaft <NUM> when female fixed connector <NUM> and male fixed connector <NUM> are misaligned. For example, guide slot <NUM> may have an outer radius greater than the radius of guide shaft <NUM>. As guide shaft <NUM> is inserted into guide slot <NUM>, the female fixed connector <NUM> and male fixed connector <NUM> may be aligned. In some embodiments, the radius of guide slot <NUM> decreases along the depth of guide slot <NUM>. As guide shaft <NUM> travels deeper into guide slot <NUM> the decreasing radius of guide slot <NUM> may center guide shaft <NUM> within guide slot <NUM>. As guide shaft <NUM> is centered in guide slot <NUM>, female fixed connector <NUM> and male fixed connector <NUM> may be aligned. Advantageously, this allows misaligned connectors to be aligned as ultrasound module <NUM> is inserted. In some embodiments, guide shaft <NUM> has a decreasing radius extending outward from male fixed connector <NUM>. This may allow for easier alignment of guide shaft <NUM> and guide slot <NUM>. Contacts <NUM> of female fixed connector <NUM> may be brought into alignment with contacts <NUM> of male fixed connected <NUM> by one or more of these features.

In some embodiments, female fixed connector <NUM> includes guide shafts <NUM> which correspond to guide slots <NUM> on male fixed connector <NUM>. As explained above, guide shafts <NUM> and the corresponding guide slots <NUM> may align female fixed connector <NUM> and male fixed connector <NUM> as guide shafts <NUM> are inserted into guide slots <NUM>. Guide shafts may be inserted into guide slots as ultrasound module <NUM> is inserted into portable ultrasound system <NUM>.

In some embodiments, contacts <NUM> of male fixed connector <NUM> and contacts <NUM> of female fixed connector <NUM> are configured to tolerate some misalignment between male fixed connector <NUM> and female fixed connector <NUM>. For example, contacts <NUM> of female fixed connector <NUM> may include chamfered features which align the contacts <NUM> of male fixed connector <NUM> as they are inserted. Contacts <NUM> of male fixed connector <NUM> may also be configured to align with contacts <NUM> of female fixed connector <NUM>. For example, connectors <NUM> of male fixed connector <NUM> may be sized to fit within female fixed connector <NUM>.

In some embodiments, male fixed connector <NUM> and/or female fixed connector <NUM> are configured to provide friction force to secure ultrasound module <NUM> within portable ultrasound system <NUM> when inserted. The friction force may prevent or assist in preventing ultrasound module <NUM> from disconnecting from the other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> except by the function of release lever <NUM>. For example, the guide shaft and guide slot features described above may be sized such that an inserted ultrasound module <NUM> is held in place by the friction between a guide shaft and the guide slot into which the guide shaft has been inserted. Once a guide shaft has been aligned by and inserted fully into a guide slot, the inner radius of the guide slot and the guide shaft may form an interference fit or other type of fit to provide friction force. The fit may still allow removal of the guide shaft from the guide slot in response to force provided by release lever <NUM>.

Female fixed connector <NUM> and the associated features have been described as corresponding to ultrasound module <NUM> and male fixed connector <NUM> and the associated features have been described as corresponding to main circuit board module <NUM>. However, this is illustrative only. In other embodiments, fixed connectors (male and/or female) may be used on other or additional components. For example, male fixed connector <NUM> may be located on ultrasound module <NUM> and female fixed connector <NUM> may be located on main circuit board module <NUM>. In further embodiments, fixed connectors may be used to couple ultrasound module <NUM> and other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> (e.g., power supply module <NUM>).

Referring now to <FIG> and <FIG> a pair of floating connectors are illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment. In one embodiment, ultrasound module <NUM> includes one or more male floating connectors <NUM>. Male floating connector <NUM> is configured to connect to female floating connector <NUM>. In one embodiment, female floating connector <NUM> is coupled to power supply module <NUM>. In some embodiments, male floating connector <NUM> on ultrasound module <NUM> is fixed while female floating connector <NUM> is floating as described below. In other embodiments, either floating connector or both floating connectors may be floating. In further embodiments, both floating connectors may be fixed.

In some embodiments, male floating connector <NUM> includes one or more types of contacts to establish electrical communication with the contacts of female floating connector <NUM>. For example, male floating connector <NUM> may include pin contacts <NUM>. Pin contacts <NUM> may be configured to come into electrical contact with pin slot contacts <NUM> of female floating connector <NUM> when male floating connector <NUM> is connected to female floating connector <NUM>. Pin slot contacts <NUM> and pin contacts <NUM> may be made of a conductive material to allow electrical communication between both sets of contacts. In some embodiments, pin slot contacts <NUM> include chamfered openings to the slots which assist in the alignment of pin contacts <NUM> and pin slot contacts <NUM>. The reducing openings of pin slot contacts <NUM> may allow pin contacts <NUM> to be inserted and then centered with pin slot contacts <NUM> as the size of the opening decreases along the depth of slot contacts <NUM>.

Male floating connector <NUM> may include one or more plate contacts <NUM>. In some embodiments, plate contacts <NUM> are configured to push outward so as to be in contact with plate slot contacts <NUM> of female floating connector <NUM> when male floating connector <NUM> is inserted. For example, plate contacts <NUM> may be spring loaded so as to push outward against plate slot contacts <NUM>, positioned such that they plastically deform and push against plate slot contacts <NUM> when inserted, or otherwise configured to form an electrical connection with plate slot contacts <NUM>. In some embodiments, plate slot contacts <NUM> are chamfered to aid in the alignment of plate contacts <NUM> with plate slot contacts <NUM>. The electrical communication formed by contacts on male floating connector <NUM> and female floating connector <NUM> may allow for the transfer of electrical power, control signals, data, and/or other information between ultrasound module <NUM> and power supply module <NUM>. In one embodiment, electrical power is provided from power supply module <NUM> to ultrasound module <NUM> using plate contacts <NUM> and plate slot contacts <NUM>. In further embodiments, data, control signals, and/or other information is transferred between ultrasound module <NUM> and power supply module <NUM> using pin contacts <NUM> and pin slot contacts <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the pair of floating connectors includes guiding features which assist in aligning female floating connector <NUM> with male floating connector <NUM>. For example, female floating connector <NUM> may include one or more guide protrusions <NUM>. Guide protrusions may extend from female floating connector <NUM> and be chamfered. During connection of female floating connector <NUM> and male floating connector <NUM>, guide protrusions <NUM> may be received by guide sections <NUM> of male floating connector <NUM>. Guide sections <NUM> may also be chamfered. As the size of the above features is reduced along the depth of the guide feature, guide protrusions <NUM> may be inserted into guide sections <NUM> while misaligned. As guide protrusions <NUM> are inserted along the depth of guide section <NUM> the reducing size (e.g., due to the chamfer) of guide section <NUM> aligns male floating connector <NUM> with female floating connector <NUM>. In some embodiments, the edge of housing <NUM> of male floating connector <NUM> is also chamfered. This may allow the chamfered main body <NUM> of female floating connector <NUM> to align with housing <NUM> of male floating connector <NUM> as described with reference to guide protrusions <NUM> and guide section <NUM>.

In some embodiments, male floating connector <NUM> and/or female floating connector <NUM> are configured to provide friction force to secure ultrasound module <NUM> within portable ultrasound system <NUM> when inserted. The friction force may prevent or assist in preventing ultrasound module <NUM> from disconnecting from the other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> except by the function of release lever <NUM>. For example, the guide protrusion, guide section, housing, and/or main body features described above may be sized such that an inserted ultrasound module <NUM> is held in place by the friction between the features on male floating connection <NUM> and the features on female floating connector <NUM>. For example, the fit between guide protrusion <NUM> and guide section <NUM> may form an interference fit or other type of fit to provide friction force. The fit may still allow removal of the guide shaft from the guide slot in response to force provided by release lever <NUM>.

In further embodiments, female floating connector <NUM> floats in relation to its corresponding component (e.g., power supply module <NUM>). Female floating connector <NUM> may have six degrees of freedom in relation to power supply module <NUM>. This may allow female floating connector <NUM> to translate vertically, horizontally, and/or along the depth of power supply module <NUM>. Female floating connector <NUM> may also pitch, roll, and/or yaw in relation to power supply module <NUM>. Advantageously, this movement may allow female floating connector <NUM> to align itself with a male floating connector <NUM> that is initially misaligned. The floating nature of female floating connector <NUM> may augment the alignment features previously discussed such that a connection may be made between connectors which are misaligned to a greater degree. In some embodiments, female floating connector <NUM> is constrained in its six degrees of freedom by the features which allow it to float and/or the features connecting it to power supply module <NUM>.

In some embodiments, female floating connector <NUM> is attached to power supply module <NUM> with one or springs which provide female floating connector <NUM> with six degrees of freedom. For example, a spring at each corner of female floating connector <NUM> may connect female floating connector <NUM> to power supply module <NUM>. In some embodiments, the springs may run within guiding features which constrain the movement of female floating connector <NUM>. For example, each spring may be positioned within a hollow shaft which runs within a slot connected to power supply module <NUM>. The slot may be sized larger than the shaft to allow the shaft to move relative to the slot thereby giving female floating connector <NUM> six degrees of freedom. The springs may cause female floating connector <NUM> to return to an initial position and/or provide a force which assists in the alignment process (e.g., by brining female floating connector <NUM> into alignment with male floating connector <NUM> as the two connectors are aligned and/or connected). In other embodiments, plastically deformable features connect female floating connector <NUM> with power supply module <NUM>. For example, female floating connector <NUM> may be attached to power supply module <NUM> by a flexible gasket. The gasket may position female floating connector <NUM> relative to the housing of power supply module <NUM> (e.g., the gasket may be positioned around female floating connector <NUM> and between female floating connector <NUM> and an opening in the housing of power supply module <NUM>). Other techniques may be used to give female floating connector <NUM> six or fewer degrees of freedom relative power supply module <NUM>.

In some embodiments, female floating connector <NUM> may include flexible features which connect pin slot contacts <NUM> and/or plate slot contacts <NUM> to fixed components of power supply module <NUM>. Advantageously, this may allow for female floating connector <NUM> to move relative power supply module <NUM> without causing damage to the contacts or disconnecting the contacts from other components of power supply module <NUM>. For example, pin slot contacts <NUM> and/or plate slot contacts <NUM> may be connected to other components of power supply module <NUM> with flexible wire long enough to allow movement of female floating connector <NUM> and the contacts therein. When connected, the contacts of female floating connector <NUM> and male floating connector <NUM> may allow fbr the communication of electrical power and/or data between ultrasound module <NUM> and power supply module <NUM>. For example, data may be electrically communicated between ultrasound module <NUM> and power supply module <NUM> using the connection formed by pin contacts <NUM> and pin slot contacts <NUM>. Continuing the example, electrical power may be electrically communicated between ultrasound module <NUM> and power supply module <NUM> using the connection formed by plate contacts <NUM> and plate slot contacts <NUM>.

Female floating connector <NUM> and the associated features have been described as corresponding to power supply module <NUM> and male floating connector <NUM> and the associated features have been described as corresponding to ultrasound module <NUM>. Additionally, female floating connector <NUM> has been described as floating and male floating connector <NUM> as fixed. However, this description is illustrative only. In other embodiments, floating connectors (male and/or female) may be used on other or additional components. For example, female floating connector <NUM> may be located on ultrasound module <NUM> and male floating connector <NUM> may be located on power supply module <NUM>. In further embodiments, fixed connectors may be used to couple ultrasound module <NUM> and other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> (e.g., power supply module <NUM>). Additionally, both floating connectors float (e.g., have six degrees of freedom) in some embodiments. In other embodiments, male floating connector <NUM> floats and female floating connector <NUM> is fixed.

Referring now to <FIG>, portable ultrasound system <NUM> and/or ultrasound module <NUM> may include heat management features. Ultrasound components may give off heat which may increase the temperature of components within ultrasound module <NUM> and/or other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. Components (e.g., processors, ASIC, memory, etc.) may perform better at lower temperatures. Additionally, a user may prefer that external components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> (e.g., input devices such as touchscreen <NUM>, housing <NUM>, or other components which a user may touch or come into contact with) remain cool to the touch. This may allow a user to more comfortably interact with portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In turn, a user may be able to work longer with portable ultrasound system <NUM> because it is cool to the touch thereby increasing the efficiency of the user and the amount of work which may be done in a single sitting with portable ultrasound device <NUM>. Advantageously, the heat management features of portable ultrasound system <NUM> may maintain internal and/or external components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> at a lower temperature. Thus, external components may be cool to a user's touch and internal components may function within appropriate temperature tolerances.

Referring now to <FIG>, the heat management features of portable ultrasound system <NUM> may include heat sinks <NUM>. In some embodiments, ultrasound module <NUM> two heat sinks <NUM>. One heat sink <NUM> may be located on the upper surface of ultrasound module <NUM> with a second heat sink <NUM> located on the lower surface of ultrasound module <NUM>. In other embodiments, other numbers of heat sinks may be used (e.g., one, three, four, etc.) and/or heat sinks <NUM> may be located in other locations on ultrasound module <NUM> (e.g., front, left side, right side, back, or other face of ultrasound module <NUM>). In further embodiments, ultrasound module <NUM> may include cutouts <NUM>. Cutouts <NUM> may create an air path internal to ultrasound module <NUM>. The internal air path of ultrasound module <NUM> may allow for components within ultrasound module <NUM> to be cooled directly by convection (e.g., air is drawn through cutouts <NUM> via the air path using a fan). Combined with cooling from an air path above ultrasound module <NUM> and the associated heat sink <NUM> and combined with an air path below ultrasound module <NUM> and the associated heat sink <NUM>, the internal air path may cool components of ultrasound module <NUM> and/or other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>.

In some embodiments, additional components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> may facilitate cooling of ultrasound module <NUM>. For example, other components may create an air path for cooling ultrasound module <NUM>. Referring now to <FIG>, frame <NUM> may include air path cutouts <NUM>. Air path cutouts <NUM> in frame <NUM> may allow air to reach ultrasound module <NUM> when ultrasound module is connector to components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> and/or inserted into portable ultrasound system <NUM>. This air may be used for cooling components of ultrasound module <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, the heat management features of portable ultrasound system <NUM> may include one or more heat shields <NUM> in some embodiments. In some embodiments, heat shield <NUM> is used to protect one component or a series of components in portable ultrasound system <NUM> from heat generated by other components or a series of components. In other embodiments, heat shields <NUM> may be used to protect a user from heat generated by components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In further embodiments, heat shield <NUM> may be used to protect components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> from external sources of heat (e.g., ambient heat in an operating environment).

Heat shield <NUM> may be a substance, material or materials, and/or layer included in portable ultrasound system <NUM> which absorbs, dissipates, and/or reflects heat. Absorbed heat may be directed away from protected components by the heat shield <NUM>. Heat shield <NUM> may operate on the principles of convection, conduction, reflection, absorption, or other thermodynamic or heat transfer principles for preventing heat from reaching a shielded component or components. In some embodiments, heat shield <NUM> includes or is an insulating material. Materials making up heat shield <NUM> may include heat conductive materials (e.g., copper, aluminum, etc.), heat reflective materials (e.g., foils, radiant barriers, metalized fabrics, laminate films, or other materials suitable for reflecting heat and/or radiation), insulating materials (e.g., ceramics, fiberglass, foams, polymers, fiber based materials, or other materials suitable for impeding heat transfer), backing materials (cloth, fabric, paper, metals, ceramics, of other materials suitable for providing mechanical support to the materials described herein), and/or other materials for shielding components from a source of heat. In some embodiments, heat shield <NUM> may include an air space (e.g., as a layer between layers of other materials) and/or be positioned relative to other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> such that an air space is created between heat shield <NUM> and the component to be shielded and/or the heat source. In additional embodiments, heat shield <NUM> is or includes an ablative heat shield and/or a thermal soak heat shield.

With reference to <FIG>, heat shield <NUM> may be positioned and/or otherwise configured to shield components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> from heat generated by ultrasound module <NUM>. In one embodiment, heat shield <NUM> is a layer attached to frame <NUM> and positioned between touchscreen <NUM> and ultrasound module <NUM> and/or opening <NUM> for ultrasound module <NUM>. For example, heat shield <NUM> may be a Mylar (e.g., biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate) sheet, panel, rigid layer, flexible layer, and/or include additional materials such as heat reflecting materials, insulating materials, backing materials, or other materials related to heat management. In some embodiments, heat shield <NUM> is attached to frame <NUM> with one or more of screws, nuts and bolts, clips, adhesive, and/or other fasteners.

Advantageously, this positioning of heat shield <NUM> may shield one or more of touchscreen <NUM>, touchpad <NUM>, and a keyboard from heat generated by components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. This may protect these or other components from damage caused by exposure to heat and/or improve the user experience by providing user inputs which are not hot or warm to the touch. Particularly, heat shield <NUM> may provide an advantage by preventing heat generated by ultrasound module <NUM> from increasing the temperature of user input device touchscreen <NUM>. This may provide a particular advantage as components of ultrasound module <NUM> may produce a larger amount of heat or a larger amount of heat than other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. Additionally, heat shield <NUM> may allow for portable ultrasound system <NUM> to be packaged in such a way as to support the modularity of the system. For example, heat shield <NUM> may allow for ultrasound module <NUM> to be located below components such as touchscreen <NUM> without the heat from ultrasound module <NUM> creating adverse effects in other components. Heat shield <NUM> may also allow the overall size of portable ultrasound system <NUM> to be reduced (e.g., the system may be thinner by allowing ultrasound module <NUM> to be closer to touchscreen <NUM>) thus increasing the portability of the system.

In other embodiments, heat shield <NUM> extends to shield touchpad <NUM> and/or a keyboard. This may provide an advantage of decreasing the temperature of these components felt by a user and/or increasing the performance or durability of these components. In further embodiments, a plurality of heat shields <NUM> are used to protect components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, heat shield <NUM> may be attached to the underside of frame <NUM> in one embodiment. Touchscreen <NUM> may be positioned on top of frame <NUM>. In some embodiments, frame <NUM> is configured to shield touchscreen <NUM> from heat in conjunction with heat shield <NUM>. For example, frame <NUM> may include a solid portion beneath touchscreen <NUM> which acts as an insulating layer, conducts heat away from touchscreen <NUM>, functions as a heat sink, and/or otherwise reduces the amount of heat reaching touchscreen <NUM>. In other embodiments, heat shield <NUM> is located on top of frame <NUM>. In still further embodiments, heat shield <NUM> extends to cover all or a portion of power supply module <NUM> and/or main circuit board <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, heat shield <NUM> primarily covers the space which may be occupied by ultrasound module <NUM> according to one embodiment. Heat shield <NUM> may shield components from heat generated only by ultrasound module <NUM>. In other embodiments, heat shield <NUM> or a plurality of heat shields protect components from heat sources other than or in addition to ultrasound module <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, heat shield <NUM> may cover only a portion of ultrasound module <NUM> in some embodiments. For example, heat shield <NUM> may be configured to cover portions of ultrasound module <NUM> which contain major or primary sources of heat from within ultrasound module <NUM> (e.g., heat shield <NUM> may cover processors, integrated circuits, memory etc. but not cover portions of ultrasound module <NUM> in which connectors, buses, etc. are located). In other embodiments, heat shield <NUM> may cover all of ultrasound module <NUM>.

In some embodiments, heat shield <NUM> is integrated into ultrasound module <NUM>. For example, ultrasound modules <NUM> may include one or more heat shields <NUM> to prevent or mitigate heat transfer from ultrasound module <NUM> to other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In one embodiment, heat shield <NUM> is attached to an outer surface of ultrasound module <NUM>. For example, heat shield <NUM> may be attached to or otherwise coupled to heat sink <NUM> of ultrasound module <NUM>. Heat shield <NUM> may be attached using screws, nuts and bolts, adhesive, and/or other fasteners. In other embodiments, heat shield <NUM> is integral or internal to ultrasound module <NUM>. For example, heat shield <NUM> may be included in or take the place of a heat sink <NUM>. Alternatively and/or additionally, heat shield <NUM> may be included within ultrasound module <NUM>. For example, heat shield <NUM> may be located within a housing of ultrasound module <NUM>. In some embodiments, the housing of ultrasound module <NUM> may include heat shield <NUM> or be replaced by heat shield <NUM> or be made of a material with properties which allow it to function as a heat shield.

In some embodiments, the heat management system of portable ultrasound device includes one or more fans. Fans may provide a source of convection cooling for components of portable ultrasound device <NUM>. The fans may provide the same or similar advantages described above with respect to the heat management system of portable ultrasound device <NUM>. For example, fans may improve the effectiveness of air paths as relates to keeping components of portable ultrasound system <NUM> cool. Fans may facilitate or allow potable ultrasound system <NUM> to be packaged more compactly, allow ultrasound module <NUM> and other components to be located to facilitate removal and/or insertion of ultrasound module <NUM>, keep other components cool, or otherwise provide an advantage to portable ultrasound system <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, portable ultrasound system <NUM> includes three fans or three groups of fans in one embodiment. The fans may correspond to three air paths used for cooling components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In some embodiments, each fan or group of fans corresponds to one module of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. For example, ultrasound module fan <NUM> may provide cooling to ultrasound module <NUM>. In some embodiments, ultrasound module fan <NUM> is configured to cool ultrasound module <NUM> in conjunction with an air path of ultrasound module <NUM> (e.g., by drawing air through the air path and/or over components of ultrasound module <NUM>). Main circuit board module fan <NUM> may provide cooling to main circuit board module <NUM>. Power supply fan <NUM> may provide cooling to power supply module <NUM>. In one embodiment, power supply fan <NUM> includes two motor and fan assemblies. In further embodiments, portable ultrasound system <NUM> includes additional fans or groups of fans. Fans and/or groups of fans may be used to cool one or more components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>. In some embodiments, one fan may cool components in multiple modules and/or other components of portable ultrasound system <NUM>.

The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems, and program products on any machine-readable media for accomplishing various operations. The embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented using existing computer processors, or by a special purpose computer processor for an appropriate system, incorporated for this or another purpose, or by a hardwired system. Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure include program products comprising machine-readable media for carrying or having machineexecutable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example, such machine-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. When information is transferred or provided over a network or another communications connection (either hardwired, wireless, or a combination of hardwired or wireless) to a machine, the machine properly views the connection as a machine-readable medium. Thus, any such connection is properly termed a machine-readable medium. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of machine-readable media. Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data which cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processing machines to perform a certain function or group of functions.

Claim 1:
A portable ultrasound system (<NUM>), comprising:
a user interface system comprising at least one display screen (<NUM>) and at least one user input device (<NUM>);
a main circuit board module (<NUM>) comprising a processing circuit (<NUM>) configured to perform general computing operations and configured to receive ultrasound imaging data from a removable ultrasound module (<NUM>);
a housing (<NUM>) containing the user interface system and the main circuit board module (<NUM>) and having an opening (<NUM>) configured to removably receive the removable ultrasound module (<NUM>); and
a connector (<NUM>) configured to form an electrical connection with a corresponding second connector of the removable ultrasound module (<NUM>) when the removable ultrasound module (<NUM>) is fully inserted into the portable ultrasound system (<NUM>) through the opening (<NUM>) of the housing (<NUM>), wherein the connector (<NUM>) comprises at least one guiding feature configured to align the connector (<NUM>) and the second connector as the removable ultrasound module (<NUM>) is inserted into the portable ultrasound system (<NUM>);
the portable ultrasound system (<NUM>) is configured to provide electrical power to the removable ultrasound module (<NUM>), and receive the ultrasound imaging data from the removable ultrasound module (<NUM>);
characterized in that the portable ultrasound system (<NUM>) further comprises a release lever (<NUM>), and the release lever (<NUM>) is configured to rotate around an axis parallel to a bottom face of the housing (<NUM>) during ejecting the removable ultrasound module (<NUM>) from the portable ultrasound system (<NUM>); the release lever (<NUM>) comprises an interlock mechanism that is controlled by the main circuit board module (<NUM>); and the interlock mechanism is normally engaged to prevent removal of the removable ultrasound module (<NUM>), and the main circuit board module (<NUM>) disengages the interlock mechanism when the main circuit board module (<NUM>) determines that it is safe to remove the removable ultrasound module (<NUM>).