Abstract: Techniques and systems are described for providing modularity, tracking and simulation features of a mixed reality simulator. A modular approach to tracking systems, tracked instruments, and interchangeable modular physical models is described. Enhanced indicators and indicator interfaces improve imaging probe and instrument orientation and alignment with respect to a physical target, including but not necessarily within a combined physical and virtual system; these include anisotropy indicators, indicators of alignment in both in-plane and out-of-plane ultrasound or other imaging techniques, and perpendicularity indicators for better placement of probes and instruments over curved surfaces. A universal needle hub is described that integrates tracking system components and simulation feedback components usably with varying needle types.

Abstract: Techniques and systems are described for providing modularity, tracking and simulation features of a mixed reality simulator. A modular approach to tracking systems, tracked instruments, and interchangeable modular physical models is described. Enhanced indicators and indicator interfaces improve imaging probe and instrument orientation and alignment with respect to a physical target, including but not necessarily within a combined physical and virtual system; these include anisotropy indicators, indicators of alignment in both in-plane and out-of-plane ultrasound or other imaging techniques, and perpendicularity indicators for better placement of probes and instruments over curved surfaces. A universal needle hub is described that integrates tracking system components and simulation feedback components usably with varying needle types.

Abstract: Techniques and systems are described for providing modularity, tracking and simulation features of a mixed reality simulator. A modular approach to tracking systems, tracked instruments, and interchangeable modular physical models is described. Enhanced indicators and indicator interfaces improve imaging probe and instrument orientation and alignment with respect to a physical target, including but not necessarily within a combined physical and virtual system; these include anisotropy indicators, indicators of alignment in both in-plane and out-of-plane ultrasound or other imaging techniques, and perpendicularity indicators for better placement of probes and instruments over curved surfaces. A universal needle hub is described that integrates tracking system components and simulation feedback components usably with varying needle types.

Abstract: Systems and techniques are provided in which the orientation of an ultrasonic image display is configured to match the ultrasound probe orientation for ease of interpretation. The position and the orientation of an ultrasound probe are tracked using a tracking device having one or more position and orientation sensors. The orientation of a displayed ultrasound image is automatically adjusted to reflect the position and orientation of the ultrasound probe relative to the body structure being imaged. In some embodiments, a background image (with possible landmarks) is provided based on the location and orientation of the tracked ultrasound probe.

Abstract: Automated continuous analysis of ultrasound data is provided to determine occurrence of pneumothorax in a patient. Specifically, A-mode ultrasound data is processed by a processing system to identify automatically if pneumothorax has occurred in a patient.