Ultrasound Image Formation
==========================

.. toctree::
   ConceptChannelData
   SimulatedChannelDataStream
   algorithms
   :hidden:

Overview
--------

The Ultrasound Image Formation module provides algorithms and data structures for the low-level processing of ultrasound data, covering all steps from raw channel data up to pre-envelope data.
This module is responsible for transforming the acquired ultrasound channel data into forms suitable for further processing, such as B-Mode or Doppler imaging, but does not itself perform envelope detection or final image post-processing.

.. figure:: pipeline.png
    :alt: Ultrasound image formation pipeline
    :align: center

    Overview of the ultrasound image formation pipeline.

Key Functionalities
-------------------

- **Channel Data Representation:** Defines and manages the storage and semantics of ultrasound channel data, including support for different acquisition layouts and sequences.
- **Pulse-Echo Sequence Handling:** Provides structures and utilities for describing and interpreting pulse-echo events and sequences, which are fundamental to ultrasound acquisition.
- **Beamforming Algorithm:** Implements algorithms for reconstructing ultrasound images from channel data, including support for focused and ultrafast imaging, as well as options for coherent compounding.
- **Simulation Support:** Includes tools for simulating channel data and image formation, useful for research and development.
- **Extensible Architecture:** Integrates with the ImFusion framework, allowing for the addition of new algorithms and controllers via the plugin interface.

Relation to the US Module
-------------------------

The US Image Formation module operates at a lower level than the main :ref:`usmodule` module. While the Ultrasound module focuses on higher-level ultrasound image processing and analysis (such as segmentation, registration, and visualization), the Image Formation module provides the foundational processing required to convert raw channel data into images that can be further processed by the US module or other components.

For more details on specific algorithms and data structures, refer to the specific sub-pages.

Getting Started
---------------

To get started with the Ultrasound Image Formation module, you can explore the following resources:

- :ref:`ConceptChannelData`: Understand the basic concepts of channel data and pulse-echo sequences.
- :ref:`SimulatedChannelDataStream`: Learn how to use a simulated channel data input stream for testing and development.
- :ref:`UsImgFormationAlgorithms`: Dive into the specific algorithms available in the module, including their input requirements, output formats, and configuration options.