An ultrasound imaging method and system configured to simultaneously acquire
and
process multi-mode and multi-band echo information from a single set of pulse firings
is provided. Raw ultrasound signals are digitized and stored in an I/Q data buffer.
The stored data are then parallel preprocessed as a function of frequency band
or alternative encoding. Parallel preprocessing optionally includes manipulating
the data in respect to different imaging modes. Outputs of the parallel preprocessors
are coupled to separate echo formers used to simultaneously reconstruct various
desired echo information to form a multi-mode or multi-band image. The echo formation
process is optionally performed in parallel.
