JP2004279408A - Radiation image forming unit and its cassette - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a radiation image forming unit with a sheet body of a heterogeneous material removable as required, having superior versatility and a lighter weight. <P>SOLUTION: The radiation image forming unit comprises an accumulative fluorescent sheet 12 and a case 14. The accumulative fluorescent sheet 12 has a frame member 18 covering a fluorescent layer 16 at its four sides and a back-scattered ray preventing lead sheet 28 replaceably attached via a double-sided tape to a second recessed portion 22 formed in the frame member 18. The unit is usable with the lead sheet 28 removed therefrom or with a new lead sheet 28 different in thickness attached thereto. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a radiation image forming unit including a stimulable phosphor sheet and a case that accommodates the stimulable phosphor sheet, and a radiation image forming cassette that accommodates the stimulable phosphor sheet.

  Conventionally, when radiation (X-rays, α-rays, β-rays, γ-rays, electron beams, ultraviolet rays, etc.) is irradiated, a part of this radiation energy is accumulated, and then when irradiated with excitation light such as visible light, it is accumulated. By using a stimulable phosphor (stimulable phosphor) that exhibits stimulated luminescence according to the energy intensity, the radiation image information of a subject such as a human body can be reproduced on a photographic material or the like, or can be used for CRT, etc. A system that outputs a visual image is known.

  In the above system, specifically, a radiographic image information of a subject such as a human body is temporarily recorded (photographed) on a stimulable phosphor sheet having a sheet-like stimulable phosphor layer (image recording layer); The stimulable phosphor sheet is irradiated with excitation light such as laser light to generate stimulated emission light, and the stimulable phosphor sheet is read photoelectrically after reading the stimulated emission light. An erasing device for erasing the remaining radiation image information is provided integrally or individually.

  In this case, in order to improve the handleability of the stimulable phosphor sheet, a radiation image forming unit in which the stimulable phosphor sheet is accommodated in a case such as a magazine or a cassette is usually used. As this type of unit, for example, a cassette disclosed in Patent Document 1 is known.

  The cassette includes a front plate 1 and a back plate 2 as shown in FIG. The back plate 2 includes a back plate main body 2a, and the thin plate 3 is bonded onto the plurality of ribs 2b of the back plate main body 2a. A thin plate 5 is fixed to the thin plate 3 via a lead plate (radiation shielding plate) 4, and a support plate 6 is bonded to the thin plate 5 by a double-sided tape or the like so that it can be replaced. A photostimulable phosphor sheet 7 is fixed on the support plate 6.

  The front plate 1 and the back plate 2 can be fixed via a lock mechanism (not shown), and radiation imaging is performed from the front plate 1 side. When reading the radiation image information recorded on the photostimulable phosphor sheet 7, after the front plate 1 and the back plate 2 are separated, the photostimulable phosphor sheet 7 is separated from the back plate 2. It is integrally arranged at a reading position in the reading device.

  On the other hand, a method is known in which radiographic image information of a subject is simultaneously recorded on a plurality of stimulable phosphor sheets and energy subtraction processing of the radiographic image is performed. In this energy subtraction process, a plurality of radiographic images recorded (photographed) under different conditions of radiation energy absorption characteristics are photoelectrically read out to obtain digital image signals, and then these digital image signals are converted into respective image signals. This is a method of obtaining a difference signal for extracting a specific structure (soft part such as internal organs or bone part) having different energy absorption characteristics of a subject recorded as a radiation image by performing subtraction processing corresponding to each pixel of .

  For example, in the state where a plate-like filter (radiation energy separation filter) such as a metal that absorbs low energy components of radiation is interposed between two sheets of stimulable phosphor sheets, these two sheets of stimulable phosphor sheets The radiation having different energy distribution may be irradiated to the two stimulable phosphor sheets by simultaneously irradiating the radiation transmitted through the subject.

  In this case, after the two phosphorescent phosphor sheets and the plate filter are exposed to radiation in a state of being accommodated in the cassette, each of the stimulable phosphor sheets is taken out from the cassette into the reader. Is being read. As this type of cassette, for example, a cassette disclosed in Patent Document 2 is known.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 15, the cassette 1a includes two sheets of stimulable phosphor sheets 7a and a radiation energy conversion filter such as a copper plate disposed between the two sheets of stimulable phosphor sheets 7a. And a cassette body 4a capable of accommodating 3a therein. A lid 5a is attached to the cassette body 4a so as to be freely opened and closed. A slit 6a for inserting and removing the filter 3a in the direction of arrow B is formed on one side surface of the cassette body 4a.

  When the cassette 1a is loaded into a loader (not shown) after photographing is finished, the lid 5a is opened and the first stimulable phosphor sheet 7a is taken out. Next, after the cassette 1a is once taken out from the loader and the filter 3a is pulled out from the slit 6a, the cassette 1a is loaded into the loader, and the second stimulable phosphor sheet 7a is taken out.

JP 2002-156716 A (FIG. 2) Japanese Patent Publication No. 8-33596 (FIGS. 1 and 2)

  By the way, the influence of scattered radiation generally differs depending on the imaging environment and imaging conditions, and there are cases where a radiation shielding plate is not required and a relatively thick radiation shielding plate is required.

  However, in Patent Document 1 described above, the lead plate 4 for preventing back scattering is fixed to the back plate body 2a so as not to be peeled while being sandwiched between the thin plates 3 and 5. For this reason, the lead plate 4 sandwiched between the thin plates 3 and 5 is provided even when the above imaging environment and imaging conditions cannot be easily changed and a radiation shielding plate is unnecessary. The weight of the cassette itself increases.

  On the other hand, in the above-mentioned Patent Document 2, when reading processing is performed on the second stimulable phosphor sheet 7a, it is necessary to take out the cassette 1a from the loader and pull out the filter 3a. For this reason, handling of the cassette 1a is likely to be relatively complicated, and simplification of work is desired.

  The present invention solves this type of problem, and a sheet body of different materials can be removed as necessary, and is excellent in versatility and radiation imaging capable of reducing weight. The purpose is to provide a unit.

  It is another object of the present invention to provide a radiation image forming cassette that has a simple configuration, is excellent in handling workability, and can efficiently perform various processes such as an energy subtraction process. .

  The radiation image forming unit according to the present invention includes a stimulable phosphor sheet and a case for housing the stimulable phosphor sheet, and the stimulable phosphor sheet or the case is a sheet body of a different material, For example, a radiation shielding plate for preventing scattering, a radiation energy separation filter, and the like are configured to be detachable.

  The stimulable phosphor sheet or case is preferably formed with a recess, and a sheet body made of a different material is detachably accommodated and fixed in the recess via a fixing member.

  Furthermore, the stimulable phosphor sheet includes a frame member, and a concave portion is formed on one surface of the frame member, and a sheet body of a different material is detachably accommodated and fixed in the concave portion. It is preferable that a phosphor layer is detachably provided on the other surface via a recess.

  Furthermore, it is preferable that the case is detachable from the surface on which the stimulable phosphor sheet is irradiated with radiation.

  Further, the case includes a housing that stores the stimulable phosphor sheet, and a light shielding plate that is provided with a lid that can swing freely and is detachably attached to the housing. It is preferable that a sheet body of a different material is detachably fixed to the inner surface.

  The case further includes a case main body for storing the stimulable phosphor sheet, and a lid attached to the case main body so as to be openable and closable. A sheet body made of a different material is removable on the inner surface of the lid. It is preferable to be fixed to.

  Furthermore, the case includes a tray accommodated in an opening provided on one side surface, and the tray includes a cap capable of opening and closing the opening, a removable sheet material of a different material, and a storage phosphor. A body sheet is preferably provided.

  The radiographic image forming cassette according to the present invention records radiation image information of a subject by irradiating radiation, and stores a stimulable phosphor sheet that can be used repeatedly by erasing the radiation image information, A sheet body made of a material different from the cassette is attached to at least one surface of the cassette. Specifically, as a sheet body of this different material, a radiation energy separation filter, a lead sheet for preventing back scattering, an FRP material sheet for increasing strength, a white board capable of handwriting, a magnet sheet for cassette conveyance, and a scale Examples thereof include a printed sheet, a sheet on which an imaging region is printed, or a sheet provided with a lead mark.

  Furthermore, it is preferable that the cassette is detachable from the surface on which the stimulable phosphor sheet is irradiated with radiation.

  Furthermore, it is preferable that a concave portion is formed on one surface of the cassette, and a sheet body of a different material is accommodated and fixed in the concave portion.

  Moreover, it is preferable that the sheet | seat body of a different material is affixed with respect to a cassette so that attachment or detachment is possible.

  Further, the cassette is preferably set to a thickness of 1/2 or less of the standard value of ISO 4090.

  Furthermore, it is preferable that a concavo-convex part is provided at a position corresponding to each other in the frame part of the cassette and the frame part of another cassette superimposed on the cassette.

  Moreover, it is preferable that a marking portion for image alignment is provided in the radiation image recording area on the surface of the cassette irradiated with radiation.

  According to the present invention, the dissimilar material sheet body can be attached to the stimulable phosphor sheet or the case as necessary. For example, when the dissimilar material sheet is unnecessary depending on the photographing environment or photographing conditions, the dissimilar material sheet is provided. It can be used with the body removed. Furthermore, the sheet | seat body of the different dissimilar material from which thickness differs can be exchanged and used.

  Therefore, it becomes possible to easily cope with fluctuations in the shooting environment and shooting conditions, and when it is unnecessary, the sheet body made of different materials can be removed and used, and the weight of the entire unit can be reduced well. As a result, the unit is excellent in versatility, and can be reduced in weight, thereby effectively improving the handleability.

  Further, according to the present invention, at least one surface of the cassette includes, for example, a radiation energy separation filter, a lead sheet for preventing back scattering, an FRP material sheet for increasing strength, a whiteboard capable of handwriting, and a cassette transport It is possible to detachably attach a sheet body of different materials such as a magnetic sheet, a sheet printed with a scale, a sheet printed with a photographing part, or a sheet provided with a lead mark.

  Therefore, it is only necessary to attach various sheet bodies to the surface of the cassette according to the application, and the manufacturing operation of the cassette can be simplified easily. In addition, various processes can be efficiently performed, which is excellent in versatility and economical.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective explanatory view of a radiation image forming unit 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  The unit 10 includes a stimulable phosphor sheet 12 and a case 14 that accommodates the stimulable phosphor sheet 12. The stimulable phosphor sheet 12 includes a rectangular phosphor layer 16 constituting a radiation image recording region, and a frame member 18 covering the four corners of the phosphor layer 16.

  As the phosphor layer 16, for example, a hard sheet formed by evaporating a columnar phosphor on a support substrate made of a hard material such as glass can be used. The phosphor layer 16 is formed using a vacuum vapor deposition method, a sputtering method, a CVD method, or an ion fretting method in which the stimulable phosphor is heated and evaporated in a vacuum container, and these are deposited on the support substrate. be able to.

  The phosphor layer 16 thus formed has a columnar shape in which the phosphor is substantially perpendicular to the plane of the phosphor layer 16, each of which is optically independent, and is highly resistant to the irradiated radiation. Sensitivity and image granularity can be lowered, and excitation light scattering can be reduced to make image quality clearer.

  The phosphor layer 16 may be a flexible sheet (see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-249795) formed by applying a phosphor to a support substrate. The stimulable phosphor sheet 12 is not limited to the one using the frame member 18, and a flexible sheet disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2000-249795 may be used directly.

  The frame member 18 is made of, for example, a thermoplastic resin such as ABS resin, polycarbonate resin, or a polymer alloy of ABS and polycarbonate (polycarbonate ABS resin).

  As shown in FIG. 2, the frame member 18 has a first recess 20 having a relatively deep groove formed on the surface 18 a that is the surface on the phosphor layer 16 side, and a second recess 22 having a relatively shallow groove formed on the back surface 18 b. Is formed.

  A carbon plate 24 is embedded in the first recess 20 by, for example, insert molding, and the phosphor layer 16 is provided on the surface of the carbon plate 24 in a replaceable manner, for example, via a double-sided tape 26. The surface of the phosphor layer 16 is disposed inward from the surface 18a of the frame member 18 by a distance H (H <1 mm). A lead sheet (radiation shielding plate) 28 for preventing backscattered rays, which is a sheet body made of a different material, is attached to the second concave portion 22 through a fixing member, for example, a double-sided tape 30, in a replaceable manner. A protective plastic sheet 32 is provided on the surface of the lead sheet 28.

  As shown in FIG. 1, in the frame member 18, an end surface 34 that is a rear end portion in the direction in which the stimulable phosphor sheet 12 is inserted into the case 14 (arrow A direction) constitutes the case end surface of the case 14. The end face 34 is colored in a different color from the other faces in order to prevent erroneous loading of the stimulable phosphor sheet 12.

  The case 14 has a rectangular shape, and an opening 36 for inserting and discharging the stimulable phosphor sheet 12 is formed on one side surface of the case 14. By arranging the frame member 18 in the opening 36, the end surface 34 of the frame member 18 constitutes a case end surface (see FIG. 2).

  As shown in FIG. 1, the case 14 has a front surface 38a on which the radiographic image information of the subject is irradiated by an imaging device (not shown), and a back surface 38b opposite to the front surface 38a. In the stimulable phosphor sheet 12 accommodated in the case 14, the phosphor layer 16 is disposed on the front surface 38a side, and the lead sheet 28 is disposed on the back surface 38b side.

  Next, the operation of the unit 10 will be described.

  The unit 10 is loaded in a photographing apparatus (not shown) in a state where the stimulable phosphor sheet 12 is accommodated in the case 14. Then, radiation image information of a subject (not shown) is applied to the phosphor layer 16 of the stimulable phosphor sheet 12 from the surface 38a side of the case 14. For this reason, the radiation image information of the subject is recorded in the phosphor layer 16.

  Next, the unit 10 is loaded into a processing apparatus (not shown). In this processing apparatus, the stimulable phosphor sheet 12 is taken out from the case 14 and conveyed to the processing unit (reading unit). In this processing unit, the radiation image information recorded on the phosphor layer 16 is read. Further, after the radiation image information remaining in the phosphor layer 16 is erased, the stimulable phosphor sheet 12 is inserted into the case 14.

  In this case, in the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the second concave portion 22 is provided in the frame member 18 constituting the stimulable phosphor sheet 12, and the lead sheet 28 is provided in the second concave portion 22. A double-sided tape 30 is attached to be exchangeable.

  For this reason, for example, when the lead sheet 28 is unnecessary depending on the photographing environment and photographing conditions, the stimulable phosphor sheet 12 is used with the lead sheet 28 removed from the stimulable phosphor sheet 12. Can do. On the other hand, when a radiation shielding plate thicker than the lead sheet 28 is required, after the lead sheet 28 is removed, a new lead sheet 28 set to a desired thickness is attached to the second of the frame member 18. It becomes possible to attach to the recessed part 22 via the double-sided tape 30.

  Therefore, in the first embodiment, it is possible to easily cope with fluctuations in the shooting environment and shooting conditions, and when not necessary, the lead sheet 28 can be removed and used, and the weight of the entire unit 10 is good. It is reduced. As a result, the unit 10 is excellent in versatility and can be reduced in weight, thereby improving the handleability effectively.

  Further, a second recess 22 is formed in the frame member 18, and a lead sheet 28 is removably received and fixed in the second recess 22. Therefore, the lead sheet 28 does not protrude outside from the back surface 18b of the frame member 18 (see FIG. 2). For example, when the stimulable phosphor sheet 12 is transported and processed in the processing apparatus, the lead sheet 28 It is possible to prevent the lead sheet 28 from interfering with other members.

  In the first embodiment, the double-sided tape 30 is used as the fixing member, and the lead sheet 28 is attached to the frame member 18 by the double-sided tape 30, but the present invention is not limited to this. As the fixing member, for example, a magnet, a clip, or a magic fastener (registered trademark) may be used, and the lead sheet 28 may be fixed to the frame member 18 with an adhesive or the like. The same applies to the second to fifth embodiments described below.

  FIG. 3 is a perspective explanatory view of the radiation image forming unit 50 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The same components as those of the unit 10 according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  The case 14 constituting the unit 50 is provided with a rectangular recess 52 on the back surface 38b. As shown in FIG. 4, a lead sheet 54 is detachably fixed to the recess 52 via a fixing member, for example, a double-sided tape 53. On the other hand, the stimulable phosphor sheet 12 does not use the lead sheet 28.

  In the second embodiment, the lead sheet 54 is detachable from the back surface 38 b of the case 14. For this reason, the lead sheet 54 can be removed or replaced with a new lead sheet 54 having a thickness different from that of the lead sheet 54 depending on the photographing environment and photographing conditions. As a result, the unit 50 of the second embodiment has the same effects as the first embodiment, such as being excellent in versatility and being able to reduce the weight.

  The lead sheet 54 may be affixed to the wall surface of the room in which the stimulable phosphor sheet 12 of the case 14 is accommodated, instead of affixing to the back surface 38b of the case 14.

  FIG. 5 is a perspective explanatory view of the radiation image forming unit 60 according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Note that the same components as those of the unit 50 according to the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  The case 14 constituting the unit 60 is provided with a rectangular recess 62 on the surface 38a on the radiation irradiation side. As shown in FIG. 6, the sheet body 64 is detachably fixed to the recess 62 via a fixing member, for example, a double-sided tape 63. For example, a scale 66 is printed on the sheet body 64.

  The stimulable phosphor sheet 12 accommodated in the case 14 has a carbon plate 24 embedded in the first recess 20 of the frame member 18 as necessary, and a phosphor layer on the carbon plate 24 via a double-sided tape 26. 16 is provided in a replaceable manner.

  In the fifth embodiment, the sheet body 64 on which the scale 66 is printed is detachably fixed to the surface 38a of the case 14. For this reason, when radiation image information is irradiated to the stimulable phosphor sheet 12, a scale 66 is recorded on the phosphor layer 16 of the stimulable phosphor sheet 12 together with radiation image information of a subject (not shown).

  In addition, instead of the scale 66, for example, an imaging region of a subject (not shown) can be printed on the sheet body 64, or a lead mark can be provided.

  FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a case (cassette) 70 constituting a radiographic image forming unit according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

  The case 70 includes a housing 74 that houses the stimulable phosphor sheet 72, and a light shielding plate 76 is detachably attached to the housing 74. A lid 80 is swingably provided on the light shielding plate 76 via a hinge portion 78, and the lid 80 is attached to the housing 74 so as to be openable and closable.

  The lid 80 is formed with a barcode reading window 82, and lock means 84 a for fixing the lid 80 to the housing 74 on both sides of the window 82 and the housing 74. , 84b are provided. The locking means 84 a and 84 b can release the locked state between the lid body 80 and the housing 74 via unlocking knobs 86 a and 86 b attached to the lid body 80.

  One end 90 of a guide sheet 88 made of a resin sheet, for example, a polypropylene sheet is fixed to the back surface 80a of the lid 80. At one end 90, a notch 92 is formed corresponding to the window 82, and an opening 94 is formed corresponding to the window 82 at the portion of the guide sheet 88 that is folded back toward the housing 74. Is done.

  A lead sheet 96 is detachably fixed to the back surface 76 a of the light shielding plate 76 via a fixing member, for example, a double-sided tape 98. The lead sheet 96 includes a free end 96 a extending toward the lid 80, and an opening 100 is formed in the free end 96 a corresponding to the window portion 82.

  As described above, in the fourth embodiment, the lead sheet 96 is detachably fixed as the fixing member to the back surface 76a of the light shielding plate 76 constituting the case 70 through the double-sided tape 98, for example. Further, the light shielding plate 76 is detachably attached to the housing 74 via, for example, a stopper pin (not shown).

  Accordingly, the light shielding plate 76 is detached from the housing 74 and the lead sheet 96 is removed from the light shielding plate 76 or replaced with a new lead sheet 96 having a different thickness from the lead sheet 96, and then the light shielding plate 76 is removed. The housing 74 can be attached. Thereby, in the fourth embodiment, it is possible to easily cope with the shooting environment and shooting conditions, and it is excellent in versatility, and can be easily reduced in weight and the like. Similar effects can be obtained.

  FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective explanatory view of a case (cassette) 110 for forming a radiation image forming unit according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

  The case 110 includes a case main body 114 that can store the stimulable phosphor sheet 112 and a lid 116 that is attached to the case main body 114 so as to be openable and closable. The stimulable phosphor sheet 112 is housed so that the surface on which the phosphor layer is provided is opposed to the inner wall surface of the case main body 114, and a barcode label 118 is attached to the back surface of the stimulable phosphor sheet 112.

  The lid 116 is formed with a window 120 that overlaps the barcode label 118 at the closed position of the lid 116. A lead sheet 122 is detachably attached to the inner wall surface 116 a of the lid 116 via a fixing member, for example, a double-sided tape 124, except for the window 120.

  In the fifth embodiment, a lead sheet 122 is detachably attached to an inner wall surface 116 a of a lid body 116 that can be opened and closed with respect to the case body 114 via a double-sided tape 124. Accordingly, the lead sheet 122 can be removed and used depending on the shooting environment and shooting conditions, or can be used by replacing with a new lead sheet 122 having a different thickness.

  FIG. 9 is a perspective explanatory view of the radiation image forming unit 130 according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

  A case (cassette) 132 constituting the unit 130 is provided with an opening 134 opened on one side, and the opening 134 accommodates the stimulable phosphor sheet 138 fixed to the tray 136. A cap 142 is attached to the tray 136 via an attaching means 140, and the cap 142 fits into the opening 134 to shield the inside of the case 132 in a light-tight manner.

  A lead sheet 146 is detachably attached to the back surface of the tray 136 on which a mounting means 140 is provided, for example, via a double-sided tape 144, and the storage phosphor sheet 138 is attached to the surface of the tray 136. Is fixed.

  The lead sheet 146 may be detachably attached to the tray 136 between the surface of the tray 136 and the stimulable phosphor sheet 138.

  FIG. 10 is a perspective explanatory view of a radiation image forming unit 150 according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. Note that the same components as those of the unit 50 according to the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  The case 14 constituting the unit 150 is provided with a rectangular recess 156 on the surface 154. As shown in FIG. 11, a copper plate 160 that is a radiation energy separation filter that absorbs a low energy component of radiation is removed from the recessed portion 156 through a fixing member, for example, a double-sided tape 158, for example. Fixed as possible. A protective plastic sheet 162 is provided on the surface of the copper plate 160. The case 14 is configured to be thin, and is set to a thickness of 1/2 or less of 14 mm, which is a standard value of ISO 4090, that is, 7 mm or less.

  In the stimulable phosphor sheet 12 accommodated in the case 14, a carbon plate 24 is embedded in the first recess 20 of the frame member 18, and the phosphor layer 16 can be replaced on the carbon plate 24 via a double-sided tape 26. However, the carbon plate 24 may not be used.

  In the seventh embodiment, for example, when performing energy subtraction processing, as shown in FIG. 10, the case 14 and a thin-walled shape (thickness of 7 mm or less) on which a sheet body of a different material is not attached. Case 14a is used. In this case 14a, a stimulable phosphor sheet 12a configured in the same manner as the stimulable phosphor sheet 12 is accommodated.

  Therefore, as shown in FIG. 11, the cases 14 and 14a are loaded into a photographing apparatus (not shown). The case 14a has the surface 38a disposed on the radiation irradiation side, and the case 14 has the surface 154 disposed toward the case 14a.

  Then, the radiation image information of the subject (not shown) is applied to the stimulable phosphor sheet 12a from the surface 38a side of the case 14a (see the arrow X direction). Therefore, the radiographic image information of the subject is directly recorded on the phosphor layer 16a of the stimulable phosphor sheet 12a facing the subject. Further, the radiation transmitted through the phosphor layer 16a is irradiated to the case 14.

  In this case 14, a copper plate 160 is attached to the surface 154, and after the low energy component is absorbed through the copper plate 160, the radiation is irradiated to the phosphor layer 16 of the stimulable phosphor sheet 12, and this fluorescence Radiation image information is recorded on the body layer 16. The radiation image information recorded in the phosphor layer 16 is higher in the high energy component of the radiation than the radiation image information recorded in the phosphor layer 16a of the stimulable phosphor sheet 12a accommodated in the case 14a. The image information of the energy distribution.

  Next, the cases 14 and 14a are loaded, for example, simultaneously or sequentially into a reading device (processing device) (not shown). In this reading apparatus, the stimulable phosphor sheets 12 and 12a are taken out from the cases 14 and 14a, respectively, and the stimulable phosphor sheets 12 and 12a are arranged in a processing unit, for example, a reading unit. In this reading unit, the phosphor layers 16 and 16a are irradiated with excitation light, and the radiation image information recorded in the phosphor layers 16 and 16a is read.

  At that time, the radiation image information recorded on the phosphor layer 16 in the case 14 has a higher energy component of radiation emphasized than the radiation image information recorded on the phosphor layer 16a in the case 14a. . Therefore, the image information of a specific structure (soft part such as built-in part or bone part) having different energy absorption characteristics of the subject can be obtained by performing energy subtraction processing on the radiation image information.

  Further, after the radiation image information remaining in the respective phosphor layers 16 and 16a is erased, the respective stimulable phosphor sheets 12 and 12a are returned into the cases 14 and 14a. The cases 14 and 14a are loaded in the imaging apparatus in order to record radiation image information of a new subject.

  In this case, in the seventh embodiment, a copper plate 160 that is a radiation energy separation filter is provided on the surface 154 of the case 14. For this reason, radiation image information is recorded on the phosphor layers 16 and 16a of the stimulable phosphor sheets 12 and 12a accommodated in the cases 14 and 14a under different conditions of radiation energy absorption characteristics, Image information of specific structures (soft parts such as internal organs and bones) having different energy absorption characteristics of the subject can be reliably and easily extracted.

  Moreover, since the cases 14 and 14a are effectively thinned, the cases 14 and 14a can be integrally mounted on the current case mounting table. This is because the cases 14 and 14a are set to a thickness of 1/2 or less of a case that is normally used. Therefore, there is an advantage that the photographing apparatus itself can be easily simplified.

  As a result, the configuration of the cases 14 and 14a itself is simplified and made compact, and the copper plate 160 can be easily attached and detached, and the handling workability of the cases 14 and 14a is effectively improved. Moreover, the stimulable phosphor sheets 12 and 12a can efficiently perform energy subtraction processing and the like, and can be used for various different imaging processes in addition to the energy subtraction processing. Excellent versatility.

  Specifically, in the concave portion 156 of the case 14, as a sheet body of a different material, a lead sheet for preventing back scattering, an FRP material sheet for increasing strength, a white board capable of handwriting, a magnet sheet for cassette transportation, etc. Can be detachably attached.

  Moreover, the case 14 can be used with the copper plate 160 removed. As a result, various effects can be obtained such as the case 14 as a whole is lightened and the handling workability is effectively improved.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory perspective view of the radiation image forming unit 170 according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention. Note that the same components as those of the unit 150 according to the seventh embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted. Similarly, in the ninth embodiment described below, detailed description thereof is omitted.

  On the surface (frame portion) 154 of the case 14 constituting the unit 170, for example, a columnar or prismatic convex portion 172 is provided at a diagonal position. Concave portions 174 are respectively provided at positions corresponding to the respective convex portions 172 in the frame portion of the other case 14 a overlapped with the case 14.

  In the eighth embodiment configured as described above, when the cases 14 and 14a are overlapped with each other, the convex portion 172 is fitted into the concave portion 174 so that the cases 14 and 14a are not displaced from each other. Accurate positioning. As a result, the cases 14 and 14a are accurately loaded into a photographing device (not shown) in a state of being overlapped with each other, and the stimulable phosphor sheets 12 and 12a housed in the cases 14 and 14a have a subject (not shown). The effect that radiation image information is reliably irradiated to each desired position is obtained.

  In the eighth embodiment, the case 14 is provided with two convex portions 172 such as a columnar shape and a prismatic shape, while the case 14a is provided with two concave portions 174 into which the convex portions 172 are fitted. It is not limited to this. The cases 14 and 14a only need to be provided with a concavo-convex portion that can be engaged and positioned, and various shapes and installation positions can be set.

  FIG. 13 is a perspective explanatory view of a radiation image forming unit 180 according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

  In the case 14 constituting the unit 180, a marking portion 182a for image alignment is arranged on the surface 154 to which the radiation is irradiated and is positioned in the radiation image recording area. Similarly, in the case 14a, a marking portion 182b for image alignment is disposed on the surface irradiated with radiation and positioned in the radiation image recording area. The marking portions 182a and 182b are configured by, for example, a lead mark, lead-containing paint, lead-containing ink, or the like.

  Therefore, in the ninth embodiment, when the energy subtraction process is performed, the cases 14 and 14a are overlapped, and the radiographic image information of the subject (not shown) is stored in the phosphor layers 16 and 16a of the stimulable phosphor sheets 12 and 12a. When irradiated, marking portions 182a and 182b are recorded on the phosphor layers 16 and 16a.

  Thereby, the radiation image information recorded on each phosphor layer 16, 16a can be accurately and easily aligned with each other via the marking portions 182a, 182b.

It is a perspective explanatory view of the unit for radiation image formation concerning a 1st embodiment of the present invention. It is a partial cross section explanatory view of the stimulable phosphor sheet concerning a 1st embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective explanatory view of the unit for radiation image formation concerning a 2nd embodiment of the present invention. It is a partial cross section explanatory view of the case which constitutes the unit. It is a perspective explanatory view of the unit for radiation image formation concerning a 3rd embodiment of the present invention. It is a partial cross section explanatory view of the unit. It is a disassembled perspective explanatory drawing of the case which comprises the unit for radiation image formation which concerns on the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic perspective explanatory drawing of the case which comprises the unit for radiation image formation which concerns on the 5th Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective explanatory view of the unit for radiation image formation concerning a 6th embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective explanatory view of the unit for radiation image formation concerning a 7th embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing of the state with which two cassettes were loaded in the imaging device. It is a perspective explanatory view of the unit for radiation image formation concerning the 8th embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective explanatory view of the unit for radiation image formation concerning a 9th embodiment of the present invention. It is a section explanatory view of a cassette of patent documents 1. It is a perspective explanatory view of a cassette of patent documents 2.

Explanation of symbols

10, 50, 60, 130, 150, 170, 180 ... Units 12, 12a, 72, 112, 138 ... Storage phosphor sheets 14, 14a, 70, 110, 132 ... Cases 16, 16a ... Phosphor layers 18 ... Frame member 18a, 38a, 154 ... Surface 20, 22, 52, 62, 156, 174 ... Recess 26, 30, 53, 63, 98, 124, 144, 158 ... Double-sided tape 28, 54, 96, 122, 146 ... Lead sheet 36, 94, 100, 134 ... opening
66 ... Scale 74 ... Housing 76 ... Light shielding plate 80, 116 ... Lid 88 ... Guide sheet 114 ... Case body 136 ... Tray 142 ... Cap 172 ... Convex part 174 ... Concave part 182a, 182b ... Marking part

Claims (14)

Irradiating radiation to record radiographic image information of the subject, erasing the radiographic image information and reusable phosphor sheet,
A case for housing the stimulable phosphor sheet;
With
2. The radiation image forming unit according to claim 1, wherein the stimulable phosphor sheet or the case is configured such that a sheet body of a different material is detachable. The unit according to claim 1, wherein the stimulable phosphor sheet or the case is formed with a recess,
The radiation image forming unit, wherein the sheet body of the different material is detachably accommodated and fixed to the recess through a fixing member. The unit according to claim 2, wherein the stimulable phosphor sheet includes a frame member,
On one surface of the frame member, the recess is formed, and the dissimilar material sheet body is detachably received and fixed in the recess,
A radiation image forming unit, wherein a phosphor layer is detachably provided on the other surface of the frame member via a recess.   4. The radiographic image according to claim 1, wherein the case is detachable from the surface of the case that irradiates the stimulable phosphor sheet with radiation. 5. Forming unit. The unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the case includes a housing that houses the stimulable phosphor sheet;
A light shielding plate that is provided with a lid in a swingable manner in a part and is detachably attached to the housing;
With
The radiation image forming unit, wherein a sheet body of the different material is detachably fixed to an inner surface of the light shielding plate. The unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the case includes a case main body that houses the stimulable phosphor sheet;
A lid attached to the case body so as to be openable and closable;
With
The radiation image forming unit, wherein the sheet of the different material is detachably fixed to an inner surface of the lid. The unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the case includes a tray accommodated in an opening provided on one side surface.
The tray has a cap capable of opening and closing the opening,
A removable sheet of the dissimilar material;
The stimulable phosphor sheet;
A unit for forming a radiographic image, comprising: A radiation image forming cassette for storing radiation image information of a subject by irradiating radiation, and storing a stimulable phosphor sheet that can be repeatedly used by erasing the radiation image information,
A radiographic imaging cassette, wherein a sheet body made of a material different from the cassette is attached to at least one surface of the cassette.   9. The cassette according to claim 8, wherein the cassette is detachable from the surface on which the stimulable phosphor sheet is irradiated with radiation.   10. The radiographic image according to claim 8, wherein a concave portion is formed on the one surface of the cassette, and a sheet body of the different material is accommodated and fixed in the concave portion. Forming cassette.   11. The cassette for radiographic image formation according to claim 8, wherein the sheet body of the different material is detachably attached to the cassette.   The cassette for radiographic image formation according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the cassette is set to a thickness equal to or less than half of a standard value of ISO 4090.   The cassette according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the cassette frame portion and the other cassette frame portion overlapped with the cassette are provided with uneven portions at positions corresponding to each other. A cassette for forming radiation images. The cassette according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein a marking portion for image alignment is provided in a radiation image recording area on a surface of the cassette irradiated with radiation. Image forming cassette.

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