WO2009122797A1

WO2009122797A1 - Radiation image generating system

Info

Publication number: WO2009122797A1
Application number: PCT/JP2009/052763
Authority: WO
Inventors: 江口　愛彦
Original assignee: コニカミノルタエムジー株式会社
Priority date: 2008-03-31
Filing date: 2009-02-18
Publication date: 2009-10-08

Abstract

Provided is a radiation image generating system enabling minimization of the power consumption of a cassette type radiation image detector which contains a power supply means and efficient shooting. The radiation image generating system is provided with transportable detectors (2a, 2b, 2c) for performing an activation control for activating a radiation detection unit (23) and a communication unit (25) by an input operation from an activation switch (22) and, when the radiation detection unit (23) is not operated even if a predetermined period of time or longer has elapsed since the activation, controlling power supply such that the power supply to respective units is stopped, and a console (3) for transmitting a polling signal regularly from a radio communication unit (35) to the detectors (2a, 2b, 2c) and, when receiving a response signal responding to the polling signal, allowing a display unit (34) to provide a display indicating that the detectors (2a, 2b, 2c) are being used.

Description

Radiation image generation system

The present invention relates to a radiation image generation system.

Conventionally, for the purpose of disease diagnosis and the like, a radiographic image taken using radiation, which is typified by an X-ray image, has been widely used.

Such medical radiographic images were conventionally taken using a screen film, but in recent years, digitization of radiographic images has been realized. For example, a stimulable phosphor layer forms radiation transmitted through a subject. After being stored in the photostimulable phosphor sheet, the photostimulable phosphor sheet is scanned with laser light, and thereby the photostimulated light emitted from the photostimulable phosphor sheet is photoelectrically converted to image data. A CR (Computed Radiography) apparatus that obtains a widespread use is widely used.

Recently, instead of the CR device, a radiation image generation system using a radiation solid-state imaging device FPD (Flat Panel Detector) as a detector for detecting irradiated radiation and acquiring it as digital image data has appeared. A cassette-type FPD (hereinafter referred to as “cassette FPD”) configured to be portable like the cassette is also used.

Such a cassette FPD can be configured to provide a battery (power supply means) and a wireless communication means in the detector to wirelessly supply power and transmit / receive image data and the like in order to take advantage of the portable type. preferable.

By the way, in the case of a conventional radiographic imaging (generation) system, a so-called pre-registration method in which an imaging flow is started by a radiographer registering an imaging order at a console before imaging is a basic form ( For example, see Patent Document 1).

However, unlike the cassette of the CR device, in the case of the cassette FPD, it is not necessary to transfer the cassette FPD that has been photographed to the place where the reader is installed after photographing, and the cassette FPD is left at the photographing site after photographing is completed. I can keep it. For this reason, in a facility where there are a plurality of imaging rooms and a plurality of cassette FPDs, where the radiographer selects an imaging order at the console before imaging, the cassette FPD that he / she wants to use is stored It happens that you do not know if you are.

Therefore, a method of starting the wireless device of each cassette FPD and knowing its location can be considered. However, if the wireless device is kept activated for location confirmation, the battery life is shortened, which is not preferable.

In the case of a radiographic imaging system using a CR device, the pre-registration method is the basic form as described above. However, the CR cassette is used until the image data is read by the reader after imaging. Since it cannot be used for the next shooting, if the shooting order information is associated with the ID of the CR cassette before shooting, the image shot with the CR cassette is correct regardless of the circumstances. Are always associated with each other.

On the other hand, since the cassette FPD is generally equipped with a memory capable of storing a plurality of image data, it is possible to continuously perform a plurality of shootings with a single cassette FPD. For this reason, there exists a possibility that several imaging orders may overlap in one cassette FPD.

Also, even if a shooting order for shooting using a certain FPD is registered in advance, if there are a plurality of FPDs in the shooting room, which FPD associated with the shooting order may not be known.

Therefore, in order to prevent such a situation, a cradle that holds the cassette FPD in a power saving state (shooting standby state) is provided, and a cassette FPD suitable for the shooting is selected by a host device (console), and the selected cassette is selected. A system has been proposed in which the FPD is displayed and the cassette FPD displayed by the radiologist is removed from the cradle so that the cassette FPD transitions from the power saving state to the imaging enabled state (for example, , See Patent Document 2). According to this, it becomes clear which FPD is associated with the imaging order, and since a radiographer can take an image only after taking out the cassette FPD from the cradle, a plurality of imaging orders can be assigned to one FPD. Do not overlap.
JP 2002-159476 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-248095

However, in the system described in Patent Literature 2, when the cassette FPD is removed from the cradle, the cassette FPD shifts from the power saving state to the photographing enabled state. Therefore, if the cassette FPD is not returned to the cradle when photographing is not performed, It will be consumed. For this reason, it takes time and effort to return the cassette FPD to the cradle after photographing, which is not preferable in terms of the operability of the radiologist. Moreover, it is necessary to provide a cradle in each photographing room, and there is a problem that capital investment for that purpose is also required.

The present invention has been made in view of the circumstances as described above, and when performing radiography using a cassette type radiographic image detector incorporating a power supply means, the cassette type radiographic image is made without any special capital investment. An object of the present invention is to provide a radiation image generation system that can perform radiography efficiently while minimizing the power consumption of a detector.

In order to solve the above problem, the invention described in claim 1
It can be used in a photographing room having at least one radiation generator for irradiating a subject with radiation and wireless relay means,
A radiation image detection means for detecting radiation generated by the radiation generation apparatus and transmitted through the subject; a radiation image data generation means for generating radiation image data based on a detection result of the radiation image detection means; and an external device A communication unit that wirelessly transmits and receives information, a power supply unit that supplies power to each unit, a startup switch that inputs a startup instruction, and at least the radiation image detection unit and the input by an input operation from the startup switch An activation control means for performing an activation control for activating the communication means, a timing means for measuring an elapsed time since the activation of the radiation image detecting means and the communication means by an activation control by the activation control means, and a timing means When the radiological image detection means does not operate even if the measured elapsed time is a predetermined time or more, the power At least power supply control means for controlling the power supply means so as to stop power supply to each unit from the supply means, and storage means capable of storing the radiation image data generated by the radiation image data generation means One portable cassette-type radiation image detector;
Polling communication means capable of wirelessly communicating with the cassette type radiation image detector via the wireless relay means, and periodically transmitting a polling signal to the cassette type radiation image detector via the wireless relay means. A console having display means for displaying an image based on radiation image data transmitted from the cassette-type radiation image detector, and display control means for controlling display of the display means,
The communication means of the cassette type radiation image detector is capable of receiving a polling signal from the polling communication means at the time of activation, and when receiving the polling signal, transmits a response signal in response thereto. ,
When the response signal is transmitted from the cassette type radiation image detector, the display control means of the console displays the display so that the cassette type radiation image detector is in use on the display means. A radiation image generation system characterized by controlling display of means.

The present invention also provides:
It can be used in a photographing room having at least one radiation generator for irradiating a subject with radiation and wireless relay means,
A radiation image detection means for detecting radiation generated by the radiation generation apparatus and transmitted through the subject; a radiation image data generation means for generating radiation image data based on a detection result of the radiation image detection means; and an external device A communication unit that wirelessly transmits and receives information, a power supply unit that supplies power to each unit, a startup switch that inputs a startup instruction, and at least the radiation image detection unit and the input by an input operation from the startup switch An activation control means for performing an activation control for activating the communication means, a timing means for measuring an elapsed time since the activation of the radiation image detecting means and the communication means by an activation control by the activation control means, and a timing means When the radiation image detection unit does not operate even when the measured elapsed time exceeds a predetermined time, the power supply is performed. Power supply control means for controlling the power supply means so as to stop power supply to each part from the means, and storage means capable of storing the radiation image data generated by the radiation image data generation means Two portable cassette-type radiological image detectors;
Display means for displaying an image based on radiation image data transmitted from the cassette type radiation image detector, wirelessly communicable with the cassette type radiation image detector via the wireless relay means, and the radiation image data Image data storage means for temporarily storing, subject information input means for inputting subject information relating to the subject, the subject information input by the subject information input means, and the radiation generated by the radiation image data generation means A console having association means for associating the image data;
It is characterized by having.

The present invention also provides:
It can be used in a plurality of imaging rooms each having at least one radiation generator for irradiating a subject with radiation and wireless relay means,
A radiation image detection means for detecting radiation generated by the radiation generation apparatus and transmitted through the subject; a radiation image data generation means for generating radiation image data based on a detection result of the radiation image detection means; and an external device A communication unit that wirelessly transmits and receives information, a power supply unit that supplies power to each unit, a start switch that inputs a start instruction, and at least the radiation image detection unit by an input operation from the start switch, An activation control means for performing an activation control for activating the communication means; a timing means for measuring an elapsed time since activation of the radiation image detection means and the communication means by an activation control by the activation control means; and the timing means When the radiological image detection means does not operate even when the elapsed time counted by the above becomes a predetermined time or more, At least one portable cassette having power supply control means for controlling the power supply means to stop power supply to each part from the power supply means, and storage means for storing the obtained radiation image data Type radiation image detector;
Provided for each of the plurality of radiographing rooms, wirelessly communicable with the cassette type radiation image detector via the wireless relay means, and an image based on the radiation image data transmitted from the cassette type radiation image detector. Display means for displaying; image data storage means for temporarily storing the radiation image data; subject information input means for inputting subject information relating to the subject; the subject information input by the subject information input means; A console having association means for associating the radiation image data generated by the radiation image data generation means;
It is characterized by having.

According to the present invention, the detector may be left in the photographing room, and the operator (engineer) does not need to move in the direction of the console together with the heavy detector, and the burden on the operator can be reduced.

When shooting, the operator only needs to move to the shooting room and turn on the detector activation switch, and activate the detector's communication function to receive an awakening instruction from the host device (such as a console). There is no need to keep it in a state. For this reason, at the time of non-photographing, it is not necessary to continue power supply to each part of the detector, so that power consumption can be minimized and the life of the power supply means (battery) can be extended.

Even when imaging is performed using a plurality of such cassette-type radiation image detectors, image data and subject information can be correctly associated with each other.

It is a figure which shows the system configuration | structure of one Embodiment of the radiographic image generation system which concerns on this invention. It is a perspective view which shows the structure which fractured | ruptured some detectors applied to the radiographic image generation system of FIG. It is a principal part block diagram which shows schematic structure of the detector applied to the radiographic image generation system shown in FIG. It is a principal part block diagram which shows schematic structure of the console applied to the radiographic image generation system shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the radiographic image generation system in this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the radiographic image generation system in this embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Radiation

image generation system

2a, 2b, 2c Detector 3 Console 4 Radiation source 5 Wireless repeater 7 Radiation operation device 21 Detector control part 22 Start switch 23 Radiation detection part 28 Time measuring means 31 Control part 33 Input part 34 Display part 35 Wireless communication unit 36 Network communication unit N Network R1a, R1b Imaging room R2a, R2b Radiation operation room

Hereinafter, an embodiment of a radiation image generation system according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6. However, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated example.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of the radiation image generation system according to the present embodiment.

The radiographic image generation system 1 is a system that assumes image generation in radiographic imaging performed in a hospital, and includes a plurality of cassette type radiographic image detectors that obtain radiographic image data (hereinafter simply referred to as “image data”). 2a, 2b, 2c (hereinafter simply referred to as "

detectors

2a, 2b, 2c") and a console 3 capable of communicating with the plurality of

detectors

2a, 2b, 2c.

As shown in FIG. 1, the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c are provided in the photographing rooms R1a and R1b, respectively, and the console 3 is provided one by one corresponding to each of the photographing rooms R1a and R1b. . In the present embodiment, the case where the

detectors

2a and 2b are disposed in the photographing room R1a and the other detectors 2c are disposed in the photographing room R1b will be described as an example. The number of

detectors

2a, 2b, 2c provided in the imaging room is not limited to the illustrated example.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a structure in which a part of the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c is broken, and FIG. 3 is a main block diagram showing a functional configuration of the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c.

The

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c are portable cassette-type radiographic image detectors, and as shown in FIG. 2, a substantially rectangular parallelepiped housing 20 and various electronic components housed in the housing 20 Etc. are provided. The electronic components include a detector control unit 21 that controls each part of the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c, a radiation detection unit 23 that detects radiation, a communication unit 25, a rechargeable battery 27, and the like. The housing 20 is provided with a start switch 22, an indicator 26, and the like.

Further, the

detectors

2a, 2b, 2c are provided with an image storage unit 24, a timing means 28, etc. as shown in FIG.

The detector control unit 21 includes, for example, a general-purpose CPU (not shown) and a storage unit (not shown) composed of ROM and RAM. The detector control unit 21 reads a predetermined program stored in the ROM, develops it in a work area of the RAM, and the CPU executes various processes according to the program. In the present embodiment, the detector control unit 21 controls the radiation detection unit 23 to read an image signal detected by the radiation detection unit 23 and generate radiation image data based on the image signal. Functions as a means.

In the present embodiment, the detector control unit 21 controls the communication unit 25 so as to transmit first the image data of the thinned image and then the RAW data as the image data. The reason why the image data of the thinned image is transmitted first is to enable early confirmation of the necessity of re-photographing.

In the present embodiment, the detector control unit 21 thins out pixels at a predetermined rate from the original data (hereinafter referred to as “RAW data”) for the image data, for example, about 1/16 of the RAW data. It functions as a thinned image data generation means for generating thinned image data (hereinafter referred to as “thinned image data”) with a reduced data amount. Note that the thinned image data is not limited to about 1/16 of the RAW data. The detector control unit 21 controls the communication unit 25 to transmit RAW data and image data of the thinned image as image data to the console 3.

The

detectors

2a, 2b, 2c are provided with a start switch 22 for starting the

detectors

2a, 2b, 2c, and a time measuring means 28 for measuring the elapsed time since the start switch 22 was pressed. When the radiation detection unit 23 does not operate even when the elapsed time counted by 28 is equal to or longer than the predetermined time, the detector control unit 21 stops the power supply from the rechargeable battery 27 to each unit including the communication unit 25. It functions as power supply control means for controlling power supply from the rechargeable battery 27.

Note that “the radiation detection unit 23 does not operate” means, for example, a charge signal corresponding to the amount of radiation that has passed through the subject without a radiation irradiation detection sensor (not shown) that detects radiation irradiation detecting the start of radiation irradiation. It is assumed that there is no transition to the storage mode for storing the data, or that a transition command to the storage mode via the interface with the outside (X-ray generator) cannot be acquired.

The detector control unit 21 functions as an activation control unit that performs activation control that activates at least the radiation detection unit 23 and the communication unit 25 by an input operation from the activation switch 22.

As a result, the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c are in a dormant state in which the wireless function does not work when the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c are not used for photographing for a predetermined time or longer. Power is supplied to each unit including the unit 23 and the communication unit 25, and each unit is in an operating state in which photographing can be performed.

The radiation detection unit 23 includes, for example, a scintillator 231 that converts irradiated radiation into light, a photoelectric conversion unit 232 that photoelectrically converts light captured by the scintillator, which includes a photodiode (photoelectric conversion element), and the like. The radiation image detecting means is configured to include a scanning drive circuit 233 that sends a pulse to scan and drive each photoelectric conversion unit, a signal readout circuit 234 that reads electric energy accumulated in the photoelectric conversion unit, and the like.

The image storage unit 24 includes a rewritable memory such as a flash memory.

The image storage unit 24 stores image data generated based on the image signal detected by the radiation detection unit 23. The image storage unit 24 may be a built-in memory or a removable memory such as a memory card. The capacity of the image storage unit 24 is not particularly limited, but preferably has a capacity capable of storing a plurality of pieces of image data.

The communication unit 25 is a communication unit that transmits and receives various signals to and from an external device such as the console 3. The

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c include an antenna device (not shown), and the communication unit 25 transmits and receives signals to and from an external device in a wireless manner. In addition, when the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c are located in the photographing rooms R1a and R1b, signals are transmitted to and received from an external device via the wireless repeater 5 described later.

In this embodiment, a polling signal is periodically transmitted from the console 3, and the communication unit 25 can receive the polling signal during operation, and responds to the polling signal when it is received. A response signal is transmitted.

The communication unit 25 functions as a transmission unit that transmits the image data stored in the image storage unit 24 together with its own detector ID to the console 3, and also receives an imaging start signal transmitted from an external device such as the console 3. Receive. In the present embodiment, the communication unit 25 transmits the RAW data and the thinned image data generated by the detector control unit 21 to the console 3 as appropriate.

The indicator 26 displays the state of the

detectors

2a, 2b, 2c, the remaining charge of the rechargeable battery 27, and the like.

The rechargeable battery 27 is a power supply unit that supplies power to the functional units of the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c. In this embodiment, the rechargeable battery 27 is detected by the detector control unit 21 so that the power supply to each unit is stopped when the radiation detection unit 23 does not operate even after a predetermined time has elapsed since the activation switch 22 was pressed. The

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c are put into a dormant state by stopping the power supply from the rechargeable battery 27 to each unit.

As the rechargeable battery 27, for example, a rechargeable battery such as a nickel cadmium battery, a nickel metal hydride battery, a lithium ion battery, a small sealed lead battery, or a lead storage battery can be used. The power supply means is not limited to the rechargeable battery 27, and a fuel cell or the like may be applied instead of the rechargeable battery 27.

The rechargeable battery 27 includes, for example, the terminals on the charging device side and the

detectors

2a, 2b, 2c, by attaching the

detectors

2a, 2b, 2c to a charging device (not shown) such as a cradle connected to an external power source. A charging terminal (not shown) on the 2c side is connected so that charging is performed.

The imaging rooms R1a and R1b in which the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c are provided are rooms that shield radiation. The imaging rooms R1a and R1b include a radiation source 4 that irradiates the examination target with radiation, and imaging rooms R1a and R1b. A wireless repeater 5 that relays wireless communication between the inside and the outside, and a photographing stand (not shown) that holds the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c during photographing are provided. Examples of the imaging stand include an imaging device for standing imaging for imaging a patient in a standing position and an imaging device for lying position imaging for imaging a patient in a lying-down state such as lying on the back or lying down, and

detectors

2a and 2b. , 2c are used by being held on the photographing stand or the like at the time of photographing.

In this embodiment, radiation operation rooms R2a and R2b for operating the radiation source 4 for irradiating radiation and the imaging stand are provided adjacent to the imaging rooms R1a and R1b. In the radiation operation rooms R2a and R2b, a radiation operation device 7 for operating the radiation source 4 and the imaging table is disposed.

The radiation source 4 is a radiation irradiating unit that irradiates the examination object with radiation. The radiation source 4 generates radiation when a high voltage is applied by a voltage generation source (not shown) that generates a high voltage and the voltage generation source. A radiation tube (not shown) is provided. Further, a radiation aperture device (not shown) for adjusting the radiation irradiation range is provided at the radiation irradiation port of the radiation tube.

The radiation source 4 is suspended from, for example, the ceilings of the imaging rooms R1a and R1b. At the time of imaging, the radiation source 4 is disposed at a position facing the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c, and irradiates the inspection target with radiation. Yes.

The radiation source 4 is connected to the radiation operating device 7, and an exposure instruction signal for instructing radiation exposure is transmitted from the radiation operating device 7. In addition, a control signal for controlling the radiation irradiation condition of the radiation source 4 is transmitted from the console 3 to the radiation operating device 7. The radiation irradiation condition of the radiation source 4 is transmitted to the radiation operating device 7. It is set according to a control signal from the console 3. Examples of radiation irradiation conditions include imaging start / end timing, radiation tube current value, radiation tube voltage value, filter type, and the like.

When the radiation source 4 receives the exposure instruction signal from the radiation operating device 7, drive control of each part of the radiation source 4 such as a voltage generation source and a radiation diaphragm device is performed according to the control signal from the console 3. 4 is irradiated with a predetermined radiation at a predetermined timing.

It should be noted that a control signal for controlling radiation irradiation conditions may be directly transmitted from the console 3 to the radiation source 4.

1 illustrates a case where one radiation source 4 is provided in each of the imaging rooms R1a and R1b, but the number of the radiation sources 4 is not particularly limited. For example, in the case where a plurality of shooting tables such as a shooting table for standing shooting and a shooting table for standing shooting are provided in the shooting rooms R1a and R1b, one each corresponding to each shooting table. A radiation source 4 may be provided.

As shown in FIG. 4, the console 3 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, an input unit 33, a display unit 34, a wireless communication unit 35, a network communication unit 36, etc., each composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Each part is connected by a bus 37.

The storage unit 32 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like (not shown).

The ROM is composed of, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or a semiconductor non-volatile memory, and the ROM performs image processing such as gradation processing and frequency processing based on automatic part recognition for detecting an affected area. In addition to storing various programs such as programs for image processing, image processing parameters for adjusting image data of captured images to an image quality suitable for diagnosis (look-up table defining tone curves used for tone processing, Frequency processing emphasis degree, etc.) are stored.

The RAM forms a work area that temporarily stores various programs, input or output data, parameters, and the like that are read from the ROM and executed by the control unit 31 in various processes that are executed and controlled by the control unit 31. . In the present embodiment, the RAM temporarily stores image data, patient information, and the like received from the image generation device 2.

In the present embodiment, the storage unit 32 stores shooting order information and the like. The storage unit 32 functions as an image data storage unit that temporarily stores the image data transmitted from the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c.

The control unit 31 is a control unit of the console 3 that reads various programs such as a system program and a processing program stored in the ROM, expands them in the RAM, and executes various processes according to the expanded programs.

The control unit 31 is display control means for controlling the display of the display unit 34 so as to display and display an image based on the image data sent from the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c. Further, when the response signal corresponding to the polling signal is transmitted from the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c, the control unit 21 displays on the display unit 34 that the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c are in use. The display of the display unit 34 is controlled.

Further, the control unit 31 functions as an association unit that associates subject information (imaging order information) with image data generated by the detector control unit 21 of the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c.

The input unit 33 includes a keyboard having character input keys, numeric input keys, various function keys, and the like, and a pointing device such as a mouse, and a key pressing signal pressed by the keyboard and an operation signal by the mouse. To the control unit 31 as an input signal.

The input unit 33 functions as subject information input means for inputting subject information (photographing order information) regarding the subject.

Note that subject information (imaging order information) registered in advance from the HIS / RIS 8 may be sent to the console 3. In this case, the network communication unit 36 described later functions as subject information input means.

The display unit 34 includes, for example, a monitor such as a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) or an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and displays various screens in accordance with display signal instructions input from the control unit 31.

A pressure sensitive (resistive film pressure type) touch panel (not shown) in which transparent electrodes are arranged in a grid is formed on the screen of the display unit 34, and the display unit 34 and the input unit 33 are configured integrally. It may be a touch screen. In this case, the touch panel is configured to detect the XY coordinates of the power point pressed with a finger, a touch pen, or the like as a voltage value, and to output the detected position signal to the control unit 31 as an operation signal. The display unit 34 may have a higher definition than a monitor used in a general PC (Personal Computer).

In the present embodiment, the display unit 34 is a display unit that displays an image based on the image data transmitted from the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c.

In addition, the display unit 34 can display a shooting order list based on the shooting order information acquired by input from the input unit 33 or the like. When the user selects arbitrary shooting order information from the shooting order list (selects arbitrary shooting order information from the shooting order list on the screen by using the input unit 33 such as a mouse), the shooting order information is obtained. You can select and enter.

The wireless communication unit 35 transmits / receives information to / from the

detectors

2a, 2b, 2c, etc. via the wireless repeater 5. In the present embodiment, the wireless communication unit 35 functions as a polling communication unit that periodically transmits a polling signal to the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c via the wireless repeater 5.

The network communication unit 36 is configured by a network interface or the like, and transmits / receives data to / from an external device connected to the network N via a switching hub.

In the present embodiment, the external devices connected to the network communication unit 36 of the console 3 via the network N include the HIS / RIS 8, the PACS server 9, the imager 10, and the like, but the external devices connected to the network N are It is not limited to what was illustrated here.

The HIS / RIS 8 provides the imaging order information of the subject related to the imaging to the console 3. The imaging order information includes, for example, patient information such as the name of the patient providing the examination object, information on imaging reservations such as the imaging site, imaging method, type of imaging table (standing position or supine position) used for imaging, etc. Is included. Note that the imaging order information is not limited to that exemplified here, but may include other information, or may be a part of the information exemplified above.

The PACS server 9 stores the image data output from the console 3.

Further, the imager 10 records a radiographic image on an image recording medium such as a film based on the image data output from the console 3 and outputs it.

Next, the operation of the radiation image generation system in this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.

In this embodiment, one console 3 is connected to each of the photographing rooms R1a and R1b. In general, when an operator starts imaging of a patient using one of the imaging rooms R1a and R1b (for example, the imaging room R1a), the operator usually enters the imaging room R1a from the viewpoint of preventing exposure. Shall be able to accommodate only one such patient. In other words, one exposure in the imaging room R1a is for irradiating only one patient.

Therefore, activating the activation switch 22 of any one of the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c (for example, the detector 2a) uses a radiographing room R1a in which the detector 2a is located, and a patient who will be in the future. Means to shoot.

Therefore, if the fact that this detector 2a is activated is displayed on the display unit 34 of the console 3, the other operator cannot use the photographing room R1a, and other vacant photographing rooms (in the above example, say It can be seen that the shooting room R1b) must be selected.

Hereinafter, a case where imaging is performed using any of the

detectors

2a and 2b provided in the imaging room 1a will be described as an example.

As shown in FIG. 5, the wireless communication unit 35 of the console 3 provided corresponding to the photographing room R1a periodically transmits a polling signal to the

detectors

2a and 2b in the photographing room R1a (Step S1). S1), the control unit 31 determines whether a response signal to the polling signal has been transmitted (step S2). If no response signal is transmitted (step S2: NO), a display indicating that neither of the

detectors

2a and 2b in the imaging room R1a is currently used (that the imaging room R1a is unused) is displayed. Thus, the control unit 31 controls the display unit 34 and the like so as to notify the operator (step S3). When all the

detectors

2a and 2b in the photographing room R1a are not used, the console 3 corresponding to the photographing room R1a is also put into a dormant state to inform the operator that the photographing room R1a is not used. You may make it show clearly.

On the other hand, if any of the

detectors

2a and 2b in the photographing room R1a transmits a response signal (step S2: YES) and one of the

detectors

2a and 2b is used, the current photographing is being performed. In order to prevent exposure, a person other than the patient who is the subject of the photographing cannot enter the photographing room R1a. For this reason, even if an unused detector is placed in the photographing room R1a, the control unit 31 displays the name of the detector in use and a display indicating that the photographing room R1a is in use. The unit 34 and the like are controlled (step S4). It should be noted that such a notification function may not be provided, and the operator may check the usage status of the

detectors

2a and 2b in the photographing room R1a as necessary.

Further, when the radiation source 4 is also in a resting state (sleep state), at this timing (step S2), the radiation source 4 corresponding to the activated

detector

2a or 2b is also activated (starts warm-up). The radiation operation device 7 may be instructed to start the radiation source 4 from the console 3.

The operator confirms whether or not the photographing room R1a is unused by confirming an indication that the photographing room is unused or in use, and if it is confirmed that the photographing room is unused, the operator goes to the photographing room R1a. Then, the activation switch 22 of a desired detector (in this embodiment, the case where the detector 2a is selected) is pressed from the

detectors

2a and 2b in the imaging room R1a.

As shown in FIG. 6, the detector control unit 21 of the detector 2a whose activation switch 22 has been pressed controls the power supply from the rechargeable battery 27 so as to supply power to each unit, and activates each unit (step). S11). As a result, the communication unit 25 of the activated detector 2a enters an operating state, receives a polling signal from the console 3 (step S12), and transmits a response signal to the console 3 (step S13).

When the response signal is received from the detector 2a (step S14), the control unit 31 of the console 3 causes the display unit 34 to display an indication that the photographing room R1a is in use (see step S15 and step S3). .

It should be noted that when the start switch 22 is pressed, a shooting start signal indicating that shooting is started is transmitted from the communication unit 25 to the console 3, and the console 3 may be started by this signal. In this case, when the console 3 is activated, a display indicating that the photographing room R1a is in use is displayed, and other operators can confirm that the photographing room R1a is being used. Become.

When the detector 2a is activated, the operator starts photographing, and the detector 2a acquires image data by photographing (step S16). The detector control unit 21 generates thinned image data based on the acquired image data (RAW data) (step S17).

After the photographing, the thinned image data and then the RAW data are wirelessly transmitted as image data from the detector 2a used for photographing to the console 3 provided corresponding to the photographing room. (Step S18). Note that the timing of transmitting the image data is not particularly limited, and the image data may be transmitted collectively after all the imaging of the patient to be imaged is completed or every time imaging is performed.

It should be noted that only the RAW data may be transmitted as image data from the detector 2 a to the console 3 without generating the thinned image data on the detector 2 a side. When only RAW data is transmitted to the console 3 in this way, the thinned image data is generated based on the RAW data on the console 3 side that has received the RAW data. In this case, the console 3 functions as a thinned image data generating unit.

Then, the control unit 31 of the console 3 performs image processing such as performing automatic part recognition processing to determine processing conditions based on the thinned-out image data, or creating a histogram to determine gradation processing conditions (step S19). ), An image based on the thinned image data after the image processing is displayed on the display unit 34 (step S20). Note that image processing may be performed on the RAW data and displayed on the display unit 34. However, since processing time is required, it is preferable to perform image processing after generating thinned-out image data.

When image data is transmitted from the detector 2a (or the detector 2b) every time shooting is performed, the console 3 stores the thinned image data and RAW data that have undergone image processing in the temporary storage folder of the storage unit 32. Save it.

When all shooting is completed, the operator moves to the console 3 and displays an image based on the thinned image data subjected to image processing on the display unit 34 of the console 3 to determine whether or not re-shooting is necessary.

The control unit 31 of the console 3 determines whether or not a re-shooting instruction is input (step S21), and when a re-shooting instruction is input (step S21: YES), re-shooting is performed (step S22). ), It is determined again whether a re-shooting instruction has been input. On the other hand, when the re-shooting instruction is not input (step S21: NO), the control unit 31 performs image processing on the RAW data with the same processing parameters as the thinned image data displayed on the display unit 34 (step S21). S23) The image-processed RAW data is associated with subject information (imaging order information) (step S24).

The control unit 31 transmits the image data associated with the subject information (imaging order information) to the PACS server 9 and the like together with the associated subject information (imaging order information) and stores it. Note that the storage destination of the image data and subject information (imaging order information) is not limited to the PACS server 9.

Further, the control unit 31 transmits the image data to the imager 10 and appropriately outputs it to a recording medium.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, one console 3 is provided for each of the shooting rooms R1a and R1b, and the image data shot in each of the shooting rooms R1a and R1b is the shooting rooms R1a and R1b. And sent to the console 3. In each of the radiographing rooms R1a and R1b, since a plurality of patients cannot be imaged at the same time, a plurality of operators do not perform processing using one console 3 at the same time, and image data and subject information There is no risk of erroneous association with (shooting order information).

Further, in the case of such a processing procedure, even if the order in which the patients come to the imaging rooms R1a and R1b is different from the original schedule, the imaging can be performed in the order of the patients who have come to the imaging rooms R1a and R1b. The operator confirms the name of the patient who has come to the radiographing room R1a, R1b, moves to the console 3 after radiography, and selects the patient name to be associated from the radiographing order list, and performs the association without error Therefore, it is possible to respond to the occasional changes in the order of arrival of patients, and to perform imaging efficiently.

Further, when a plurality of

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c are provided in the imaging rooms R1a and R1b, pre-registration that specifies the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c to be used by performing an imaging order in advance on the console 3 In the case of this technique, it may not be clear which

detector

2a, 2b, 2c has been ordered for imaging from the console 3. In this case, if photographing is performed using the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c that are different from the erroneously designated ones, the image data and subject information (imaging order information) generated by the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c. Cannot be associated with each other, and it is necessary to start again from the selection of the shooting order.

In this regard, according to the flow as in the present embodiment, the operator can select the

optimum detectors

2a, 2b, 2c by his / her own judgment, so that image data is generated by the

erroneous detectors

2a, 2b, 2c. It is possible to prevent the image data and the subject information (shooting order information) from being associated with each other.

Furthermore, power can be supplied from the rechargeable battery 27 only at the time of shooting, and the communication unit 25 can be kept in a completely inactive state when not in use, so that power consumption is minimized and the charge cycle of the rechargeable battery 27 is prolonged. It can be a period.

In the present embodiment, the detector control unit 21 of the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c is configured to generate the thinned image data from the RAW data. However, the functional unit that generates the thinned image data is the detector control unit 21. It does not have to be. For example, only RAW data may be transmitted from the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c to the console 3, and the thinned image data may be generated by the control unit 31 of the console 3.

In this embodiment, the control unit 31 of the console 3 performs automatic part recognition and image processing. However, these processes are performed by the detector control unit 21 of the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c. Also good.

Further, the radiation operating device 7 may be configured to perform processing for generating thinned image data from RAW data and various image processing.

Note that a cradle (not shown) that holds the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c may be provided in the imaging rooms R1a and R1b. In this case, the rechargeable battery 27 of the

detectors

2a, 2b, 2c may be charged or communicated with an external device through the cradle.

In the present embodiment, the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c are described as an example of an indirect conversion type FPD that includes scintillators and the like, but the

detectors

2a, 2b, and 2c are indirect conversions. It is not limited to the FPD of the system. For example, an amorphous selenium (a-Se) layer that absorbs radiation and converts the radiation into electric charge is provided, and radiation photons are drawn into the a-Se layer at a high voltage, so that It may be a direct conversion FPD that directly converts radiation energy into an amount of electric charge (converts it into an electrical signal).

In addition, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to this embodiment and can be changed as appropriate.

Claims

A radiation image generation system used in a radiographing room, comprising at least one radiation generator for irradiating a subject with radiation, and wireless relay means,
A radiation image detection means for detecting radiation generated by the radiation generation apparatus and transmitted through the subject; a radiation image data generation means for generating radiation image data based on a detection result of the radiation image detection means; and an external device A communication unit that wirelessly transmits and receives information, a power supply unit that supplies power to each unit, a start switch for an operator to input a start instruction, and at least the radiation image detection by an input operation from the start switch And a start control means for performing start control for starting the communication means, the radiological image detection means started by the start control of the start control means, and a time measuring means for measuring an elapsed time after the start of the communication means, When the radiation image detecting means does not operate even if the elapsed time counted by the time measuring means is a predetermined time or more, Power supply control means for controlling the power supply means so as to stop power supply to each unit from the power supply means, and storage means capable of storing the radiation image data generated by the radiation image data generation means At least one portable cassette-type radiation image detector;
Polling communication means capable of wirelessly communicating with the cassette type radiation image detector via the wireless relay means, and periodically transmitting a polling signal to the cassette type radiation image detector via the wireless relay means. A console having display means for displaying an image based on radiation image data transmitted from the cassette-type radiation image detector, and display control means for controlling display of the display means,
With
The communication means of the cassette type radiation image detector is in a state capable of receiving a polling signal from the polling communication means at the time of activation, and transmits a response signal in response thereto when the polling signal is received. Is,
When the console display control means receives the response signal sent from the cassette type radiation image detector, the display means displays on the display means that the cassette type radiation image detector is in use. A radiation image generation system for controlling display of the display means.
A radiation image generation system used in a radiographing room, comprising at least one radiation generator for irradiating a subject with radiation, and wireless relay means,
A radiation image detection means for detecting radiation generated by the radiation generation apparatus and transmitted through the subject; a radiation image data generation means for generating radiation image data based on a detection result of the radiation image detection means; and an external device A communication unit that wirelessly transmits and receives information, a power supply unit that supplies power to each unit, a start switch for an operator to input a start instruction, and at least the radiation image detection by an input operation from the start switch And a start control means for performing start control for starting the communication means, the radiological image detection means started by the start control of the start control means, and a time measuring means for measuring an elapsed time after the start of the communication means, When the radiation image detecting means does not operate even if the elapsed time counted by the time measuring means is a predetermined time or more, Power supply control means for controlling the power supply means so as to stop power supply to each unit from the power supply means, and storage means capable of storing the radiation image data generated by the radiation image data generation means At least one portable cassette-type radiation image detector;
Display means for displaying an image based on radiation image data transmitted from the cassette type radiation image detector, wirelessly communicable with the cassette type radiation image detector via the wireless relay means, and the radiation image data Image data storage means for temporarily storing, subject information input means for inputting subject information relating to the subject, the subject information input by the subject information input means, and the radiation generated by the radiation image data generation means A console having association means for associating the image data;
A radiation image generation system comprising:
The cassette type radiation image detector further includes a thinned image data generating means for generating thinned image data from the RAW data of the radiation image data,
The said communication means transmits the raw data of the said radiographic image data, and the thinned image data produced | generated by the said thinned image data production | generation means to the said console, The Claim 1 characterized by the above-mentioned. The radiation image generation system according to claim 2.
The communication means transmits RAW data of the radiation image data to the console,
The said console is provided with the thinned-out image data production | generation means which produces | generates thinned-out image data from the RAW data of the received said radiographic image data, The Claim 1 or Claim 2 characterized by the above-mentioned. Radiation image generation system.
The said display means of the said console displays the image based on the raw data of the said radiographic image data, and the image based on the said thinning-out image data, The Claim 3 or Claim 4 characterized by the above-mentioned. The radiation image generating system described in 1.
The radiographic image generation according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a plurality of the imaging rooms are arranged and a plurality of the cassette type radiographic image detectors are provided. system.
A radiographic image generation system comprising at least one radiation generator that irradiates a subject with radiation in each of a plurality of radiographing rooms and a wireless relay unit,
A radiation image detection means for detecting radiation generated by the radiation generation apparatus and transmitted through the subject; a radiation image data generation means for generating radiation image data based on a detection result of the radiation image detection means; and an external device A communication unit that wirelessly transmits and receives information; a power supply unit that supplies power to each of the units; a start switch for an operator to input a start instruction; and at least the radiation image by an input operation from the start switch An activation control means for performing activation control for activating the detection means and the communication means; and a timing means for measuring an elapsed time since activation of the radiation image detection means and the communication means by activation control by the activation control means; When the radiation image detecting means does not operate even if the elapsed time counted by the time measuring means is a predetermined time or more The power supply control means for controlling the power supply means so as to stop the power supply to each part from the power supply means, and the storage means capable of storing the obtained radiation image data, at least one portable type Cassette type radiation image detector,
Display means capable of wirelessly communicating with the cassette type radiation image detector via the wireless relay means, and displaying an image based on the radiation image data transmitted from the cassette type radiation image detector, and the radiation image data Image data storage means for temporarily storing the subject information input means for inputting subject information relating to the subject, the subject information input by the subject information input means and the radiation image data generation means A console having association means for associating radiation image data;
For each of the plurality of radiographing rooms.