JP2002014170A - Input device for x-ray image - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a small and light-weight X-ray image input device, while enhancing its load and impact resistance and the like. SOLUTION: A support plate 4 for supporting an X-ray image detection panel 1 is designed, so that even if the load of the subject (patient) for imaging is applied to a casing lid, causing deformation of the lid and then applied to a sensor substrate 1c during X-ray imaging, the support plate 4 is not sufficiently strong to cause breaking deflection of the sensor substrate 1c. A circuit board 5, having electronic components 5a mounted thereon for use in signal processing, is folded and installed between the back of the support plate 4 and the casing body 2 for making the size compact. The panel 1, fixedly adhered to the support plate 4, is secured within the casing 2 by means of the bottom face of the casing body 2 and the support plate legs 4b of the support plate 4. A space is provided between the panel 1 and the casing lid 3. The space absorbs impacts, coming from the outside of an electronic cassette.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an X-ray image input device, and more particularly to an X-ray image input device capable of improving a load resistance, an impact resistance, a vibration resistance characteristic, etc., and realizing a light or small size to obtain a good image. The present invention relates to a possible X-ray image input device.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, for X-ray photography, a film screen system combining an intensifying screen and an X-ray photographic film is often used. According to this method, the X-ray transmitted through the subject contains internal information of the subject, which is converted into visible light in proportion to the intensity of the X-ray by the intensifying screen, exposing the X-ray photographic film to the X-ray image, Is formed on the film.

[0003] However, such a film method has a problem that it takes time and effort since a film development process is required before a doctor obtains an X-ray image of a patient.

[0004] Further, the photographed X-ray image film needs to be stored for a certain period of time in a hospital or a general clinic.
The number of such films was enormous, and there was a major problem in terms of management.

[0005] In view of the above problems, and with the recent advance in technology, the medical industry is increasingly demanding X-ray image information using electric signals.

That is, an X-ray image pickup device that converts X-rays into visible light in proportion to the intensity of the X-rays by a phosphor and converts the converted light into an electric signal using a photoelectric conversion element has begun to be used.

FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram showing a stationary X-ray digital imaging apparatus. Conventionally, this type of imaging apparatus has been installed and used in an X-ray imaging room or the like. In recent years, a small and lightweight portable X-ray digital imaging apparatus has been used in order to enable more rapid and wide-area imaging. (Electronic cassette) has been required.

An imaging apparatus used for such X-ray photography or the like includes a fluorescent plate for converting X-rays into visible light, a photoelectric conversion element for converting the visible light into an electric signal, and a photoelectric conversion element formed thereon. And a base for supporting the substrate,
It is composed of a circuit board and wiring on which electronic components for processing photoelectrically converted electric signals are mounted, and a housing for accommodating them.

FIG. 5 is a sectional view of a conventional portable X-ray digital radiographing apparatus. Reference numeral 1 denotes an X-ray image detection panel, which is basically a fluorescent screen 1a, a photoelectric conversion element 1b, and a substrate 1
c.

As the substrate 1c of the photoelectric conversion element 1b, a glass plate is often used because of the necessity of having no chemical action with the semiconductor element, withstanding the temperature of the semiconductor process, and dimensional stability.

The fluorescent plate 1a is obtained by applying a phosphor of a metal compound to a resin plate, and is integrated with the photoelectric conversion element 1b by bonding to the substrate 1c. When the photoelectric conversion element 1b is required to have moisture resistance, the phosphor plate 1a and the photoelectric conversion element 1b may be hermetically sealed with a moisture-impermeable and X-ray transparent film.

These are adhered and fixed to the base 4 as an X-ray image detection panel 1 via a spacer 4a.

Reference numeral 5 denotes a circuit board on which an electronic component 5a for processing a photoelectrically converted electric signal is mounted. The circuit board 5 is connected to the photoelectric conversion element 1b by a flexible circuit board 6.

These are fixed to the housing body 2 and further sealed by an X-ray transmissive housing cover 3 to form an X-ray image pickup device.

[0015]

However, the above-mentioned conventional portable X-ray digital photographing apparatus is required to be small and light because it is carried by human hands.
At the time of X-ray imaging, a part of the load of a subject (patient) is applied to the housing lid, and the housing may be deformed to destroy the internal X-ray image detection panel. Therefore, the base 4, the housing 2, the housing lid 3, and the like are rigidly provided for the purpose of protecting the substrate 1 b from impact, vibration, drop, and the like applied during transportation, and for preventing deformation due to the load applied during X-ray imaging. It had to be structured.

Further, in order to prevent the case lid from contacting the X-ray image detection panel due to the deformation of the case lid and to damage them, or in the worst case, to protect them from destruction, the case lid and the X-ray image detecting panel are protected. For example, it is necessary to increase the distance between the image sensor and the line image detection panel (fluorescent plate), which hinders downsizing and weight reduction of the imaging apparatus.

Furthermore, if the distance between the housing lid and the X-ray image detection panel is increased, X-rays may be scattered or attenuated between them, resulting in a disadvantage that a good X-ray image cannot be obtained. I was

Further, when the thickness is increased to strengthen the housing lid, X-rays are absorbed, which hinders obtaining a good image.

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a small and lightweight X-ray image input device which improves load resistance, impact resistance, and the like. Another object of the present invention is to obtain a better X-ray image using the X-ray image input device.

[0020]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a two-dimensional photoelectric conversion element on a substrate and a wavelength converter for converting X-rays into a wavelength in a photosensitive wavelength range of the photoelectric conversion element. An X-ray image input apparatus comprising: an X-ray image detection panel having a body; a support member that supports the X-ray image detection panel; and a housing that houses the X-ray image detection panel and the support member. An external static load is transmitted to the X-ray image detection panel, and an impact load is not transmitted to the X-ray image detection panel.

Further, the X-ray image input apparatus of the present invention has an X-ray image sensor having a two-dimensional photoelectric conversion element on a substrate and a wavelength converter for converting the X-ray into a wavelength in a photosensitive wavelength range of the photoelectric conversion element. An X-ray image input apparatus comprising: an image detection panel; a support member that supports the X-ray image detection panel; and a housing that houses the X-ray image detection panel and the support member. The shock is absorbed by the support member, and the impact load is absorbed by a gap between the X-ray image detection panel and the housing.

Further, an X-ray image input apparatus according to the present invention comprises a photoelectric conversion apparatus having a two-dimensional photoelectric conversion element provided on a substrate, and a wavelength for converting X-rays into a wavelength in a photosensitive wavelength range of the photoelectric conversion element. An X-ray image input apparatus having a conversion body, a housing that houses the photoelectric conversion device and the wavelength conversion body, and a support member that supports the photoelectric conversion device in the housing, wherein the support member is A cushioning member capable of absorbing deformation of the photoelectric conversion device, and a shock absorber between the housing and the photoelectric conversion device.

[0023]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a first embodiment of the present invention.
It is sectional drawing of a line image input device. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1a denotes a fluorescent plate as an example of a wavelength converter, 1b denotes a two-dimensional photoelectric conversion element, 1c denotes a substrate such as glass, and these are integrated by bonding or the like. Has formed.

Reference numeral 4 denotes a support plate for supporting the X-ray image detection panel 1, which is bonded and fixed via a spacer 4a.

When the X-ray image is taken, the supporting plate 4 supports the sensor substrate even when the load of the subject (patient) is applied to the housing lid and the housing lid is deformed and the load is applied to the sensor substrate. By designing the thickness, material, and shape of the support plate and the distance between the legs of the support plate so as to be less than the breaking deflection of the glass substrate, damage to the sensor substrate due to the load of the subject is prevented.

The sensor substrate used in this embodiment is OA-2 manufactured by NEC Corporation. The photoelectric conversion element 1b was formed on this substrate, and the amount of flexure at break of the sensor substrate was determined by an experiment while applying a load to the center while holding four sides of 300 × 300 mm size.

Further, the breaking stress at the time of breaking the sensor substrate was calculated from the calculated amount of bending deflection of the sensor substrate and the Young's modulus of the sensor substrate of 7000 kg / mm ² .

In the present embodiment, the breaking stress of the sensor substrate was calculated to be 4 kgf / mm ² . The thickness, material and shape of the support plate, and the distance between the legs of the support plate are designed so as to be less than the stress.

As a result, the 250.times.
100kg subject (patient) on 300mm sensor board
Even if a load is applied, the material of the support plate is a magnesium alloy (Young's modulus 4500 kg / mm) and the thickness is 4
mm, support plate leg spacing 50 mm, leg size φ10 mm
The design prevents damage to the sensor substrate.

The above materials and dimensions can be changed depending on the purpose, and do not adhere to the above conditions.
For example, in order to reduce the thickness of the device, it is conceivable to use a material having a high Young's modulus and reduce the thickness. If there is no need to secure a space for other components under the support plate, the distance between the support legs can be reduced to reduce the thickness of the support plate, or a material having a low Young's modulus can be used.

Reference numeral 6 denotes a flexible circuit board for extracting a signal from the photoelectric conversion element, and reference numeral 5 denotes a circuit board on which electronic components 5a used for signal processing are mounted. It is folded between the rear side and the housing body 2 and is installed on the support plate 4 on the opposite side of the sensor substrate.

Further, the X-ray image detecting panel 1 bonded and fixed to the support plate 4 is fixed inside the housing 2 by the bottom surface of the housing main body 2 and the support plate legs 4b of the support plate 4.

The housing body 2 and the housing lid 3 need to have a load-carrying performance and an X-ray transmission performance as described above, and also need to be lightweight.

For this reason, a metal material and a material such as CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced resin) are used in combination. In the present embodiment, the housing body 2 is made of a magnesium alloy as a material having a high elastic modulus and a small specific gravity. , Housing lid 3
Uses CFRP having high X-ray transmittance.

A space is provided between the X-ray image detection panel 1 and the housing lid 3. This space can absorb an impact from outside the electronic cassette.

As shown in FIG. 1, in the X-ray imaging apparatus having the above-mentioned structure, the load of the subject (patient) is applied to the housing lid 3, but the support plate is not more than the breaking stress of the sensor substrate. The design absorbs the static load of the subject, and the space between the X-ray image detection panel and the housing lid absorbs the shock from outside the apparatus. [Second Embodiment] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the present invention.
It is sectional drawing of a line image input device. In FIG. 2, reference numeral 7 denotes a buffer member, which is disposed between the X-ray image detection panel 1 and the housing lid 3. By using this cushioning member, it is possible to absorb an impact from outside the electronic cassette without increasing the thickness of the space, that is, without increasing the outer shape of the device.

Since the cushioning member is a sheet-like member made of foamed silicone resin, the X-ray transmittance is not reduced, and the thickness of the space between the X-ray image detection panel and the housing lid is reduced. Have achieved.

As shown in FIG. 2, in the X-ray imaging apparatus having the above-described structure, the load of the subject (patient) is applied to the housing lid 3, but the support plate is not more than the breaking stress of the sensor substrate. The design absorbs the static load of the subject, and the cushioning member between the X-ray image detection panel and the housing lid absorbs the shock from outside the apparatus. [Third Embodiment] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a third embodiment of the present invention.
It is sectional drawing of a line image input device. In FIG. 3, reference numeral 4c denotes a cushioning member for the support plate leg, which protects the X-ray image detection panel and the circuit board from an impact applied from outside the housing.

If the cushioning member of the supporting plate leg is soft, the effect of absorbing shock is increased, but the X-ray detection panel and the circuit board may be violent inside the housing, or a static load may be applied to the housing. In consideration of the above, a hardened and physically stable silicone resin having a rubber hardness of 50 or more was employed.

As described above, by providing a gap or a cushioning member between the X-ray detection panel and the housing and further providing a cushioning member between the support plate and the housing, X-rays can be prevented from being applied from outside the housing. The configuration is such that the effect of protecting the line detection panel and the circuit board can be further expected.

[0041]

According to the present invention described above, it is possible to provide an X-ray image input apparatus which is small, lightweight, excellent in portability, and can obtain a good X-ray image.

Specifically, at the time of X-ray imaging, the load of the subject (patient) is applied to the housing lid, the housing lid is deformed, and even if the load is applied to the X-ray image detection panel, the X-ray image detection panel is not operated. The X-ray image detection panel can be prevented from being damaged by designing the thickness, material, shape, and spacing of the support plate legs of the support plate so that the support plate to be supported is equal to or less than the breaking deflection of the glass substrate.

Also, when a drop impact or the like applied during transportation is provided between the X-ray image detection panel and the housing, the impact is absorbed by the gap.
Damage can also be prevented.

Also, at the time of X-ray imaging, the distance between the subject (patient) and the X-ray image pickup panel is the shortest, and even if the housing lid is deformed by the load of the subject, the X-ray image detection panel is Since the distance is always kept constant because it is displaced together with the subject on the housing lid, X-ray scattering and attenuation can be minimized, and a better X-ray image can be obtained.

Since there is no need to make the housing lid thick, X
The linear absorptivity can be kept low, and a good image can be obtained.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view showing a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view showing a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram of a conventional stationary X-ray digital imaging apparatus.

FIG. 5 is a conventional portable X-ray imaging apparatus (electronic cassette).
FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 X-ray image detection panel 1a Fluorescent plate 1b Photoelectric conversion element 1c Sensor board (glass substrate) 2 Housing main body 3 Housing lid 4 Base support plate 4b Support plate leg 4c Buffer member of support plate leg 5 Circuit board 5a Electronic component 6 Flexible circuit board 7 Buffer member 10 Load

Continued on the front page F term (reference) 2G088 FF02 GG20 JJ05 JJ09 4E360 AB12 AB51 GA12 GA14 GB99 GC04 GC08 5C024 AX12 CX00 CY49 EX22 EX24 GX02 GX09

Claims (11)

[Claims] An X-ray image detection panel having a two-dimensional photoelectric conversion element on a substrate and a wavelength converter for converting X-rays to a wavelength in a photosensitive wavelength range of the photoelectric conversion element, and an X-ray image detection panel for the X-ray image detection panel. In an X-ray image input apparatus having a support member for supporting a panel and a housing for accommodating the X-ray image detection panel and the support member, a static load from outside the apparatus is transmitted to the X-ray image detection panel, and an impact load is applied. An X-ray image input device having a structure not transmitted to an X-ray image detection panel. 2. An X-ray image detection panel having, on a substrate, a two-dimensional photoelectric conversion element and a wavelength converter for converting X-rays into a wavelength in a photosensitive wavelength region of the photoelectric conversion element, and detecting the X-ray image. In an X-ray image input apparatus having a support member for supporting a panel and a housing for accommodating the X-ray image detection panel and the support member, a stress due to a static load is absorbed by the support member, and an impact load is X. An X-ray image input device characterized by absorbing light in a gap between a line image detection panel and a housing. 3. The X-ray image input device according to claim 1, wherein the support member has a structure that does not exceed the bending deflection of the X-ray image detection panel even when a static load is applied. 4. The X-ray image input device according to claim 2, wherein the support member has a structure that does not exceed the breaking deflection of the X-ray image detection panel even when a static load is applied. 5. The X-ray image input device according to claim 1, wherein a buffer member is provided between the X-ray image detection panel and the housing. 6. The X-ray image input device according to claim 2, wherein a buffer member is provided between the X-ray image detection panel and the housing. 7. The X-ray image input device according to claim 1, wherein a buffer member is provided between the support member and the housing. 8. The X-ray image input device according to claim 2, wherein a buffer member is provided between the support member and the housing. 9. The X-ray image input device according to claim 5, wherein the buffer member is a member obtained by foaming a resin. 10. The X-ray image input device according to claim 7, wherein said buffer member is made of a material made of silicone resin. 11. A photoelectric conversion device having a two-dimensional photoelectric conversion element provided on a substrate; a wavelength converter for converting X-rays into a wavelength in a photosensitive wavelength region of the photoelectric conversion element; An X-ray image input apparatus comprising: a housing for accommodating a wavelength converter; and a support member for supporting the photoelectric conversion device in the housing, wherein the support member has a buffer capable of absorbing deformation of the photoelectric conversion device. An X-ray image input device comprising: a member; and a shock absorber between the housing and the photoelectric conversion device.