JP2002156714A - Image-forming method and image-forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image-forming method and an image-forming device, capable of forming an image having a sufficient dynamic range by reading a transmissible original and a reflective original, in addition to fluorescent image. SOLUTION: In this image-forming method, an image is formed based on image data, by irradiating an original 60 where a visible image is recorded with stimulating light 4, photoelectrically detecting fluorescence and forming the image data.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image generating method and an image generating apparatus.
The present invention relates to an image generating method and an image generating apparatus capable of reading a transparent original and a reflective original in addition to a fluorescent image and generating an image having a sufficient dynamic range.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art When irradiated with radiation, the energy of the radiation is absorbed, stored, recorded, and then excited using electromagnetic waves in a specific wavelength range. A stimulable phosphor having a characteristic of emitting a stimulating amount of radiated light is used as a radiation detecting material, and a substance provided with a radioactive label is administered to an organism, and then the organism or a tissue of the organism is treated. A part is used as a sample, and this sample is overlapped with a stimulable phosphor sheet provided with a stimulable phosphor layer for a certain period of time, so that radiation energy is accumulated and recorded on the stimulable phosphor, and thereafter, Scanning the stimulable phosphor layer with an electromagnetic wave to excite the stimulable phosphor, photoelectrically detecting the stimulable light emitted from the stimulable phosphor, and generating a digital image signal. , Image processing and CRT On a recording material such as a display unit or on a photographic film, configured autoradiographic image detecting system to reproduce an image has been known (for example, Kokoku 1-60784 and JP Kokoku 1-
No. 60782, Japanese Patent Publication No. 4-3952).

[0003] An autoradiographic image detection system using a stimulable phosphor sheet as an image detection material includes:
Unlike the case of using a photographic film, not only the chemical processing of development processing is unnecessary, but also by performing image processing on the obtained image data, an image can be reproduced as desired, or a computer can be used. This has the advantage that quantitative analysis can be performed.

[0004] On the other hand, a fluorescence image detection (fluorescence) system using a fluorescent substance as a labeling substance instead of a radioactive labeling substance in an autoradiography system is known. According to this system, by reading a fluorescent image, gene sequence, gene expression level, separation and identification of protein, or evaluation of molecular weight and properties can be performed. After adding a fluorescent dye to the solution containing the fragments, a plurality of DNA fragments are electrophoresed on a gel support,
Alternatively, a plurality of DNA fragments are electrophoresed on a gel support containing a fluorescent dye,
After the fragments are electrophoresed on the gel support, the gel support is immersed in a solution containing a fluorescent dye to label the electrophoresed DNA fragment, and the fluorescent dye is excited by excitation light. Then, an image is generated by detecting the generated fluorescence to detect the distribution of the DNA on the gel support, or after a plurality of DNA fragments are electrophoresed on the gel support, Then, at least a portion of the denatured DNA fragment is transcribed onto a transfer support such as nitrocellulose by Southern blotting, and DNA or RNA complementary to the target DNA is converted to a fluorescent dye. The probe prepared by labeling with the above is hybridized with the denatured DNA fragment, and the probe DNA
Alternatively, only the DNA fragment complementary to the probe RNA is selectively labeled, and the excitation light excites the fluorescent dye,
By detecting the generated fluorescence, an image can be generated and the distribution of the target DNA on the transfer support can be detected. Further, a DNA probe complementary to the DNA containing the target gene labeled with the labeling substance is prepared, hybridized with the DNA on the transcription support, and the enzyme is reacted with the complementary DNA labeled with the labeling substance. After binding, it is brought into contact with a fluorescent substrate to convert the fluorescent substrate into a fluorescent substance that emits fluorescence, excites the generated fluorescent substance with excitation light, and detects the generated fluorescence to generate an image. However, the distribution of the target DNA on the transcription support can also be detected. This fluorescence image detection system is simple, without using radioactive materials,
There is an advantage that a gene sequence or the like can be detected.

[0005]

The fluorescent image detection system, like the autoradiography image detection system,
Since it is intended for biochemical analysis, it is convenient for the fluorescence image reader to be able to read autoradiographic images, and it is common for fluorescence image detection systems and autoradiography image detection systems. An image reading device that can be used by using the same has been developed.

[0006] Similarly, a fluorescent image reading apparatus for reading an image of a fluorescent substance such as a fluorescent dye contained in a gel support or a transfer support is conventionally used for an autoradiography recorded on an X-ray film. For example, in order to specify an image or a sample, a gel manuscript, a reflective manuscript recorded with visible data affixed to a transfer support, etc. can be read, and the usefulness of the image reading apparatus is further improved. However, since the fluorescent image reading apparatus is provided with an excitation light cut filter that cuts the excitation light in the optical path of the emitted fluorescent light when the fluorescent substance is excited by the excitation light, the reflection plate is provided behind the X-ray film. Provided that even if the reflected light transmitted through the X-ray film and reflected by the reflecting plate or the reflected light reflected from the reflecting original is photoelectrically detected by the photodetector, It could not produce an image having a dynamic range.

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an image generating method and an image generating apparatus capable of reading a transparent original and a reflective original in addition to a fluorescent image and generating an image having a sufficient dynamic range. It is assumed that.

[0008]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The object of the present invention is as follows.
A document on which a visible image is recorded is irradiated with excitation light, fluorescence is detected photoelectrically, image data is generated, and an image is generated based on the image data. Achieved.

According to the present invention, an original on which a visible image is recorded is irradiated with excitation light, fluorescence is photoelectrically detected, image data is generated, and an image is generated based on the image data. Therefore, unlike the case where the reflected light is detected photoelectrically and an image is generated, even if an excitation light cut filter is provided in the image generating apparatus in order to read the fluorescence image,
It is possible to read a transmission original and a reflection original and generate an image having a sufficient dynamic range.

In the present invention, a visible image is defined to include not only an image but also visible information such as characters.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a fluorescent plate which emits fluorescence when irradiated with excitation light is superimposed on a light transmitting material, behind a transparent original on which a visible image is recorded, The transmission original is irradiated with excitation light, the fluorescent plate is excited by the excitation light through the transmission original, and the fluorescence emitted from the fluorescent plate is photoelectrically detected through the transmission original to obtain an image. By generating data, an image is generated.

According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fluorescent plate is excited by the excitation light through the transparent original and the fluorescent light emitted from the fluorescent plate is photoelectrically detected to generate image data. Even if the image generating apparatus is provided with an excitation light cut filter for reading a fluorescent image, it is possible to read a transparent original and generate an image having a sufficient dynamic range.

Further, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the excitation light is applied to the fluorescent plate via the transparent original,
Since the fluorescent light emitted from the fluorescent plate is photoelectrically detected through the transmission original and image data is generated, the image data is generated at a density gradation that is about twice the density gradation of the image recorded on the transmission original. Therefore, even when the contrast of an image recorded on a transparent original is low, an image with enhanced contrast can be generated, and an image that is easy to observe can be generated.

In a further preferred aspect of the present invention, the fluorescent plate contains a fluorescent dye.

[0015] In still another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fluorescent plate includes a fluorescent layer containing a fluorescent dye.

In a further preferred aspect of the present invention, the fluorescent plate is irradiated with excitation light in advance, and the fluorescence emitted from the fluorescent plate is photoelectrically detected to generate correction data. Irradiating the fluorescent plate superimposed on the back of the transmission original with excitation light, photoelectrically detecting the fluorescent light emitted from the fluorescent plate, and correcting the generated image data using the correction data. By generating image data, an image is generated.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the excitation light is irradiated in advance, the fluorescence emitted from the fluorescent plate is photoelectrically detected, correction data is generated, and the transmission original and the rear of the transmission original are generated. The fluorescent plate superimposed on the, irradiating the excitation light, the fluorescence emitted from the fluorescent plate is detected photoelectrically, the generated image data, using the correction data,
Since the correction is performed, an image without unevenness can be generated even when fluorescence is not uniformly emitted from the fluorescent plate when the excitation light is irradiated.

In a further preferred aspect of the present invention, the transparent document and the fluorescent plate superposed behind the transparent document are irradiated with excitation light, and the fluorescent light emitted from the fluorescent plate is detected photoelectrically. Then, the image is generated by correcting the gradation of the generated image data so as to be approximately 、 and generating the image data.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, when it is required to faithfully reproduce an image recorded on a transparent original, the gradation of the image data is corrected and recorded on the transparent original. An image can be generated faithfully in the contrast of the image.

In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a reflection document in which a visible image is recorded on a light-reflecting material is irradiated with excitation light, and fluorescence emitted from the reflection document is detected photoelectrically. Then, an image is generated by generating image data.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, a reflection original on which a visible image is recorded is irradiated with excitation light on a light-reflecting material, so that the reflection original is contained in paper or plastic which is a base material of the reflection original. Excitation of the fluorescent material, and photoelectrically detecting the fluorescent light emitted from the fluorescent material to generate image data, which is different from the case where the reflected light is detected photoelectrically to generate an image. Thus, even if the image generating apparatus is provided with an excitation light cut filter for reading a fluorescent image, it is possible to read a reflective original and generate an image having a sufficient dynamic range.

[0022] The object of the present invention is also to provide at least one excitation light source for emitting excitation light, a stage on which an image carrier on which an image is recorded is mounted, and an excitation light emitted from the at least one excitation light source. A photodetector that receives the irradiation and photoelectrically detects fluorescence emitted from the image carrier, and excitation light emitted from the at least one excitation light source, which is located in an optical path of the fluorescence emitted from the image carrier. An image generating apparatus provided with an excitation light cut filter means for cutting off an image carrier, wherein the stage is configured so that an image carrier on which a visible image is recorded can be placed. .

According to the present invention, by mounting an image carrier on which a visible image is recorded on a stage, irradiating with excitation light emitted from at least one excitation light source, and photoelectrically detecting fluorescence. Since the image data can be generated and the image can be generated based on the image data, unlike the case where the reflected light is photoelectrically detected and the image is generated, the image is read in order to read the fluorescent image. Even if the generating device is provided with the excitation light cut filter, it is possible to read a transparent original and a reflective original and generate an image having a sufficient dynamic range.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the image generating apparatus further comprises a scanning mechanism for scanning the image carrier by the excitation light emitted from the at least one excitation light source, and a scanning mechanism emitted from the image carrier. An optical system that guides the emitted fluorescence to the photodetector.

In a further preferred aspect of the present invention, the scanning mechanism moves the optical system with respect to the stage so that excitation light emitted from the at least one excitation light source causes the optical system to move on the image carrier. Are configured to be scanned.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, when the stage is irradiated with excitation light, a fluorescent plate which emits fluorescent light is superposed on a light-transmitting material on an image carrier on which a visible image is recorded. In addition, it is configured to be mountable.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, when the stage is irradiated with excitation light, a fluorescent plate which emits fluorescent light is superimposed on a light transmitting material on an image carrier having a visible image recorded thereon. In addition, since it is configured to be mountable, a fluorescent plate is superimposed behind the image carrier on which the visible image is recorded, and the image carrier is irradiated with excitation light by irradiating the image carrier with excitation light. The image data is generated by photoelectrically detecting the excited and emitted fluorescent light from the fluorescent plate via the image carrier by the photodetector, so that the excitation light cut filter means for cutting the excitation light is provided. However, it is possible to read a visible image recorded on an image carrier made of a material that transmits light and generate an image having a sufficient dynamic range.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the excitation light is applied to the fluorescent plate via an image carrier made of a light transmitting material, and the fluorescent light emitted from the fluorescent plate transmits the light. Since the image data is generated by being photoelectrically detected by the photodetector through the image carrier made of the material and the image data is generated, the image data is obtained by the density level of the image recorded on the image carrier made of the light transmitting material. A contrast-enhanced image, even if the image recorded on an image carrier made of a light-transmitting material has a low contrast, which is about twice as high as the tone. It is possible to generate an image that is easy to observe.

[0029] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fluorescent plate contains a fluorescent dye.

In still another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fluorescent plate has a fluorescent layer containing a fluorescent dye.

[0031] In a further preferred aspect of the present invention, the image generating device further irradiates the fluorescent plate with excitation light emitted from the at least one excitation light source,
Based on image data obtained by photoelectrically detecting the fluorescence emitted from the fluorescent plate, based on image data, a correction data generating unit that generates correction data, a material that transmits light, the image carrier on which a visible image is recorded, An image generated by irradiating excitation light emitted from the at least one excitation light source, exciting the fluorescent plate via the image carrier, and detecting the emitted fluorescence photoelectrically by the photodetector. There is provided an image data correcting means for correcting data with the correction data generated by the correction data generating means to generate image data.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the image generating apparatus further irradiates the fluorescent plate with excitation light emitted from at least one excitation light source, and photoelectrically detects the fluorescent light emitted from the fluorescent plate. And a correction data generating means for generating correction data based on the image data obtained in the step (a). Further, an excitation light emitted from at least one excitation light source is provided on an image carrier on which a visible image is recorded on a light transmitting material. By irradiating light, the fluorescent plate is excited via the image carrier, the emitted fluorescence is photoelectrically detected by the photodetector, and the image data generated by the correction data generated by the correction data generating unit is used. And image data correcting means for correcting and generating image data, so that it is irradiated with excitation light, and based on image data obtained by photoelectrically detecting fluorescence emitted from the fluorescent plate. In this case, the correction data is generated in advance by the correction data generating means, and the excitation light is applied to the fluorescent plate superimposed on the image carrier through the image carrier made of a light-transmitting material, and emitted from the fluorescent plate. The fluorescent light is photoelectrically detected through an image carrier made of a material that transmits light, and the generated image data can be corrected by the image data correcting unit using the correction data. Even when fluorescent light is not uniformly emitted from the fluorescent plate when light is irradiated, it is possible to generate an image without unevenness.

[0033] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the image generating apparatus further comprises: a light-transmitting material;
Irradiate the excitation light emitted from the two excitation light sources, via the image carrier, the fluorescent plate is excited, the emitted fluorescence, the photodetector photoelectrically detected image data generated, There is provided a gradation correcting means for correcting the gradation so as to be approximately ２.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, an image carrier having a visible image recorded on a light-transmitting material is irradiated with excitation light emitted from at least one excitation light source, and is irradiated through the image carrier. And a tone correction means for correcting image data generated by the photodetector photoelectrically detecting the emitted fluorescent light when the fluorescent plate is excited so that the tone is reduced to approximately 1/2. Therefore, when it is required to faithfully reproduce an image recorded on an image carrier made of a light-transmitting material, the image carrier made of a light-transmitting material is corrected by correcting the gradation of the image data. It is possible to generate an image faithfully to the contrast of the image recorded in the image.

In still another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the image carrier is formed by recording a visible image on a light reflecting material.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, an image carrier on which a visible image has been recorded is irradiated with excitation light on a light-reflective material, and the image carrier is contained in paper or plastic as a base material of the image carrier. Excludes the fluorescent material and generates the image data by photoelectrically detecting the fluorescent light emitted from the fluorescent material.This is different from the case where the image is generated by photoelectrically detecting the reflected light. In order to read a fluorescent image, even if an excitation light cut filter is provided in the image generating apparatus, an image recorded on an image carrier made of a light reflecting material is read, and an image having a sufficient dynamic range is generated. It becomes possible to do.

[0037] In a further preferred aspect of the present invention, the photodetector is constituted by a photomultiplier.

[0038] In a further preferred aspect of the present invention, the photodetector is constituted by a CCD camera.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the image carrier includes an image carrier carrying an image of a fluorescent substance.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the image carrier includes a stimulable phosphor sheet carrying an image of a radioactively labeled substance.

[0041]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an image reading apparatus used in an image generating apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing details near a photomultiplier.

As shown in FIG. 1, the image reading apparatus used in the image generating apparatus according to
A first laser excitation light source 1 that emits a laser beam 4 having a wavelength of 5 nm, a second laser excitation light source 2 that emits a laser beam 4 of a wavelength of 532 nm, and a third laser excitation that emits a laser beam 4 having a wavelength of 473 nm And a light source 3. In the present embodiment, the first laser excitation light source 1 is constituted by a semiconductor laser light source, and the second laser excitation light source 2 and the third laser excitation light source 3 are both second harmonic generation (Second Harmonic). Generation) elements.

The laser light 4 generated by the first laser excitation light source 1 is converted into parallel light by a collimator lens 5 and then reflected by a mirror 6. In the optical path of the laser light 4 generated by the first laser excitation light source 1, a first dichroic mirror 7 that transmits the 635 nm laser light 4 and reflects the light of 532 nm and the light of 532 nm or more in wavelength. A second dichroic mirror 8 that transmits and reflects light having a wavelength of 473 nm is provided. The laser light 4 generated by the first laser excitation light source 1 and reflected by the mirror 6 is converted into a first dichroic mirror. 7 and second dichroic mirror 8
And is incident on the mirror 9.

On the other hand, the laser light 4 generated from the second laser excitation light source 2 is made parallel by the collimator lens 10 and then reflected by the first dichroic mirror 7 so that its direction is 90 degrees. After being changed, the light passes through the second dichroic mirror 8 and enters the mirror 9.

Further, the laser light 4 generated from the third laser excitation light source 3 is collimated by the collimator lens 11.
After being converted into parallel light, the light is reflected by the second dichroic mirror 8, its direction is changed by 90 degrees, and enters the mirror 9.

The laser beam 4 incident on the mirror 9 is reflected by the mirror 9 and further incident on the mirror 12 to
Is reflected.

In the optical path of the laser light reflected by the mirror 12, a hole 13 is formed at the center and a perforated mirror 14 formed by a concave mirror is arranged. The laser light reflected by the mirror 12 Pass through the hole 13 of the perforated mirror 14 and enter the concave mirror 18.

The laser beam 4 incident on the concave mirror 18 is
The light is reflected by the concave mirror 18 and enters the optical head 15.

The optical head 15 includes a mirror 16 and an aspherical lens 17. The laser beam 4 incident on the optical head 15 is reflected by the mirror 16 and is reflected by the aspherical lens 17 on the glass plate of the stage 20. The light is focused on the surface of the image carrier unit 22 set on 21.

The image reading apparatus according to the present embodiment
Electrophoretic image of denatured DNA labeled with a fluorescent dye recorded on a gel support or transfer support, and positional information of a radiolabeled substance recorded on a stimulable phosphor layer provided on a stimulable phosphor sheet The image carrier unit 22 may be a gel support or a transfer support, or may be a stimulable phosphor sheet.

An electrophoretic image of the denatured DNA labeled with a fluorescent dye is recorded on a transfer support, for example, as follows.

First, a plurality of DNA fragments including a DNA fragment comprising a target gene are separated and developed by electrophoresis on a gel support medium, and denatured by alkali treatment. Main chain D
NA.

Next, the gel support medium and the transfer support are overlaid by a known Southern blotting method, and at least a part of the denatured DNA fragment is transferred onto the transfer support, followed by heating treatment and ultraviolet irradiation. To fix.

Thereafter, a probe prepared by labeling DNA or RNA complementary to the DNA of the gene of interest with a fluorescent dye and the denatured DNA fragment on the transcription support 12 are
Hybridization is performed by heating, and the double-stranded DN
A formation (renaturation) or formation of a DNA / RNA conjugate. Then, for example, using a fluorescent dye such as fluorescein, rhodamine, and Cy-5,
DNA complementary to the DNA of the target gene
Alternatively, the RNA is labeled to prepare a probe. At this time, since the denatured DNA fragment on the transcription support is fixed, only the DNA fragment complementary to the probe DNA or the probe RNA is hybridized, and the fluorescently labeled probe is captured. Thereafter, by washing away the probe that did not form a hybrid with an appropriate solution,
On the transcription support, only the DNA fragment having the target gene forms a hybrid with the fluorescently labeled DNA or RNA, and is labeled with the fluorescent label. Thus, the resulting transfer support is provided with a modified D labeled with a fluorescent dye.
An electrophoretic image of NA is recorded.

The position information of the radiolabeled substance is recorded on the stimulable phosphor layer formed on the stimulable phosphor sheet as follows. Here, the positional information refers to various types of information centered on the position of the radiolabeled substance or the aggregate thereof in the sample, for example, the position and shape of the aggregate of the radiolabeled substance present in the sample, It means various kinds of information obtained as one or any combination of information including the concentration and distribution of the radioactive labeling substance.

For example, when recording the positional information of a radiolabeled substance in a gene using the Southern blot hybridization method in a stimulable phosphor layer formed on a stimulable phosphor sheet, first, A plurality of DNA fragments including a DNA fragment comprising a target gene are separated and developed by performing electrophoresis on a gel supporting medium, and denatured by an alkali treatment to obtain a single-stranded DNA. I do.

Next, this gel support medium and a transfer support such as a nitrocellulose filter are superimposed on each other by a known Southern blotting method.
At least a part of the denatured DNA fragment is transcribed and fixed by a heating treatment and ultraviolet irradiation.

Further, the probe prepared by the method of radiolabeling DNA or RNA complementary to the DNA of the gene of interest and denatured DN on the transcription support are used.
A fragment is hybridized by a heating treatment,
Double-stranded DNA formation (re-naturation) or DNA
・ Formation of RNA conjugate. At this time, since the denatured DNA fragment on the transcription support is fixed, only the DNA fragment complementary to the probe DNA or the probe RNA hybridizes and captures the radiolabeled probe.

Thereafter, the probe which did not form a hybrid was washed away with an appropriate solution, so that only the DNA fragment having the target gene was transferred onto the transcription support.
It forms a hybrid with the radiolabeled DNA or RNA and is radiolabeled. Thereafter, the dried transfer support and the stimulable phosphor sheet are overlapped for a certain period of time, and by performing an exposure operation, at least a part of the radiation emitted from the radiolabeled substance on the transfer support is accumulated. The position information of the radioactive labeling substance absorbed in the stimulable phosphor layer formed on the stimulable phosphor sheet and stored in the sample is stored in the form of an image in the stimulable phosphor layer.

When a laser beam is incident on an image carrier unit 22 such as a gel support or a transfer support carrying an image of a fluorescent substance, the fluorescent substance is excited and fluorescence 25 is emitted.
Further, when a laser beam is incident on the image carrier unit 22 composed of a stimulable phosphor sheet carrying a radiation image, the stimulable phosphor is excited and stimulable phosphor 25 is emitted.

The fluorescent light 25 emitted from the gel support or the transfer support or the photostimulable light 25 emitted from the stimulable phosphor sheet is collected on the mirror 16 by the aspheric lens 17 provided on the optical head 15. The laser light 4 is reflected by the mirror 16 on the same side as the optical path of the laser light 4, becomes parallel light, and enters the concave mirror 18.

The fluorescence 25 or the stimulating light 25 incident on the concave mirror 18 is reflected by the concave mirror 18 and enters the perforated mirror 14.

As shown in FIG. 2, the fluorescent light 25 or the stimulating light 25 incident on the perforated mirror 14 is reflected downward by the perforated mirror 14 formed by the concave mirror, and is incident on the filter unit 28. , A predetermined wavelength of light is cut off, enters the photomultiplier 30, and is photoelectrically detected.

As shown in FIG. 2, the filter unit 28 includes four filter members 31a, 31b, 31c,
The filter unit 28 is configured to be movable in the left-right direction in FIG. 2 by a motor (not shown).

FIG. 3 is a schematic sectional view taken along line AA of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 3, the filter member 31
a includes a filter 32a, the filter 32a is a filter member that is used when the first laser excitation light source 1 is used to excite a fluorescent dye contained in the image carrier unit 22 and read fluorescence. It has the property of cutting light having a wavelength of 635 nm and transmitting light having a wavelength longer than 635 nm.

FIG. 4 is a schematic sectional view taken along the line BB of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 4, the filter member 31
b includes a filter 32b, and the filter 32b is a filter member that is used when the second laser excitation light source 2 is used to excite a fluorescent dye contained in the image carrier unit 22 and read fluorescence. It has the property of cutting light having a wavelength of 532 nm and transmitting light having a wavelength longer than 532 nm.

FIG. 5 is a schematic sectional view taken along the line CC of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 5, the filter member 31
c includes a filter 32c, and the filter 32c is a filter member that is used when the third laser excitation light source 3 is used to excite a fluorescent dye contained in the image carrier unit 22 and read fluorescence. It has a property of cutting light having a wavelength of 473 nm and transmitting light having a wavelength longer than 473 nm.

FIG. 6 is a schematic sectional view taken along line DD of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 6, the filter member 31
d includes a filter 32d. When the image carrier unit 22 is a stimulable phosphor sheet, the filter 32d uses the first laser excitation light source 1 to emit stimulable fluorescent light contained in the stimulable phosphor sheet. Exciting the body, it is a filter used when reading the stimulable light emitted from the stimulable phosphor, transmits only light in the wavelength region of the stimulable light emitted from the stimulable phosphor, It has the property of cutting light with a wavelength of 635 nm.

Therefore, the laser excitation light source to be used,
That is, depending on the type of the image carrier unit 22 and the type of the fluorescent dye, the filter members 31a, 31b, 31
By selectively positioning c and 31d in front of the photomultiplier 30, the photomultiplier 3
0 means that only light to be detected can be detected photoelectrically.

The analog image data generated and detected photoelectrically by the photomultiplier 30 is A / A
The data is converted into digital image data by the D converter 33 and sent to the image data processing device 34.

Although not shown in FIG. 1, the optical head 15 is configured to be movable in the XY directions in FIG. 1 by a scanning mechanism, and the entire surface of the image carrier unit 22 is scanned by the laser beam 4. It is configured to be.

FIG. 7 is a schematic plan view of the scanning mechanism of the optical head. In FIG. 7, the optical head 1 is shown for simplicity.
The optical system excluding 5 and the optical path of the laser beam 4 and the fluorescent light 25 or the stimulating light 25 are omitted.

As shown in FIG. 7, the scanning mechanism for scanning the optical head 15 includes a substrate 40, on which a sub-scanning pulse motor 41 and a pair of guides 42, 42 are provided.
And a movable substrate 43 in the sub-scanning direction indicated by Y in FIG. 7 is provided on the substrate 40.

A threaded hole (not shown) is formed in the movable substrate 43, and a threaded rod 44 rotated by the sub-scanning pulse motor 41 is formed in this hole. Is engaged.

A main scanning pulse motor 45 is provided on a movable substrate 43, and the main scanning pulse motor 45 is configured to drive an endless belt 46. The optical head 15 is fixed to an endless belt 46,
The endless belt 4 is driven by the main scanning pulse motor 45.
1 and 7, it is configured to be moved in the main scanning direction indicated by X in FIGS. In FIG. 7, reference numeral 47 denotes a linear encoder that detects the position of the optical head 15 in the main scanning direction.
This is a slit of the linear encoder 47.

Accordingly, the endless belt 46 is driven in the main scanning direction by the main scanning pulse motor 45,
When the substrate 43 is moved in the sub-scanning direction by the sub-scanning pulse motor 41, the optical head 15
7 and FIG. 7, the entire surface of the image carrier unit 22 is scanned by the laser beam 4 while being moved in the XY directions.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a control system, an input system, and a drive system of an image reading apparatus used in an image generating apparatus according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 8, the control system of the image reading apparatus includes a control unit 50 for controlling the entire image reading apparatus. The input system of the image reading apparatus is operated by a user, Is provided with a keyboard 51 capable of inputting an instruction signal.

As shown in FIG. 8, the drive system of the image reading device has four filter members 31a, 31b, 31
A filter unit motor 52 is provided for moving the filter unit 28 having c and 31d.

The control unit 50 selectively outputs a drive signal to the first laser excitation light source 1, the second laser excitation light source 2 or the third laser excitation light source 3, and transmits a drive signal to the filter unit motor 52. It is configured to be able to output.

The image reading device configured as described above reads a fluorescent image carried on a gel support or a transfer support and generates digital image data as follows.

First, the transfer support or the gel support serving as the image carrier unit 22 is placed on the glass plate 21 of the stage 20.
Set on top.

When the transfer support or the gel support is set on the glass plate 21 of the stage 20, the type of the fluorescent substance that labels the sample is specified on the keyboard 51 by the user, and the transfer support or the gel support is specified. An instruction signal indicating that the fluorescent image carried on the gel support should be read is input.

The instruction signal input to the keyboard 51 is
When input to the control unit 50 and receives the instruction signal, the control unit 50 determines a laser excitation light source to be used according to a table stored in a memory (not shown),
Which of a, 32b, 32c, and 32d is located in the optical path of the fluorescence 25 is determined.

For example, when the sample is labeled with rhodamine, the control unit 50 selects the second laser excitation light source 2 because rhodamine can be most efficiently excited by a laser having a wavelength of 532 nm. At the same time, the filter 32b is selected, a drive signal is output to the filter unit motor 52, the filter unit 28 is moved, light having a wavelength of 532 nm is cut, and light having a wavelength longer than 532 nm is transmitted. Filter member 31b provided with filter 32b
Is located in the optical path of the fluorescent light 25.

Next, the control unit 50 outputs a drive signal to the second laser excitation light source 2, activates the second laser excitation light source 2, and emits a laser beam 4 having a wavelength of 532 nm.

The laser light 4 emitted from the second laser excitation light source 2 is converted into parallel light by the collimator lens 10, and then enters the first dichroic mirror 7 and is reflected.

The laser beam 4 reflected by the first dichroic mirror 7 is applied to the second dichroic mirror 8
And is incident on the mirror 9.

The laser beam 4 incident on the mirror 9 is reflected by the mirror 9 and further incident on the mirror 12 and reflected.

The laser beam 4 reflected by the mirror 12
Enters the perforated mirror 14, passes through the hole 13 formed in the perforated mirror 14, and enters the concave mirror 18.

The laser beam 4 incident on the concave mirror 18 is
The light is reflected by the concave mirror 18 and enters the optical head 15.

The laser beam 4 incident on the optical head 15 is
The light is reflected by the mirror 16 and is condensed by the aspherical lens 17 on the transfer support or the gel support set on the glass plate 21 of the stage 20.

As a result, the rhodamine, which is a fluorescent substance contained in the transfer support or the gel support, is excited by the laser beam 4, and the fluorescence 25 is emitted from the rhodamine.

The fluorescent light 25 emitted from the rhodamine is condensed by the aspheric lens 17 provided on the optical head 15, reflected by the mirror 16 on the same side as the optical path of the laser light 4, and converted into parallel light. , Into the concave mirror 18.

The fluorescent light 25 incident on the concave mirror 18 is reflected by the concave mirror 18 and enters the perforated mirror 14.

The fluorescence 25 incident on the perforated mirror 14 is
As shown in FIG. 2, the light is reflected downward by the perforated mirror 14 formed by the concave mirror and enters the filter 32 b of the filter unit 28.

The filter 32b cuts light having a wavelength of 532 nm and transmits light having a wavelength longer than 532 nm, so that light having a wavelength of 532 nm, which is excitation light, is cut and emitted from rhodamine. Fluorescence 25
Only the light in the wavelength range of (1) passes through the filter 32b and is photoelectrically detected by the photomultiplier 30.

As described above, the optical head 15 is
7, the substrate 42 is moved in the X direction on the substrate 43 by the main scanning pulse motor 45 provided in 3, and the substrate 42 is moved in the Y direction in FIG. Therefore, the entire surface of the transfer support or the gel support is scanned by the laser beam 4,
By detecting the fluorescence emitted from rhodamine contained in the transfer support or the gel support and labeling the sample photoelectrically by the photomultiplier 30,
Analog image data can be generated by reading a fluorescent image of rhodamine which is a fluorescent substance recorded on a transfer support or a gel support.

The analog image data generated and photoelectrically detected by the photomultiplier 30 is A / A
The data is converted into digital image data by the D converter 33 and sent to the image data processing device 34.

On the other hand, when an autoradiographic image relating to the positional information of the radioactive labeling substance recorded on the stimulable phosphor layer formed on the stimulable phosphor sheet is read and digital image data is generated, the stimulable phosphor is used. The body sheet is set on the glass plate 21 of the stage 20.

Next, the user specifies the keyboard 5
An instruction signal indicating that an autoradiographic image relating to the positional information of the radioactive labeling substance recorded on the stimulable phosphor layer formed on the stimulable phosphor sheet is input to 1.

As a result, the filter unit motor 52 is driven by the control unit 50 to transmit only light in the wavelength region of stimulating light emitted from the stimulable phosphor and cut off light having a wavelength of 635 nm. The filter member 31d provided with the filter 32d having
After the filter unit 28 is moved so as to be located in the optical path 5, the first laser excitation light source 1 is activated, and the first laser excitation light source 1 emits the laser light 4 having a wavelength of 635 nm.

The laser light 4 emitted from the first laser excitation light source 1 is converted into parallel light by the collimator lens 5, and then enters the mirror 6 and is reflected.

Laser light 4 reflected by mirror 6
Is transmitted through the first dichroic mirror 7 and the second dichroic mirror 8 and enters the mirror 9.

The laser beam 4 incident on the mirror 9 is reflected by the mirror 9 and further incident on the mirror 12 and reflected. Laser light 4 reflected by mirror 12
Passes through the hole 13 of the perforated mirror 14 and enters the concave mirror 18.

The laser beam 4 incident on the concave mirror 18 is
The light is reflected by the concave mirror 18 and enters the optical head 15.

The laser beam 4 incident on the optical head 15 is
The light is reflected by the mirror 16 and condensed by the aspheric lens 17 on the stimulable phosphor layer of the stimulable phosphor sheet placed on the glass plate 21 of the stage 20.

As a result, the stimulable phosphor contained in the stimulable phosphor layer formed on the stimulable phosphor sheet is excited by the laser beam 4, and the stimulable phosphor 25 emits stimulable phosphor 25 from the stimulable phosphor. Released.

Stimulation 25 released from the stimulable phosphor
Is condensed by an aspheric lens 17 provided on an optical head 15, is reflected by a mirror 16 on the same side as the optical path of the laser beam 4, is converted into parallel light, and is
8 is incident.

The stimulating light 25 incident on the concave mirror 18 is
The light is reflected by the concave mirror 18 and enters the perforated mirror 14.

The stimulating light 25 incident on the perforated mirror 14
Is reflected downward by the perforated mirror 14 formed by the concave mirror and enters the filter 32d of the filter unit 28, as shown in FIG.

The filter 32d has a property of transmitting only light in the wavelength region of stimulating light emitted from the stimulable phosphor and cutting light having a wavelength of 635 nm. Is cut off, and only light in the wavelength region of stimulating light passes through the filter 32d and is photoelectrically detected by the photomultiplier 30.

The optical head 15 is moved over the substrate 43 by a main scanning pulse motor 45 provided on the substrate 43 as shown in FIG.
7, the substrate 43 is moved in the Y direction in FIG. 7 by the sub-scanning pulse motor 41, so that the entire surface of the stimulable phosphor layer formed on the stimulable phosphor sheet is Are scanned by the laser light 4 and photostimulable light emitted from the stimulable phosphor contained in the stimulable phosphor layer is photoelectrically detected by the photomultiplier 30 so that the stimulable phosphor is detected. An autoradiographic image related to the positional information of the radiolabeled substance recorded on the layer can be read to generate analog image data.

The analog image data photoelectrically detected and generated by the photomultiplier 30 is A / A
The data is converted into digital image data by the D converter 33 and sent to the image data processing device 34.

The image reading apparatus according to the present embodiment
Further, a transparent original such as an X-ray film on which an autoradiographic image is recorded is configured to be readable, and therefore, the stage 20 is configured such that the transparent original and the standard fluorescent plate can be placed in a superimposed state. Have been.

FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of the vicinity of a stage 20 on which a transparent original and a standard fluorescent plate are superimposed and placed.

As shown in FIG. 9, an X-ray film 60 on which an autoradiographic image is recorded and processed is developed.
When reading a transparent original such as, for example, an autoradiographic image is recorded on the glass plate 21 of the stage 20,
The developed X-ray film 60 is set, and a standard fluorescent screen 61 is superimposed on the X-ray film 60.

Here, in this embodiment, the standard fluorescent plate 61 is made of an acrylic-modified vinyl chloride resin containing a fluorescent dye.

When the X-ray film 60 and the standard fluorescent plate 61 are superimposed and placed on the glass plate 21 of the stage 20, the user places the X-ray film 60 on the keyboard 51.
For example, an instruction signal indicating that a transparent original should be read is input.

In this embodiment, the X-ray film 60 is used.
The third laser excitation light source 3 is configured to be activated when reading a transparent original such as
First, the filter unit motor 52 is driven by the control unit 50 to cut off light having a wavelength of 473 nm and to transmit a light having a wavelength longer than 473 nm.
However, after the filter unit 28 is moved so as to be located in the optical path of the fluorescence 25, the third laser excitation light source 3 is activated, and the laser light 4 having a wavelength of 473 nm is emitted from the third laser excitation light source 3. Be emitted.

The laser light 4 emitted from the third laser excitation light source 3 is reflected by the second dichroic mirror 8 and enters the mirror 9.

The laser light 4 incident on the mirror 9 is reflected by the mirror 9 and further incident on the mirror 12 and reflected. Laser light 4 reflected by mirror 12
Passes through the hole 13 of the perforated mirror 14 and enters the concave mirror 18.

The laser beam 4 incident on the concave mirror 18 is
The light is reflected by the concave mirror 18 and enters the optical head 15.

The laser beam 4 incident on the optical head 15 is
An autoradiographic image set on the glass plate 21 of the stage 20 is recorded by the aspheric lens 17 after being reflected by the mirror 16 and collected on the X-ray film 60 that has been developed.

The laser beam 4 focused on the X-ray film 60
Is transmitted through the X-ray film 60, is superimposed on the X-ray film 60, and is incident on the standard fluorescent screen 61 set on the glass plate 21 of the stage 20. At this time, according to the density pattern of the autoradiographic image recorded on the developed X-ray film 60, the developed X-ray film
The laser light 4 having a light amount inversely proportional to the density of the autoradiographic image recorded on the linear film 60 is applied to the standard fluorescent screen 6.
Incident on 1.

As a result, the fluorescent dye contained in the standard fluorescent plate 61 is excited by the laser light 4 to emit, for example, fluorescence 25 having a wavelength of 530 nm. The amount of the emitted fluorescent light 25 is proportional to the amount of the laser light 4 and X
The density of the autoradiographic image recorded on the line film 60 is inversely proportional.

The fluorescence 25 emitted from the standard fluorescent screen 61
Is incident on the X-ray film 60, passes through the X-ray film 60, and is incident on the optical head 15.

The fluorescent light 25 incident on the optical head 15 is condensed by an aspheric lens 17 provided on the optical head 15, reflected by the mirror 16 on the same side as the optical path of the laser light 4, and converted into parallel light. Incident on the concave mirror 18.

The fluorescence 25 incident on the concave mirror 18 is reflected by the concave mirror 18 and enters the perforated mirror 14.

The fluorescent light 25 incident on the perforated mirror 14 is
As shown in FIG. 2, the light is reflected downward by the perforated mirror 14 formed by the concave mirror, and enters the filter 32 c of the filter unit 28.

The filter 32c has a property of cutting light having a wavelength of 473 nm and transmitting light having a wavelength longer than 473 nm. Therefore, the light having a wavelength of 473 nm, which is excitation light, is cut, and the wavelength of fluorescence is reduced. Only the light in the area is filtered 3
2c through the photomultiplier 30
Photoelectrically detected.

The optical head 15 is moved over the substrate 43 by a main scanning pulse motor 45 provided on the substrate 43 as shown in FIG.
7, the substrate 43 is moved in the Y direction in FIG. 7 by the sub-scanning pulse motor 41, so that the developed X-ray film 60 on which the autoradiographic image is recorded is processed. The entire surface is scanned by the laser light 4, the fluorescent dye contained in the standard fluorescent plate 61 is excited, and the emitted fluorescence 25 is photoelectrically detected by the photomultiplier 30.
An autoradiographic image recorded on the X-ray film 60 is read, and analog image data can be generated.

The analog image data photoelectrically detected by the photomultiplier 30 and generated is A / A
The data is converted into digital image data by the D converter 33 and sent to the image data processing device 34.

The digital image data generated in this manner is transmitted through the X-ray film 60, and in accordance with the density pattern of the autoradiographic image recorded on the X-ray film 60, the autoradiographic data recorded on the X-ray film 60 is transmitted. The fluorescent dye contained in the standard fluorescent plate 61 is excited by the laser light 4 converted into a light amount that is inversely proportional to the density of the graphic image, the fluorescent light 25 is emitted, and the emitted fluorescent light 25 passes through the X-ray film 60. By being transmitted, the X-ray film 6 is formed according to the density pattern of the autoradiography image recorded on the X-ray film 60.
0 is converted into a light amount that is inversely proportional to the density of the autoradiographic image recorded at 0, and is generated by photoelectrically detecting by the photomultiplier 30. Therefore, the image data is transmitted to the X-ray film 60. It has a density gradation that is about twice the density gradation of the recorded autoradiographic image.

The image reading apparatus according to the present embodiment comprises:
Further, it is configured such that an image recorded on a reflection original can be read.

When reading an image recorded on a reflective original, first, the reflective original 65 is placed on the glass plate 2 of the stage 20.
Set on one.

Next, the user specifies the keyboard 5
1, an instruction signal indicating that the reflection original 65 should be read is input.

In this embodiment, when reading the reflection original 65, the third laser excitation light source 3 is activated. Therefore, first, the filter unit motor 52 is driven by the control unit 50. And cuts light having a wavelength of 473 nm,
3 having the property of transmitting light having a longer wavelength than
After the filter unit 28 is moved so that the filter member 31c having the filter 2c is located in the optical path of the fluorescence 25, the third laser excitation light source 3 is activated, and the third laser excitation light source 3 is 473 nm from the third laser excitation light source 3. Is emitted.

The laser light 4 emitted from the third laser excitation light source 3 is reflected by the second dichroic mirror 8 and enters the mirror 9.

The laser light 4 incident on the mirror 9 is reflected by the mirror 9 and further incident on the mirror 12 and reflected. Laser light 4 reflected by mirror 12
Passes through the hole 13 of the perforated mirror 14 and enters the concave mirror 18.

The laser beam 4 incident on the concave mirror 18 is
The light is reflected by the concave mirror 18 and enters the optical head 15.

The laser beam 4 incident on the optical head 15 is
The light is reflected by the mirror 16 and is condensed by the aspherical lens 17 on the reflection original 65 set on the glass plate 21 of the stage 20.

The paper or plastic, which is the base material of the reflection document 65, contains a fluorescent substance. Therefore, when irradiated with the laser beam 4, the fluorescent substance is excited, for example, to 530 nm.
Is emitted, but since toner and ink are present in the portion where the image is formed, the fluorescent substance contained in paper or plastic is not excited, and the fluorescent light 25 is not emitted.

As a result, the emitted fluorescent light 25 enters the optical head 15 from the portion of the reflection original 65 where no image is formed.

The fluorescent light 25 incident on the optical head 15 is condensed by an aspheric lens 17 provided on the optical head 15, reflected by the mirror 16 on the same side as the optical path of the laser light 4, and converted into parallel light. Incident on the concave mirror 18.

The fluorescence 25 incident on the concave mirror 18 is reflected by the concave mirror 18 and enters the perforated mirror 14.

The fluorescence 25 incident on the perforated mirror 14 is
As shown in FIG. 2, the light is reflected downward by the perforated mirror 14 formed by the concave mirror, and enters the filter 32 c of the filter unit 28.

The filter 32c has a property of cutting light having a wavelength of 473 nm and transmitting light having a wavelength longer than 473 nm. Therefore, the light having a wavelength of 473 nm, which is excitation light, is cut, and the wavelength of fluorescence is reduced. Only the light in the area is filtered 3
2c through the photomultiplier 30
Photoelectrically detected.

The optical head 15 is moved over the substrate 43 by a main scanning pulse motor 45 provided on the substrate 43 as shown in FIG.
7, the substrate 43 is moved in the Y direction by the sub-scanning pulse motor 41 in FIG.
And the fluorescent substance contained in the paper or plastic that is the base material of the reflection document 65 is excited, and the emitted fluorescence 25 is photoelectrically detected by the photomultiplier 30 so that the reflection document 65 is scanned. The recorded autoradiographic image can be read and analog image data can be generated.

The analog image data photoelectrically detected and generated by the photomultiplier 30 is A / A
The data is converted into digital image data by the D converter 33 and sent to the image data processing device 34.

In the case where the reflection original 65 is irradiated with the laser beam 4 and the light reflected by the reflection original 65 is photoelectrically detected to generate an image, it is known that interference unevenness often occurs. However, according to the present embodiment, the fluorescent material contained in the paper or plastic, which is the base material of the reflective original 65 on which the image is recorded, is excited by the laser beam 4 and emits the fluorescent light. Since digital image data is generated by photoelectrically detecting by the multiplier 30, the excitation light excites the fluorescent substance, and the wavelength of the emitted fluorescent light is longer than the wavelength of the excitation light, and the coherency is also increased. Since it is lost, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of uneven interference.

According to this embodiment, the standard fluorescent plate 61 containing a fluorescent dye and the transparent original such as the X-ray film 60 on which the autoradiographic image is recorded are superimposed on the glass plate 21 of the stage 20. The X-ray film 60 is scanned by the laser light 4 and the fluorescent dye contained in the standard fluorescent plate 61 is excited by the laser light 4 transmitted through the X-ray film 60 and emitted from the fluorescent dye. The generated fluorescence 25 is guided to the photomultiplier 30 via the X-ray film 60 and is photoelectrically detected to generate image data. Therefore, image data having a sufficient dynamic range can be generated. become.

Further, according to the present embodiment, by transmitting through the X-ray film 60, the auto-recording recorded on the X-ray film 60 is performed according to the density pattern of the autoradiographic image recorded on the X-ray film 60. Laser light 4 converted to the amount of light that is inversely proportional to the density of the radiographic image 4
As a result, the fluorescent dye contained in the standard fluorescent plate 61 is excited, and the fluorescent light 25 is emitted.
By transmitting through the X-ray film 60, the light is converted into a light amount that is inversely proportional to the density of the autoradiographic image recorded on the X-ray film 60 according to the density pattern of the autoradiographic image recorded on the X-ray film 60. Since the image data is generated by being photoelectrically detected by the photomultiplier 30, the image data is
It has about twice the density gradation of the autoradiography image recorded on the X-ray film 60, and
Even when the contrast of an image recorded on a transparent original is low, an image with enhanced contrast can be generated, and an image that is easy to observe can be generated.

Further, when the reflection original 65 is irradiated with the laser beam 4 and the light reflected by the reflection original 65 is photoelectrically detected to generate an image, interference unevenness often occurs. However, according to the present embodiment, the fluorescent material contained in paper or plastic, which is the base material of the reflective original 65 on which the image is recorded, is excited by the laser beam 4 to emit the emitted fluorescent light. Since the digital image data is generated by photoelectrically detecting by the photomultiplier 30, the excitation light
The wavelength of the fluorescence emitted when the fluorescent substance is excited is longer than the wavelength of the excitation light, and the coherency is lost. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of interference unevenness.

FIG. 10 is a schematic front view of an image generating apparatus according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 10, the image generating apparatus has a cooled CCD camera 71, a dark box 72 and a personal computer 73.
3 has a CRT 74 and a keyboard 75.

FIG. 11 is a schematic vertical sectional view of the cooled CCD camera 71.

As shown in FIG. 11, a cooled CCD camera 71 is provided with a CCD 76, a heat transfer plate 77 made of metal such as aluminum, a Peltier element 78 for cooling the CCD 6, and a front face of the CCD 76. Shutter 79 and an A / D converter 80 for converting analog image data generated by the CCD 76 into digital image data.
An image data buffer 81 for temporarily storing image data digitized by the A / D converter 80,
A camera control circuit 82 for controlling the operation of the cooled CCD camera 71 is provided. The opening formed between the dark box 2 and the dark box 2 is closed by a glass plate 85,
Around the camera 71, radiating fins 86 for radiating heat generated by the Peltier element 78 are formed over substantially the entire surface in the longitudinal direction.

In the dark box 72 on the front of the glass plate 85, a camera lens 87 having a lens focus adjusting function is mounted.

FIG. 12 is a schematic vertical sectional view of the dark box 72.

As shown in FIG. 12, a stage 90 on which the image carrier unit 22 can be mounted is provided in the dark box 72. Above the stage 90, excitation light having an emission wavelength center of 470 nm is provided. The first blue LED that emits light
A light source 91 and a second blue LED light source 92 are provided. First blue LED light source 91 and second blue LE
A filter 93 and a filter 94 are attached to the front surface of the D light source 92, respectively. Filter 93, 94
Has a property of cutting light harmful to excitation of a fluorescent substance other than the wavelength of about 470 nm and transmitting only light of a wavelength of about 470 nm. On the front of the camera lens 87,
A filter 95 that cuts off the excitation light near 470 nm
It is provided detachably.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram around the personal computer 73.

As shown in FIG. 13, a personal computer 73 includes a CPU 100 for controlling the exposure of a cooled CCD camera 71, an image data transfer means 101 for reading out image data generated by the cooled CCD camera 71 from an image data buffer 81, and An image data processing device 102 that performs image processing on image data, an image data storage unit 103 that stores image data, and a visible image on a screen of a CRT 74 based on the image data stored in the image data storage unit 103. And an image display means 104 for displaying. First blue LED light source 91 and second blue LED
The light source 92 is controlled by a light source control unit 105.
An instruction signal is input via the PU 100. The CPU 100 is configured to be able to output various signals to the camera control circuit 82 of the cooled CCD camera 71.

The image generating apparatus according to the present embodiment is configured to detect a fluorescent light from an image carrier unit 22 such as a gel support or a transfer support carrying an image of a fluorescent substance and generate a fluorescent image. Then, as described below, the fluorescence from the image carrier unit 22 carrying the image of the fluorescent substance is detected, and a visible image is generated. Here, the image carrier carries an image of a fluorescent substance means that the image carrier carries an image of a sample labeled with a fluorescent dye, and that the enzyme is combined with the labeled sample before the enzyme is fluoresced. Contacting with a substrate to convert the fluorescent substrate to a fluorescent substance that emits fluorescence, and carrying an image of the obtained fluorescent substance.

First, the first blue LED is set by the user.
The light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 92 are turned on,
Lens focusing is performed using the camera lens 87. Next, the image carrier unit 22 carrying the fluorescent image is placed on the stage 90, and the dark box 72 is closed.

Thereafter, when the user inputs an exposure start signal to the keyboard 75, the light source control means 105 causes the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 9 to emit light.
2 is turned on, and excitation light is emitted toward the image carrier unit 22.

At the same time, the exposure start signal is input to the camera control circuit 82 of the cooled CCD camera 71 via the CPU 100, and the camera control circuit 82
Is opened, and the exposure of the CCD 76 is started.

The excitation light emitted from the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 92 is
3, 94, wavelength components other than light having a wavelength of about 470 nm are cut off, and as a result, light of a wavelength of about 470 nm causes the fluorescent dye contained in the image carrier unit 22 such as a gel support or a transfer support to be removed. Are excited to emit fluorescence.

The fluorescent light emitted from the fluorescent substance contained in the image carrier unit 22 passes through the filter 95 and the camera lens 87 to the CCD 7 of the cooled CCD camera 71.
6 and form an image on the photocathode.

The CCD 76 receives the image light thus formed on the photocathode and accumulates the light in the form of electric charges. Since the filter 95 cuts off the excitation light having a wavelength near 470 nm, only the fluorescent light emitted from the fluorescent substance contained in the image carrier unit 22 is received by the CCD 76.

When a predetermined exposure time has elapsed, the CPU 10
0 outputs an exposure completion signal to the camera control circuit 82 of the cooled CCD camera 71.

Upon receiving the exposure completion signal from the CPU 100, the camera control circuit 82 transfers the analog image data accumulated by the CCD 76 in the form of electric charges to the A / D converter 80, digitizes the analog image data, and digitizes the analog image data. To temporarily memorize it.

At the same time as outputting the exposure completion signal to the camera control circuit 82, the CPU 100 outputs a data transfer signal to the image data transfer means 101 to read image data from the image data buffer 81 of the cooled CCD camera 71. Then, the image data is input to the image data processing device 102.

The image data processing device 102
Performs image processing on the image data and causes the image data storage unit 103 to store the image data.

Thereafter, when the user inputs an image generation signal to the keyboard 75, the image display means 104 reads out the image data stored in the image data storage means 103, and displays the image data on the screen of the CRT 74 based on the image data. , A fluorescent image is displayed.

The image generating apparatus according to the present embodiment is further configured to read a transparent original such as an X-ray film on which an autoradiographic image is recorded, and to reproduce the image recorded on the transparent original. , Stage 9
0 is a state where the transparent original and the standard fluorescent plate are superimposed,
It is configured to be mountable.

FIG. 14 is a schematic side view of the vicinity of a stage 90 on which a developed X-ray film on which an autoradiographic image has been recorded and a standard fluorescent plate have been superimposed and placed.

X in which an autoradiographic image is recorded
When reading a transparent original such as a linear film 60, first, the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 92 are turned on by the user, and the camera lens 8 is turned on.
7, the lens is focused.

Next, as shown in FIG. 14, the standard fluorescent plate 62 provided with the fluorescent layer 62a is set on the stage 90 so that the fluorescent layer 62a faces upward, and the upper surface of the fluorescent layer 62a of the standard fluorescent plate 62 is Then, the X-ray film 60 on which the autoradiography image is recorded is superimposed, and the dark box 72 is closed.

Here, in the present embodiment, the standard fluorescent plate 62 is formed by applying a fluorescent paint to form the fluorescent layer 6.
It is constituted by a metal plate or a resin plate provided with 2a.

Thereafter, when the user inputs an exposure start signal to the keyboard 75, the light source control means 105 causes the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 9 to emit light.
2 is turned on, and excitation light is emitted toward the developed X-ray film 60 on which the autoradiographic image is recorded.

At the same time, the exposure start signal is input to the camera control circuit 82 of the cooled CCD camera 71 via the CPU 100, and the camera 79 controls the shutter 79.
Is opened, and the exposure of the CCD 76 is started.

Excitation light emitted from the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 92 is
The wavelength components other than the light having a wavelength of about 470 nm are cut by 3, 94, and as a result, the X-ray film 60 is irradiated with the excitation light having a wavelength of about 470 nm.

The excitation light passes through the X-ray film 60,
The stage 9 is superposed below the X-ray film 60.
The light is incident on the standard fluorescent screen 62 mounted on the reference fluorescent plate 62. On this occasion,
According to the density pattern of the autoradiography image recorded on the X-ray film 60, the laser beam 4 having a light amount inversely proportional to the density of the autoradiography image recorded on the X-ray film 60 is applied to the fluorescent layer 62 a of the standard fluorescent plate 62. Incident.

As a result, the fluorescent layer 62a of the standard fluorescent plate 62
Are excited by the laser light 4 to emit, for example, fluorescence 25 having a wavelength of 530 nm. The amount of the emitted fluorescent light 25 is proportional to the amount of the emitted laser light 4 and is inversely proportional to the density of the autoradiographic image recorded on the X-ray film 60.

The fluorescent light 25 emitted from the standard fluorescent screen 62
Enters the X-ray film 60, passes through the X-ray film 60, enters the photoelectric surface of the CCD 76 of the cooled CCD camera 71 via the filter 95 and the camera lens 87, and forms an image on the photoelectric surface.

The CCD 76 receives the image light thus formed on the photocathode and accumulates the light in the form of electric charges. Since the filter 95 cuts off the excitation light having a wavelength near 470 nm, the fluorescent layer 62 of the standard fluorescent plate 62 is
Only the fluorescence emitted from the fluorescent dye contained in a
The light is received by the CCD 76.

When a predetermined exposure time has elapsed, the CPU 10
0 outputs an exposure completion signal to the camera control circuit 82 of the cooled CCD camera 71.

Upon receiving the exposure completion signal from the CPU 100, the camera control circuit 82 transfers the analog image data accumulated by the CCD 76 in the form of electric charges to the A / D converter 80, digitizes the analog image data, and converts the analog data into an image data buffer 81. To temporarily memorize it.

At the same time as outputting the exposure completion signal to the camera control circuit 82, the CPU 100 outputs a data transfer signal to the image data transfer means 101 to read image data from the image data buffer 81 of the cooled CCD camera 71. Then, the image data is input to the image data processing device 102.

The image data processing device 102
Performs image processing on the image data and causes the image data storage unit 103 to store the image data.

Thereafter, when the user inputs an image generation signal to the keyboard 75, the image display means 104 reads out the image data stored in the image data storage means 103, and displays the image data on the screen of the CRT 74 based on the image data. The autoradiographic image recorded on the X-ray film 60 is reproduced and displayed.

The image generating apparatus according to the present embodiment is also configured to read an image recorded on a reflective original and reproduce the image recorded on the reflective original.

When reading the image recorded on the reflection original, first, the user sets the first blue LED light source 91
Then, the second blue LED light source 92 is turned on, and lens focusing is performed using the camera lens 87.

Then, the reflection original 65 is placed on the stage 90.
Is set, and the dark box 72 is closed.

Thereafter, when the user inputs an exposure start signal to the keyboard 75, the light source control means 105 causes the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 9 to emit light.
2 is turned on, and excitation light is emitted toward the reflection original 65.

At the same time, the exposure start signal is input to the camera control circuit 82 of the cooled CCD camera 71 via the CPU 100, and the camera control circuit 82
Is opened, and the exposure of the CCD 76 is started.

The excitation light emitted from the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 92
The wavelength components other than the light having a wavelength of about 470 nm are cut by 3, 94, and as a result, the excitation light having a wavelength of about 470 nm is irradiated on the reflection original 65.

Since the paper or plastic which is the base material of the reflection document 65 contains a fluorescent substance, when it is irradiated with excitation light having a wavelength of 470 nm, the fluorescent substance is excited, and for example, the fluorescent substance 25 having a wavelength of 530 nm is emitted. Is emitted, but since toner and ink are present in the portion where the image is formed, the fluorescent substance contained in paper or plastic is not excited, and the fluorescent light 25 is not emitted.

As a result, the fluorescent light 25 emitted from the portion of the reflection original 65 where the image is not formed is filtered by the filter 9.
The light enters the photoelectric surface of the CCD 76 of the cooled CCD camera 71 via the camera lens 87 and the camera lens 87, and forms an image on the photoelectric surface.

The CCD 76 receives the light of the image thus formed on the photocathode and accumulates the light in the form of electric charges. Since the filter 95 cuts off light having a wavelength near 470 nm, which is the excitation light, only the fluorescent light 25 emitted from the portion of the reflection original 65 where no image is formed is emitted by the CCD 95.
The light is received by 76.

When a predetermined exposure time elapses, the CPU 10
0 outputs an exposure completion signal to the camera control circuit 82 of the cooled CCD camera 71.

Upon receiving the exposure completion signal from the CPU 100, the camera control circuit 82 transfers the analog image data accumulated by the CCD 76 in the form of electric charges to the A / D converter 80, digitizes the analog image data, and converts the analog image data into an image data buffer 81. To temporarily memorize it.

At the same time as outputting the exposure completion signal to the camera control circuit 82, the CPU 100 outputs a data transfer signal to the image data transfer means 101 and reads out image data from the image data buffer 81 of the cooled CCD camera 71. Then, the image data is input to the image data processing device 102.

If necessary, the image data processing device 102
Performs image processing on the image data and causes the image data storage unit 103 to store the image data.

Thereafter, when the user inputs an image generation signal to the keyboard 75, the image display means 104 reads out the image data stored in the image data storage means 103, and displays the image data on the screen of the CRT 74 based on the image data. The image recorded on the reflection original 65 is reproduced,
Is displayed.

According to the present embodiment, the standard fluorescent plate 62 provided with the fluorescent layer 62a is placed on the stage 90 with the fluorescent layer 62a facing upward, and is placed on the upper surface of the fluorescent layer 62a of the standard fluorescent plate 62. The X-ray film 60 on which the autoradiographic image is recorded is superimposed, the X-ray film 60 is irradiated with excitation light, and the excitation light transmitted through the X-ray film 60 causes the fluorescent layer 62a formed on the standard fluorescent plate 62 to be formed. Since the fluorescent dye contained in the fluorescent dye is excited and the fluorescent light 25 emitted from the fluorescent dye is received by the cooled CCD camera 71 through the X-ray film 60 to generate image data, a sufficient dynamic range is obtained. Can be generated.

Further, according to the present embodiment, by transmitting through the X-ray film 60, the auto-recording recorded on the X-ray film 60 is performed in accordance with the density pattern of the autoradiographic image recorded on the X-ray film 60. The fluorescent dye contained in the fluorescent layer 62a formed on the standard fluorescent plate 62 is excited by the excitation light converted to a light amount inversely proportional to the density of the radiographic image, and the fluorescent light 25 is emitted. Is transmitted through the X-ray film 60, so that the X-ray film 6 follows the density pattern of the autoradiographic image recorded on the X-ray film 60.
The image data is generated by receiving the fluorescent light 25, which has been converted into the light amount inversely proportional to the density of the autoradiographic image recorded at 0 and the light amount thus converted by the cooling CCD camera 71, thereby generating the image data. Has a density gradation that is about twice that of the autoradiography image recorded on the X-ray film 60. Therefore, even if the contrast of the image recorded on the transparent original is low, the contrast is enhanced. The generated image can be generated, and an image that can be easily observed can be generated.

Further, when light is irradiated to the reflection original 65 and the light reflected by the reflection original 65 is photoelectrically detected to generate an image, it is known that interference unevenness often occurs. However, according to the present embodiment, the fluorescent material contained in paper or plastic, which is the base material of the reflection original 65 on which the image is recorded, is excited by the excitation light, and the emitted fluorescent light is converted into a photomultiplier. Since digital image data is generated by photoelectrically detecting by the prior 30, the fluorescent material is excited by the excitation light, and the wavelength of the emitted fluorescent light is longer than the wavelength of the excitation light. The occurrence of unevenness can be prevented.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram of an image data processing device provided in a personal computer of an image generating device according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 15, in the image data processing device 102 provided in the personal computer 73 of the image generating apparatus according to the present embodiment, the fluorescent light 25 is not uniformly emitted from the standard fluorescent plate 61 or 62. The correction data generation unit 110 generates correction data for correcting unevenness of image data due to the above, a correction data storage unit 111 that stores the correction data generated by the correction data generation unit 110, and a correction data storage unit 111. An image data correction unit 112 that corrects image data based on the stored correction data and a gradation correction unit 113 that corrects the gradation of the image data are provided.

In this embodiment, when a transparent original such as an X-ray film 60 on which an autoradiographic image is recorded is read, the standard fluorescent plate 61 or the standard fluorescent plate 6 is used.
2, it is possible to correct unevenness of the generated image data due to the fact that the fluorescent light 25 is not uniformly emitted.

In the image generating apparatus according to the present embodiment, correction data is generated prior to reading a transparent original such as a developed X-ray film 60 on which an autoradiographic image is recorded.

That is, after the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 92 are turned on by the user and lens focusing is performed using the camera lens 87, first, correction data is generated. Then, one of the standard fluorescent plate 61 and the standard fluorescent plate 62 is placed on the stage 90. When the standard fluorescent plate 62 is used, the stage 90 is placed so that the fluorescent layer 62a is on top.
Placed on top.

The dark box 72 is closed, and the user
When the correction data generation signal is input to the keyboard 75, the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 92 are turned on by the light source control unit 105, and the light is supplied to one of the standard fluorescent plate 61 and the standard fluorescent plate 62. The excitation light is emitted toward the light.

At the same time, the exposure start signal is input to the camera control circuit 82 of the cooled CCD camera 71 via the CPU 100, and the camera control circuit 82
Is opened, and the exposure of the CCD 76 is started.

The excitation light emitted from the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 92 is
3, 94, wavelength components other than light having a wavelength of about 470 nm are cut off. As a result, the excitation light having a wavelength of about 470 nm is supplied to the standard fluorescent screen 61 placed on the stage 90.
And one of the standard fluorescent screens 62.

As a result, the fluorescent dye contained in the standard fluorescent plate 61 or the fluorescent layer 6 formed on the standard fluorescent plate 62
The fluorescent dye contained in 2a is excited by the excitation light, and for example, fluorescence 25 having a wavelength of 530 nm is emitted.

The fluorescent light 25 emitted from one of the standard fluorescent plate 61 and the standard fluorescent plate 62 passes through the filter 95 and the camera lens 87 to the CCD of the cooled CCD camera 71.
The light enters the photocathode 76 to form an image on the photocathode.

The CCD 76 receives the image light thus formed on the photocathode and accumulates the light in the form of electric charges. Since the filter 95 cuts off light having a wavelength near 470 nm, which is excitation light, only the fluorescent light 25 emitted from one of the standard fluorescent plate 61 and the standard fluorescent plate 62
The light is received by 76.

When a predetermined exposure time elapses, the CPU 10
0 outputs an exposure completion signal to the camera control circuit 82 of the cooled CCD camera 71.

Upon receiving the exposure completion signal from the CPU 100, the camera control circuit 82 transfers the analog image data accumulated by the CCD 76 in the form of electric charges to the A / D converter 80, digitizes the analog image data, and digitizes the analog image data. To temporarily memorize it.

At the same time as outputting the exposure completion signal to the camera control circuit 82, the CPU 100 outputs a data transfer signal to the image data transfer means 101 and reads out image data from the image data buffer 81 of the cooled CCD camera 71. The correction data generation unit 1 of the image data processing device 102
10 is input.

The standard fluorescent plate 61 and the standard fluorescent plate 62 are designed so that when the excitation light is irradiated from the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 92, the fluorescent light is uniformly emitted. Therefore, the density signal level of digital image data obtained by photoelectrically detecting the fluorescent light 25 emitted from the standard fluorescent plate 61 or the standard fluorescent plate 62 should be uniform. It is extremely difficult to design the standard fluorescent plate 61 or the standard fluorescent plate 62 so that the fluorescent light is emitted uniformly when the fluorescent light 25 is emitted from the standard fluorescent plate 61 or the standard fluorescent plate 62. The density signal level of the digital image data obtained by the detection is not uniform. As a result, the standard fluorescent screen 61 or the standard The fluorescent screen 62 is excited by the excitation light, a standard fluorescence plate 61 or the fluorescence 25 emitted from the standard fluorescent plate 62, through the X-ray film 60, the cooling CC
Image data received and generated by the D camera 71 includes unevenness caused by the fluorescence 25 not being uniformly emitted from the standard fluorescent plate 61 or 62.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, correction data is generated by the correction data generation unit 110 in order to remove unevenness caused by the non-uniform emission of the fluorescent light 25 from the standard fluorescent plate 61 or 62. The image data obtained by reading the image recorded on the X-ray film 60 is corrected using the correction data.

FIG. 16 is a graph showing a density signal level curve of each pixel of the image data input from the image data transfer means 101 to the correction data generating section 110.

As shown in FIG. 16, the standard fluorescent plate 61
And one of the standard fluorescent plates 62 is excited by the excitation light,
The cooled CCD camera 71 receives the fluorescence 25 emitted from one of the standard fluorescent plate 61 and the standard fluorescent plate 62, and the density signal level of each pixel of the generated image data is not uniform but has a variation.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, when image data is input from the image data transfer means 101, the correction data generating section 110 first calculates the average value Dav of the density signal level of each pixel of the image data. I do.

Next, as shown in FIG. 17, the correction data generating section 110 divides the density signal level of each pixel of the image data by the calculated average value Dav of the density signal level of each pixel to obtain a standard value. Fluorescent plate 61 and standard fluorescent plate 62
Is generated.

The correction data thus generated is output to the correction data storage unit 111 and stored.

Next, the other of the standard fluorescent plate 61 and the standard fluorescent plate 62 is placed on the stage 90, and correction data for the other of the standard fluorescent plate 61 and the standard fluorescent plate 62 is generated in the same manner, and the correction data is stored. The information is stored in the unit 111.

As described above, when the correction data for the standard fluorescent plate 61 and the standard fluorescent plate 62 is generated and stored in the correction data storage unit 111, the developed X-ray having the autoradiographic image recorded thereon is processed. A transparent original such as a film 60 is read.

That is, the X-ray film 60 on which the autoradiography image is recorded is set on the upper surface of the standard fluorescent plate 61 or the standard fluorescent plate 62, and after the dark box 72 is closed, the exposure start signal is input by the user to the keyboard 75. Are input to the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 9 by the light source control unit 105.
2 is turned on, and excitation light is emitted toward the X-ray film 60.

At the same time, the exposure start signal is input via the CPU 100 to the camera control circuit 82 of the cooled CCD camera 71, and the camera control circuit 82
Is opened, and the exposure of the CCD 76 is started.

Excitation light emitted from the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 92 is
The wavelength components other than the light having a wavelength of about 470 nm are cut by 3, 94, and as a result, the X-ray film 60 is irradiated with the excitation light having a wavelength of about 470 nm.

The excitation light passes through the X-ray film 60,
The stage 9 is superposed below the X-ray film 60.
The standard fluorescent screen 61 or the standard fluorescent screen 6 placed on the
2 is incident.

As a result, similarly to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 to 14, the fluorescent dye contained in the standard fluorescent plate 61 or the fluorescent layer 62a formed on the standard fluorescent plate 62 is used.
Is excited, for example, 530
Fluorescence 25 with a wavelength of nm is emitted.

The fluorescent light 25 emitted from the standard fluorescent plate 61 or the standard fluorescent plate 62 passes through the X-ray film 60, and enters the photoelectric surface of the CCD 76 of the cooled CCD camera 71 via the filter 95 and the camera lens 87. An image is formed on the photocathode.

The CCD 76 receives the image light thus formed on the photocathode and accumulates the light in the form of electric charges. Since the filter 95 cuts off the excitation light having a wavelength of about 470 nm, the light is emitted from the fluorescent dye contained in the standard fluorescent plate 61 or the fluorescent dye contained in the fluorescent layer 62a formed on the standard fluorescent plate 62. Fluorescence 25
Only the light is received by the CCD 76.

After a predetermined exposure time has elapsed, the CPU 10
0 outputs an exposure completion signal to the camera control circuit 82 of the cooled CCD camera 71.

Upon receiving the exposure completion signal from the CPU 100, the camera control circuit 82 transfers the analog image data accumulated by the CCD 76 in the form of electric charges to the A / D converter 80, digitizes the analog image data, and digitizes the analog image data. To temporarily memorize it.

At the same time as outputting the exposure completion signal to the camera control circuit 82, the CPU 100 outputs a data transfer signal to the image data transfer means 101 to read out image data from the image data buffer 81 of the cooled CCD camera 71. The image data correction unit 1 of the image data processing device 102
12 is input.

When image data obtained by reading an autoradiography image recorded on the X-ray film 60 is input from the image data transfer means 101, the image data correction unit 112 of the image data processing device 102 The storage unit 111 is accessed to read out correction data for the standard fluorescent screen 61 or the standard fluorescent screen 62.

The image data correction unit 112 further calculates the density signal level of each pixel of the image data input from the image data transfer unit 101 for the standard fluorescent plate 61 or the standard fluorescent plate 62 read out from the correction data storage unit 111. The image data is corrected by dividing by the correction data.

As a result, when receiving the excitation light emitted from the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 92, the standard fluorescent plate 61 or the standard fluorescent plate 6
The unevenness resulting from the fact that No. 2 does not uniformly emit fluorescence is removed from the image data.

In this embodiment, the image data processing device 102 further includes a gradation correction unit 113.
The image data corrected by the image data correction unit 112 is output to the gradation correction unit 113.

As described above, digital image data obtained by reading a transparent original such as a developed X-ray film 60 on which an autoradiographic image is recorded is transmitted through the X-ray film 60 so that the X-ray Film 60
According to the density pattern of the autoradiography image recorded in the X-ray film 60, the laser light 4 converted to the light amount inversely proportional to the density of the autoradiography image recorded in the X-ray film 60 emits the fluorescence contained in the standard fluorescent plate 61. When the dye is excited, the fluorescence 25 is emitted, and the emitted fluorescence 25 passes through the X-ray film 60,
According to the density pattern of the autoradiography image recorded on the X-ray film 60, the light amount is converted into an amount of light that is inversely proportional to the density of the autoradiography image recorded on the X-ray film 60, and is photoelectrically detected by the photomultiplier 30. Thus, since the image data is generated, the image data has a density gradation that is about twice the density gradation of the autoradiography image recorded on the X-ray film 60.

Therefore, even when the contrast of the image recorded on the transparent original is low, an image with enhanced contrast can be generated, and an image that is easy to observe can be generated. In some cases, it is required to faithfully reproduce an image recorded on a transparent original such as 60.

Therefore, in this embodiment, the user inputs a tone correction signal to the keyboard 75, so that the contrast of an image recorded on a transparent original such as the developed X-ray film 60 can be faithfully adjusted. An image can be reproduced. When a gradation correction signal is input from the user to the keyboard 75, the gradation correction unit 113 outputs the image data input from the data correction unit 112. The density signal level of each pixel of the image data is corrected so that the gradation becomes 1/2.

On the other hand, when the tone correction signal is not input to the keyboard 75 from the user, the tone correction unit 11
3 does not perform any processing on the image data,
The image data is output to the image data storage unit 103 and stored.

The user inputs an instruction signal to the image display means 104 as necessary, so that an X signal can be obtained based on the image data stored in the image data storage means 103.
An image recorded on a transparent original such as a line film 60 is
It can be reproduced on the screen of RT74.

According to the present embodiment, the standard fluorescent plate 61 and the standard fluorescent plate 62 are irradiated with the excitation light emitted from the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 92 in advance, and Fluorescent light emitted from the fluorescent dye contained and the fluorescent dye emitted from the fluorescent dye contained in the fluorescent layer 62a provided on the standard fluorescent plate 62 is photoelectrically detected, correction data is generated, and a transparent original such as the X-ray film 60 is generated. Since the density signal level of each pixel of the image data obtained by reading the image recorded in the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 92 is corrected using the correction data. When the standard fluorescent screen 61 or the standard fluorescent screen 62 does not uniformly emit fluorescence when receiving the irradiation of the excitation light, unevenness caused by non-uniform emission of fluorescent light is removed from the image data. Can be, therefore, an image without unevenness, it is possible to reproduce on the screen the CRT74.

Further, according to the present embodiment, since the image data processing device 102 includes the gradation correction unit 113,
When it is required to faithfully reproduce an image recorded on a transparent original such as the X-ray film 60, the gradation of the image data is corrected and the image recorded on the transparent original such as the X-ray film 60 is corrected. It is possible to reproduce an image on the screen of the CRT 74 faithfully with the contrast.

The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various changes can be made within the scope of the invention described in the claims, and these are also included in the scope of the present invention. It goes without saying that it is a thing.

For example, in the above embodiment, as a transparent original, an X in which an autoradiographic image is recorded
Although the X-ray film 60 is used, any transparent original can be used as long as it can transmit light and read the recorded image, not limited to the X-ray film 60 on which the autoradiography image is recorded. You may.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the images recorded on the transmissive original and the reflective original are read. The present invention can be widely applied to reading of visible information recorded on a computer.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 9, the image reading device of the image generating device is configured to be able to read both the fluorescence image and the autoradiography image. May be configured to have only a function of reading only a fluorescent image or only an autoradiographic image.

Further, the image data processing device of the image generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIG.
When the excitation light emitted from the ED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source 92 is irradiated, unevenness caused by the standard fluorescent plate 61 or the standard fluorescent plate 62 not uniformly emitting fluorescence is corrected. Correction data generator 1 for performing
10, the correction data storage unit 111, the image data correction unit 112, and the gradation correction unit 113 for correcting the gradation of the image data are provided. However, the gradation correction unit 113 may be omitted.

In the image data processing device 34 of the image generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 9, when the standard fluorescent plate 61 or the standard fluorescent plate 62 is uniformly irradiated with the excitation light. Although there is no image data correction unit for correcting unevenness caused by not emitting the fluorescent light, the image data processing device 34 has the excitation data as in the embodiment shown in FIGS. An image data correction unit, a correction data generation unit, and a correction data storage unit for correcting unevenness caused by the standard fluorescent plate 61 or the standard fluorescent plate 62 not uniformly emitting fluorescence when irradiated with light. A part 112 can also be provided.

Furthermore, the image data processing device 34 of the image generating device according to the embodiment shown in FIGS.
Although it does not have a tone correction unit for correcting the tone of the image data, similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS.
The image data processing device 34 may be provided with a gradation correction unit for correcting the gradation of the image data.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 15 to 17, the standard fluorescent plate 61 or the standard fluorescent plate 6 is used.
2 is irradiated with excitation light, and the average value D of the density signal level of each pixel of the image data obtained by photoelectrically reading the fluorescent light 25 emitted from the standard fluorescent plate 61 or 62.
av is calculated, the density signal level of each pixel of the image data is divided by the average value Dav of the density signal level to generate correction data, and the density signal level of each pixel of the image data obtained by reading the transparent original. Is divided by the correction data to correct the image data, but the method of correction is arbitrary and is not limited to such a method.

Further, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 9, the stage 20 is held stationary, and the optical head 15 is moved in the X direction and the Y direction. Although the entire surface of the unit 22 is configured to be scanned, the optical head 15 is moved in one of the X direction and the Y direction, and the stage 20 is moved in one of the Y direction and the X direction. Thereby, the entire surface of the image carrier unit 22 can be configured to be scanned by the laser beam 4,
Furthermore, by holding the optical head 15 in a stationary state and moving the stage 20 in the X direction and the Y direction, the entire surface of the image carrier unit 22 can be scanned by the laser light 4. .

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 9, the electrophoretic image of the gene using the Southern blot hybridization method is transferred to a transfer support or gel support in accordance with a fluorescence image detection system. Recorded on the body, also, according to the autoradiographic image detection system, recorded on the stimulable phosphor layer formed on the stimulable phosphor sheet, for reading these photoelectrically,
As described above, the present invention is not limited to reading and generating such an image. For example, a fluorescence detection system may be used to detect other images or proteins of a fluorescent substance recorded on a gel support or a transfer support. Separation, identification, or
Reading of fluorescent substance images for evaluation of molecular weight and properties, and thin layer chromatography (TL
C), the separation and identification of proteins, or the determination of molecular weight and properties by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and autoradiographic images recorded on the stimulable phosphor layer formed on the stimulable phosphor sheet. Research on autoradiography images recorded on the stimulable phosphor layer formed on the stimulable phosphor sheet, metabolism, absorption and excretion pathways and conditions of administered substances in experimental mice for evaluation and other purposes In order to record the stimulable phosphor layer formed on the stimulable phosphor sheet, such as an autoradiographic image recorded on the stimulable phosphor layer formed on the stimulable phosphor sheet, Read and generate the autoradiographic image, as well as the metal generated using an electron microscope and recorded on the stimulable phosphor layer formed on the stimulable phosphor sheet. Electron microscopic image, such as an electron beam transmission image or an electron beam diffraction image of a non-metallic sample, organism tissue,
Furthermore, a radiation diffraction image recorded on a stimulable phosphor layer formed on a stimulable phosphor sheet such as a metal or non-metal sample, and a radiation diffraction image recorded on a stimulable phosphor layer formed on a stimulable phosphor sheet The present invention can be widely applied to reading and generating a chemiluminescent image and the like.

Further, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 9, the image reading device includes a first laser excitation light source 1, a second laser excitation light source 2, and a third laser excitation light source 3. However, it is not always necessary to provide three laser excitation light sources, and it is sufficient if at least one laser excitation light source is provided according to the target sample.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 9, 635n is used as the first laser excitation light source 1.
Although a semiconductor laser light source that emits laser light 4 having a wavelength of m is used, a He—Ne laser light source that emits laser light 4 having a wavelength of 633 nm is used instead of the semiconductor laser light source that emits laser light 4 with a wavelength of 635 nm. 640n
A semiconductor laser light source that emits m laser light 4 may be used.

Further, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 9, 532 is used as the second laser excitation light source 2.
Although a laser light source that emits laser light of 473 nm is used, and a laser light source that emits laser light of 473 nm is used as the third laser excitation light source 3, a second laser excitation light source is used depending on the type of fluorescent substance to be excited. 530 to 5 as 2
As the third laser excitation light source 3, a laser light source that emits laser light of 470 to 490 nm may be used as the third laser excitation light source 3.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 9, the photomultiplier 3 is used as the photodetector.
0 is used to photoelectrically detect fluorescence or stimulating light emitted from the image carrier unit 22, but the photodetector used in the present invention can detect fluorescence or stimulating light photoelectrically. Any other photodetector such as a CCD can be used without being limited to the photomultiplier 30.

Further, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 to 14, the light emission wavelength center is 47
Although a first blue LED light source 91 and a second blue LED light source 92 that emit 0 nm excitation light are provided, the emission wavelength center emits excitation light having a wavelength of 400 nm to 700 nm depending on the type of the fluorescent substance. An LED light source can be selected and used.

Although the cooled CCD camera 71 is used in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 10 to 14, a CCD camera having no cooling means may be used depending on the intensity of the fluorescent light emitted from the fluorescent substance. it can.

Further, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 to 14, when an exposure start signal is input to the keyboard 75, the light source control means 105 causes the first blue LED light source 91 and the second blue LED light source Although the light source control means 105 is configured to be turned on, it is not always necessary to configure the light source control means 105 to be controlled by the personal computer 73.
May be manually operated.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 to 14, the radiation fins 86 for radiating the heat generated by the Peltier element 78 are provided around the CCD camera 71.
Is formed over almost one-half of the longitudinal direction. However, the radiating fins 86 may be provided all over the longitudinal direction, and how much the radiating fins 86 are provided around the CCD camera 71 may be determined as follows. It can be determined arbitrarily.

Further, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 to 14, the image is reproduced on the screen of the CRT 74, but instead of the CRT 74, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display or the like is used. A flat panel display can also be used.

[0278]

According to the present invention, there is provided an image generating method and an image generating apparatus capable of reading a transparent original and a reflective original in addition to a fluorescent image and generating an image having a sufficient dynamic range. Becomes possible.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an image reading device used in an image generating device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing details near a photomultiplier.

FIG. 3 is a schematic sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a schematic sectional view taken along the line BB of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a schematic sectional view taken along the line CC of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the line DD of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a schematic plan view of a scanning mechanism of the optical head.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a control system, an input system, and a drive system of the image reading device used in the image generating device according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of the vicinity of a stage on which a transparent original and a standard fluorescent plate are superimposed and placed.

FIG. 10 is a schematic front view of an image generating apparatus according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a schematic vertical sectional view of a cooled CCD camera.

FIG. 12 is a schematic vertical sectional view of a dark box.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram around a personal computer.

FIG. 14 is a diagram in which an X-ray film on which an autoradiography image is recorded and a standard fluorescent plate are superimposed,
FIG. 4 is a schematic side view of the vicinity of a mounted stage.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram of an image data processing device provided in a personal computer of an image generation device according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a graph showing a density signal level curve of each pixel of the image data input from the image data transfer unit to the correction data generation unit.

FIG. 17 is a graph showing correction data.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 1st laser excitation light source 2 2nd laser excitation light source 3 3rd laser excitation light source 4 laser light 5 collimator lens 6 mirror 7 1st dichroic mirror 8 2nd dichroic mirror 9 collimator lens 10 collimator lens 12 mirror 13 Hole 14 Perforated mirror 15 Optical head 16 Mirror 17 Aspherical lens 18 Concave mirror 20 Stage 21 Glass plate 22 Image carrier unit 25 Fluorescence or stimulating light 28 Filter unit 30 Photomultiplier 31a, 31b, 31c, 31d Filter member 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d Filter 33 A / D converter 34 Image data processing device 35 Reflection mirror 36 Convex lens 40 Substrate 41 Sub-scanning pulse motor 42 Guide 43 Movable substrate 44 Rod 45 Main scanning pulse model Tab 46 Endless belt 47 Linear encoder 48 Slit 50 Control unit 51 Keyboard 52 Filter unit motor 60 X-ray film 61 Standard fluorescent screen 62 Standard fluorescent screen 62a Fluorescent layer 65 Reflective original 71 Cooling CCD camera 72 Dark box 73 Personal computer 74 CRT 75 Keyboard 76 CCD 77 Heat transfer plate 78 Peltier device 79 Shutter 80 A / D converter 81 Image data buffer 82 Camera control circuit 85 Glass plate 86 Radiation fin 87 Camera lens 90 Stage 91 First blue LED light source 92 Second blue LED light source 93 Filter 94 Filter 95 Filter 100 CPU 101 Image data transfer means 102 Image data processing device 103 Image data storage means 104 Image display means 105 Source control means 110 correction data generating unit 111 correction data storage unit 112 the image data correcting unit 113 tone correction unit

Claims (20)

[Claims] 1. A document on which a visible image is recorded is irradiated with excitation light, fluorescence is photoelectrically detected, image data is generated, and an image is generated based on the image data. Image generation method. 2. A fluorescent plate that emits fluorescence when irradiated with excitation light is superimposed on a transparent material behind a transparent original on which a visible image is recorded, and the excitation original is applied to the transparent original. Illuminating, exciting the fluorescent plate with excitation light through the transparent original, and detecting the fluorescence emitted from the fluorescent plate photoelectrically through the transparent original to generate image data. The image generation method according to claim 1, wherein 3. The image generating method according to claim 2, wherein the fluorescent plate contains a fluorescent dye. 4. The method according to claim 2, wherein the fluorescent plate includes a fluorescent layer containing a fluorescent dye. 5. A method of irradiating the fluorescent plate with excitation light in advance, photoelectrically detecting fluorescence emitted from the fluorescent plate, generating correction data, and superimposing the transparent document and the transparent document behind the transparent document. The phosphor plate is irradiated with excitation light, the fluorescence emitted from the phosphor plate is detected photoelectrically, the generated image data, using the correction data,
The image generation method according to claim 2, wherein the correction is performed to generate image data. 6. The image data generated by irradiating the transparent original and the fluorescent plate superimposed on the back of the transparent original with excitation light and photoelectrically detecting the fluorescent light emitted from the fluorescent plate. Correct the gradation so that it becomes approximately 1/2,
The image generation method according to claim 2, wherein image data is generated. 7. A method of irradiating a reflection original on which a visible image is recorded on a light reflecting material with excitation light, and photoelectrically detecting fluorescence emitted from the reflection original to generate image data. The image generation method according to claim 1, wherein: 8. At least one excitation light source for emitting excitation light, a stage on which an image carrier on which an image is recorded is mounted, and irradiation of excitation light emitted from said at least one excitation light source, said image being received A photodetector for photoelectrically detecting fluorescence emitted from the carrier, and an excitation light cut positioned in an optical path of the fluorescence emitted from the image carrier, for cutting excitation light emitted from the at least one excitation light source An image generating apparatus provided with a filter means, wherein the stage is configured to be able to mount an image carrier on which a visible image is recorded. 9. A scanning mechanism that scans the image carrier with excitation light emitted from the at least one excitation light source, and an optical system that guides fluorescence emitted from the image carrier to the photodetector. The image generation apparatus according to claim 8, further comprising: 10. The scanning mechanism is configured to move the optical system with respect to the stage, and scan the image carrier with excitation light emitted from the at least one excitation light source. The image generating apparatus according to claim 9, wherein: 11. The stage is configured such that a fluorescent plate that emits fluorescent light when irradiated with excitation light is superimposed on an image carrier on which a visible image is recorded, on a material that transmits light, and can be mounted. 9. The method according to claim 6, wherein
The image generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. 12. The image generating apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the fluorescent plate contains a fluorescent dye. 13. The image generation apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the fluorescent plate includes a fluorescent layer containing a fluorescent dye. 14. A correction data based on image data obtained by irradiating the fluorescent plate with excitation light emitted from the at least one excitation light source and photoelectrically detecting fluorescence emitted from the fluorescent plate. A correction data generating means for generating a light transmitting material, irradiating the image carrier with a visible image recorded thereon with excitation light emitted from the at least one excitation light source, via the image carrier, The fluorescent plate is excited, and the emitted fluorescence is corrected by the correction data generated by the correction data generating unit, and the image data generated by photoelectrically detecting the photodetector is corrected. 14. The image generating apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising an image data correcting unit that generates the image data. 15. The image carrier in which a visible image is recorded on a material that transmits light is irradiated with excitation light emitted from the at least one excitation light source, and the fluorescent plate is passed through the image carrier. Is provided with a gradation correcting means for correcting image data generated by photoelectrically detecting the excited and emitted fluorescent light by the photodetector so that the gradation becomes approximately 1/2. 15. The method according to claim 11, wherein
The image generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. 16. The image generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the image carrier is configured by recording a visible image on a material that reflects light. 17. The image generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein said photodetector is constituted by a photomultiplier. 18. The image generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein said photodetector comprises a CCD camera. 19. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the image carrier includes an image carrier carrying an image of a fluorescent substance. 20. The image generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the image carrier includes a stimulable phosphor sheet carrying an image of a radioactively labeled substance.