JP2012005695A - Radiographic system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a radiographic system capable of performing radiography to the natural movement of a patient (a subject).SOLUTION: The radiographic system includes an X-ray generating unit for generating X-rays. An X-ray detecting unit detects X-rays transmitted through the subject. A measuring unit is provided at the X-ray generating unit and measures a distance between the X-ray generating unit and the subject, or is provided at the X-ray detecting unit and measures a distance between the X-ray detecting unit and the subject. A moving mechanism moves the X-ray generating unit and the X-ray detecting unit. A control unit performs control for moving the X-ray generating unit and the X-ray detecting unit while keeping the relative position by the moving mechanism according to the movement of the subject based on the measured result of the measuring unit. A processing unit composes an X-ray image from X-ray image data based on the detected result obtained from the X-ray detecting unit. A display unit displays the X-ray image.

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to an X-ray imaging system.

  The X-ray imaging system irradiates a subject with X-rays, detects X-rays transmitted through the subject, and reconstructs an image in the subject from projection data indicating the detected X-ray intensity. System.

  Here, in the orthopedic field, for example, in order to determine how the results of joint implant treatment or bone treatment have an influence on the patient's motor function, a fluoroscopic image obtained by an X-ray imaging system is used. Dynamic diagnosis may be performed. Dynamic diagnosis is a diagnostic method for grasping how a joint of a patient who has performed a joint implant actually moves, for example, by displaying moving images of a plurality of fluoroscopic images obtained by an X-ray imaging system. .

JP 2009-5827 A

  In order to perform dynamic diagnosis, it is necessary to perform X-ray imaging in a state where an object to be measured (for example, a joint of a patient) is operated. However, in general, X-ray imaging by the X-ray imaging system is performed in a state where an object to be measured is fixed to the X-ray imaging system. Therefore, it has been difficult to capture a natural motion such as a state where the patient is actually walking.

  In the embodiment, a configuration capable of performing X-ray imaging with respect to a natural motion of a patient (subject) in order to solve the above problem will be described.

  In order to solve the above problems, the X-ray imaging system described in the embodiment includes an X-ray generation unit that generates X-rays. The X-ray detection unit detects X-rays transmitted through the subject. The measurement unit is provided with an X-ray generation unit and measures the distance between the X-ray generation unit and the subject, or is provided with the X-ray detection unit and measures the distance between the X-ray detection unit and the subject. . The moving mechanism moves the X-ray generation unit and the X-ray detection unit. Further, the control unit performs control to move the X-ray generation unit and the X-ray detection unit while maintaining the relative position by the movement mechanism according to the movement of the subject based on the measurement result of the measurement unit. The processing unit configures an X-ray image from X-ray image data based on the detection result obtained from the X-ray detection unit. The display unit displays an X-ray image.

It is an external view of the X-ray imaging system which concerns on 4th Embodiment from 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the relationship of each structure which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of the process which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which supplements description of the flowchart which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation | movement which concerns on the modification of 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the relationship of each structure which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of the process which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the relationship of each structure which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of the process which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the process which concerns on 4th Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the outline | summary of the process which concerns on 4th Embodiment. It is an external view of the X-ray imaging system which concerns on 5th Embodiment.

(Device configuration)
First, the configuration of the X-ray imaging system 1 common to the first to fourth embodiments will be described with reference to FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray imaging system 1 includes an X-ray generation unit 2, a measurement unit 3, an X-ray detection unit 4, a rail unit 5a, motors 5b and 5c, motor drive units 5d and 5e (hereinafter, rail unit 5a). , Motors 5b and 5c and motor drive units 5d and 5e may be collectively referred to as “moving mechanism 5”), high voltage generation unit 6, control unit 7, input unit 8, processing unit 9, and display unit 10. At the time of X-ray imaging, the subject 13 is placed between the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4.

  In the present embodiment, the X-ray generation unit 2, the measurement unit 3, the X-ray detection unit 4, the moving mechanism 5, the high voltage generation unit 6, and the control unit 7 are arranged in the examination room 11, the input unit 8, the processing The unit 9 and the display unit 10 are disposed in the operation room 12. However, the arrangement of each component is not limited to this. For example, the input unit 8, the processing unit 9, and the display unit 10 can be arranged in the examination room 11.

  Moreover, each structure does not need to be a separate body. For example, the X-ray generator 2 may have a high voltage generator 6 in the X-ray generator 2. Alternatively, it is possible to use a computer in which the input unit 8, the processing unit 9, and the display unit 10 are integrated.

(First embodiment)
The configuration of the X-ray imaging system according to the first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

  The X-ray generation unit 2 has a function of generating X-rays and irradiating the X-rays from the front (right direction in FIG. 2), for example, on the examination site of the subject 13. The X-ray generator 2 has an X-ray tube 2a. The X-ray tube 2 a has a function of generating X-rays when a voltage is applied from the high voltage generator 6. Note that the X-ray irradiation position (examination site, for example, knee joint) and the irradiation direction (side surface direction of the subject 13) can be arbitrarily changed according to the purpose of measurement.

  The measurement unit 3 has a function of measuring the distance between the X-ray generation unit 2 and the subject 13 based on an input instruction from the input unit 8 or the like.

  The measurement unit 3 is provided in the X-ray generation unit 2 in the present embodiment. The measurement unit 3 includes a device such as an ultrasonic sensor or an infrared sensor that can measure the distance from the X-ray generation unit 2 to the subject 13.

  As will be described later, the measurement unit 3 only needs to obtain a measurement result for determining and holding the relative positional relationship between the X-ray generation unit 2, the X-ray detection unit 4, and the subject 13. Therefore, the measurement unit 3 can be provided in the X-ray detection unit 4. In this case, the measurement unit 3 has a function of measuring the distance between the X-ray detection unit 4 and the subject 13.

  The X-ray detector 4 has an X-ray detector 4a inside. The X-ray detector 4 a has a function of detecting X-rays that are irradiated from the X-ray generator 2 to the subject 13 and transmitted through the subject 13. The detected X-ray is transmitted to the processing unit 9 via a wiring or the like (not shown).

  The moving mechanism 5 is a mechanism for moving the X-ray generator 2 and the X-ray detector 4. In the present embodiment, the moving mechanism 5 includes a rail portion 5a, motors 5b and 5c, and motor drive portions 5d and 5e.

  The rail part 5a is fixedly arranged on the ceiling of the examination room 11, for example. The motor 5b and the motor drive unit 5d are provided between the X-ray generation unit 2 and the rail unit 5a. Moreover, the motor 5c and the motor drive part 5e are provided between the X-ray detection part 4 and the rail part 5a. The motors 5b and 5c move the X-ray generation part 2 and the X-ray detection part 4 along the rail part 5a by driving thereof. The motor drive units 5d and 5e drive the motors 5b and 5c based on the drive signal from the control unit 7.

  Further, the moving mechanism 5 may not be arranged on the ceiling. For example, a moving mechanism may be provided on the floor of the examination room 11 as long as it does not affect the walking of the subject 13.

  The high voltage generator 6 has a function of applying a high voltage to the X-ray generator 2 in response to an input instruction from the input unit 8. The input unit 8 performs an operation input to the X-ray imaging system 1 such as an instruction to the high voltage generation unit 6. The controller 7 controls the operation of the entire X-ray imaging system 1. The operation control based on the measurement result by the measurement unit 3 and the operation control of the moving mechanism 5 will be described later. The processing unit 9 performs processing for configuring X-ray image data based on the X-ray detection result transmitted from the X-ray detection unit 4. The display unit 10 displays an X-ray image of the subject 13 based on the X-ray image data configured by the processing unit 9.

  Next, the operation of the X-ray imaging system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  First, as shown in FIG. 4A, the subject 13 is placed in a state where the X-ray generator 2 and the X-ray detector 4 are stopped. Then, the input unit 8 is pressed (S10, FIG. 4A). Then, the X-ray imaging system 1 starts an operation for X-ray imaging.

  When the input unit 8 is pressed in S10, the measurement unit 3 measures the distance between the X-ray generation unit 2 and the subject 13. The control unit 7 compares the measurement result obtained by the measurement unit 3 with a distance stored in advance for X-ray imaging. The control unit 7 also obtains a distance between the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4 suitable for X-ray imaging based on the comparison result. Based on the result of the comparison, the control unit 7 transmits a drive signal to the moving mechanism 5 so that the X-ray generation unit 2 has an appropriate positional relationship with respect to the subject 13, and uses the distance information as information. Based on this, the X-ray generator 2 and the X-ray detector 4 transmit a drive signal to the moving mechanism 5 so that the positional relationship is appropriate for X-ray imaging. The moving mechanism 5 drives the motor control units 5d and 5e based on the drive signal, and moves the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4 via the motors 5b and 5c (S11, FIG. 4B). . In this way, the relative positional relationship among the X-ray generator 2, the X-ray detector 4, and the subject 13 is determined. The positional relationship is stored in the control unit 7.

  In S <b> 11, after determining the relative positional relationship among the X-ray generation unit 2, the X-ray detection unit 4, and the subject 13, the subject 13 is started to move in accordance with an examiner's instruction or the like. As the subject 13 moves, the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4 are driven by the movement mechanism 5 so that the relative positional relationship (the positions of the X-ray generation unit 2, the X-ray detection unit 4, and the subject 13 is increased). (Relationship) is held (S12, FIG. 4C).

  The measurement unit 3 continuously measures the distance between the X-ray generation unit 2 and the subject 13 while the subject 13 is moving. The control unit 7 compares the measurement result of the measurement unit 3 with the relative positional relationship determined in S11, and the moving mechanism 5 is maintained so that the relative positional relationship determined in S11 is maintained during X-ray imaging. A drive signal is sent to. In the moving mechanism 5, the motor drive units 5d and 5e give predetermined drive power to the motors 5b and 5c based on the drive signal. The motors 5b and 5c move the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4 based on the driving power.

  After the subject 13 starts moving, the high voltage generator 6 applies a high voltage to the X-ray tube 2a by pressing the input unit 8 again. The X-ray tube 2a to which a high voltage is applied generates X-rays and irradiates the subject 13 with the X-rays (S13, FIG. 4C). X-rays transmitted through the subject 13 are detected by the X-ray detector 4. The results detected by the X-ray detection unit 4 are sequentially transmitted to the processing unit 9.

  In S13, it is possible to apply a high voltage to the X-ray tube 2a without pressing the input unit 8 again. For example, the control unit 7 sends a drive signal to the high voltage generation unit 6 in synchronization with the driving of the moving mechanism 5. By driving the high voltage generator 6 based on this drive signal, it is possible to generate X-rays from the X-ray generator 2 as the movement mechanism 5 starts moving.

  X-ray imaging is performed for a predetermined distance necessary for obtaining desired X-ray image data in the state of S12 (S14, FIG. 4C). When imaging at a predetermined distance is completed, the movement of the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4 is stopped when the subject 13 stops moving according to an instruction from an examiner or the like. The high voltage generation unit 6 stops driving by stopping the pressing of the input unit 8. As a result, the X-ray irradiation from the X-ray generator 2 is stopped (S15, FIG. 4D).

  Next, the processing unit 9 constructs X-ray image data based on the detection result obtained from the X-ray detection unit 4. Further, an X-ray image to be displayed on the display unit 10 is constructed from the X-ray image data (S16). The display unit 10 displays an X-ray image of the subject 13 based on the X-ray image configured by the processing unit 9 (S17). The X-ray image displayed on the display unit 10 is an X-ray moving image based on, for example, X-ray image data acquired in time series.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, X-ray imaging of the moving subject 13 is performed while maintaining the relative positional relationship between the X-ray generation unit 2, the X-ray detection unit 4, and the subject 13. be able to. Therefore, it is possible to display an X-ray moving image representing the movement of a joint or the like when the subject 13 is actually walking. Therefore, since the movement of the joint can be grasped, it is possible to perform a more accurate diagnosis.

(Modification of the first embodiment)
FIGS. 5A to 5C relate to a modification of the first embodiment. 5 (A) to 5 (C) are views of the X-ray imaging system 1 as viewed from above. FIGS. 5 (A), 5 (B), and 5 (C) according to the movement of the subject 13. ) And time series. In addition, illustrations are omitted except for the rail part 5a, the X-ray generation part 2, the X-ray detection part 4, and the subject 13. In FIGS. 5A to 5C, the horizontal direction on the paper is described as the X axis, and the vertical direction on the paper is described as the Y axis.

  In this modification, vertical rails (two) and horizontal rails (one) are arranged on the ceiling of the examination room 11 as the rail portion 5a. Further, the vertical rail is movable in the X-axis direction with respect to the horizontal rail by a moving mechanism (not shown).

  As shown in FIGS. 5A to 5C, one of the two vertical rails is provided with the X-ray generator 2 and the other is provided with the X-ray detector 4.

  When performing X-ray imaging in this modification, the examiner instructs the subject 13 to walk in a predetermined direction. In this modification, the predetermined direction is indicated by a broken line in FIG.

  As the subject 13 moves in a predetermined direction, the vertical rail moves in the X-axis direction with respect to the horizontal rail. Further, the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4 are moved in the Y-axis direction by the moving mechanism 5 provided on the vertical rail while maintaining the relative positional relationship with the subject 13.

  By arranging a plurality of rails in this way, for example, when the subject 13 moves obliquely as shown in FIGS. 5A to 5C, the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray generation unit 2 and X The line detector 4 can be moved relatively. The vertical rail is configured to move with the movement of the X-ray generation unit 2, the X-ray detection unit 4, and the subject 13 based on a drive signal from the control unit 7.

  In addition, it is desirable that the predetermined direction is clearly indicated on the floor of the examination room 11 by a red line or the like. By moving the subject 13 along the red line or the like, X-ray imaging can be performed in an appropriate movement state.

  Moreover, the rail arrange | positioned at a ceiling is not restricted to a vertical and horizontal direction, You may provide the rail of a diagonal direction. Further, the number of rails is not limited to two, and three or more rails may be arranged.

  According to this modification, by providing a plurality of rail portions 5a, it is possible to perform X-ray imaging of joint movements and the like associated with the lateral and oblique movements of the subject 13.

(Second Embodiment)
The second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. Note that a detailed description of the same configuration as that of the first embodiment is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, a moving speed detection unit 14 is provided.

  The moving speed detector 14 has a function of detecting the moving speed of the X-ray generator 2. The detected moving speed is sent to the control unit 7. The control unit 7 performs control such that X-rays are generated from the X-ray generation unit 2 when the movement speed is equal to or higher than the predetermined speed, and X-rays from the X-ray generation unit 2 when the movement speed is equal to or lower than the predetermined speed. Control to stop line generation. Specifically, the control unit 7 performs control to instruct the high voltage generation unit 6 as to whether high voltage application is possible.

  The moving speed detector 14 may be arranged anywhere as long as the moving speed of the X-ray detector 2 can be detected. For example, it may be arranged in the high voltage generator 6.

  Further, the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4 move at the same moving speed. Therefore, the moving speed detector 14 may detect the moving speed of the X-ray detector 4.

  Next, the operation of the X-ray imaging system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  The subject 13 is placed in a state where the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4 are stopped. Then, the input unit 8 is pressed (S20). Then, the X-ray imaging system 1 starts an operation for X-ray imaging.

  When the input unit 8 is pressed in S20, the measurement unit 3 measures the distance between the X-ray generation unit 2 and the subject 13. The control unit 7 compares the measurement result obtained by the measurement unit 3 with a distance stored in advance for X-ray imaging. The control unit 7 also obtains a distance between the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4 suitable for X-ray imaging based on the comparison result. Based on the result of the comparison, the control unit 7 transmits a drive signal to the moving mechanism 5 so that the X-ray generation unit 2 has an appropriate positional relationship with respect to the subject 13, and uses the distance information as information. Based on this, the X-ray generator 2 and the X-ray detector 4 transmit a drive signal to the moving mechanism 5 so that the positional relationship is appropriate for X-ray imaging. The moving mechanism 5 drives the motor control units 5d and 5e based on the drive signal, and moves the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4 via the motors 5b and 5c (S21). In this way, the relative positional relationship among the X-ray generator 2, the X-ray detector 4, and the subject 13 is determined. The positional relationship is stored in the control unit 7.

  In S21, after determining the relative positional relationship among the X-ray generation unit 2, the X-ray detection unit 4, and the subject 13, the subject 13 is caused to start moving in accordance with an instruction from the examiner. As the subject 13 moves, the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4 are driven by the movement mechanism 5 so that the relative positional relationship (the positions of the X-ray generation unit 2, the X-ray detection unit 4, and the subject 13 is increased). (Relationship) is maintained (S22).

  The measurement unit 3 continuously measures the distance between the X-ray generation unit 2 and the subject 13 while the subject 13 is moving. The control unit 7 compares the measurement result of the measurement unit 3 and the relative positional relationship determined in S21, and the moving mechanism 5 maintains the relative positional relationship determined in S21 during X-ray imaging. A drive signal is sent to. In the moving mechanism 5, the motor drive units 5d and 5e give predetermined drive power to the motors 5b and 5c based on the drive signal. The motors 5b and 5c move the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4 based on the driving power.

  The moving speed detector 14 detects the moving speed of the X-ray generator 2 and sends the detection result to the controller 7. The control unit 7 determines whether or not the detection result is equal to or higher than a predetermined speed (S23). When it is determined that the detection result is equal to or higher than the predetermined speed, the control unit 7 transmits a drive signal to the high voltage generation unit 6.

  The high voltage generator 6 applies a high voltage to the X-ray tube 2 a based on the drive signal from the controller 7. The X-ray tube 2a to which the high voltage is applied generates X-rays and irradiates the subject 13 with the X-rays (S24). X-rays transmitted through the subject 13 are detected by the X-ray detector 4. The results detected by the X-ray detection unit 4 are sequentially transmitted to the processing unit 9.

  Under X-ray irradiation by the X-ray generation unit 2, the control unit 7 determines whether or not the movement speed of the X-ray generation unit 2 detected by the movement speed detection unit 14 is below a predetermined speed. (S25). When the moving speed of the X-ray generation unit 2 becomes equal to or lower than a predetermined speed, the control unit 7 performs control to stop driving of the high voltage generation unit 6. As a result, the X-ray irradiation from the X-ray generator 2 is stopped (S26).

  Next, the processing unit 9 constructs X-ray image data based on the detection result obtained from the X-ray detection unit 4. Further, an X-ray image to be displayed on the display unit 10 is constructed from the X-ray image data (S26). The display unit 10 displays an X-ray image of the subject 13 based on the X-ray image configured by the processing unit 9 (S27). The X-ray image displayed on the display unit 10 is an X-ray moving image based on, for example, X-ray image data acquired in time series.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, X-ray imaging can be performed only when the X-ray generator 2 is moving at a predetermined speed or higher. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the first embodiment, there is an effect that exposure by X-rays can be reduced.

  Note that both the step S23 and the step S25 are not necessarily performed. For example, even when only the step of S23 or the step of S25 is executed, there is an effect that exposure by X-rays can be reduced.

(Third embodiment)
The third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9. Note that a detailed description of the same configuration as that of the first embodiment is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 8, in the present embodiment, a movement distance detection unit 15 is provided.

  The movement distance detection unit 15 includes an encoder and the like, and has a function of detecting the movement distance of the X-ray generation unit 2. The detected moving distance is sent to the control unit 7. The control unit 7 performs control to apply a high voltage to the X-ray tube 2a based on the moving distance.

  The movement distance detection unit 15 may be arranged anywhere as long as the movement distance of the X-ray detection unit 2 can be detected. For example, it may be arranged in the X-ray generator 2.

  The movement distance detection unit 15 may be arranged in the X-ray detection unit 4 and detect the movement distance of the X-ray detection unit 4.

  Next, the operation of the X-ray imaging system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  The subject 13 is placed in a state where the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4 are stopped. Then, the input unit 8 is pressed (S30). Then, the X-ray imaging system 1 starts an operation for X-ray imaging.

  When the input unit 8 is pressed in S30, the measurement unit 3 measures the distance between the X-ray generation unit 2 and the subject 13. The control unit 7 compares the measurement result obtained by the measurement unit 3 with a distance stored in advance for X-ray imaging. The control unit 7 also obtains a distance between the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4 suitable for X-ray imaging based on the comparison result. Based on the result of the comparison, the control unit 7 transmits a drive signal to the moving mechanism 5 so that the X-ray generation unit 2 has an appropriate positional relationship with respect to the subject 13, and uses the distance information as information. Based on this, the X-ray generator 2 and the X-ray detector 4 transmit a drive signal to the moving mechanism 5 so that the positional relationship is appropriate for X-ray imaging. The moving mechanism 5 drives the motor controllers 5d and 5e based on the drive signal, and moves the X-ray generator 2 and the X-ray detector 4 via the motors 5b and 5c (S31). In this way, the relative positional relationship among the X-ray generator 2, the X-ray detector 4, and the subject 13 is determined. The positional relationship is stored in the control unit 7.

  In S31, after determining the relative positional relationship among the X-ray generation unit 2, the X-ray detection unit 4, and the subject 13, the subject 13 is started to move in accordance with an instruction from the examiner. As the subject 13 moves, the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4 are driven by the movement mechanism 5 so that the relative positional relationship (the positions of the X-ray generation unit 2, the X-ray detection unit 4, and the subject 13 is increased). (Relationship) is maintained (S32).

  The measurement unit 3 continuously measures the distance between the X-ray generation unit 2 and the subject 13 while the subject 13 is moving. The control unit 7 compares the measurement result of the measurement unit 3 with the relative positional relationship determined in S21, and the moving mechanism 5 maintains the relative positional relationship determined in S31 during X-ray imaging. A drive signal is sent to. In the moving mechanism 5, the motor drive units 5d and 5e give predetermined drive power to the motors 5b and 5c based on the drive signal. The motors 5b and 5c move the X-ray generation unit 2 and the X-ray detection unit 4 based on the driving power.

  The movement distance detection unit 15 detects the movement distance of the X-ray generation unit 2 by detecting the rotation of the motors 5 b and 5 c and sends the detection result to the control unit 7. The control unit 7 determines whether the X-ray generation unit 2 has moved a certain distance based on the detection result (S33). When it is determined that the X-ray generation unit 2 has moved a certain distance, the control unit 7 transmits a drive signal to the high voltage generation unit 6.

  The high voltage generator 6 applies a high voltage to the X-ray tube 2 a based on the drive signal from the controller 7. The X-ray tube 2a to which the high voltage is applied generates X-rays and irradiates the subject 13 with the X-rays (S34). Here, the fixed distance can be arbitrarily determined. For example, when the fixed distance is set to 5 cm, X-ray irradiation is performed every time the X-ray generation unit 2 moves 5 cm.

  X-rays transmitted through the subject 13 are detected by the X-ray detector 4. The results detected by the X-ray detection unit 4 are sequentially transmitted to the processing unit 9.

  In the state of S32, X-ray imaging is performed at regular intervals until measurement at a predetermined distance is completed (S35). When the photographing is completed, for example, the input unit 8 is pressed to stop the driving of the high voltage generation unit 6. As a result, the X-ray irradiation from the X-ray generator 2 is stopped (S36).

  The movement distance detection unit 15 can detect the movement distance of the X-ray generation unit 2 together with a certain distance and transmit the detection result to the control unit 7. When the movement distance of the X-ray generation unit 2 detected by the movement distance detection unit 15 reaches a predetermined distance, the control unit 7 performs control to send a signal for stopping the driving of the high voltage generation unit 6. In this case, X-ray irradiation can be automatically stopped without pressing the input unit 8.

  Next, the processing unit 9 constructs X-ray image data based on the detection result obtained from the X-ray detection unit 4. Further, an X-ray image to be displayed on the display unit 10 is constructed from the X-ray image data (S36). The display unit 10 displays an X-ray image of the subject 13 based on the X-ray image configured by the processing unit 9 (S37). The X-ray image displayed on the display unit 10 is an X-ray moving image based on, for example, X-ray image data acquired in time series.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, X-ray imaging can be performed every time the X-ray generator 2 moves a certain distance. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the first embodiment, there is an effect that X-ray images can be acquired at regular intervals regardless of the walking speed of the subject 13.

(Fourth embodiment)
The fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11.

  The present embodiment relates to processing of X-ray detection results by the processing unit 9. This process can be applied to other embodiments.

  As shown in FIG. 10, in this embodiment, a sensor unit 16 is provided for the subject 13.

  The sensor unit 16 is a 3D sensor such as a gyro sensor, for example, and is fixedly disposed on the subject 13. The sensor unit 16 has a function of detecting the movement of the part to which the sensor unit 16 is fixed.

  The upper part of FIG. 10 shows a state in which the subject 13 is moving from the left to the right in the drawing. A state at the time when the subject 13 starts moving is represented as a subject 13a. Similarly, the state at each time point accompanying the movement of the subject 13 is represented as subject 13b to subject 13e. The configuration other than the subject 13 and the sensor unit 16 is omitted.

  The lower part of FIG. 10 shows X-ray images 17a to 17e obtained by photographing from the front of the subject 13 (taken from the right side of FIG. 10) in each state of the subjects 13a to 13e. A portion surrounded by a dotted line indicates a range of an image to be finally synthesized as a result of a positional deviation correction described later on each of the X-ray photographed images 17a to 17e.

  Next, the operation of the X-ray imaging system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  The processing unit 9 sequentially receives the results detected by the X-ray detection unit 4 (S40). For example, in the present embodiment, X-ray image data 18a to 18e (not shown) that are the basis of the X-ray images 17a to 17e of FIG. 10 are received.

  In the processing unit 9, the movement of the subject 13 detected by the sensor unit 16 at the imaging timing of the X-ray image data 18a (first X-ray image data), and the sensor unit 16 detects the X-ray image data 18b (second X-ray image data). The motion of the subject 13 detected at the imaging timing of the line image data) is compared, and the difference in motion of the subject 13 is obtained.

  Furthermore, in the processing unit 9, the movement of the subject 13 detected by the sensor unit 16 at the imaging timing of the X-ray image data 18b (second X-ray image data), and the sensor unit 16 detects the X-ray image data 18c (the third X-ray image data 18c). The movement of the subject 13 detected at the imaging timing of (X-ray image data) is compared, and the difference in the movement of the subject 13 is obtained.

  In this way, in the processing unit 9, the movement of the subject 13 detected by the sensor unit 16 at the imaging timing of the nth X-ray image data and the (n + 1) th X-ray image data (n> 0 n = integer). A process for obtaining the difference is performed (S41).

  As a method for calculating the difference, there is a method using a gyro sensor for the sensor unit 16. According to this method, it is possible to calculate a difference between the X-ray image data 18a and the X-ray image data 18b based on the movement amount of the subject 13a and the movement amount of the subject 13b detected by the gyro sensor. .

  Further, as a method for calculating the difference, a method that does not require the sensor unit 16 as in the feature point extraction method may be used. According to this method, first, a predetermined position (feature point) in the subject 13 in the X-ray image 17a is determined. Next, it is detected where the predetermined position exists in the X-ray image 17b. The difference can be calculated based on the difference in the predetermined position.

  Next, the difference calculation in S41 is performed for all detection results detected by the X-ray detection unit 4 (S42).

  Then, the processing unit 9 corrects misalignment between the X-ray images based on the difference obtained by the processing of S41 and S42 (S43).

  The X-ray image subjected to the positional deviation correction is displayed on the display unit 10 (S44).

  Note that the positional deviation correction in S43 may not be performed after the difference between all detection results is calculated. That is, the positional deviation correction is performed based on the difference calculated each time the X-ray image data is transmitted to the processing unit 9, and the corrected X-ray image data is stored in the processing unit 9. Then, after the X-ray imaging is completed, the corrected X-ray image data may be collectively sent to the display unit 10 as an X-ray moving image.

  Further, when the amount of motion from the sensor unit 16 is used to calculate the difference, there is no need to be based on the amount of motion detected at successive shooting timings. For example, the movement of the subject 13 detected at the imaging timing of the X-ray image data 18a (first X-ray image data) is used as a reference. Then, a difference in motion of the subject 13 at another imaging timing with respect to the reference motion may be calculated, and the positional deviation of the X-ray image may be corrected based on the difference.

  In addition, when X-ray image data is used to calculate the difference, it is not necessary to use two consecutive X-ray image data. For example, the first X-ray image data may be used as reference image data, a difference between other X-ray image data with respect to the reference image data may be calculated, and the positional deviation of the X-ray image may be corrected based on the difference. .

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to correct a positional deviation between a plurality of X-ray images. Therefore, in addition to the effect of the first embodiment, there is an effect that it is possible to acquire an X-ray image that is not affected by the positional deviation of the X-ray image due to the vertical and horizontal blurring when the subject 13 walks.

(Fifth embodiment)
The fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  The present embodiment relates to an X-ray imaging system in which an X-ray generation unit 2, a measurement unit 3, an X-ray detection unit 4, a moving mechanism 5, a high voltage generation unit 6, a control unit 7, and the like are integrated.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the X-ray imaging system in this embodiment is provided with an X-ray generation unit 2, a measurement unit 3, an X-ray detection unit 4, and a moving mechanism 5 on a self-propelled mechanism unit 19.

  A high voltage generator 6 and a controller 7 are provided in the self-propelled mechanism unit 19.

  The self-propelled mechanism unit 19 is a unit that can move with the X-ray generation unit 2, the measurement unit 3, the X-ray detection unit 4, the moving mechanism 5, the high voltage generation unit 6, the control unit 7, and the like mounted thereon. Therefore, for example, a self-propelling means such as a tire is provided in the lower part of the self-propelling mechanism unit 19.

  In the case of the present embodiment, the detection signal from the X-ray detection unit 4 is wirelessly transmitted to the processing unit 9, and the processing result in the processing unit 9 is displayed on the display unit 10.

  Note that the processing unit 9 and the display unit 10 can also be mounted on the self-propelled mechanism unit 19.

  By adopting such a configuration, the X-ray imaging system can be easily moved. Therefore, X-ray imaging as in the first to fourth embodiments can be performed with a round-trip car or the like.

(Matters common to the first to fifth embodiments)
The configurations described in the first to fifth embodiments can be appropriately combined in addition to the above combinations.

  When the examination room 11 or the like is narrow and the subject 13 cannot move a sufficient distance for X-ray imaging, a mechanism that enables the subject 13 to continue walking at a specific position (for example, described in JP-A-9-308707). Can be provided on the floor of the examination room 11 or on the self-propelled mechanism unit 19.

  Further, when the subject 13 is moved, the X-ray detection unit 4 may be provided with a handrail part, and the subject 13 may move while pushing the handrail part. As the subject 13 moves, the X-ray generation unit 2 moves while maintaining the relative positional relationship between the subject 13 and the X-ray detection unit 4. In this case, the positional relationship between the subject 13 and the X-ray detection unit 4 can be easily maintained through the handrail.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 X-ray imaging system 2 X-ray generation part 3 Measurement part 4 X-ray detection part 5 Movement mechanism 6 High voltage generation part 7 Control part 8 Input part 9 Processing part 10 Display part 11 Inspection room 12 Operation room

Claims (5)

An X-ray generator for generating X-rays;
An X-ray detector that detects the X-ray transmitted through the subject;
Measurement that is provided in the X-ray generation unit and measures the distance between the X-ray generation unit and the subject, or is provided in the X-ray detection unit and measures the distance between the X-ray detection unit and the subject. And
A moving mechanism for moving the X-ray generation unit and the X-ray detection unit;
A control unit that performs control to move the X-ray generation unit and the X-ray detection unit while maintaining the relative position by the movement mechanism according to the movement of the subject based on the measurement result of the measurement unit; ,
A processing unit for constructing an X-ray image from X-ray image data based on a detection result obtained from the X-ray detection unit;
A display unit for displaying the X-ray image;
X-ray imaging system. Moving speed detection for detecting at least one moving speed of the subject, the X-ray generation unit, and the X-ray detection unit in a state where the subject, the X-ray generation unit, and the X-ray detection unit are moving. Further comprising
The control unit performs control to generate X-rays from the X-ray generation unit when the movement speed detected by the movement speed detection unit is equal to or higher than a predetermined speed, and / or the movement speed is equal to or lower than a predetermined speed. The X-ray imaging system according to claim 1, wherein control for stopping generation of X-rays from the X-ray generation unit is performed. Movement distance detection that detects at least one movement distance of the subject, the X-ray generation unit, and the X-ray detection unit in a state where the subject, the X-ray generation unit, and the X-ray detection unit are moving. Further comprising
The X-ray imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the X-ray generation unit to generate X-rays based on the movement distance detected by the movement distance detection unit. A sensor unit that is disposed at a predetermined position of the subject and detects the movement of the subject;
The processing unit is configured to detect a subject movement detected by the sensor unit at an imaging timing different from the movement of the subject detected by the sensor unit at the imaging timing of the first X-ray image data and the first X-ray image data. A process of calculating a difference from the movement of the specimen and correcting a positional deviation between the X-ray image based on the first X-ray image data and the X-ray image based on the second X-ray image data based on the difference. The X-ray imaging system according to claim 1, wherein:   The processing unit includes a predetermined position in the subject in the X-ray image obtained from the first X-ray image data and a first X-ray based on X-rays detected at different imaging timings from the first X-ray image data. The difference between the X-ray image data based on the first X-ray image data and the second X-ray is calculated based on the difference. The X-ray imaging system according to claim 1, wherein a process for correcting a positional deviation from an X-ray image based on image data is performed.

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