JP2016189985A - Radiographic system and photography platform - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a radiographic system in which a plurality of radiation detectors are aligned, and when performing long-sized photographing, overlaps of each photographic effective region of the plurality of radiation detectors are set optionally; and to provide a photography platform.SOLUTION: A photography platform S for storing a plurality of radiation detectors D1, D2 and D3 for detecting a radiation, includes support parts 60a, 60b and 60c for supporting the radiation detectors D1, D2 and D3 respectively, and a moving part for moving the support parts 60a, 60b and 60c together with the radiation detectors D1, D2 and D3 along a longitudinal direction of the photography platform S.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to a radiation imaging system and an imaging table for imaging a subject using radiation.

  In recent years, for example, in the medical field, imaging with a wide observation area (hereinafter referred to as long imaging), such as imaging the entire spinal cord or lower limbs of the subject or the whole body, has been performed. Patent Document 1 discloses a radiation imaging system that can perform long imaging by imaging a plurality of radiation detection devices (radiation imaging devices) side by side.

JP2012-040140A

  In Patent Document 1, when a plurality of radiation detection devices are arranged and imaged while overlapping a part of the radiation detection devices, a part of the other radiation detection device is reflected in one radiation detection device. Therefore, the connection part of a radiation detection apparatus overlaps with a region of interest, and the radiographic image containing a defect area | region will be acquired. Therefore, a defect image is included in a combined image (long image) obtained by combining a plurality of radiation images. However, Patent Document 1 does not mention measures against this reflection.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problem, and when performing long imaging by arranging a plurality of radiation detection devices, it is possible to arbitrarily set the overlap of imaging effective regions in the plurality of radiation detection devices. It aims at providing a radiography system and an imaging stand.

  In order to achieve the object of the present invention, an imaging table for storing a plurality of radiation detection devices for detecting radiation, the support unit supporting the radiation detection device, and the support along the longitudinal direction of the imaging table A moving unit that moves the unit together with the radiation detection apparatus. The radiation imaging system includes the imaging table.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, when a some radiation detection apparatus is put in order and long imaging | photography is performed, the overlap of the imaging effective area | region in a some radiation detection apparatus can be set arbitrarily.

The figure which shows the radiography system which concerns on this invention. The figure which shows the structure of the imaging stand which concerns on this invention. The figure which shows the internal mechanism of the imaging stand which concerns on this invention. The figure which shows the internal mechanism of the imaging stand which concerns on this invention. The figure which shows the holding | maintenance part of the radiation detection apparatus of the imaging stand which concerns on this invention. The figure which shows the moving part of the radiation detection apparatus of the imaging stand which concerns on this invention. The figure which shows the structure of the imaging stand which concerns on this invention. The figure which shows the holding | maintenance part of the radiation detection apparatus of the imaging stand which concerns on this invention. The figure which shows the internal mechanism of the imaging stand which concerns on this invention. The figure which shows the internal mechanism of the imaging stand which concerns on this invention.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, details of dimensions and structures shown in the embodiments are not limited to those shown in the text and the drawings. In this specification, not only X-rays but also α rays, β rays, γ rays, particle rays, cosmic rays, and the like are included in the radiation.

  First, a radiation imaging system according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a radiation imaging system.

  The radiation imaging system 101 includes an RIS terminal 102, a PACS terminal 103, a viewer terminal 104, a printer 105, and a radiation imaging unit 107. Each component is connected via a communication unit 106 such as a network. Furthermore, the radiation imaging system 101 can also be provided with WS (WorkStation), and can process the radiation image image | photographed with the radiation imaging system 101 as an image processing terminal, and can acquire the image for a diagnosis.

  The RIS terminal 102 is an operation terminal connected to the radiation imaging system 101 and constitutes an information system in the radiation department. The information system is, for example, an information management system that comprehensively manages incidental information that is incidental information added to radiographic images or imaging information. The incidental information includes imaging information such as an examination ID or a reception number.

  The operator inputs imaging information (inspection instruction) via the RIS terminal 102. Imaging by the radiation imaging unit 107 is performed according to the imaging information. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the input photographing information is stored and managed by the RIS terminal 102. Note that the input imaging information may be stored and managed by a server (not shown) connected to the RIS terminal 102 and the radiation imaging unit 107.

  The PACS terminal 103 stores and manages the radiation image captured by the radiation imaging unit 107. That is, the PACS terminal 103 can function as a part of an image management system that manages radiation images. The viewer terminal 104 can display and output the radiation image stored in the PACS terminal 103. The printer 105 can print out the radiation image stored in the PACS terminal 103.

  The radiation imaging unit 107 captures a radiation image. The radiation imaging unit 107 performs imaging based on imaging information including a plurality of imaging information. The imaging information includes imaging protocol information, and each imaging protocol defines imaging conditions or the contents of image processing performed on a radiographic image. Specifically, the shooting protocol includes parameter information or shooting execution information used at the time of shooting or image processing, and shooting environment information such as a sensor type or a shooting posture. The imaging information includes information for specifying imaging information such as an examination ID and a reception number, or specifying a radiation image.

  The radiation imaging unit 107 includes an imaging unit 115, a radiation generation control unit 111, a radiation imaging control unit 112, a display unit 113, and an operation unit 114. The imaging unit 115 includes a radiation source 108 and an imaging table S including radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3. The radiation source 108 functions as a radiation generating unit that generates radiation. That is, the radiation source 108 is an X-ray tube in this embodiment, and irradiates a subject (that is, a subject) with radiation (here, X-rays).

  The radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 function as a radiation detection unit that detects radiation. That is, the radiation detection apparatuses D1, D2, and D3 detect the radiation that has passed through the subject as charges corresponding to the amount of transmitted radiation. Sensors for converting radiation into charges include direct conversion sensors that directly convert radiation such as a-Se into charges, and indirect sensors that use scintillators such as CsI and photoelectric conversion elements such as a-Si. Is used. Furthermore, the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 perform A / D conversion on the detected charges to generate a radiation image as image data, and transfer the radiation image to the radiation imaging control unit 112.

  In the present embodiment, the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 are housed in the imaging table S. The photographing stand S is a rectangular casing, and the inside of the casing is hollow. The imaging table S covers a plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3. That is, the imaging table S also serves as a cover for the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3. In addition, the imaging table S has a function of holding and moving a plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the photographing stand S is placed upright with respect to the floor surface. The subject is installed along the longitudinal direction of the imaging table S. The imaging table S has a support function for supporting the subject 90.

  In FIG. 1, the imaging table S is installed so that the longitudinal direction of the imaging table S is a vertical direction, that is, the imaging table S stands upright with respect to the floor surface. Note that the imaging table S may be installed so that the longitudinal direction of the imaging table S is in the horizontal direction, that is, the imaging table S is parallel to the floor surface. At this time, imaging can be performed when the subject 90 is in the prone position.

  On the imaging table S, a plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the imaging table S, respectively. At this time, a plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 are arranged while overlapping a part of the radiation detection devices. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D2 are arranged so that a part thereof is spatially overlapped. At this time, the effective imaging regions of the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D2 overlap each other. Similarly, the radiation detection device D2 and the radiation detection device D3 are arranged so that some of them overlap each other spatially. At this time, the effective imaging regions of the radiation detection device D2 and the radiation detection device D3 overlap each other.

  Specifically, the radiation detection device D2 is disposed on the radiation source 108 side, that is, on the radiation irradiation side with respect to the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D3. Further, the radiation detection device D2 is arranged so that a part thereof is spatially overlapped with a part of the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D3 when viewed from the radiation irradiation side. Here, spatially overlapping may be physically contacting and overlapping, or may be overlapping via space without physically contacting. By having the overlapping region 120 where a plurality of radiation detection devices overlap, it is possible to combine images. In the overlapping region 120, the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D3 are reflected in the structure of the radiation detection device D2 disposed on the radiation source 108 side. . Moreover, it can suppress that an enlargement rate becomes large in an upper end and a lower end by making the overlapping order of a radiation detection apparatus from the upper stage in order of the front surface / back surface / front surface.

  The radiation generation control unit 111 controls the generation of radiation based on the imaging protocol in accordance with the control of the radiation imaging control unit 112. Specifically, the radiation generation control unit 111 applies radiation to the radiation source 108 to generate radiation according to imaging conditions (for example, parameters such as tube current, tube voltage, irradiation time, etc.) corresponding to the imaging protocol.

  The radiation imaging control unit 112 performs overall control of radiation imaging processing based on the imaging protocol. The control device 112 is, for example, an electronic computer (PC: Personal Computer) in which a desired software program is installed. In addition, the radiation imaging control unit 112 performs image processing on the radiation image obtained from the imaging unit 115. Image processing includes synthesis processing, correction processing, gradation processing, frequency processing, and the like of a plurality of radiation images from each radiation detection apparatus. Image processing by the radiation imaging control unit 112 is performed using image processing parameters according to the imaging protocol.

  Further, the radiation imaging control unit 112 can transmit the obtained radiation image to an external device such as the PACS terminal 103 or the printer 105. The PACS terminal 103 to which the radiographic image is transmitted stores the transmitted radiographic image together with imaging information for identifying the radiographic image. The imaging information is, for example, an examination ID or a reception number attached to the imaging information. The PACS terminal 103 may store the imaging information in association with the radiation image.

  The display unit 113 displays information such as the system state to the operator. The display unit 113 is, for example, a display or a monitor. The display unit 113 can display, for example, imaging information received from the RIS terminal 102 or imaging information created by an operator of the radiation imaging unit 107. The operation unit 114 acquires an instruction from the operator. The operation unit 114 is, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, or various buttons. For example, the operator can input an image duplication instruction to the radiation imaging unit 107 via the operation unit 114.

  The imaging platform S includes a wireless communication unit 117 that performs wireless communication of various information. Via the wireless communication unit 117, the radiation image and the position information of the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 are sent to the communication unit 106 such as a network.

  Note that the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 may have a detection function of automatically detecting radiation irradiation from the radiation source 108. The detection function for automatic detection is a function in which, when radiation is emitted from the radiation source 108, the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 detect the radiation and accumulate charges caused by the radiation. When radiation irradiation is detected by one of the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3, the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 start the main reading operation and acquire image data.

  Next, the configuration of the imaging table S of the radiation imaging system will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2A is a view of the imaging platform S viewed from the radiation source 108 side. A subject 90 is placed in front of the imaging table S. The imaging table S is provided with a state display unit 50 that displays the region of interest of the subject 90 and the positions of the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3. The state display unit 50 is installed at a position that is not hidden by the subject 90 even when the subject 90 is placed on the imaging table S, that is, a position that is not covered by the subject 90. FIG. 2 shows an example in which the status display unit 50 is a liquid crystal display panel. The status display unit 50 may be a liquid crystal marker, a lamp, or the like, as long as it displays the shooting status.

  First, the operator sets a region of interest of the subject 90 via the operation unit 114. For example, the operator can set the region of interest of the upper body including the head of the subject 90 or the region of interest of the lower body of the subject 90 via the operation unit 114. Specifically, the operator can arbitrarily set the range of interest 52c between the upper limit position 52a and the lower limit position 52b of the region of interest and the upper limit position 52a and the lower limit position 52b of the region of interest via the operation unit 114. it can. The state display unit 50 displays a region of interest 52c between the upper limit position 52a and the lower limit position 52b of the region of interest and the upper limit position 52a and the lower limit position 52b of the region of interest.

  Further, the radiation imaging control unit 112 acquires the upper limit position 52a and the lower limit position 52b of the region of interest based on the body information (for example, height) of the subject 90 and imaging information obtained from the hospital system such as the RIS terminal 102. May be. The radiation imaging control unit 112 transmits the upper limit position 52 a and the lower limit position 52 b of the region of interest to the state display unit 50. The state display unit 50 displays a region of interest 52c between the upper limit position 52a and the lower limit position 52b of the region of interest and the upper limit position 52a and the lower limit position 52b of the region of interest.

  Then, the status display unit 50 displays the upper limit position 52a and the lower limit position 52b of the region of interest as shown in FIG. Further, the state display unit 50 displays a range of interest 52c between the upper limit position 52a and the lower limit position 52b of the region of interest. The operator can arbitrarily set the upper limit position 52a and the lower limit position 52b of the region of interest displayed on the state display unit 50 while confirming the position of the subject 90. As described above, the operator can recognize the region of interest of the subject 90 from the information displayed on the state display unit 50. By recognizing the relative relationship between the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 and the subject 90, the operator can determine whether the range in which the radiation image is acquired is appropriate.

  Further, the state display unit 50 can display the positions of the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3. The radiation imaging system includes position sensors that detect the positions of the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3. The position sensor can detect vertical position information and horizontal position information of the plurality of radiation detection apparatuses D1, D2, and D3. The position sensor is, for example, a linear scale provided in each of the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3.

  The position sensor detects the positions of the plurality of radiation detection apparatuses D1, D2, and D3, and transmits the position information of the radiation detection apparatuses D1, D2, and D3 to the state display unit 50. The state display unit 50 can display the positions of the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3. As shown in FIG. 2A, the state display unit 50 displays position information 51a of the radiation detection apparatus D1, position information 51b of the radiation detection apparatus D2, and position information 51c of the radiation detection apparatus D3. Therefore, the operator has the radiation detection device D1 disposed on the uppermost side, the radiation detection device D3 disposed on the lowermost side, and the radiation detection device D2 disposed between the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D3. I can recognize that. Further, the operator can recognize the joint between the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D2, and the joint between the radiation detection device D2 and the radiation detection device D3.

  The state display unit 50 displays the position information 51a of the radiation detection device D1 and the position information 51c of the radiation detection device D3 on the left side (the subject 90 side) of the position information 51b of the radiation detection device D2. Therefore, the operator can recognize that the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D3 are arranged closer to the radiation source 108 side, that is, the radiation irradiation side than the radiation detection device D2.

  Therefore, the operator can recognize the status of the imaging platform S based on the information displayed on the status display unit 50. When the subject 90 is standing at the imaging position, the relationship between the subject 90 and the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 can be recognized. Further, the operator can recognize where the joints of the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 are. The operator can move the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 so that the site of interest in the region of interest of the subject 90 does not hit the joint between the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3.

  In addition, an imaging display unit 53 that indicates whether or not the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 are in an imaging enabled state is installed on the imaging platform S. The imaging display unit 53 may display imaging information of the subject 90 as character information. The radiation imaging system also includes a body movement detection sensor (not shown) that detects the body movement state of the subject 90 at the time of imaging, and displays the body movement state of the subject 90 on the imaging display unit 53. Also good. For example, the body movement detection sensor is installed on the contact surface between the imaging platform S and the subject 90, and can detect the body movement state based on the contact state (the presence or absence of contact) of the subject 90. The operator can take an image when the subject 90 is not moving by recognizing the body movement state of the subject 90.

  Although the state display unit 50 and the photographing display unit 53 have been described from a visual point of view, other geometric shapes may be used, or a change in luminance or a change in size may be used. . Also, hearing may be used in combination, such as making a notification sound. These pieces of information may be displayed on the display unit 113 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 2B is a view of the imaging table S viewed from the side. A partition 30 is installed behind the subject 90 to protect the subject 90 from the moving part behind it. Behind the partition 30, an imaging table S having a plurality of support portions 60a, 60b and 60c for the radiation detection devices D1, D2 and D3 is arranged.

  The imaging table S includes support portions 60a, 60b, and 60c that support the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3, respectively. Further, the imaging table S includes a moving unit (moving mechanism: details will be described later) that moves the support units 60a, 60b, and 60c along with the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 along the longitudinal direction of the imaging table S. The radiation imaging system further includes a radiation imaging control unit 112 that acquires and synthesizes a plurality of radiation images from a plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3. Here, the imaging table S independently includes a plurality of support units 60a, 60b, and 60c that respectively support a plurality of radiation detection devices, and a plurality of support units 60a, 60b, and 60c along the longitudinal direction of the imaging table S. And a moving part to be moved.

  The moving unit is installed inside the imaging table S. The moving part moves the support parts 60a, 60b and 60c independently. In the present embodiment, the moving unit can move the support units 60a, 60b, and 60c along the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S and move the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3.

  The moving part can be changed to the form shown in FIG. 2C by moving the support parts 60a and 60b upward from the form shown in FIG. 2B, for example. Therefore, the moving unit can move the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D2 upward, and can photograph the upper body including the head of the subject 90.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an internal mechanism of the imaging stand S. As shown in FIG. FIG. 3 shows the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 in the rear part of the partition 30 when viewed from the radiation source 108 on the imaging table S.

  The imaging table S includes a plurality of support portions 60a, 60b, and 60c that support the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3, and a plurality of slits 61a, 61b for moving the plurality of support portions 60a, 60b, and 60c. And 61c are installed. The plurality of slits 61a, 61b, and 61c serve as guides for moving the plurality of support portions 60a, 60b, and 60c.

  The radiation detection apparatus D1 is supported by the support part 60a. In this embodiment, the support part 60a is comprised from two members. The support part 60a is a member that supports the lower side of the radiation detection apparatus D1. The support portion 60a can move in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S along the slit 61a. The slit 61 a is a slit arranged on the innermost side in the photographing table S. Specifically, the operator moves the radiation detection apparatus D1 in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S by holding the support 60a and moving the support 60a along the slit 61a. Can do. When the operator releases his / her hand from the support portion 60a, the radiation detection apparatus D1 can maintain the position after the movement.

  Similarly, the radiation detection apparatus D2 is supported by the support part 60b. In this embodiment, the support part 60b is comprised from two members. The support part 60b is a member that supports the lower side of the radiation detection apparatus D2. The support part 60b can move in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S along the slit 61b. The slit 61b is a slit arranged on the outermost side in the photographing table S. Specifically, the operator moves the radiation detection apparatus D2 in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S by holding the support 60b and moving the support 60b along the slit 61b. Can do. The operator can keep the position after the movement by releasing the hand from the support portion 60b.

  Similarly, the radiation detection apparatus D3 is supported by the support part 60c. In this embodiment, the support part 60c is comprised from two members. The support part 60c is a member that supports the lower side of the radiation detection apparatus D3. The support portion 60c can move in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S along the slit 61c. The slit 61c is a slit disposed between the slit 61a and the slit 61b in the photographing table S. Specifically, the operator moves the radiation detection apparatus D3 in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S by grasping the support part 60c and moving the support part 60c along the slit 61c. Can do. The operator can keep the position after the movement by releasing the hand from the support portion 60c.

  That is, the plurality of support portions 60a, 60b, and 60c can be independently moved along the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S. The moving part can be changed to the form shown in FIG. 3B by moving the support parts 60a and 60b upward from the form shown in FIG. 3A, for example. The radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D2 can be moved upward, and the upper body including the head of the subject 90 can be photographed.

  The plurality of support portions 60a, 60b, and 60c support the same side surface (lower side) of the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3, respectively. Therefore, the plurality of support portions 60a, 60b and 60c can be arranged on the same side. That is, the overlapping degree of the plurality of support parts 60a, 60b, and 60c can be increased, and the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 can be arranged at arbitrary positions.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an internal mechanism of the imaging platform S. As shown in FIG. FIG. 4 shows the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 in the portion behind the partition 30 when viewed from the radiation source 108 on the imaging table S.

  By moving the radiation detection device D2 forward (toward the radiation source 108) from the form shown in FIG. 3, the radiation detection device D2 is more radiated than the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D3 as shown in FIG. It can be arranged on the source 108 side, that is, on the radiation irradiation side.

  The radiation detection apparatus D2 is supported by the support part 60b. The support portion 60b can be moved in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S along the slit 61b. The slit 61b is a slit arranged on the outermost side in the photographing table S. Therefore, the radiation detection apparatus D2 can be arbitrarily moved from the upper end to the lower end of the imaging table S. That is, even if the plurality of support portions 60a, 60b, and 60c are arbitrarily moved in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S, the plurality of support portions 60a, 60b, and 60c do not interfere with each other.

  Since the radiation detection apparatus D2 is arranged on the radiation source 108 side, that is, on the radiation irradiation side, the radiation detection apparatus D2 is appropriately moved, and an attention site in the region of interest of the subject 90 is imaged by the radiation detection apparatus D2. What should I do? Therefore, it is possible to prevent the region of interest in the region of interest of the subject 90 from hitting the joint between the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3.

  In this manner, the plurality of support portions 60a, 60b, and 60c can be independently moved along the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S. The form shown in FIG. 4A is a form in which the whole body of the subject 90 is photographed. The moving part can be changed to the form shown in FIG. 4B by moving the support parts 60a and 60b downward from the form shown in FIG. 4A, for example. The operator can move the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D2 downward, and can take images centering on the lower half of the subject 90. The moving part can be changed to the form shown in FIG. 4C by moving the support parts 60a and 60b upward from the form shown in FIG. 4A, for example. The operator can move the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D2 downward, and can photograph the upper side of the upper half of the subject 90 and the lower side of the lower half.

  Next, the holding | maintenance part and moving part of radiation detection apparatus D1, D2, and D3 are demonstrated concretely using FIG. Here, the holding unit and the moving unit of the radiation detection apparatus D2 will be described as an example.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration of a holding unit that holds the radiation detection apparatus D2. FIG. 5A is a part of a view of the radiation detection apparatus D2 as viewed from the radiation source 108 side. FIG.5 (b) is the figure which looked at the radiation detection apparatus D2 from the side surface. FIG. 5C is a view of the radiation detection apparatus D2 as viewed from the side opposite to the radiation source 108 side.

  The support part 60b is provided with holding members 21 and 22 that hold the radiation detection apparatus D2 as holding parts. The holding members 21 and 22 are members that hold the radiation detection apparatus D2 so as to surround the periphery. The periphery of the radiation detection device D2 is a peripheral portion. The holding member 21 holds the upper side of the radiation detection apparatus D2, and the holding member 22 holds the lower side of the radiation detection apparatus D2.

  The holding members 21 and 22 are provided with locking portions 21a and 22a that cover the front surface of the radiation detection device D2 so that the radiation detection device D2 does not fall on the front surface. The locking portions 21a and 22a are installed at positions that do not cover the effective imaging region 13 where radiation can be imaged in the radiation detection device D2. Therefore, the locking portions 21a and 22a do not appear in the radiation image.

  A back plate 23 is disposed on the back of the holding members 21 and 22. A groove 24 is provided in the back plate 23. The extending member extended from the back plate 23 and the holding member 21 is engaged. The holding member 21 is movable relative to the holding member 22 in the vertical direction.

  Between the holding members 21 and 22, a spring 25 (elastic member) having an elastic force is installed. When the radiation detection apparatus D2 is held by the holding members 21 and 22, the spring 25 (elastic member) functions so that a force is applied to the holding members 21 and 22 in a direction sandwiched with a constant force. That is, the holding member 21 and the holding member 22 are applied with a force in a direction in which the radiation detection apparatus D2 is sandwiched by the spring 25 (elastic member), so that the radiation detection apparatus D2 can be sandwiched. That is, the radiation detection device D <b> 2 can be sandwiched and held by the holding member 21 and the holding member 22. Specifically, when holding the radiation detection apparatus D2, the operator fits the lower end of the radiation detection apparatus D2 into the holding member 22 while hooking and pushing up the holding member 21 at the upper end of the radiation detection apparatus D2. With this configuration, the radiation detection apparatus D2 can be held by the holding members 21 and 22.

  Further, the holding members 21 and 22, that is, the holding unit can hold the radiation detection apparatuses having different sizes. Specifically, the holding members 21 arranged on the left and right are movable in the left-right direction (horizontal direction). The holding member 21 sandwiches and holds the radiation detection device D2 from the left and right. For example, the holding member 21 arranged on the right side holds the upper right side of the radiation detection apparatus D2, and the holding member 21 arranged on the left side holds the upper left side of the radiation detection apparatus D2.

  Moreover, the holding member 22 arrange | positioned at right and left is movable in the left-right direction (horizontal direction). The holding member 22 sandwiches and holds the radiation detection device D2 from the left and right. For example, the holding member 22 arranged on the right side holds the lower right side of the radiation detection apparatus D2, and the holding member 22 arranged on the left side holds the lower left side of the radiation detection apparatus D2.

  In this way, the holding member 21 can move relative to the holding member 22 in the vertical direction, and the left and right holding members 21 can move relatively in the left-right direction (horizontal direction). The holding member 22 is relatively movable in the left-right direction (horizontal direction).

  Therefore, the holding members 21 and 22 can hold the radiation detection apparatus D2 from the up-down direction and the left-right direction (horizontal direction). It is possible to hold radiation detection apparatuses of different sizes. Even in the case of holding a radiation detection apparatus having a small size, the radiation detection apparatus can be held by moving the holding members 21 and 22 vertically and horizontally.

  Here, the holding unit of the radiation detection device D2 has been described as an example, but the same applies to the holding units of the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D3.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a moving unit that moves the radiation detection apparatus D2. FIG. 6 shows an example of a moving unit that moves the holding unit 20 of the radiation detection apparatus D2 in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction on the imaging table S. The moving unit mainly includes an up-and-down moving unit 36 that moves the radiation detection device D2 up and down, and a front-rear moving unit 40 that moves the radiation detection device D2 back and forth.

  In order to describe the detailed structure of the moving unit with reference to FIG. 6, the scale of FIG. 6 is different from other drawings. The holding unit 20 is a mechanism that is held by the radiation detection apparatus D2 described with reference to FIG.

  The vertical movement part 36 which moves the radiation detection apparatus D2 up and down will be described. The vertical movement unit 36 is a movement mechanism that moves the radiation detection apparatus D2 in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S. Inside the photographing stand S, a guide shaft 31 and a holder 32 for moving the holding unit 20 in the vertical direction are installed. The holder 32 can move along the guide shaft 31 in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S.

  A support portion 60 b is connected to the holder 32. By moving the holder 32 in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S, the holding unit 20 (radiation detection device D2) can be moved in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S.

  The holder 32 includes a sensor 33 for detecting position information of the holder 32. The sensor 33 reads the position from the linear scale 33 a arranged in the photographing unit S and detects the position of the holding unit 20 in the vertical direction. That is, the sensor 33 can detect the position in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S in the radiation detection apparatus D2. The sensor 33 transmits to the state display part 50 which displays the position of the radiation detection apparatus D2. The status display unit 50 can display the position of the radiation detection apparatus D2.

  The imaging table S includes a belt 35 and a pulley 34 to which a holder 32 is fixed. The imaging table S includes a rotating unit that rotates the pulley 34. The belt 35 can be moved by rotating the pulley 34 by the rotating portion. Thus, the radiation detection apparatus D2 can be moved in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S.

  The vertical movement unit 36 may use a chain instead of the belt 35. It is also possible to cut the shaft 31 in a spiral shape, provide a protrusion on the holder 32 side and fit it in the groove, and move the shaft 31 up and down by rotating the shaft 31 with respect to the axial center line.

  Next, the front-rear moving unit 40 that moves the radiation detection apparatus D2 back and forth will be described. The front-rear moving unit 40 is a moving mechanism that moves the radiation detection apparatus D2 in the horizontal direction (front-rear direction: radiation generation direction). The front-rear moving unit 40 includes a rack 42 on an extension line of the support unit 60 b extending from the holding unit 20. The front-rear moving unit 40 includes a pinion 41 that is a gear meshing with the rack 42 and a guide 43 that supports the rack 42. The support portion that supports the pinion 41 and the guide 43 are connected to the holder 32. That is, the forward / backward moving unit 40 is connected to the up / down moving unit 36.

  By rotating the pinion 41, the holding unit 20 (radiation detection device D2) can be moved in the horizontal direction of the imaging table S.

  Accordingly, the holding unit 20 can move in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction with respect to the radiation incident surface which is the longitudinal direction of the image acquired and synthesized by the radiation detection device D2 and the depth direction when viewed from the radiation source 108 side. It becomes. Further, the imaging unit S has a plurality of these mechanisms, and the relative position can be changed by moving the holding unit 20 (radiation detection device D2) independently of each other.

  Here, the moving unit of the radiation detection apparatus D2 has been described as an example, but the same applies to the moving units of the radiation detection apparatus D1 and the radiation detection apparatus D3.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the imaging platform S houses a plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 that detect radiation. The imaging table S includes support portions 60a, 60b, and 60c that support the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3, and support portions 60a, 60b, and 60c along the longitudinal direction of the imaging table S. And a moving unit 36 that moves together with D3. Therefore, the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 can be moved independently. When a plurality of radiation detection apparatuses D1, D2, and D3 are arranged side by side and long imaging is performed, the overlapping of imaging effective areas in the plurality of radiation detection apparatuses D1, D2, and D3 can be arbitrarily set.

  Two or four or more radiation detection apparatuses may be used, and the movement direction of the radiation detection apparatus may be a horizontal direction that is a short direction other than up and down and front and rear. In some radiation detection apparatuses, some of the plurality of radiation detection apparatuses are not used depending on the imaging protocol. At this time, it is preferable for the convenience of the operator that the relative position information can be recognized by the operator only by the radiation detection device used for the imaging selected automatically or manually. Then, the operator moves the unused radiation detection device to the outside of the imaging region or to the back of the radiation detection device to be used so that it does not appear in the captured image. These explanations are mainly made for the radiographic system corresponding to the case where the subject 90 is standing, but the same applies to the radiographic system corresponding to the case where the subject 90 is prone.

  Next, a specific imaging form using the radiation imaging system will be described with reference to FIG. 2, FIG. 3, and FIG. An example will be described in which the upper body of the subject 90 is the region of interest and the entire subject 80 is imaged. First, the radiation imaging system obtains imaging information of the subject. The acquisition location of the imaging information of the subject is imaging information obtained from a hospital system such as the RIS terminal 102.

  Specifically, it is an imaging range such as a region of interest of the subject 90 and physique information such as the height of the subject 90. The radiation detectors D1, D2, and D3 installed on the imaging table S have the basic posture shown in FIG. 3A as described above. That is, the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D3 are arranged on the radiation source 108 side, that is, on the radiation source 108 side with respect to the radiation detection device D2. Further, the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D3 are arranged so that a part thereof overlaps spatially with a part of the radiation detection device D2 when viewed from the radiation irradiation side.

  After determining the region of interest based on the imaging information, the operator makes sure that the radiation detectors D1, D2 and D3 do not overlap the region of interest as shown in FIGS. 2C and 3B. Change the layout. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 2C and 3B, the operator moves the radiation detection devices D1 and D2 upward and moves the radiation detection device D3 downward. The relative positions of the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 are not only viewed from the longitudinal direction of the images acquired and synthesized by the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3, but also from the radiation incident direction when viewed from the radiation source 108 side. The horizontal direction also changes.

  In the example shown in FIG. 2C and FIG. 3B, a space is vacated between the radiation detection devices D2 and D3, but this is not a problem when the region of interest is not the subject 90. . Note that the radiation imaging control unit 112 can also recognize the relative position information between the radiation detection devices D2 and D3, and use the relative position information when joining the radiation images after acquiring the radiation images. The relative position information is acquired by the sensor 33 provided in the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3. As described above, the sensor 33 can detect the position in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S in the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3.

  First, the radiation imaging control unit 112 acquires in advance the relative positional information between the radiation detection devices D2 and D3 and the positional relationship (table) between the radiation images before the radiation imaging. The radiation imaging control unit 112 adjusts the position of the radiation image from which the radiation detection devices D2 and D3 can be obtained based on the relative position information between the radiation detection devices D2 and D3. Then, the radiographic imaging control unit 112 generates a composite image (long image) by combining the plurality of radiographic images whose positions have been adjusted. Note that the radiation imaging control unit 112 can also adjust the position of the radiation image from which the radiation detection devices D1 and D2 can be obtained based on the relative position information between the radiation detection devices D1 and D2. The radiation imaging control unit 112 can also generate a composite image (long image) by combining a plurality of radiation images that have undergone position adjustment.

  Further, since radiography cannot be performed while the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 are moving, the radiography control unit 112 displays a status indicating that the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 are moving or cannot be imaged. Notify the unit 50. After the movement of the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 is completed, the subject 90 is placed at the imaging position of the imaging table S. Then, the operator confirms the positions of the subject 90 and the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3.

  When adjustment of the positions of the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 is necessary, an operator performs the adjustment. The operator uses a handle 26 attached to the holding unit 20 to adjust the positions of the radiation detection apparatuses D1, D2, and D3. Thereafter, a desired image is obtained by photographing.

  FIG. 8 shows a form of a handle 26 attached to the holding unit 20 for adjusting the positions of the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3. A handle 26 for an operator to hold is installed on the holding member 22 of the holding unit 20 of the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3. Specifically, the handle 26 is installed so as to protrude from the side surface of the holding member 22. When the operator holds the handle 26, the holding unit 20 (radiation detection device D2) can be moved up and down.

  The captured radiographic image and the positional information of the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 are sent to the radiographic imaging control unit 112 by the communication unit 106 such as a network. Image processing is performed in the radiation imaging control unit 112, and the radiation images acquired by the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 are joined together. That is, the radiation imaging control unit 112 generates a composite image (long image) by combining a plurality of radiographic images.

  When it is determined that a deviation remains in the stitched composite image (long image), the radiation imaging control unit 112 corrects the deviation. Note that the radiation image and the position information of the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 may be sent to the communication unit 106 such as a network via the wireless communication unit 117.

  The relative positions of the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 also change in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction. In addition, there is a possibility that a slight inclination or the like may occur when the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 are incorporated in the imaging table S. Therefore, the shift in the composite image (long image) is the gravity direction, the direction perpendicular to the gravity direction, or the rotation direction. In addition, since the relative position also changes before and after, there is a possibility that a deviation that the magnification rate of the acquired radiographic image also changes occurs. The radiation imaging control unit 112 corrects the shift in the composite image (long image) based on the relative positions of the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3.

  FIG. 7 shows a form in which the lower half of the subject 90 is taken as a region of interest. When the lower body is an imaging region, the basic postures of the radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 set on the imaging table S are in the form shown in FIGS. The radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D3 are arranged on the radiation source 108 side, that is, on the radiation irradiation side with respect to the radiation detection device D2. Further, the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D3 are arranged so that a part thereof is spatially overlapped with a part of the radiation detection device D2 when viewed from the radiation source 108 side.

  Here, when the upper limit position 52a of the region of interest of the subject 90 is most observable, in the form shown in FIGS. A joint will be placed.

  Therefore, the operator moves the radiation detection devices D1 and D2 downward. When the radiation detection devices D1 and D2 are moved downward, the configuration shown in FIG. Therefore, the position of the joint between the radiation detection device D2 and the radiation detection device D3 can be changed even when the radiation detection device D3 is at the lowest position.

  As described above, it is possible to avoid overlapping of the effective imaging regions in the region of interest and to obtain an image that is easy to diagnose.

  9 and 10 show the internal mechanism of the photographing stand in the second embodiment. The second embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment.

  In FIG. 9, the plurality of support portions 60a, 60b, and 60c support the side surfaces (upper side or lower side) of the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3, respectively.

  Specifically, the radiation detection apparatus D1 is supported by the support part 60a. In this embodiment, the support part 60a is comprised from two members. The support part 60a is a member that supports the upper side of the radiation detection apparatus D1. The support portion 60a can move in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S along the slit 61a.

  The radiation detection apparatus D2 is supported by the support part 60b. In this embodiment, the support part 60b is comprised from two members. The support part 60b is a member that supports the lower side of the radiation detection apparatus D2. The support part 60b can move in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S along the slit 61b.

  The radiation detection apparatus D3 is supported by the support part 60c. In this embodiment, the support part 60c is comprised from two members. The support part 60c is a member that supports the lower side of the radiation detection apparatus D3. The support portion 60c can move in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S along the slit 61c.

  That is, the plurality of support portions 60a and 60c support the upper side of the radiation detection device D1 installed on the upper side of the imaging table S, and support the lower side of the radiation detection device D3 installed on the lower side of the imaging table S. Yes. Since the plurality of support portions 60a and 60c are respectively installed on the end side of the imaging table S, the stroke of movement of the plurality of support portions 60a, 60b, and 60c can be maintained.

  The moving unit can independently move the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3. For example, the support portion 60b can be moved upward from the form shown in FIG. 9A to change to the form shown in FIG. 9B. As shown in FIG. 9B, the moving unit can install the radiation detection device D2 above the radiation detection device D1. The upper body including the head of the subject 90 can be photographed.

  In FIG. 10, any one of the plurality of radiation detection devices D1, D2, and D3 may be moved. Here, the form which moves only the radiation detection apparatus D2 is shown.

  The radiation detection apparatus D1 is supported by the support part 60a. Since the support part 60a is fixed to the photographing table S, it cannot move. The radiation detection apparatus D3 is supported by the support part 60c. Since the support part 60c is fixed to the imaging table S, it cannot move.

  The radiation detection apparatus D2 is supported by the support part 60b. The support part 60b can move in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S along the slit 61b. Therefore, the radiation detection apparatus D2 can be independently moved in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S.

  In the form shown in FIG. 10A, the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D3 are arranged on the radiation source 108 side, that is, on the radiation irradiation side with respect to the radiation detection device D2. The plurality of support portions 60a and 60c support the upper side of the radiation detection device D1 installed on the upper side of the imaging table S, and support the lower side of the radiation detection device D3 installed on the lower side of the imaging table S. Therefore, the movement stroke of the support portion 60b can be maintained.

  In the form shown in FIG. 10B, the radiation detection device D2 is arranged closer to the radiation source 108, that is, the radiation irradiation side than the radiation detection device D1 and the radiation detection device D3. Therefore, even if the support portion 60b is arbitrarily moved in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the imaging table S, the plurality of support portions 60a, 60b, and 60c do not interfere with each other.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 101 Radiation imaging system 102 RIS terminal 103 PACS terminal 104 Viewer terminal 105 Printer 107 Radiation imaging unit 108 Radiation source 111 Radiation generation control part 112 Radiation imaging control part 113 Display part 114 Operation part 115 Imaging part D1 Radiation detection apparatus (1st radiation Detection device)
D2 radiation detector (second radiation detector)
D3 radiation detector (third radiation detector)
S Shooting stand

Claims (14)

  An imaging table that houses a plurality of radiation detection devices that detect radiation, a support unit that supports the radiation detection device, and a movement that moves the support unit together with the radiation detection device along a longitudinal direction of the imaging table And a photographing stand.   The imaging table according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of support units that support the plurality of radiation detection devices, wherein the moving unit independently moves the plurality of support units.   The imaging table according to claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of support units supports the same side surface of the plurality of radiation detection apparatuses.   3. The photographing stand according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of supporting portions do not interfere with each other even if the plurality of supporting portions are arbitrarily moved in the longitudinal direction of the photographing stand by the moving portion.   The imaging stand according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of holding members that hold the radiation detection device, wherein the holding members hold the radiation detection device so as to surround the periphery.   The imaging table according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of holding members are provided with locking portions at positions that do not cover an imaging effective area of the radiation detection apparatus.   The imaging table according to claim 5, further comprising an elastic member that applies a force to the plurality of holding members in a direction in which the radiation detection apparatus is sandwiched.   The imaging table according to claim 1, further comprising a sensor that detects a position in a longitudinal direction of the imaging table in the radiation detection apparatus.   The imaging table according to claim 1, wherein the moving unit moves the radiation detection apparatus in a horizontal direction.   The imaging stand according to claim 1, wherein the first radiation detection device and the second radiation detection device in the plurality of radiation detection devices are arranged so that a part thereof is spatially overlapped with each other.   The imaging stand according to claim 1, further comprising a state display unit that displays positions of the plurality of radiation detection apparatuses.   The imaging table according to claim 11, wherein the state display unit displays a region of interest of the subject together with positions of the plurality of radiation detection devices.   The imaging stand according to claim 11, wherein the status display unit displays joints of the plurality of radiation detection devices.   A radiation imaging system including an imaging table for storing a plurality of radiation detection devices for detecting radiation, wherein the imaging table includes a support unit that supports the radiation detection device, and a longitudinal direction of the imaging table. A radiation imaging system comprising: a moving unit that moves a support unit together with the radiation detection apparatus.

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