JP2017136300A - X-ray photography system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce unnecessary exposure of a subject in an X-ray photography system.SOLUTION: An X-ray photography system comprises: an X-ray tube for applying X-rays; an X-ray detector for detecting the X-rays; an optical photography unit for performing optical photography of a subject, and collecting distance image information of the subject; a photography region setting unit for setting a photography region included in the subject; and a photography condition setting unit for calculating a body thickness of the photography region on the basis of the distance image information, and setting a photography condition depending on the body thickness.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

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

  The X-ray imaging system irradiates a subject (for example, a patient) with X-rays and detects transmitted X-rays with an X-ray detector to obtain an X-ray signal of the subject. Then, the transmission X-ray image is displayed on the display unit by processing the X-ray signal in the image processing unit. As a general X-ray imaging system, a system in which an X-ray detector is combined with a standing imaging table and a standing imaging table is known. In this system, the X-ray tube is suspended by using a movable support device provided on the ceiling, and the X-ray tube is positioned at an appropriate imaging position with respect to the standing imaging table or the standing imaging table by the operation panel. Later, X-ray imaging is performed.

  Also disclosed is a technique for auto-positioning an X-ray tube at an appropriate imaging position with respect to a standing imaging table or a standing imaging table. According to this technique, it is possible to easily recognize the destination of the X-ray tube that can automatically travel, and to improve the work efficiency. As a destination setting method, the layout of the room where the X-ray imaging system is provided is displayed on the screen of a touch panel type liquid crystal display device provided in the operation control unit. Further, the current position of the support equipped with the X-ray tube is lit on the layout, and the imaging position of the patient to be imaged is blinked.

  In recent years, the development of motion capture technology for digitally recording the motion (movement) of a person or an object has been advanced. As a method of motion capture technology, for example, an optical type, a mechanical type, a magnetic type, and a camera type are known. For example, a camera system is known in which a marker is attached to a person, the marker is detected by a tracker such as a camera, and the movement of the person is digitally recorded by processing the detected marker.

  As a method that does not use markers and trackers, an infrared sensor is used to measure the distance from the sensor to the person, and the person's movement is digitally recorded by detecting various movements of the person's size and skeleton. The method is known. As a sensor using such a method, for example, kinect (registered trademark) is known.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2007-24469

  The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide an X-ray imaging system capable of reducing unnecessary exposure to a subject.

  The X-ray imaging system according to the present embodiment collects distance image information of the subject by performing optical imaging of the subject, an X-ray tube that irradiates the X-ray, an X-ray detector that detects the X-ray, and the subject. An imaging unit for setting an imaging part included in the subject, a body thickness of the imaging part based on the distance image information, and setting an imaging condition corresponding to the body thickness A photographing condition setting unit.

1 is an external view showing a partial configuration of an X-ray imaging system according to an embodiment. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of an X-ray imaging system according to the present embodiment. 1 is a block diagram showing functions of an X-ray imaging system according to the present embodiment. The figure which shows an example of the tube position before positioning. The figure which shows an example of the setting screen of the imaging | photography site | part based on operation | movement information. The figure which shows an example of the tube position after positioning. The figure which shows the X-ray imaging in the tube position shown in FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the X-ray imaging system according to the present embodiment. The figure which shows the tube position in a 1st time phase. The figure which shows the tube position in a 2nd time phase. The figure which shows the tube position in a 3rd time phase. The figure which shows the tube position in a 4th time phase. The figure which shows the tube position in a 5th time phase.

  An X-ray imaging system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  Although the X-ray imaging system according to the present embodiment is described as an apparatus that is used for both the standing position test and the supine position test, it may be a case of an apparatus that includes only one of the standing position test and the supine position test.

  FIG. 1 is an external view showing a partial configuration of an X-ray imaging system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is an overall configuration diagram of the X-ray imaging system according to the present embodiment.

  1 and 2 show an X-ray imaging system 1 according to this embodiment. The X-ray imaging system 1 includes an imaging apparatus main body 10 and an image processing apparatus (console) 30. The imaging apparatus main body 10 is provided in an examination room, while the image processing apparatus 30 is provided in a control room adjacent to the examination room.

  The imaging apparatus main body 10 includes an X-ray tube casing 11, a standing imaging stand 12, a standing detector 13, a lying position imaging table 14, a lying position detector 15, a ceiling rail 16, a carriage unit 17, a support column unit 18, a height A voltage generator 19, a photographing controller 20, an AD (analog to digital) conversion circuit 21, an operation panel 22, and an optical sensor 23 are provided.

  The X-ray tube housing 11 contains an X-ray tube 11a. The X-ray tube 11 a receives power supply from the high-voltage generator 19 and irradiates the imaging region of the patient in front of the standing imaging table 12 or on the supine imaging table 14 with X-rays. The X-ray tube housing 11 can rotate with respect to the support column 18 in a range of −180 ° to + 180 °. The height of the X-ray tube housing 11 is changed according to the vertical expansion and contraction of the support column 18 under the control of the imaging controller 20. An X-ray diaphragm (not shown) for forming an opening for irradiating X-rays is disposed on the front surface of the X-ray tube 11a.

  The standing imaging stand 12 is arranged vertically at a position facing the X-ray tube casing 11.

  The standing position detector 13 is supported by the standing position photographing stand 12. The standing detector 13 is an FPD (not shown) that detects transmitted X-rays from a standing patient and outputs them as image data. Further, the standing position detector 13 has a structure capable of setting a grid (not shown) for removing scattered radiation. The height of the standing detector 13 is changed along the standing imaging stand 12 according to the change in the height of the X-ray tube housing 11 under the control of the imaging controller 20.

  The recumbent photographing table 14 is disposed sideways so that a patient can be placed thereon. The recumbent photographing table 14 can slide a top plate (not shown) provided at the upper part under the control of the photographing controller 20.

  The supine position detector 15 is supported by the supine position photographing stand 14. The supine position detector 15 is an X-ray detector including an FPD that detects transmitted X-rays from the supine patient and outputs it as image data. In addition, the depression detector 15 has a structure in which a grid (not shown) for removing scattered radiation can be set. The saddle position detector 15 slides within a slidable range in conjunction with the slide of the carriage unit 17 on the ceiling rail 16, that is, the slide of the X-ray tube 11a.

  The ceiling rail 16 is laid on the ceiling C.

  The carriage unit 17 supports the X-ray tube casing 11 via the column unit 18. The carriage unit 17 is engaged with the ceiling rail 16 so as to be slidable along the ceiling rail 16. Under the control of the imaging controller 20, the carriage unit 17 can slide the X-ray tube housing 11 between the standing imaging platform 12 side and the lying imaging platform 14 side. That is, the carriage unit 17 can change the distance (SID: source image receptor distance) between the X-ray tube 11a (X-ray focal point) and the standing position detector 13a.

  The support column 18 is supported by the carriage unit 17 and supports the X-ray tube casing 11 at the lower end thereof so as to be rotatable in the vertical and horizontal directions. The column 18 can be expanded and contracted in the vertical direction under the control of the imaging controller 20. That is, the support column 18 can change the distance (SID) between the X-ray tube 11a (X-ray focal point) and the depression detector 15.

  The high voltage generator 19 supplies high voltage power to the X-ray tube 11a.

  The imaging controller 20 includes a processing circuit and a memory such as a RAM (random access memory). In accordance with an instruction from the processing circuit 31, the imaging controller 20 sets the imaging position by sliding the carriage unit 17 in the horizontal direction via a motor (not shown) and extending and contracting the column unit 18, and the high voltage generator 19. X-rays are irradiated from the X-ray tube 11a via

  The AD conversion circuit 21 converts analog signals (video signals) output from the X-ray detectors 13 and 15 into digital signals under the control of the processing circuit 31.

  The operation panel 22 is supported by the X-ray tube casing 11. The operation panel 22 is a touch panel type liquid crystal display device. Note that the operation panel 22 is not limited to being supported by the X-ray tube casing 11, and may be supported by the standing position imaging table 12, the standing position imaging table 14, and the like.

  The operation panel 22 can display operation information by the optical sensor 23 described later, and can accept designation of an imaging region and imaging conditions by an operator. For example, the operation panel 22 is provided in the X-ray tube casing 11. The operation panel 22 is not limited to the case provided in the X-ray tube casing 11. Instead of the operation panel 22, a mobile terminal that can display operation information by the optical sensor 23 and can accept designation of an imaging region and imaging conditions by an operator may be used.

  The optical sensor 23 is provided in a position where the patient can be imaged in front of the standing imaging platform 12 and on the supine imaging platform 14. The optical sensor 23 is provided at a position (for example, a ceiling or a side wall of an examination room) where the slide range of the carriage unit 17, the column unit 18, and the X-ray tube housing 11 does not overlap the imaging range of the optical sensor 23. The optical sensor 23 may be provided at a position where the patient on the front surface of the standing position imaging table 12 can be imaged and a position where the patient on the lying position imaging table 14 can be imaged. Here, a case will be described in which one optical sensor 23 is provided in the ceiling position where the patient can be photographed in front of the standing imaging table 12 and on the supine imaging table 14.

  The optical sensor 23 optically captures a patient in front of the standing imaging platform 12 or on the supine imaging platform 14 and collects at least one of color image information, distance image information, and operation information. For example, kinect (registered trademark) is used as the optical sensor 23. The optical sensor 23 includes a color image collection unit 23a, a distance image collection unit 23b, and an operation information generation unit 23c. The kinect may have a voice recognition unit (not shown) that collects surrounding voices, identifies the direction of the sound source, and performs voice recognition.

  The color image collection unit 23a photographs the entire patient in front of the standing position imaging table 12 or on the supine position imaging table 14, and collects color image information. For example, the color image collection unit 23a detects light reflected from the patient surface with a light receiving element, and converts visible light into an electrical signal. Then, the color image collection unit 23a generates one frame of color image information corresponding to the shooting range by converting the electrical signal into digital data. The color image information for one frame includes, for example, shooting time information and information in which RGB (red green blue) values are associated with each pixel included in the one frame.

  The color image collection unit 23a shoots the shooting range by moving the shooting range by generating color image information of a plurality of continuous frames from visible light detected one after another. Note that the color image information generated by the color image collection unit 23a may be output as a color image in which the RGB values of each pixel are arranged in a bitmap. The color image collecting unit 23a includes, for example, a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) or a charge coupled device (CCD) as a light receiving element.

  The distance image collection unit 23b captures the distance image information by photographing the patient in front of the standing position imaging table 12 or on the supine position imaging table 14. For example, the distance image collection unit 23b irradiates the surroundings with infrared rays, and detects a reflected wave obtained by reflecting the irradiation wave on the patient surface with the light receiving element. The distance image collection unit 23b obtains the distance between the patient and the distance image collection unit 23b based on the phase difference between the irradiation wave and the reflected wave and the time from irradiation to detection, and corresponds to the imaging range. Generate frame distance image information. The distance image information for one frame includes, for example, photographing time information and information in which each pixel included in the photographing range is associated with the distance between the patient corresponding to the pixel and the distance image collecting unit 23b. included.

  The distance image collection unit 23b shoots a moving image of the shooting range by generating distance image information of a plurality of continuous frames from reflected waves detected one after another. The distance image information generated by the distance image collection unit 23b may be output as a distance image in which color shades corresponding to the distance of each pixel are arranged in a bitmap. The distance image collection unit 23b includes, for example, a CMOS or a CCD as a light receiving element. This light receiving element may be shared with the light receiving element used in the color image collecting unit 23a. The unit of distance calculated by the distance image collection unit 23b is, for example, meter [m].

  The motion information generation unit 23c generates motion information representing the motion of the patient in front of the standing imaging platform 12 or on the supine imaging platform 14. The motion information is generated by, for example, capturing a patient's motion (gesture) as a sequence of a plurality of postures (poses). The motion information generation unit 23c first obtains the coordinates of each joint forming the skeleton of the human body from the distance image information generated by the distance image collection unit 23b by pattern matching using a human body pattern. The coordinates of each joint obtained from the distance image information are values expressed in the coordinate system of the distance image. For this reason, the motion information generation unit 23c then converts the coordinates of each joint in the coordinate system of the distance image into a value expressed in the coordinate system of the real space (world coordinate system). The coordinates of each joint represented in the coordinate system of the real space become the skeleton information for one frame. The skeleton information for a plurality of frames is the operation information.

  The image processing apparatus 30 is configured based on a computer, and controls the overall operation of the X-ray imaging system 1, image processing related to a plurality of X-ray images (X-ray image data) acquired by the imaging apparatus body 10, and the like. It is a device that performs. The image processing apparatus 30 includes a processing circuit 31, a storage circuit 32, an input circuit 33, a display 34, and an IF (interface) 35.

  The processing circuit 31 generally controls the X-ray imaging system 1.

  The processing circuit 31 means a processing circuit such as a dedicated or general-purpose CPU (central processing unit) or MPU (micro processor unit), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and a programmable logic device. To do. Examples of the programmable logic device include a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA). Circuit. The processing circuit 31 implements the function shown in FIG. 3 by reading and executing a program stored in the storage circuit 32 or directly incorporated in the processing circuit 31.

  Further, the processing circuit 31 may be configured by a single circuit or a combination of a plurality of independent circuits. In the latter case, the storage circuit 32 that stores the program may be provided individually for each circuit, or one storage circuit 32 may store a program corresponding to the functions of a plurality of circuits.

  The storage circuit 32 includes a semiconductor memory element such as a random access memory (RAM) and a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, and the like. The storage circuit 32 may be configured by a portable medium such as a USB (universal serial bus) memory and a DVD (digital video Disk). The storage circuit 32 stores various processing programs used in the processing circuit 31 (including an OS (operating system) in addition to application programs), data necessary for executing the programs, and medical images. The OS can also include a GUI (graphical user interface) that can use graphics for displaying information on the display 34 to the operator and perform basic operations by the input circuit 33.

  The storage circuit 32 stores color image information, distance image information, speech recognition results, skeleton information, and the like for every frame optically photographed by the optical sensor 23 in association with time in time series.

  The input circuit 33 is a circuit that inputs a signal from an input device (for example, a keyboard) such as a pointing device that can be operated by an operator. Here, the input device itself is also included in the input circuit 33. When the input device is operated by the operator, the input circuit 33 generates an input signal corresponding to the operation and outputs it to the processing circuit 31. The X-ray imaging system 1 may include a touch panel in which an input device is configured integrally with the display 34.

  The display 34 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display panel, a plasma display panel, and an organic EL panel. The display 34 displays image data according to the control of the processing circuit 31.

  The IF 35 includes a connector that conforms to a parallel connection specification or a serial connection specification. The IF 35 performs communication control according to each standard, and connects the X-ray imaging system 1 to the network N.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing functions of the X-ray imaging system 1 according to the present embodiment.

  When the processing circuit 31 (or the processing circuit of the imaging controller 20) executes the program, the X-ray imaging system 1 has an operation information generation function 41, an imaging region setting function 42, a positioning function 43, as shown in FIG. A shooting condition setting function 44, an operation determination function 45, a notification function 46, and a shooting function 47 are provided. The motion information generation function 41, the imaging region setting function 42, the positioning function 43, the imaging condition setting function 44, the operation determination function 45, the notification function 46, and the imaging function 47 are provided as hardware in the X-ray imaging system 1. It may be a thing. In addition, the imaging controller 20 can program all or part of the operation information generation function 41, the imaging region setting function 42, the positioning function 43, the imaging condition setting function 44, the operation determination function 45, the notification function 46, and the imaging function 47. It may function by executing.

  The motion information generation function 41 controls the optical sensor 23 to optically image a patient placed in front of the standing imaging table 12 or on the supine imaging table 14, and skeleton information generated by optical imaging. This is a function for displaying operation information based on the operation panel 22 as a moving image. Hereinafter, a case where the motion information generation function 41 performs control so as to generate motion information of a patient placed on the prone position imaging table 14 will be described as an example.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the tube position before positioning.

  FIG. 4 shows the position of the X-ray tube casing 11 when generating motion information of the patient S placed on the prone position imaging table 14 before positioning. The operation information of the patient S is generated by the optical sensor 23. The operation information of the patient S is displayed on the operation panel 22 provided in the X-ray tube housing 11 as a moving image or a still image of a required frame.

  Returning to the description of FIG. 3, the imaging region setting function 42 is a function that accepts designation of an imaging region based on the color image information of the patient displayed on the operation panel 22 and sets the imaging region.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a setting screen for an imaging region based on operation information.

  FIG. 5 shows color image information on which skeleton information of a predetermined frame is superimposed. The skeleton information includes a plurality of joints (a plurality of points in FIG. 6). When the operator touches a predetermined position of the patient motion information displayed on the operation panel 22, an imaging region corresponding to the touch position is selected. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the imaging region R including the patient's left foot is selected.

  Returning to the description of FIG. 3, the positioning function 43 controls the carriage unit 17 and the support column 18 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) via the imaging controller 20, and the imaging set by the imaging region setting function 42. This is a function for positioning the X-ray tube 11a and the supine position detector 15 at a position where the region can be imaged. The positioning function 42 performs an X-ray operation on the patient by performing a rotation operation of the X-ray tube housing 11, a slide of the carriage unit 17 on the ceiling rail 16, and a vertical expansion / contraction of the column unit 18. The tube 11a and the supine position detector 15 are positioned.

  The positioning function 43 does not designate the position in the examination room, but places the X-ray tube 11a and the depression detector 15 at positions suitable for X-ray imaging of the imaging region designated by the operator on the color image information of the patient. Can be positioned. Therefore, the positioning function 43 can perform positioning efficiently and effectively.

  The positioning function 43 controls the opening of an X-ray diaphragm (not shown) for forming an opening for irradiating X-rays according to the imaging region set by the imaging region setting function 42. The line stop may be positioned.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the tube position after positioning.

  FIG. 6 shows the tube position after being positioned from the state of FIG. The operation information of the patient S is displayed on the operation panel 22 as a moving image or a still image of a required frame.

  Returning to the description of FIG. 3, the shooting condition setting function 44 is a function for setting shooting conditions. The imaging conditions include parameters such as the tube voltage and tube current of the X-ray tube 11a when performing X-ray imaging. The shooting condition setting function 44 sets shooting conditions based on an input via the operation panel 22. A plurality of categories (for example, an adult category and a child category) and imaging condition parameters corresponding to each category are associated in advance, and the operator selects a category suitable for the patient from the plurality of categories. The setting function 44 selects an imaging condition parameter corresponding to the patient.

  Alternatively, the shooting condition setting function 44 automatically sets shooting conditions based on distance image information from the optical sensor 23. Specifically, the imaging condition setting function 44 controls the optical sensor 23 to optically image a patient placed on the lying position imaging table 14, and based on distance image information generated by optical imaging, A first distance between the optical sensor 23 and the body surface on the irradiation side of the patient, and a second distance between the optical sensor 23 and the supine position stand 14 are calculated. Then, the imaging condition setting function 44 calculates the body thickness of the patient based on the first distance and the second distance. A plurality of body thicknesses and imaging condition parameters corresponding to each body thickness are associated in advance, and the parameters are set according to the calculated body thickness. The imaging condition setting function 44 may automatically set at least one of tube voltage and tube current.

  According to the automatic setting of the imaging condition by measuring the patient's body thickness by the imaging condition setting function 44, the imaging condition is set based on the actual body thickness without depending on the judgment of the patient's external shape by the operator. In addition, shooting conditions can be set with high accuracy.

  The motion determination function 45 is based on the motion information generated by the optical sensor 23 after the X-ray tube 11a and the prone position detector 15 are positioned by the positioning function 43, and the index indicating the motion of the patient is less than the threshold value. This is a function for determining whether or not the patient can be regarded as immobile. The motion determination function 45 can also determine whether or not the index indicating the overall motion of the patient is less than the threshold value, and the motion within the imaging region set by the imaging region setting function 42 among the entire patient. It can also be determined whether or not the indicated index is less than a threshold value. In the latter case, the threshold value may be set for each imaging region.

  For example, the index indicating motion is the amount of change of each of a plurality of joints included in the motion information. By tracing a plurality of joints over a plurality of frames, the amount of change of each joint is obtained. The motion determination function 45 indicates that the patient cannot be regarded as immobile if there is a movement amount of n (1 ≦ n ≦ N) of N joints in the whole patient or the imaging region equal to or greater than a threshold value (there is a change in posture). Just judge. The motion determination function 45 may determine that the patient cannot be regarded as immobile if the maximum amount of movement of the N joints within the entire patient or the imaging region is equal to or greater than a threshold value.

  The notification function 46 is a function for visually and / or audibly notifying the operator of the fact that the operation determination function 45 determines that the index indicating the operation is greater than or equal to the threshold value.

  When receiving an X-ray imaging start instruction from the input circuit 33, the imaging function 47 receives the X-ray tube 11a and the depression detector 15 (FIG. 1) via the imaging controller 20 in accordance with the imaging conditions set by the imaging condition setting function 44. And a function of performing X-ray imaging of the patient. During execution of X-ray imaging, generation of operation information by the optical sensor 23 may be interrupted or continued. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing X-ray imaging at the tube position shown in FIG.

  Subsequently, the operation of the X-ray imaging system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 2, and 8.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of the X-ray imaging system 1 according to this embodiment.

  First, an operator such as a radiologist guides the patient onto the supine imaging table 14 in the examination room (or the front surface of the standing imaging table 12). As shown in FIG. 4, the optical sensor 23 starts optical imaging of the patient placed on the supine imaging platform 14, and starts collecting distance image information and generating motion information (step ST1). ).

  Subsequent to step ST1, the processing circuit 31 displays the color image information of the patient generated in step ST1 on the operation panel 22 (step ST2). Subsequent to step ST2, as described with reference to FIG. 5, the processing circuit 31 accepts designation of an imaging region based on the operation information displayed on the operation panel 22 in step ST2, and sets the imaging region (step ST3). ).

  Subsequent to step ST3, the processing circuit 31 positions the X-ray tube 11a and the prone position detector 15 at positions where the imaging region set in step ST3 can be imaged (step ST4). In step ST4, the processing circuit 31 performs the rotation operation of the X-ray tube casing 11, the sliding of the carriage unit 17 on the ceiling rail 16, and the vertical expansion / contraction operation of the column 18 in the vertical direction. 4 is moved to the position shown in FIG. In step ST4, the processing circuit 31 slides the position detector 15 within the slidable range in conjunction with the slide of the carriage unit 17 on the ceiling rail 16, that is, the slide of the X-ray tube 11a. After step ST4, the position of the X-ray tube 11a may be finely adjusted manually as necessary.

  Subsequent to step ST4, the processing circuit 31 accepts designation of shooting conditions on the operation panel 22 and sets shooting conditions (step ST5). In step ST5, the imaging conditions can be automatically set according to the patient's body thickness as described above. Note that the order of the operations in steps ST4 and ST5 may be reversed.

  After the X-ray tube 11a and the prone position detector 15 are positioned in step ST4, the processing circuit 31 determines whether the index indicating the patient's motion is less than the threshold based on the motion information generated in step ST1. That is, it is determined whether or not the patient can be regarded as immobile (step ST6). In step ST6, the processing circuit 31 can determine whether or not the change amount of the joint based on the motion information of the entire patient is less than the threshold value, and is set in step ST3 of the motion information indicating the entire patient. It is also possible to determine whether or not the change amount of the joint in the imaged region is less than a threshold value.

  If YES in step ST6, that is, if it is determined that the patient can be regarded as immobile, the processing circuit 31 determines whether there is an instruction to start X-ray imaging (step ST7).

  If YES in step ST7, that is, if it is determined that there is an instruction to start X-ray imaging, the processing circuit 31 ends the optical imaging started in step ST1 (step ST8). Subsequent to step ST8, the processing circuit 31 controls the X-ray tube 11a and the like at the position shown in FIG. 6 according to the imaging conditions set in step ST5 and executes X-ray imaging (step ST9). In step ST9, the operator designates an imaging region and imaging conditions via the operation panel 22 in the examination room, then moves to the control room and executes X-ray imaging via the input circuit 33 in the control room. Instruct.

  On the other hand, if NO in step ST7, that is, if it is determined that there is no instruction to start X-ray imaging, the processing circuit 31 returns to step ST6. That is, by repeating the determinations of steps ST6 and ST7, it is determined whether or not the patient's movement is large after the X-ray tube 11a and the saddle position detector 15 are positioned until the start of X-ray imaging. .

  If NO in step ST6, that is, if it is determined that the patient cannot be regarded as immobile (there is a change in posture), the processing circuit 31 informs the operator visually and / or audibly (step). ST10). When visually informing the operator that the patient's movement is large, the processing circuit 31 may pop up the effect on the operation panel 22 or the display 34.

  Subsequent to step ST10, the processing circuit 31 accepts selection of necessity of repositioning of the X-ray tube 11a and the depression detector 15 on the operation panel 22 or the input circuit 33 when there is a notification in step ST10. It is determined whether or not repositioning is unnecessary (step ST11). If YES in step ST11, that is, if it is determined that repositioning is unnecessary, the processing circuit 31 determines whether there is an instruction to start X-ray imaging (step ST12).

  If YES in step ST12, that is, if it is determined that there is an instruction to start X-ray imaging, the processing circuit 31 ends the optical imaging started in step ST1 (step ST8) and performs X-ray imaging. Execute (step ST9).

  On the other hand, if NO in step ST11, that is, if it is determined that positioning is necessary again, the processing circuit 31 accepts designation of the imaging region based on the operation information and sets the imaging region (step ST3). That is, even when there is a notification in step ST10, X-ray imaging can be forcibly executed by the operator's selection, or the operator can enter the examination room again and perform positioning again. You can also. In addition, when execution of X-ray imaging by step ST9 is performed via step ST10, X-ray imaging may be interlocked.

  If NO in step ST12, that is, if it is determined that there is no instruction to start X-ray imaging, the processing circuit 31 waits until there is an instruction to start X-ray imaging.

  According to the X-ray imaging system 1, when the X-ray tube 11a and the prone position detector 15 are positioned with respect to the patient and before the start of X-ray imaging, that is, when the posture of the subject changes during the waiting time. Furthermore, X-ray imaging of unintended parts can be avoided. Particularly, when the patient is an elderly person or the like, the posture changes because it is difficult to keep the same posture for a long time during the waiting time. In addition, if the operator does not notice the change in the patient's posture during the standby time and the X-ray imaging is performed as it is, there is a problem that unnecessary exposure due to the imaging failure occurs in the patient. According to the system 1, the problem is also solved.

(First modification)
Here, a case will be described in which the concept of the X-ray imaging system 1 is applied to a configuration including a plurality of supine imaging tables in an examination room, for example, a one-tube two system.

  9 to 13 are diagrams for explaining the positioning of the X-ray tube and the supine position detector when the examination room is provided with two supine position imaging stands. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the tube position in the first time phase. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the tube position in the second time phase. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the tube position in the third time phase. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the tube position in the fourth time phase. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the tube position in the fifth time phase.

  9 to 13 show the state of the examination room divided into a first compartment and a second compartment using the X-ray protective wall W. FIG. The ceiling rail 16 is laid on the ceiling C from the first compartment to the second compartment. The supine position imaging stand 14a, the supine position detector 15a, and the optical sensor 23a in the first compartment have the same configurations as the supine position photographing stand 14, the supine position detector 15, and the optical sensor 23 shown in FIG. Similarly, the supine position imaging stand 14b, the supine position detector 15b, and the optical sensor 23b in the second compartment have the same configuration as the supine position capturing stand 14, the supine position detector 15, and the optical sensor 23 shown in FIG. Have. Note that the optical sensor may be a single sensor that can image a patient on the prone position imaging tables 14a and 14b.

  FIG. 9 shows a time phase in which the patient S1 on the supine position table 14a is optically photographed by the optical sensor 23a in the first compartment, and the operator D designates the photographing part of the patient S1 in the first compartment. FIG. 9 shows a time phase in which the patient S2 scheduled to be photographed next to the patient S1 in the second compartment is guided by the nurse N to the supine photographing table 14b.

  Next, in the state where the presence or absence of the operation of the patient S1 is sequentially determined based on the optical imaging by the optical sensor 23a in the first compartment, the imaging conditions relating to the patient S1 are set in the first compartment and positioning is executed. When the operator D instructs the patient S1 to perform X-ray imaging from the control room, the state shown in FIG. FIG. 10 shows a time phase in which the patient S1 on the supine position table 14a is X-rayed in the first compartment. FIG. 10 shows a time phase in which the patient S2 on the supine imaging stand 14b is waiting for X-ray imaging in the second compartment.

  Next, when the X-ray imaging of the patient S1 is completed in the first compartment, the patient S1 retreats from the first compartment. Moreover, when the optical imaging | photography with respect to patient S2 on the supine position imaging stand 14b is started in a 2nd compartment, it will be in the state shown in FIG. FIG. 11 shows a time phase in which the patient S2 on the supine position imaging table 14b is optically photographed by the optical sensor 23b in the second compartment and the operator D designates the photographing part of the patient S2 in the first compartment.

  Next, in the state where the presence or absence of the operation of the patient S1 is sequentially determined based on optical imaging by the optical sensor 23b in the second compartment, the imaging conditions relating to the patient S2 are set in the first compartment, and positioning is executed. The state shown in FIG. 12 is obtained. In the positioning here, the depression detector 15a is not interlocked with the operation of the X-ray tube 11a. FIG. 12 shows a time phase in which the patient S3 scheduled to be imaged next to the patient S2 in the first compartment is guided to the supine imaging table 14a by the nurse N. That is, the operator D who has set an imaging region and imaging conditions for X-ray imaging of the patient S2 in the first compartment does not move to the second compartment where the patient S2 is located for imaging of the patient S2. To the control room. Since the positioning for X-ray imaging of the patient S2 can be included in the slide of the X-ray tube 11a from the first compartment to the second compartment, examination efficiency is improved.

  Next, when the operator D instructs the patient S2 to perform X-ray imaging in a state where the presence or absence of the operation of the patient S2 is sequentially determined based on optical imaging by the optical sensor 23b in the second compartment, FIG. It will be in the state shown in FIG. 13 shows a time phase in which the patient S2 on the supine imaging table 14b is radiographed in the second compartment. FIG. 13 shows a time phase in which the patient S3 on the supine imaging stand 14a is waiting for X-ray imaging in the first compartment.

  After the state shown in FIG. 13, the positioning that proceeds from the first compartment to the second compartment described in FIGS. 11 to 13 is performed by the positioning that proceeds from the second compartment to the first compartment.

  According to the first modification of the X-ray imaging system 1, when a plurality of patients are sequentially examined using a plurality of examination rooms in the examination room, the examination efficiency is improved in addition to the effect of the X-ray imaging system 1. Can do.

(Second modification)
Here, a case where the optical sensor 23 recognizes two persons including a patient will be described.

  While the color image information collected by the optical sensor 23 detects a third person such as a nurse who guides the patient in addition to the patient in the examination room, the notification function 46 notifies that fact. Further, in that case, X-ray imaging may be interlocked.

  Further, by detecting the position of a third person such as a nurse who guides the patient in addition to the patient in the examination room based on the operation information generated by the optical sensor 23, the positioning function 43 has the X-ray tube housing. It controls so that it may drive | work the route which does not contact a 3rd party in positioning of the body 11 etc.

  Needless to say, the second modification of the X-ray imaging system 1 may be combined with the first modification of the X-ray imaging system 1.

  According to the second modification of the X-ray imaging system 1, in addition to the effects of the X-ray imaging system 1, unnecessary exposure of a third person such as a nurse in the examination room can be prevented.

  According to the X-ray imaging system of at least one embodiment described above, a fine body thickness can be set for a patient such as a baby, and imaging conditions can be set accurately and accurately, thereby reducing unnecessary exposure to the patient. be able to.

  In the description of the embodiment, the imaging region setting function 42, the positioning function 43, the imaging condition setting function 44, the operation determination function 45, and the notification function 46 are respectively the imaging region setting unit and the positioning function described in the claims. 3 is an example of an imaging unit, an imaging condition setting unit, an operation determination unit, and a notification unit.

  Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... X-ray imaging system 22 ... Operation panel 23 ... Optical sensor 23a ... Color image collection part 23b ... Distance image collection part 23c ... Motion information generation part 30 ... Image processing apparatus (console)
31 ... Processing circuit 41 ... Motion information generation function 42 ... Imaging part setting function 43 ... Positioning function 44 ... Imaging condition setting function 45 ... Operation determination function 46 ... Notification function 47 ... Imaging function

Claims (9)

An X-ray tube that emits X-rays;
An X-ray detector for detecting the X-ray;
An optical imaging unit that performs optical imaging of the subject and collects distance image information of the subject;
An imaging region setting unit for setting an imaging region included in the subject;
An imaging condition setting unit that calculates a body thickness of the imaging region based on the distance image information and sets an imaging condition corresponding to the body thickness;
X-ray imaging system.   The X-ray imaging system according to claim 1, wherein the imaging condition setting unit sets at least one of a tube voltage and a tube current of the X-ray tube as the imaging condition. The optical imaging unit performs optical imaging of the subject to generate operation information of the subject,
The X-ray imaging system according to claim 1, further comprising an operation determination unit that determines whether the subject can be regarded as immobile based on the operation information.   The X-ray imaging system according to claim 3, further comprising a notification unit that notifies the fact when the operation information exceeds a threshold value. A positioning unit that positions the X-ray source and the X-ray detector at a position where the imaging region can be imaged;
5. The X-ray imaging system according to claim 3, wherein the operation determination unit determines whether the subject can be regarded as immobile based on the operation information from the positioning to the start of X-ray imaging.   6. The motion determination unit determines whether or not the subject can be regarded as immobile by determining whether or not a change amount of a joint of the imaging region included in the motion information is less than a threshold value. X-ray imaging system described in 1.   The positioning unit performs positioning of the X-ray diaphragm by controlling an aperture of an X-ray diaphragm for forming an aperture for irradiating the X-ray according to the imaging region. The described X-ray imaging system. A plurality of X-ray detectors as the X-ray detector are provided for one X-ray tube as the X-ray tube,
The imaging region setting unit performs the second X-ray after the first X-ray imaging related to the first imaging region is performed using the first X-ray detector among the plurality of X-ray detectors. Setting a second imaging region related to the second X-ray imaging using the detector;
8. The positioning unit according to claim 5, wherein the positioning unit positions the X-ray source and the X-ray detector from a position where the first X-ray imaging is performed to a position where the second imaging region can be imaged. The X-ray imaging system as described in any one of them. The optical imaging unit collects color image information of the subject,
The X-ray according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a notifying unit for notifying a third person in addition to the subject while detecting a third person based on the color image information. Shooting system.

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