JP2023160535A - sterilization system - Google Patents

Abstract

To reduce workload of sterilizing a diagnostic apparatus and improve accuracy of sterilization.SOLUTION: A sterilization system includes a sterilization part and a sterilization control unit. The sterilization part can be installed to at least one of the cradle and bed of a diagnostic apparatus to perform sterilization treatment to an object part of the diagnostic apparatus. The sterilization control unit controls a cradle drive part capable of changing tilt of the cradle and the sterilization part. The sterilization control unit controls the sterilization part to perform sterilization treatment while controlling the cradle drive part to tilt the cradle to reduce a distance between the sterilization part and an object part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Embodiments disclosed herein and in the drawings relate to sterilization systems.

From the perspective of preventing infection within hospitals, diagnostic equipment such as X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) devices and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) devices are being cleaned, disinfected, and sterilized more frequently. Various cleaning methods are used, such as alcohol disinfection, ozone irradiation, and UV (Ultraviolet) irradiation. Each hospital determines the cleaning method and cleaning frequency depending on the type of diagnostic equipment and its usage status, and has a system in which the operator of the diagnostic equipment uses the cleaning equipment or manually performs the cleaning work. ing.

JP2022-14262A

For alcohol sterilization, a method is often adopted in which the operator applies an alcohol disinfectant to the diagnostic equipment and wipes it directly by hand using a rag, but this method is time-consuming and causes uneven wiping. It was easy. Additionally, ozone irradiation has been subject to restrictions on how it can be used, as it may lead to deterioration of diagnostic equipment and other indoor equipment in the long run. Regarding UV irradiation, the closer the irradiation distance, the better the sterilization effect, but considering the effect on the human body, it was necessary to either set the irradiation distance a little longer or to irradiate in an empty space. Furthermore, when UV irradiation is performed at a short distance, the irradiation range becomes narrower, so it is necessary to use multiple UV irradiators when disinfecting large medical equipment such as an X-ray CT device.

The problem to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to reduce the burden of sterilization work on diagnostic equipment and to improve the accuracy of sterilization. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problems. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described later can also be positioned as other problems.

The sterilization system of the embodiment includes a sterilization section and a sterilization control section. The sterilization unit can be installed on at least one of the pedestal and the bed of the diagnostic device, and performs sterilization processing on the target region of the diagnostic device. The sterilization control section controls the pedestal drive section and the sterilization section, which can change the inclination of the pedestal. The sterilization control section causes the sterilization section to perform sterilization processing while controlling the pedestal drive section to tilt the pedestal to bring the sterilization section and the target site closer together.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to a first embodiment. A diagram showing an example of the arrangement positions of a first UV irradiator 19-1 and a second UV irradiator 19-2 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the irradiation range of a first UV irradiator 19-1 and a second UV irradiator 19-2 according to the first embodiment. 1 is a flowchart showing an example of a first sterilization process by the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 and the top plate 33 at the start of the first sterilization process according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 and the top plate 33 in step S101 of the first sterilization process according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 and the top plate 33 in step S103 of the first sterilization process according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 and the top plate 33 in step S105 of the first sterilization process according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 and the top plate 33 in step S105 of the first sterilization process according to the first embodiment. A diagram showing an example of the arrangement position and irradiation range of a third UV irradiator 19-3 and a fourth UV irradiator 19-4 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 and the top plate 33 at the start of the second sterilization process according to the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 and the top plate 33 in step S101 of the second sterilization process according to the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 and the top plate 33 in step S103 of the second sterilization process according to the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 and the top plate 33 in step S105 of the second sterilization process according to the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 and the top plate 33 in step S105 of the second sterilization process according to the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement position and irradiation range of a UV irradiator 19 according to a third embodiment.

Hereinafter, a sterilization system according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Sterilization systems are used, for example, to sterilize diagnostic equipment using UV irradiators (UV lights). Sterilization systems can reduce the burden of sterilization work by automating sterilization work, and can also complete sterilization work in a short time, increasing efficiency and improving sterilization accuracy.

The diagnostic device is, for example, a medical image diagnostic device such as an X-ray CT device, a PET (Positron Emission Tomography)-CT device, an MRI device, a nuclear medicine diagnostic device, or an X-ray fluoroscopy device. In the following, an example will be described in which the diagnostic device is an X-ray CT device and the sterilization system is incorporated into the console device of the X-ray CT device. In the case of an X-ray CT device, for example, by installing a UV irradiator on the front or rear part of the pedestal, the front part of the bed, etc., the UV irradiation range can be set in areas of the pedestal or bed that are touched particularly frequently. I can do it. For example, by controlling UV irradiation according to signals (sterilization instructions) from the console device, the X-ray CT device can automatically perform sterilization work, completing the sterilization work of the X-ray CT device in the shortest possible time. be able to.

<First embodiment>
[Configuration of X-ray CT device]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 includes, for example, a gantry device 10, a bed device 30, and a console device 40. In FIG. 1, for convenience of explanation, both a view of the gantry apparatus 10 as viewed from the Z-axis direction and a view as seen from the X-axis direction are shown, but in reality, there is only one gantry apparatus 10. In the first embodiment, the rotation axis of the rotation frame 17 in a non-tilted state or the longitudinal direction of the top plate 33 of the bed device 30 is set in the Z-axis direction, an axis perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and horizontal to the floor surface. is perpendicular to the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction, and the direction perpendicular to the floor surface is defined as the Y-axis direction.

The gantry device 10 includes, for example, an X-ray tube 11, a wedge 12, a collimator 13, an X-ray high voltage device 14, an X-ray detector 15, and a data acquisition system (hereinafter referred to as DAS) 16. , a rotating frame 17, a control device 18, a UV irradiator 19 (a first UV irradiator 19-1, a second UV irradiator 19-2), a camera 20, and a gantry drive device 21.

The X-ray tube 11 generates X-rays by irradiating thermoelectrons from a cathode (filament) toward an anode (target) by applying a high voltage from an X-ray high voltage device 14 . X-ray tube 11 includes a vacuum tube. For example, the X-ray tube 11 is a rotating anode type X-ray tube that generates X-rays by irradiating a rotating anode with thermoelectrons.

The wedge 12 is a filter for adjusting the amount of X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 to the subject P. The wedge 12 attenuates the X-rays that pass through it so that the distribution of the amount of X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 11 to the subject P becomes a predetermined distribution. The wedge 12 is also called a wedge filter or a bow-tie filter. The wedge 12 is, for example, made of aluminum processed to have a predetermined target angle and a predetermined thickness.

The collimator 13 is a mechanism for narrowing down the irradiation range of the X-rays that have passed through the wedge 12. The collimator 13 narrows down the irradiation range of X-rays by forming a slit using a combination of a plurality of lead plates, for example. The collimator 13 is sometimes called an X-ray diaphragm. The narrowing range of the collimator 13 may be mechanically drivable.

The X-ray high voltage device 14 includes, for example, a high voltage generator and an X-ray control device. The high voltage generator has an electric circuit including a transformer, a rectifier, etc., and generates a high voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube 11. The X-ray control device controls the output voltage of the high voltage generator according to the amount of X-rays to be generated in the X-ray tube 11. The high voltage generator may be one that boosts the voltage using the above-mentioned transformer, or may boost the voltage using an inverter. The X-ray high voltage device 14 may be provided on the rotating frame 17 or may be provided on the fixed frame (not shown) side of the gantry device 10.

The X-ray detector 15 detects the intensity of X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 11 and incident upon the subject P. The X-ray detector 15 outputs to the DAS 16 an electrical signal (an optical signal or the like) corresponding to the intensity of the detected X-rays. The X-ray detector 15 has, for example, a plurality of X-ray detection element rows. Each of the plurality of X-ray detection element rows has a plurality of X-ray detection elements arranged in the channel direction along an arc centered on the focal point of the X-ray tube 11. The plurality of X-ray detection element rows are arranged in the slice direction (column direction, row direction).

The X-ray detector 15 is, for example, an indirect detector having a grid, a scintillator array, and a photosensor array. A scintillator array has multiple scintillators. Each scintillator has a scintillator crystal. A scintillator crystal emits light in an amount corresponding to the intensity of incident X-rays. The grid is disposed on the surface of the scintillator array on which X-rays are incident, and has an X-ray shielding plate that has a function of absorbing scattered X-rays. Note that the grid is sometimes called a collimator (one-dimensional collimator or two-dimensional collimator). The optical sensor array includes optical sensors such as photomultiplier tubes (PMTs), for example. The optical sensor array outputs an electrical signal according to the amount of light emitted by the scintillator. The X-ray detector 15 may be a direct conversion type detector having a semiconductor element that converts incident X-rays into electrical signals.

The DAS 16 includes, for example, an amplifier, an integrator, and an A/D converter. The amplifier performs amplification processing on the electrical signals output by each X-ray detection element of the X-ray detector 15. The integrator integrates the amplified electrical signal over a view period (described later). The A/D converter converts the electrical signal representing the integration result into a digital signal. DAS 16 outputs detection data based on digital signals to console device 40 . The detected data is a digital value of the x-ray intensity identified by the channel number of the generating x-ray detection element, the column number, and the view number indicating the collected view. The view number is a number that changes according to the rotation of the rotating frame 17, and is a number that is incremented according to the rotation of the rotating frame 17, for example. Therefore, the view number is information indicating the rotation angle of the X-ray tube 11. The view period is a period that falls between the rotation angle corresponding to a certain view number and the rotation angle corresponding to the next view number. The DAS 16 may detect the switching of views using a timing signal input from the control device 18, an internal timer, or a signal obtained from a sensor (not shown). . When performing a full scan and the X-ray tube 11 is continuously emitting X-rays, the DAS 16 collects a group of detection data for the entire circumference (360 degrees). When performing a half scan and the X-ray tube 11 is continuously emitting X-rays, the DAS 16 collects detection data for half the circumference (180 degrees).

The rotating frame 17 is an annular member that supports the X-ray tube 11, the wedge 12, the collimator 13, and the X-ray detector 15 so as to face each other. The rotating frame 17 is rotatably supported by a fixed frame around the subject P introduced therein. The rotating frame 17 further supports the DAS 16. The detection data outputted by the DAS 16 is transmitted via optical communication from a transmitter having a light emitting diode (LED) provided in the rotating frame 17 to a photodiode provided in a non-rotating portion (for example, a fixed frame) of the gantry device 10. It is transmitted to the receiver and transferred by the receiver to the console device 40. Note that the method for transmitting detection data from the rotating frame 17 to the non-rotating portion is not limited to the method using optical communication described above, and any contactless transmission method may be employed. The rotating frame 17 is not limited to an annular member, but may be an arm-like member as long as it can support and rotate the X-ray tube 11 and the like.

The X-ray CT apparatus 1 is, for example, a Rotate/Rotate-Type X-ray CT apparatus (a third generation CT), but is not limited to this, and is not limited to Stationary/Rotate-Type, in which a plurality of X-ray detection elements arranged in an annular shape are fixed to a fixed frame, and the X-ray tube 11 rotates around the subject P. It may also be an X-ray CT device (4th generation CT).

The control device 18 includes, for example, a processing circuit including a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The control device 18 receives input signals from an input interface attached to the console device 40 or the gantry device 10 and controls the operations of the gantry device 10 and the bed device 30. For example, the control device 18 controls the gantry driving device 21 to rotate the rotating frame 17 or tilt the gantry device 10. When tilting the gantry device 10, the control device 18 controls the gantry driving device 21 based on the inclination angle (tilt angle) input to the input interface to rotate the frame around an axis parallel to the Z-axis direction. Rotate 17. The control device 18 knows the rotation angle of the rotating frame 17 based on the output of a sensor (not shown) or the like. Further, the control device 18 provides the rotation angle of the rotating frame 17 to the scan control function 55 at any time. The control device 18 may be provided on the gantry device 10 or may be provided on the console device 40.

The UV irradiator 19 irradiates ultraviolet light (UV) having a sterilizing effect in a predetermined direction. The UV irradiator 19 is provided at the front or rear portion of the gantry device 10 (rotary frame 17). The UV irradiator 19 is provided inside or outside the gantry device 10, for example. In the example shown in FIG. 1, a first UV irradiator 19-1 and a second UV irradiator 19-2 are provided at two locations on the front portion (inner peripheral portion) of the rotating frame 17. The first UV irradiator 19-1 and the second UV irradiator 19-2 are arranged, for example, at positions separated by a predetermined angle around the rotation axis (Z-axis) of the rotation frame 17. The first UV irradiator 19-1 and the second UV irradiator 19-2 are placed, for example, at positions separated by 60 to 120 degrees.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement positions of the first UV irradiator 19-1 and the second UV irradiator 19-2. In the example shown in FIG. 2, a first UV irradiator 19-1 and a second UV irradiator 19-2 are installed at two locations on the inner circumference of the rotating frame 17 around the rotation axis (Z-axis) of the rotating frame 17. are placed 90 degrees apart. Note that the number of UV irradiators 19 and the arrangement positions on the gantry device 10 are arbitrary.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the irradiation range of the first UV irradiator 19-1 and the second UV irradiator 19-2. As shown in FIG. 3, the sterilization process (UV irradiation) is performed with the gantry device 10 tilted toward the top plate 33 of the bed device 30. In this case, each of the first UV irradiator 19-1 and the second UV irradiator 19-2 irradiates the top plate 33 with ultraviolet rays. Thereby, the irradiation area RA on the upper surface of the top plate 33 is sterilized.

The UV irradiator 19 is an example of a "sterilization section". That is, the UV irradiator 19 (sterilization section) can be installed in at least one of the mount device 10 (frame) and the bed device 30 (bed) of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 (diagnosis device), and Sterilize. The sterilization section performs sterilization treatment by irradiating with ultraviolet rays. The sterilization section is provided on the pedestal and sterilizes the bed.

The camera 20 captures an image of a space (examination room, etc.) in which the X-ray CT apparatus 1 is installed, thereby acquiring information regarding the presence of a person in the space. The image acquired by the camera 20 is provided to a detection function 58, which will be described later.

The gantry driving device 21 includes, for example, a motor and an actuator. The gantry driving device 21 rotates the rotating frame 17 or tilts the gantry device 10, for example. The gantry driving device 21 moves the rotating frame 17 of the gantry device 10 to a predetermined position with respect to the Y-axis direction based on the inclination angle input to the input interface or a tilt instruction from the sterilization control function 57, which will be described later. The angle can be tilted.

The bed device 30 is a device on which a subject P to be scanned is placed and moved, and introduced into the rotating frame 17 of the gantry device 10 . The bed device 30 includes, for example, a base 31, a bed driving device 32, a top plate 33, and a support frame 34. The base 31 includes a housing that supports the support frame 34 movably in the vertical direction (Y-axis direction). The bed driving device 32 includes a motor and an actuator. The bed driving device 32 moves the top plate 33 along the support frame 34 in the longitudinal direction of the top plate 33 (Z-axis direction). Further, the bed driving device 32 moves the top plate 33 in the vertical direction (Y-axis direction). The top plate 33 is a plate-shaped member on which the subject P is placed.

The bed driving device 32 may move not only the top plate 33 but also the support frame 34 in the longitudinal direction of the top plate 33. Further, contrary to the above, the gantry device 10 may be movable in the Z-axis direction, and the rotating frame 17 may be controlled to come around the subject P by moving the gantry device 10. Alternatively, both the gantry device 10 and the top plate 33 may be movable. Further, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 may be an apparatus in which the subject P is scanned in a standing or sitting position. In this case, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 includes a subject support mechanism in place of the bed device 30, and the gantry device 10 rotates the rotating frame 17 about an axial direction perpendicular to the floor surface.

The console device 40 includes, for example, a memory 41, a display 42, an input interface 43, a network connection circuit 44, and a processing circuit 50. In the first embodiment, the console device 40 is described as being separate from the gantry device 10, but the gantry device 10 may include some or all of the components of the console device 40.

The memory 41 is realized by, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a semiconductor memory element such as a flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, or the like. The memory 41 stores, for example, detection data, projection data, reconstructed image data, CT image data, information regarding the subject P, imaging conditions, and the like. These data may be stored not in the memory 41 (or in addition to the memory 41) but in an external memory with which the X-ray CT apparatus 1 can communicate. The external memory is controlled by a cloud server, for example, when the cloud server that manages the external memory accepts read/write requests.

The display 42 displays various information. For example, the display 42 displays a medical image (CT image) generated by a processing circuit, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) image, etc. that accepts various operations by an operator such as a doctor or a technician. The display 42 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display, or the like. The display 42 may be provided on the gantry device 10. The display 42 may be of a desktop type, or may be a display device (for example, a tablet terminal) that can communicate wirelessly with the main body of the console device 40.

The input interface 43 accepts various input operations by an operator, and outputs an electrical signal indicating the content of the received input operation to the processing circuit 50. For example, the input interface 43 may be configured to set acquisition conditions when collecting detection data or projection data (described later), reconstruction conditions when reconstructing a CT image, image processing conditions when generating a post-processed image from a CT image, Accepts input operations such as instructions to start sterilization processing. For example, the input interface 43 is realized by a mouse, keyboard, touch panel, drag ball, switch, button, joystick, camera, infrared sensor, microphone, etc. The input interface 43 may be provided in the gantry device 10. Further, the input interface 43 may be realized by a display device (for example, a tablet terminal) that can communicate wirelessly with the main body of the console device 40. Note that in this specification, the input interface is not limited to one that includes physical operation parts such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, examples of the input interface include an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the device and outputs this electrical signal to a control circuit.

The network connection circuit 44 includes, for example, a network card having a printed circuit board, a wireless communication module, or the like. The network connection circuit 44 implements an information communication protocol depending on the type of network to be connected.

The processing circuit 50 controls the overall operation of the X-ray CT apparatus 1, the operation of the gantry apparatus 10, and the operation of the bed apparatus 30. The processing circuit 50 executes, for example, a system control function 51, a preprocessing function 52, a reconstruction processing function 53, an image processing function 54, a scan control function 55, a display control function 56, a sterilization control function 57, a detection function 58, etc. . These components are realized, for example, by a hardware processor executing a program (software) stored in the memory 41. A hardware processor is, for example, a CPU, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (for example, a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), or Refers to circuits such as complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs) and field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). Instead of storing the program in the memory 41, the program may be directly incorporated into the circuit of the hardware processor. In this case, the hardware processor realizes its functions by reading and executing a program built into the circuit. The hardware processor is not limited to being configured as a single circuit, but may be configured as one hardware processor by combining a plurality of independent circuits to realize each function. Further, a plurality of components may be integrated into one hardware processor to realize each function.

Each component included in the console device 40 or the processing circuit 50 may be distributed and realized by a plurality of pieces of hardware. The processing circuit 50 may be realized by a processing device that can communicate with the console device 40 instead of the configuration that the console device 40 has. The processing device is, for example, a workstation connected to one X-ray CT device, or a device that is connected to multiple X-ray CT devices and collectively executes the same processing as the processing circuit 50 described below. For example, a cloud server).

The system control function 51 controls various functions of the processing circuit 50 based on input operations received by the input interface 43.

The preprocessing function 52 performs preprocessing such as logarithmic transformation processing, offset correction processing, inter-channel sensitivity correction processing, and beam hardening correction on the detection data output by the DAS 16 to generate projection data.

The reconstruction processing function 53 performs reconstruction processing on the projection data generated by the preprocessing function 52 using a filtered back projection method, a successive approximation reconstruction method, etc., to generate CT image data. The CT image data is stored in the memory 41.

The image processing function 54 converts the CT image data into three-dimensional image data or cross-sectional image data of an arbitrary cross section using a known method based on the input operation received by the input interface 43. Conversion to three-dimensional image data may be performed by a preprocessing function 52.

The scan control function 55 controls the detection data collection process in the gantry device 10 by instructing the X-ray high voltage device 14, DAS 16, control device 18, gantry driving device 21, and bed driving device 32. The scan control function 55 controls the operations of each part when capturing a positioning image and when capturing an image used for diagnosis.

The display control function 56 causes the display 42 to display various images (photographed images, positioning images, input operation results received by the input interface 43, etc.).

The sterilization control function 57 controls the operations of various devices when performing sterilization processing to sterilize each component (target site) of the X-ray CT apparatus 1. The sterilization control function 57 controls the gantry drive device 21, the bed drive device 32, the UV irradiator 19, and the control device 18. Details of the processing of the sterilization control function 57 will be described later.

The sterilization control function 57 is an example of a "sterilization control section." The sterilization control function 57 (sterilization control section) controls the pedestal drive device 21 (pedestal drive section) that can change the inclination of the pedestal device 10 (pedestal) and the UV irradiator 19 (sterilization section). The sterilization control section causes the sterilization section to perform sterilization processing while controlling the pedestal drive section to tilt the pedestal to bring the sterilization section and the target site closer together. In addition, the sterilization control unit further controls the bed driving device 32 (bed driving unit) that can change the height of the bed to raise the height of the bed and bring the distance between the sterilization unit and the target area closer. , have the sterilization department perform sterilization processing. Further, the sterilization control unit controls a bed driving unit that can move the bed in a direction toward the pedestal and in a direction away from the pedestal to move the bed while causing the sterilization unit to perform sterilization processing.

The detection function 58 detects a person present in the space (near the X-ray CT device 1) based on an image of the space (examination room, etc.) in which the X-ray CT device 1 is installed, which is captured by the camera 20. . When a person is detected by the detection function 58, the sterilization control function 57 performs control to stop UV irradiation. Details of the processing of the detection function 58 will be described later.

The detection function 58 is an example of a "detection unit". That is, the detection function 58 (detection unit) detects the presence of a person within a predetermined range around the diagnostic device. The sterilization control section stops irradiation of ultraviolet rays by the sterilization section or adjusts the direction of irradiation of ultraviolet rays by the sterilization section when the detection section detects the presence of a person.

With the above configuration, the X-ray CT apparatus 1 scans the subject P in a scanning manner such as a helical scan, a conventional scan, or a step-and-shoot. The helical scan is a mode in which the subject P is scanned in a spiral manner by rotating the rotating frame 17 while moving the top plate 33. Conventional scanning is a mode in which the rotating frame 17 is rotated while the top plate 33 is kept stationary to scan the subject P in a circular orbit. The step-and-shoot is a mode in which the position of the top plate 33 is moved at regular intervals to perform conventional scanning in a plurality of scan areas.

The combination of the above sterilization control function 57 (sterilization control section), detection function 58 (detection section), and UV irradiator 19 (sterilization section) is an example of a "sterilization system."

[Processing flow]
Next, an example of the process flow of the first sterilization process of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment will be described. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 performs sterilization processing during a period when scanning of the subject P is stopped (for example, during idle time due to replacement of subjects, etc.). FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the first sterilization process by the X-ray CT apparatus 1. The sterilization process shown in FIG. 4 is started, for example, when the operator of the console device 40 issues an instruction to start the sterilization process via the input interface 43.

First, the sterilization control function 57 of the processing circuit 50 of the console device 40 controls the bed driving device 32 to move the top plate 33 in the vertical direction (Y-axis direction) to raise the height of the top plate 33 (bed height ) is changed to the upper limit height (step S101). FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 and the top plate 33 (reference height BP) at the start of the first sterilization process. FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 and the top plate 33 (upper limit height UL) in step S101 of the first sterilization process. As shown in FIG. 5A, at the start of the first sterilization process, the height of the top plate 33 is the reference height BP. As shown in FIG. 5B, in step S101 described above, the top plate 33 is moved in the vertical direction (Y-axis direction), and the height of the top plate 33 is changed to the upper limit height UL.

Next, the sterilization control function 57 controls the gantry driving device 21 to tilt the gantry device 10 toward the top plate 33, and changes the tilt angle of the gantry device 10 to the sterilization angle (step S103). FIG. 5C is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 (tilt angle θ1) and the top plate 33 (upper limit height UL) in step S103 of the first sterilization process. As shown in FIG. 5C, in step S103 described above, the gantry device 10 is tilted toward the top plate 33, and the tilt angle of the gantry device 10 is changed to the sterilization angle (tilt angle θ1). The sterilization angle is set, for example, to an angle that minimizes the distance between the UV irradiator 19 and the top plate 33. The sterilization angle is set, for example, to an angle that provides the maximum inclination toward the side of the gantry device 10 where the UV irradiator 19 is provided. For example, when the sterilization angle is provided on the front side (rear side) of the gantry device 10, the sterilization angle is set to the angle that provides the maximum inclination toward the front side (rear side). By setting such a sterilization angle, the sterilization range is narrow, but since the top plate 33 is moved back and forth, the entire top plate 33 is sterilized after a certain period of time. By tilting, the distance becomes closer and the sterilization time is shortened.

In addition, the sterilization control function 57 controls the gantry driving device 21 to rotate the rotating frame 17 of the gantry device 10 so that the first UV irradiator 19-1 and the second UV irradiator 19-2 can be attached to the top plate 33. It is moved to a position in the upper part that is symmetrical with respect to the plane formed by the Y axis and the Z axis (a position equidistant from the top plate 33).

Next, the sterilization control function 57 controls the bed driving device 32 to reciprocate the top plate 33 in the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) along the support frame 34 while turning on the UV irradiator 19. The ultraviolet rays are controlled to irradiate the top plate 33 (step S105). FIG. 5D is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 (tilt angle θ1) and the top plate 33 (upper limit height UL, first slide position IL) in step S105 of the first sterilization process. FIG. 5E is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 (tilt angle θ1) and the top plate 33 (upper limit height UL, second slide position OL) in step S105 of the first sterilization process. As shown in FIGS. 5D and 5E, the top plate 33 has a limit position (first slide position IL) in the direction of approach to the gantry device 10 and a limit position in the opposite direction to the direction of approach to the gantry device 10. (second slide position OL). This makes it possible to sterilize the upper surface of the top plate 33 without leaking and evenly. The sterilization control function 57 controls the bed driving device 32 to reciprocate in the longitudinal direction of the top plate 33, and controls the gantry driving device 21 according to the distance between the target area and the UV irradiator 19 to move the gantry. The tilt angle of the device 10 may be adjusted to adjust the irradiation direction so that a desired target area is irradiated with ultraviolet rays. That is, the sterilization control section may control the pedestal drive section to adjust the inclination angle of the pedestal depending on the distance between the target site of the diagnostic device and the sterilization section.

While the top plate 33 is reciprocated as described above, the detection function 58 detects an It is determined whether there is a person (near the CT scanner 1) (step S107). When the detection function 58 detects a person (step S107; YES), the sterilization control function 57 controls the UV irradiator 19 to stop irradiation of ultraviolet rays (step S111). In this way, by stopping the irradiation of ultraviolet rays when the presence of a person is detected, it is possible to avoid the effects of ultraviolet rays on the human body.

On the other hand, if the detection function 58 does not detect a person (step S107; NO), the sterilization control function 57 continues to irradiate the top plate 33 with ultraviolet rays, and determines whether the termination conditions are satisfied (step S109). . The termination conditions include, for example, that the number of reciprocating movements of the top plate 33 has reached a predetermined number of times, that the irradiation time of ultraviolet rays to the top plate 33 has reached a predetermined time, etc. . When the sterilization control function 57 determines that the termination condition is not satisfied (step S109; NO), the process returns to step S105 described above, continues irradiation of the top plate 33 with ultraviolet rays, and repeats the subsequent processing.

On the other hand, if the sterilization control function 57 determines that the termination condition is satisfied (step S109; YES), it controls the UV irradiator 19 to stop irradiating the top plate 33 with ultraviolet rays (step S111). Furthermore, the sterilization control function 57 controls the gantry drive device 21 to tilt the gantry device 10 in a direction away from the top plate 33, and changes the gantry device 10 to a non-tilt angle (reference angle) (step S113). . The sterilization control function 57 also controls the bed driving device 32 to move the top plate 33 in the vertical direction (-Y axis direction) and change the height of the top plate 33 to the reference height (step S115). ). In addition, in parallel with these controls, the sterilization control function 57 controls the bed driving device 32 as necessary to move the top plate 33 along the support frame 34 in the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction). ) to move the top plate 33 to a position where it is pulled out from the gantry device 10. With the above steps, the processing of this flowchart is completed.

According to the first embodiment described above, it is possible to reduce the burden of sterilization work on diagnostic equipment and improve the accuracy of sterilization. In particular, by providing the UV irradiator 19 on the pedestal device 10 and irradiating the bed device 30 (top plate 33) with ultraviolet rays while the pedestal device 10 is tilted, the bed device 30 can be highly sterilized. It can be sterilized without leakage, uniformly, and in a short time under certain conditions.

Note that in the first embodiment described above, when a person is detected, the irradiation of ultraviolet rays is stopped and the tilt angle of the gantry device 10 and the height of the top plate are returned to the reference position (initial position). However, it is not limited to this. When a person is detected, only the irradiation of ultraviolet rays may be stopped, or the irradiation direction (tilt angle of the gantry device 10) may be changed so that the irradiation range does not cover the person.

<Second embodiment>
Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, a configuration was described in which the UV irradiator 19 is provided on the pedestal device 10 to sterilize the top plate 33. However, in the second embodiment, the UV irradiator 19 is provided in the bed device 30 and the top plate 33 is sterilized. The gantry device 10 is sterilized. That is, the sterilization section is provided on the bed and performs sterilization processing on the pedestal. In the following description, members and functions common to those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[Configuration of X-ray CT device]
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement position and irradiation range of the third UV irradiator 19-3 and the fourth UV irradiator 19-4 according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the third UV irradiator 19-3 and the fourth UV irradiator 19-4 are provided at a position close to the gantry device 10 on the upper part of the support frame 34 of the bed device 30. Each of the third UV irradiator 19-3 and the fourth UV irradiator 19-4 irradiates the gantry device 10 with ultraviolet rays. For example, the third UV irradiator 19-3 is provided at a position where its irradiation range RA-3 includes the operation panel OP3 provided on the gantry device 10. Further, for example, the fourth UV irradiator 19-4 is provided at a position such that its irradiation range RA-4 includes the operation panel OP4 provided on the gantry device 10. As a result, the operation panel and the inside of the dome of the gantry device 10 are sterilized. Note that the number of UV irradiators 19 and the arrangement positions on the bed device 30 are arbitrary.

[Processing flow]
Next, an example of the process flow of the second sterilization process of the X-ray CT apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment will be described. The X-ray CT apparatus 1 performs sterilization processing during a period when scanning of the subject P is stopped (for example, during idle time due to replacement of subjects, etc.). The basic flow of the second sterilization process is the same as the first sterilization process shown in FIG. 4 in the first embodiment. Therefore, the process flow of the second sterilization process will be explained using the flowchart shown in FIG. The second sterilization process shown in FIG. 4 is started, for example, when the operator of the console device 40 issues an instruction to start the sterilization process via the input interface 43.

First, the sterilization control function 57 of the processing circuit 50 of the console device 40 controls the bed driving device 32 to move the top plate 33 in the vertical direction (Y-axis direction) to raise the height of the top plate 33 (bed height ) is changed to the upper limit height (step S101). FIG. 7A is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 and the top plate 33 (reference height BP) at the start of the second sterilization process. FIG. 7B is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 and the top plate 33 (upper limit height UL) in step S101 of the second sterilization process. As shown in FIG. 7A, at the start of the second sterilization process, the height of the top plate 33 is the reference height BP. As shown in FIG. 7B, in step S101 described above, the top plate 33 is moved in the vertical direction (Y-axis direction), and the height of the top plate 33 is changed to the upper limit height UL.

Next, the sterilization control function 57 controls the gantry driving device 21 to tilt the gantry device 10 toward the top plate 33, and changes the tilt angle of the gantry device 10 to the sterilization angle (step S103). FIG. 7C is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 (tilt angle θ2) and the top plate 33 (upper limit height UL) in step S103 of the second sterilization process. As shown in FIG. 7C, in step S103 described above, the gantry device 10 is tilted toward the top plate 33, and the tilt angle of the gantry device 10 is changed to the sterilization angle (tilt angle θ2). The sterilization angle is set, for example, to an angle that minimizes the distance between the UV irradiator 19 and the top plate 33. The sterilization angle is set, for example, to an angle that provides the maximum inclination toward the bed device 30 side.

Next, the sterilization control function 57 controls the bed driving device 32 to reciprocate the top plate 33 in the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction) along the support frame 34 while turning on the UV irradiator 19. The ultraviolet rays are controlled and irradiated onto the gantry device 10 (step S105). FIG. 7D is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 (tilt angle θ2) and the top plate 33 (upper limit height UL, third slide position P1) in step S105 of the second sterilization process. FIG. 7E is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the rotating frame 17 (tilt angle θ2) and the top plate 33 (upper limit height UL, fourth slide position P2) in step S105 of the second sterilization process. As shown in FIGS. 7D and 7E, the top plate 33 has a third slide position P1 in the direction of approach to the gantry device 10 and a fourth slide position P4 in the opposite direction to the direction of approach to the gantry device 10. It is moved back and forth between. The third slide position P1 is, for example, a limit position where the ultraviolet rays emitted from the UV irradiator 19 within the dome of the gantry apparatus 10 hit the gantry apparatus 10. The fourth slide position P2 is, for example, a limit position where the ultraviolet rays emitted from the UV irradiator 19 outside the dome of the gantry apparatus 10 hit the gantry apparatus 10. This makes it possible to sterilize the outside of the gantry device 10 (panel operation section) and the inside of the dome without leakage and evenly. The sterilization control function 57 controls the bed driving device 32 to reciprocate in the longitudinal direction of the top plate 33, and controls the gantry driving device 21 according to the distance between the target area and the UV irradiator 19 to move the gantry. The tilt angle of the device 10 may be adjusted to adjust the irradiation direction so that a desired target area is irradiated with ultraviolet rays.

While the top plate 33 is reciprocated as described above, the detection function 58 detects an It is determined whether there is a person (near the CT scanner 1) (step S107). When the detection function 58 detects a person (step S107; YES), the sterilization control function 57 controls the UV irradiator 19 to stop irradiation of ultraviolet rays (step S111). In this way, by stopping the irradiation of ultraviolet rays when the presence of a person is detected, it is possible to avoid the effects of ultraviolet rays on the human body.

On the other hand, if the detection function 58 does not detect a person (step S107; NO), the sterilization control function 57 continues to irradiate the gantry device 10 with ultraviolet rays, and determines whether the termination condition is satisfied (step S109). . When the sterilization control function 57 determines that the termination condition is not satisfied (step S109; NO), the process returns to step S105 described above, continues irradiation of the gantry device 10 with ultraviolet rays, and repeats the subsequent processing.

On the other hand, if the sterilization control function 57 determines that the termination condition is satisfied (step S109; YES), it controls the UV irradiator 19 to stop irradiating the top plate 33 with ultraviolet rays (step S111). Furthermore, the sterilization control function 57 controls the gantry drive device 21 to tilt the gantry device 10 in a direction away from the top plate 33, and changes the gantry device 10 to a non-tilt angle (reference angle) (step S113). . The sterilization control function 57 also controls the bed driving device 32 to move the top plate 33 in the vertical direction (-Y axis direction) and change the height of the top plate 33 to the reference height (step S115). ). In addition, in parallel with these controls, the sterilization control function 57 controls the bed driving device 32 as necessary to move the top plate 33 along the support frame 34 in the longitudinal direction (Z-axis direction). ) to move the top plate 33 to a position where it is pulled out from the gantry device 10. With the above steps, the processing of this flowchart is completed.

According to the second embodiment described above, it is possible to reduce the burden of sterilization work on diagnostic equipment and to improve the accuracy of sterilization. In particular, by providing the UV irradiator 19 on the bed device 30 and irradiating the gantry device 10 with ultraviolet rays while the gantry device 10 is tilted, the gantry device 10 can be sterilized under conditions with high sterilization effect. It can be sterilized evenly, evenly, and in a short time.

<Third embodiment>
Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the first and second embodiments, a configuration was described in which sterilization is performed with the gantry device 10 tilted, but in the third embodiment, the structure mainly includes a tilt mechanism such as a PET-CT device. A UV irradiator 19 with a tilt mechanism is used to sterilize diagnostic equipment that does not have a sterilization mechanism. That is, the sterilization section includes a tilting mechanism that can change the sterilization direction during sterilization processing. In the following description, members and functions common to the first and second embodiments are designated by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted.

[Configuration of X-ray CT device]
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement position and irradiation range of the UV irradiator 19 according to the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, the UV irradiator 19 is provided at the front portion (rear portion) of the rotating frame 17 of the gantry device 10. As shown in FIG. The UV irradiator 19 has a tilt mechanism and can be tilted around the X axis. During the sterilization process, the sterilization control function 57 controls the UV irradiator 19 to change the tilt angle of the UV irradiator 19 so that the irradiation direction of the UV irradiator 19 faces the top plate 33. Regarding tilt control in this case, it may be possible to automatically move to a preset angle, or a sensor function (not shown) may be provided to minimize the distance between the UV irradiator 19 and the target area (top plate 33). The UV irradiator 19 may be controlled so that Furthermore, the sterilization control function 57 controls the bed driving device 32 to move the top plate 33 in the vertical direction (Y-axis direction) and change the height of the top plate 33 to the upper limit height UL. Note that the UV irradiator 19 may be provided in the bed device 30 as in the second embodiment.

That is, the sterilization unit can be installed on at least one of the pedestal and the bed of the diagnostic device, performs sterilization processing on the target region of the diagnostic device, and includes a tilting mechanism that can change the sterilization direction. The sterilization control section controls the tilting mechanism to direct the sterilization direction of the sterilization section toward the target site, and causes the sterilization section to perform sterilization processing.

According to the third embodiment described above, it is possible to reduce the burden of sterilization work on diagnostic equipment and improve the accuracy of sterilization. In particular, by installing the UV irradiator 19 on the pedestal device 10 or the bed device 30 and irradiating ultraviolet rays with the UV irradiator 19 tilted, the sterilization can be performed without leakage, evenly, and under conditions that are highly effective for sterilization. Sterilization work can be done in a short time.

Note that the configurations of the first to third embodiments described above may be combined as appropriate. For example, the UV irradiator 19 may be provided on both the gantry device 10 and the bed device 30, so that the sterilization process of the gantry device 10 and the bed device 30 can be performed at the same time. That is, the sterilization section is provided on both the bed and the pedestal, and the sterilization section provided on the pedestal sterilizes the bed, and the sterilization section provided on the bed sterilizes the pedestal. good.

Although several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and gist of the invention as well as within the scope of the invention described in the claims and its equivalents.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1... X-ray CT device, 10... Frame device, 11... X-ray tube, 12... Wedge, 13... Collimator, 14... X-ray high voltage device, 15... X-ray detector, 16... Data acquisition system, 17... Rotation Frame, 18...control device, 19...UV irradiator, 19-1...first UV irradiator, 19-2...second UV irradiator, 19-3...third UV irradiator, 19-4...fourth UV irradiator, 20 ...camera, 21... gantry drive device, 30... bed device, 31... base, 32... bed drive device, 33... top plate, 34... support frame, 40... console device, 41... memory, 42... display, 43... Input interface, 44...Network connection circuit, 50...Processing circuit, 51...System control function, 52...Preprocessing function, 53...Reconstruction processing function, 54...Image processing function, 55...Scan control function, 56...Display control function , 57...Sterilization control function, 58...Detection function

Claims (11)

a sterilization unit that can be installed on at least one of a pedestal and a bed of a diagnostic device, and performs sterilization processing on a target part of the diagnostic device;
a pedestal drive unit that can change the inclination of the pedestal and a sterilization control unit that controls the sterilization unit;
Equipped with
The sterilization control unit controls the pedestal drive unit to tilt the pedestal and cause the sterilization unit to perform the sterilization process while reducing the distance between the sterilization unit and the target site.
Sterilization system with. The sterilization control unit further controls a bed driving unit capable of changing the height of the bed to raise the height of the bed and bring the distance between the sterilization unit and the target region closer, and performs the sterilization. having the department carry out the sterilization process;
A sterilization system according to claim 1. The sterilization control unit causes the sterilization unit to perform the sterilization process while moving the bed by controlling the bed driving unit that can move the bed in a direction toward the pedestal and in a direction away from the pedestal. ,
Sterilization system according to claim 2. The sterilization unit performs the sterilization process by irradiating ultraviolet rays.
A sterilization system according to claim 1. further comprising a detection unit that detects the presence of a person within a predetermined range around the diagnostic device,
The sterilization control unit stops irradiation of ultraviolet rays by the sterilization unit or adjusts the direction of irradiation of ultraviolet rays by the sterilization unit when the detection unit detects the presence of a person.
Sterilization system according to claim 4. The sterilization control unit controls the pedestal drive unit to adjust the inclination angle of the pedestal according to the distance between the target site of the diagnostic device and the sterilization unit.
A sterilization system according to claim 1. The sterilization unit is provided on the pedestal and performs sterilization processing on the bed.
Sterilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 6. The sterilization unit is provided on the bed and performs a sterilization process on the pedestal.
Sterilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 6. The sterilization section is provided on both the bed and the pedestal, the sterilization section provided on the pedestal sterilizes the bed, and the sterilization section provided on the bed sterilizes the pedestal. perform processing,
Sterilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 6. The sterilization unit includes a tilting mechanism that can change the sterilization direction in the sterilization process.
Sterilization system according to any one of claims 1 to 6. a sterilization unit that can be installed on at least one of a pedestal and a bed of a diagnostic device, performs a sterilization process on a target region of the diagnostic device, and includes a tilting mechanism that can change the sterilization direction;
a sterilization control section that controls the sterilization section;
Equipped with
The sterilization control unit controls the tilting mechanism to direct the sterilization direction of the sterilization unit toward the target site, and causes the sterilization unit to perform sterilization processing.
Sterilization system with.

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