JP2755128B2 - Digital X-ray equipment - Google Patents

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a digital X-ray imaging apparatus used for, for example, interventional radiology (IVR), and more particularly to a technique for immediately reproducing desired image data. About.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In this type of digital radiography apparatus,
For example, the X-ray fluoroscopic image of the angiography transmitted through the subject is continuously digitized and stored in a storage device such as a magnetic disk device. In one imaging, for example, a plurality of frames of captured image data in which a state in which the contrast agent administered to the subject fills the blood vessel is captured. The photographed image data composed of a plurality of frames collected in one photographing is managed as one file, and code data and the like for identification are added and stored in the storage device.

[0003] The photographed image data stored in the storage device is configured to be reproduced and displayed on a monitor at any time.

[0004] In this type of digital X-ray imaging apparatus, a plurality of files of the same subject, which are imaged from various directions, are usually stored in a storage device. Then, at the time of reproducing the photographed image data, a desired file is selected from the plurality of files stored in the storage device, and the photographed image data in the selected file is reproduced and displayed on the monitor.

[0005] In the file selection at the time of reproducing the photographed image data, conventionally, a list of character data such as identification code data assigned to the file is displayed on a monitor, and the displayed character data is selected. It is done by doing.

[0006]

However, the conventional file selection configuration has the following problems. That is, since it is difficult to establish a correspondence between character data such as code data and photographed image data, it takes time to select a desired file (photographed image data) from a list of character data, or undesired photographed image data. May be selected by mistake, and there is a problem in its operability.

[0007] In particular, during the IVR, the operator uses the catheter inserted into the subject while comparing and referring to the image data captured before the IVR and the X-ray fluoroscopic image during the IVR. To treat clogged blood vessels and cancer cells. Therefore, it is desired that the photographed image data desired by the operator is immediately reproduced during the IVR. However, as described above, if it takes time to reproduce desired photographed image data, or if unnecessary photographed image data is reproduced by mistake, an appropriate IVR cannot be performed.

The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and has as its object to provide a digital X-ray imaging apparatus capable of immediately reproducing desired image data.

[0009]

The present invention has the following configuration to achieve the above object. That is, according to the present invention, in one imaging, the X-ray fluoroscopic image transmitted through the subject is continuously digitized and sequentially stored in a storage device, and a plurality of frames of X-rays obtained in one imaging are obtained. A fluoroscopic image (hereinafter, a digitized X-ray fluoroscopic image obtained at the time of radiography is referred to as “photographed image data”) is treated as one file, and the radiographic image data stored in the storage device is selected for each file. In a digital X-ray imaging apparatus configured to be reproducible, one representative frame of captured image data (hereinafter referred to as a “reference image”) of a plurality of frames of captured image data included in one file
A reference image extracting means for automatically extracting during the shooting of the file based on the elapsed time from the start of shooting at the time of shooting of the file and the collection speed of shooting image data at the time of shooting of the file; An image reducing unit for reducing the reference image extracted by the reference image extracting unit, and a reference image reduced by the image reducing unit (hereinafter, referred to as a “reduced reference image”) for each photographing of each file are stored in the same plane. Reference image storage means, storage position control means for storing, at a predetermined position in the reference image storage means, a reduced reference image reduced by the image reduction means for each shooting of each file, and storage in the reference image storage means Group of reduced reference images (hereinafter referred to as “index Monitor), selection instructing means for instructing selection of a desired reduced reference image from the index image displayed on the monitor, and a reference corresponding to the reduced reference image instructed by the selection instructing means. A photographed image data reproducing means for reading and reproducing photographed image data in one file including an image from the storage device;

[0010]

The operation of the present invention is as follows. At the time of photographing the photographed image data, the photographed image data is stored in the storage device, and an index image is created in the reference image storage means.

An index image is created as follows. In other words, the reference image extracting means converts the representative one frame of the photographed image data (reference image) of the plural frames of the photographed image data included in one file into the time elapsed from the start of photographing at the time of photographing the file. The file is automatically extracted during the shooting of the file, based on the speed at which the image data was collected when the file was shot. The extracted reference image is reduced by the image reducing means. The reduced reference image (reduced reference image) is stored in a predetermined position of the reference image storage unit by the storage position control unit.

When a plurality of photographings are completed, an image (index image) in which a group of reduced reference images is stored at a predetermined position is stored in the same plane of the reference image storage means. Further, each reduced reference image constituting the index image corresponds to each file stored in the storage device.

When reproducing the photographed image data, the index image stored in the reference image storage means is displayed on the monitor. Selection of a file (captured image data) to be reproduced is performed by selecting and instructing a reduced reference image constituting the index image displayed on the monitor using the selection instructing means. The photographed image data reproducing means reads and reproduces the photographed image data in one file including the reference image corresponding to the reduced reference image specified by the selection instructing means from the storage device.

As described above, a file (photographed image data) can be selected from a list of reduced reference images, and the file can be visually selected. It is possible to reduce erroneous selection of captured image data.

Further, since the index image is created in accordance with the photographing operation, the processing time can be reduced, for example, the index image can be immediately displayed on the monitor when reproducing the photographed image data.

[0016]

An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a digital X-ray imaging apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a bed on which the subject M lies. The X-ray tube 2 and the image intensifier 3 are opposed to each other with the subject M lying on the bed 1 interposed therebetween, for example, supported by a C-arm (not shown). A high-pressure generator 4 is connected to the X-ray tube 2. When the surgeon performing the IVR grasps the hand switch 5 for imaging arranged near the bed 1 or steps on the foot switch 6 for fluoroscopy, a high voltage is applied from the high voltage generator 4 to the X-ray tube 2, and X The line is exposed to the subject M.

The image intensifier device 3
Is connected to a television camera 7. The X-rays transmitted through the subject M are converted and doubled into visible light by the image intensifier 3 and photographed by the television camera 7. A CCU (camera control unit) 8 is connected to the television camera 7. The CCU 8 performs processing such as amplifying a signal which is taken by the television camera 7 and output. An output signal from the CCU 8 is converted into a digital signal via an A / D (analog to digital) converter 9 and supplied to an image processing unit 10.

The X-ray tube 2 and the image intensifier 3 can be moved in the body axis direction or around the body axis of the subject M while facing each other. It is configured to obtain an image. X-ray tube 2
And image intensifier device 3 (TV camera 7
Is performed manually by the operator or by the operator operating a control unit (not shown).

The imaging hand switch 5 is a switch for performing X-ray imaging. While the imaging hand switch 5 is being held, the subject M is exposed to X-rays, and the obtained X-ray fluoroscopic image (imaging image data) is continuously transmitted to the magnetic disk device 11 as described later. Will be remembered. On the other hand, the fluoroscopic foot switch 6 is a switch for performing X-ray fluoroscopy. While the fluoroscopic foot switch 6 is depressed, X-rays are emitted to the subject M, and the obtained fluoroscopic X-ray image is displayed on the fluoroscopic image display monitor 12 as described later.

The image processing unit 10 performs filtering processing such as noise reduction and edge enhancement of the supplied digital signal. The image processing unit 10 is connected to a magnetic disk device 11 for recording and collecting captured image data.

The image processing section 10 converts the X-ray fluoroscopic image of the digital signal into an analog signal in order to reproduce and display the X-ray fluoroscopic image obtained from the subject M on the fluoroscopic image display monitor 12. A D / A (digital to analog) converter 13 is also connected.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 14 denotes data output from the image processing unit 10 (photographed image data stored in the magnetic disk device 11 and an X-ray fluoroscopic image collected at the time of photographing);
This is a switch for switching display of an index image created in the image memory 21 to be described later on the image reproduction display monitor 15. Data output from the image processing unit 10 is given to an input terminal a of the changeover switch 14. On the other hand, the index image created in the image memory 21 is input to the input terminal b of the changeover switch 14. The output terminal of the changeover switch 14 is connected to an image reproduction / display monitor 15 via a D / A converter 16.

The changeover control of the changeover switch 14 is as follows.
Upon receiving a switching instruction from the operation console 23 described later,
It is configured to be performed by a control unit 25 described later. In the normal state, the input terminal a is selected for the changeover switch 14, and the data output from the image processing unit 10 is displayed on the image reproduction / display monitor 15. On the other hand, when a switching instruction is given from the operation console 24, the input terminal b is selected, and the index image is displayed on the image reproduction display monitor 15.

The monitor 15 for image reproduction and display is
In the present invention, it corresponds to a monitor for displaying an index image.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 17 denotes an open / close switch for supplying only a reference image from photographed image data to an image reducing circuit 18 described later when photographed image data is photographed.

The reference image is representative one-frame photographed image data of photographed image data obtained in one photographing operation. As the reference image, for example, one frame of photographed image data obtained when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of photographing is adopted.

For example, when imaging image data of angiography is taken, the state in which the contrast agent administered to the subject M fills the blood vessel is determined by a predetermined acquisition speed as a plurality of frames of image data. Are obtained sequentially.

At this time, the time when the contrast agent fills the blood vessel at the site of interest is known in advance. One frame of captured image data in a state where the contrast agent is filled in the blood vessel at the site of interest is adopted as the reference image. The time when the contrast agent fills the blood vessel of the site of interest is set in advance from the operation console 23 as the above-mentioned predetermined time, and is given to the control unit 25 described later.

The time during which one frame of photographed image data is output from the image processing unit 10 depends on the collection speed at the time of photographing. The collection speed is determined by the number of scanning lines of the television camera 7, the number of converted pixel matrices in the image processing unit 10, and the like. For example, the television camera 7 has 1024 scanning lines in the vertical direction,
When converting to a 1024 × 1024 pixel matrix with 0, the captured image data is output from the image processing unit 10 at 30 frames / second (30 frames of captured image data are collected per second).

When the predetermined time has elapsed from the start of photographing, the open / close switch 17 is set to a state in which output data from the image processing section 10 is supplied to the image reduction circuit 18 ("closed" state), and is closed. It is set to the “open” state immediately after a lapse of time (1/30 second if the collection speed is 30 frames / second) when the captured image data for one frame is output from the image processing unit 10 from. As a result, only the reference image in one shooting is supplied to the image reduction circuit 18. The open / close control of the open / close switch 17 is performed as follows.
This is performed by the control unit 25 described later. As described above, the control unit 25 is provided with the time (predetermined time) during which the contrast agent fills the blood vessel of the site of interest from the operation console 23, and the imaging hand switch 5 is connected to Data is given on whether or not it is seized. The control unit 25 sets the open / close switch 17 to the “closed” state based on these data, and sets the open / close switch 17 to the “open” state based on a preset collection speed. Open / close control is performed.
The open / close switch 17 and the control unit 25 correspond to a reference image extracting unit in the present invention.

The image reducing circuit 18 converts the given reference image into, for example, 1 by a well-known image reducing method.
Reduce the size to / 16. If the image processing unit 10 converts one frame of captured image data into 1024 × 1024 pixels, the image reduction circuit 18 converts the given reference image into 256 × 256 pixels (1/16
(In the case of reduction). Note that this image reduction circuit 18
Corresponds to the image reducing means in the present invention.

A reduced reference image (hereinafter referred to as a “reduced reference image”) output from the image reduction circuit 18
) Is supplied to a pixel shift circuit 19, shifted to a predetermined position, applied to an adder 20, and added to an image memory 21. The image memory 21 has a pixel matrix (for example, 1024 × 1024 pixels in the above case) according to a pixel matrix for converting one frame of captured image data by the image processing unit 10. In the pixel shift circuit 19, the reduced reference image is shifted to a predetermined position in the image memory 21 according to the order of photographing. Then, by the addition processing, the reduced reference image is sequentially added (stored) to a predetermined position in the image memory 21, and an index image is created in the image memory 21.

For example, in FIG. 2A, the reduced reference images obtained by the first shooting to the reduced reference images obtained by the 16th shooting are respectively stored at the positions AR _{1 to} AR ₁₆ of the image memory 21. It is decided to.

[0035] For example, the reduced reference image obtained by the first shooting Given the pixel shift circuit 19 is shifted to store the position AR ₁ of the image memory 21. On the other hand, at the time of the first shooting, the image memory 21 is cleared as described later. And
In the adder 20, by which these data are added, the image memory 21, as shown in FIG. 2 (b), storing only a reduction reference image GR ₁ of first imaging is in place AR ₁ Is done. This result is input to the adder 20 again.

Next, when the reduced reference image of the second photographing is supplied to the pixel shift circuit 19, it is shifted so as to be stored in the position AR ₂ of the image memory 21. Then, the shifted reduced reference image and the reduced reference image G of the first photographing as described above are obtained.
Image memory 2 in which R ₁ is stored at a predetermined position AR ₁
1 is added by the adder 20. As a result, FIG.
As shown in (c), the reduced reference images GR ₁ and GR ₂ of the first and second shots are respectively set at predetermined positions AR.
_1, are stored in the AR _2. This result is again applied to the adder 20.
Is input to

Thereafter, similarly, up to the reduced reference image of the predetermined number of times of photography are sequentially stored in the predetermined position,
An index image is created in the image memory 21.

In the case where 16 reduced reference images are stored in the same plane in the image memory 21 as described above, a plurality of image memories 21 are provided for the case where shooting is performed 17 times or more. . Then, the reduced reference image of the first to sixteenth shots is 1
The second image memory 21 is configured to store the reduced reference image of the 16th to 32nd photographing in the second image memory 21.

The control for shifting the reduced reference image to a predetermined position according to the number of times of photographing is performed by a control unit 25 described later.
Done by The image memory 21 corresponds to a reference image storage unit in the present invention, and the pixel shift circuit 19, the adder 20, and the control unit 25 correspond to a storage position control unit in the present invention.

The index image created in the image memory 21 is switched from the operation console 23 as described above, and when the input terminal b is selected by the switch 14, the monitor 15 for image reproduction and display is displayed. Will be displayed. At this time, as shown in FIG. 3, a thick frame for selection is displayed around the displayed reduced reference image by the GC (graphic controller) 22.

As shown in FIG. 4, the operation console 23 is provided with a joystick with push buttons (hereinafter simply referred to as "joystick") 24. By swinging the lever 26 of the joystick 24 up, down, left, and right, the thick frame for selection displayed on the image reproduction display monitor 15 moves. The information is given to the control unit 25 by swinging the lever 26 of the joystick 24 up, down, left, and right.
Controls the GC 22 to move the thick frame according to the information. By pressing the button 27, a reduced reference image surrounded by a thick frame is selected.
Then, when a reduced reference image is selected,
The information is provided to the control unit 25. At this time, the control unit 25 controls the image processing unit 10 to read out the captured image data in one file including the reference image corresponding to the selected reduced reference image from the magnetic disk device 11, and The switching of 14 is set to the input terminal a, and the read captured image data is reproduced and displayed on the image reproduction display monitor 15. The joystick 24 corresponds to a selection instruction unit in the present invention.

The operation console 23 is for setting control data and the like for the control unit 25. The operation console 23 is operated by a technician assisting the operator.

The entire apparatus is controlled by the control unit 25. That is, the switching control of the switching unit 14, the opening / closing control of the open / close switch 17, the shift control by the pixel shift circuit 19, and the captured image in one file including the reference image corresponding to the reduced reference image selected by the joystick 24. Control for reproducing and displaying data is performed.

The control unit 25 and the above-described image processing unit 1
0, the GC 22 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and C
It is composed of a PU memory and an external storage device (such as a hard disk device or a flexible disk device). Processing procedure (program) executed by each unit in the external storage device
Is stored in advance. This program is read into the CPU memory when the apparatus is started, and the program is executed by the CPU. The control unit 25 and the image processing unit 10
Corresponds to the photographed image data reproducing means in the present invention.

The operation of the apparatus having the above configuration will be described below. First, the operation at the time of X-ray imaging will be described. When performing X-ray imaging on a subject M for the first time,
First, the ID (code for identifying the subject), the name, and the like of the subject M are set from the operation console 23.
The set ID and name of the subject M are given to the control unit 25. When these data are given, the control unit 25 determines that the subject is new X-ray imaging of the subject M, clears the image memory 21, and stores the number of imaging as the first time.

Next, the arrangement angle of the subject M, the X-ray tube 2, and the image intensifier 3 is adjusted by the operator.

Then, the operator grasps the imaging hand switch 5 and starts exposing the subject M to X-rays from the X-ray tube 2.
Start radiography. The X-rays transmitted through the subject M are transmitted through the image intensifier 3, the television camera 7, the CCU
8. The image data is digitized via the A / D converter 9 and supplied to the image processing unit 10. While the imaging hand switch 5 is being held, that is, during X-ray imaging, the image processing unit 10
Stores (collects) captured image data in the magnetic disk device 11 continuously at a predetermined collection speed. At the same time, the photographed X-ray fluoroscopic image is also displayed on the fluoroscopic image display monitor 12 and the image reproduction and display memory 15. At this time, since no switching instruction has been given from the operation console 23, the switch 14 is connected to the input terminal a.
Is selected.

Also, during this photographing, the reference image in the photographing is reduced and stored at a predetermined position in the image memory 21.

When the user stops holding the imaging hand switch 5, one imaging operation is completed. The one shot image data is stored in the magnetic disk device 11 as one file. Further, identification data for identifying the number of times of shooting the file is added to the created file.
Is stored. Note that when one photographing operation is completed, the control unit 25 counts up the stored number of photographing operations.

Next, the surgeon adjusts the arrangement angle of the subject M, the X-ray tube 2 and the image intensifier device 3 in the direction in which the user wants to take the next image, and holds the imaging hand switch 5 for the second time. Start shooting.

The photographed image data is stored in the magnetic disk device 11 as a file of the second photographing. The reduced reference image in this shooting is
It is stored at a predetermined position in the image memory 21. At this time, the control unit 25 performs a shift control to the pixel shift circuit 19 according to the stored number of times of shooting. As a result, the reduced reference images are sequentially stored in the image memory 21 at positions corresponding to the number of times of photographing.

Thereafter, similarly, photographing of photographed image data from a desired direction is repeated. When all shootings have been completed, files for the number of times of shooting are stored in the magnetic disk device 11, and an index image composed of reduced reference images for the number of times of shooting is created in the image memory 21. The (plural) files stored in the magnetic disk device 11 are managed for each subject M.

Next, the operation during X-ray fluoroscopy will be described. At the time of X-ray fluoroscopy, when the arrangement angle between the subject M and the X-ray tube 2 or the like is adjusted, and the operator steps on the fluoroscopic foot switch 6, the X-ray tube 2
X-rays are emitted from. The X-ray transmitted through the subject M is transmitted through the image intensifier device 3, the television camera 7,
The image data is supplied to the image processing unit 10 via the CU 8 and the A / D converter 9 and is displayed on the monitor 12 for displaying a fluoroscopic image.

Next, the operation of the operator (technologist) during the IVR will be described. When performing IVR, first, a switching instruction is issued from the operation console 23. As a result, the input terminal b of the switch 14 is selected, and the index image created in the image memory 21 is displayed on the monitor 15 for image reproduction and display. At this time, as shown in FIG.
A thick frame for selection is displayed.

In this state, the lever 26 of the joystick 24 is swung up, down, left, and right so that the thick frame is aligned with the reduced reference image corresponding to the file (photographed image data) to be reproduced, and the button 27 of the joystick 24 is pressed.
The selection of the reduced reference image is determined. At this time, the control unit 25 determines at what time the reduced reference image determined based on the bold side position corresponds to the reference image of the captured image data in the file captured. Then, a file of the number of shots (the file contains
A switch for controlling the image processing unit 10 to read out the identification data of the number of times of shooting from the magnetic disk device 11 and to play back and display the shot image data in the read file on the image playback monitor 15. 1
4 is controlled.

For example, if the number of times of photography is 17 or more,
If the index image extends over two or more screens, the thick frame is moved to the reduced reference image at the bottom of the currently displayed index screen, and the lever 26 of the joystick 24 is swung down to obtain the next image. The display can be switched to the index image on the screen. Also, by moving the thick frame to the reduced reference image at the top of the currently displayed index screen and swinging the lever 26 of the joystick 24 upward,
The display can be switched to the index image of the previous screen.

Then, the operator operates the see-through foot switch 6.
To display the X-ray fluoroscopic image of the subject M on the fluoroscopic image display monitor 12 and perform the IVR while referring to the captured image data reproduced on the image reproduction and display monitor 15. At this time, when the photographed image data (file) is changed, a switching instruction is issued from the operation console 23, the index image is displayed on the image reproduction display monitor 15, and the photographed image data (file) is selected. it can.

As described above, when selecting photographed image data in a file to be reproduced from a plurality of files that have already been photographed and stored, the index image multi-displayed on the monitor, ie, the photographed image in the file, is selected. Since a file (captured image data) can be selected with reference to a reduced reference image that is easily associated with image data, the selection operation can be simplified and selection errors can be reduced.

Since an index image is created at the time of photographing, the index image storing the reduced reference image corresponding to the file stored in the magnetic disk device 11 is immediately displayed on the monitor when reproducing the photographed image data. can do. Thus, for example, IVR
When displaying an index image on a monitor during selection of captured image data, the index image can be immediately displayed on the monitor, thereby reducing the time required to select a file (photographed image data). Can be.

In the above embodiment and the following embodiments, the selection instructing means is constituted by the joystick 24 with the push button. However, a desired reduced reference image is selected and selected from the index images multi-displayed on the monitor. If possible, the selection instruction means may be realized by another configuration. For example, a reduced reference image may be selected with a pointing device such as a mouse and clicked to determine the selection of the selected reduced reference image, or a cursor key of a K / B (keyboard) may be used. The thick frame may be moved, and the return key may be used to determine the selection of the reduced reference image.

In the above-described embodiment and each of the following embodiments, the joystick 24 is provided on the operation console 23. However, the joystick 24 provided on the operation console 23 is replaced with or in addition to the joystick 24 shown in FIG. As shown in Fig. 5, joystick 2
4 may be provided. With such a configuration, the operator can perform an operation of selecting a file (captured image data) at hand, and the operator himself can select a desired file (captured image data) during the IVR. It is convenient.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the case where 16 reduced reference images are stored in the image memory 21 at predetermined positions and a 16-divided multi-screen is displayed on the monitor has been described. However, the number of divisions is not limited to 16. The index image may be created with another division number, for example, four divisions. In this case, the image reduction circuit 18 may be configured to reduce the image in accordance with the number of divisions, and store the reduced reference image at a predetermined position in the image memory 21.

In the above embodiment, the pixel shift circuit 19, the adder 20, and the like are used to store the reduced reference image at a predetermined position in the image memory 21. For example, the following configuration is used. , Image memory 2
The reduced reference image may be stored at one predetermined position. This will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a modification of the first embodiment, and FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a procedure for creating an index image in this modification. In FIG. 6, the omitted parts have the same configuration as in FIG.

The reference image captured by the open / close switch 17 is reduced by the image reduction circuit 18 and provided to the image editing unit 31. The image editing unit 31 recognizes the pixel matrix of the image memory 21 as X and Y coordinates,
The reduced reference image is stored at a predetermined position.

For example, if the image memory 21 has 1024 ×
If it is 1024 pixels, each pixel is recognized as X and Y coordinates (X, Y) as shown in FIG. When 16 indexed reference images are stored in the image memory 21 in an arrangement as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 to create an index image, the storage position of each reduced reference image is set to (X, Y).
Can be specified by coordinates.

For example, the reduced reference image of the first shooting is stored in the upper left corner position AR ₁ of the image memory 21 (see FIG. 2). Each reduced reference image has 256 × 256 pixels when it is reduced by 1/16 as described in the above embodiment. Therefore, the pixels P1 and P1 of each vertex of the reduced reference image of the first shooting
2, P3 and P4 are stored in (0,
0), (255, 0), (0, 255), (255, 2
The reduced reference image of the first shooting is stored in the image memory 21 by the image editing unit 31 so as to match the pixel 55).

The reduced reference images of the second shooting are (256, 0) and (51) in the image memory 21.
1,0), (256, 255) and (255, 511).

Thereafter, similarly, a reduced reference image obtained by a predetermined number of photographings is stored at a predetermined position in the image memory 21. In this modification, the image editing circuit 31 corresponds to a storage position control unit in the present invention.

With the configuration as shown in FIG. 6, it is possible to realize the storage position control means. It should be noted that the configuration described above, in which the reduced reference image is stored at a predetermined position in the image memory 21, can be similarly modified in each of the following embodiments.

Next, the configuration of the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the device of the second embodiment. Note that the portions denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 1 have the same configuration as in the first embodiment described above, and thus detailed description thereof will be omitted.

In the above-described first embodiment, the switch 14
, And switches between the data output from the image processing unit 10 and the index image to switch the image reproduction display monitor 15.
Is configured to be displayed. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the switch 14 is omitted and a monitor 41 for displaying an index image is provided. The data output from the image processing unit 10 is displayed on the image reproduction / display monitor 15 via the D / A converter 16, and the index image is displayed on the D / A converter.
Monitor 4 for displaying index images via converter 42
1 is displayed.

With this configuration, the index image created in the image memory 21 is always displayed when reproducing the photographed image data.
Therefore, it is possible to select a file (captured image data) using the joystick 24 while always referring to the reduced reference image.

Further, in the process of creating an index image at the time of shooting, the created index image is displayed on the monitor 41, so that while checking the image registered in the index image as a reference image at each shooting, the index image is checked. Is convenient.

Next, the configuration of the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the third embodiment device. Note that the portions denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 1 have the same configuration as in the first embodiment described above, and thus detailed description thereof will be omitted.

In the third embodiment, the image memory 21
Index image stored in the magnetic disk drive 11
It was configured to be memorable.

Further, the operation console 23 is configured to be capable of instructing storage and reading of the index image.

For example, when an instruction to save an index image is given from the operation console 23, the control unit 25 causes the image processing unit 10 to load the index image created in the image memory 21, and stores the index image in the magnetic disk drive 11. The image processing unit 10 is controlled so as to be stored in the image processing unit 10. At this time, data such as the number of times the imaging has been completed and data such as the ID of the subject are provided from the control unit 25 to the image processing unit 10, and the data is stored in the magnetic disk device 11 together with the index image. You.

When reading of the index image is instructed from the operation console 23 together with the ID of the subject and the like, the control unit 25 sends the index image of the ID stored in the magnetic disk device 11 to the image processing unit 10. The read index image is stored in the image memory 21 by overwriting. At this time, data indicating how many times the shooting has been completed is also read out and given to the control unit 25. The control unit 25 counts up the data and prepares for the next photographing.

With this configuration, it is possible to interrupt shooting, and it is also possible to select a file (shot image data) that has already been shot by referring to the index image.

For example, in a case where photographed image data (files) of a subject from 16 directions is collected (16 times of photographing is performed), after the first to eighth times of photographing, the photographing is temporarily interrupted, and during that time, In the following, a case where another subject is imaged, and then the remaining nine to sixteenth imaging is performed will be described.

In this case, first, the files (eight) of the photographed image data are stored in the magnetic disk device 11 by the first to eighth photographing, and the reduced reference of the first to eighth photographing is stored in the image memory 21. An index image composed of images is stored. Thereafter, when another subject is photographed, an index image corresponding to the photographing of another subject is created in the image memory 21. Therefore,
In the case of such interruption of shooting, the index image created halfway through shooting is temporarily stored in the magnetic disk drive 11.
To be stored.

Next, when the ninth to sixteenth photographing operations are restarted, the index image stored in the magnetic disk device 11 is read out and stored in the image memory 21. At this time, data indicating that the eighth shooting has been completed is provided to the control unit 25, and the control unit 25 counts up the data. As a result, the reduced reference image obtained at the time of the next ninth shooting is stored in the 9
It will be stored at a position corresponding to the second shooting. When the 16th shooting is completed, the image memory 2
In 1, an index image in which the reduced reference images of the first to 16th photographings are stored at predetermined positions is created. Therefore, when a file (photographed image data) is selected, it is possible to select a file obtained in the first to sixteenth photographings by referring to the index image.

After the photographing of one subject M1 is completed, another subject M2 is photographed and reproduced, and thereafter, when the photographed image data of the subject M1 is reproduced, the photographing and reproduction of the subject M1 are performed. During this time, the imaging and reproduction of the subject M2 are performed.
Will be stored. Therefore, reproduction of the subject M1 cannot be performed with reference to the index screen.

In such a case, after the imaging of the subject M1 is completed, the index image stored in the image memory 21 is temporarily stored in the magnetic disk device 11.
Then, when the captured image data is reproduced, the stored index image is read out and stored in the image memory 21, so that the object M1 can be read even in the above case.
Can be reproduced with reference to the index screen.

After the imaging of the subject M1 is completed, even if the created index image is stored in the magnetic disk device 11, the image memory 2 can be used for imaging another subject M2.
Unless the content of 1 is changed, the image memory 21 contains
The index image of the subject M1 remains. Therefore,
In this case, the index image can be immediately displayed on the monitor without reading the index image.

By the way, a reference image is taken out from a file which has already been photographed and stored in the magnetic disk drive 11, and the index image which has already been created is read out from the magnetic disk drive 11 in comparison with the processing time for editing the index image. Processing time is much faster. Therefore, in the case where the shooting is interrupted as described above or the already shot file is played back later, the shooting restart and the playback processing are compared to newly editing the index image for playing back the shot image data. Can be started much faster.

The apparatus of the second embodiment may be configured to have a function of storing and reading an index image as in the apparatus of the third embodiment.

[0089]

As is apparent from the above description, according to the present invention, a file (captured image data) can be selected from a list of reduced reference images, and the file (photographed image data) can be visually selected. (Captured image data) can be selected, so that the captured image data in a desired file can be reproduced immediately and accurately.

Further, since the index image is created with the photographing operation, the processing time can be shortened, for example, the index image can be displayed immediately on the monitor when the photographed image data is reproduced.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a digital X-ray imaging apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a procedure for creating an index image by the apparatus of the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration of an index image displayed on a monitor.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration of a joystick provided in the operation console.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration of a joystick provided on a bedside.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a main part of a modification of the apparatus of the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a procedure for creating an index image in a modification of the first embodiment apparatus.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the device of the second embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a third embodiment device.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 ... Magnetic disk drive 12 ... Perspective image display monitor 15 ... Image reproduction display monitor 18 ... Image reduction circuit 19 ... Pixel shift circuit 20 ... Adder 21 ... Image memory 22 ... GC (graphic controller) 25 ... Control part 31 ... Image editing circuit 41: Monitor for displaying index images M: Subject

Claims (1)

(57) [Claims] 1. An X-ray fluoroscopic image of a plurality of frames obtained by one imaging is obtained by continuously digitizing an X-ray fluoroscopic image transmitted through a subject in one imaging and sequentially storing it in a storage device. An image (a digitized X-ray fluoroscopic image obtained at the time of imaging is hereinafter referred to as “imaging image data”) is treated as one file, and the imaging image data stored in the storage device is selected for each file. In a digital X-ray imaging apparatus configured to be reproducible, a representative one frame of captured image data (hereinafter, referred to as a “reference image”) of a plurality of frames of captured image data included in one file is captured by the file. Reference that is automatically extracted during shooting of the file based on the elapsed time from the start of shooting at that time and the speed of collecting the shooting image data at the time of shooting the file Image extracting means, image reducing means for reducing the reference image extracted by the reference image extracting means, and a reference image reduced by the image reducing means for each photographing of each file.
A reference image storing means for storing the "reduced reference image" in the same plane, and a reduced reference image reduced by the image reducing means for each photographing of each file in a predetermined position of the reference image storing means. Storage position control means, a monitor for displaying a group of reduced reference images (hereinafter, referred to as “index images”) stored in the reference image storage means, and a desired reduced reference image from the index images displayed on the monitor. Selection instructing means for instructing selection, and photographed image data reproducing means for reading and reproducing photographed image data in one file including a reference image corresponding to the reduced reference image designated by the selection instructing means from the storage device; Digital radiography characterized by comprising: Apparatus.