JP5608533B2 - Radiation imaging equipment - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a radiographic imaging apparatus having a panel unit that houses a radiation conversion panel that converts radiation into a radiographic image, and a control unit that controls the radiation conversion panel.

  2. Description of the Related Art In the medical field, radiation image capturing apparatuses that irradiate a subject with radiation and guide the radiation transmitted through the subject to a radiation conversion panel to capture a radiation image are widely used. As the radiation conversion panel, a conventional radiation film in which the radiation image is exposed and recorded, or radiation energy as the radiation image is accumulated in a phosphor and irradiated with excitation light, thereby stimulating the radiation image. A storage phosphor panel that can be extracted as light is known. These radiation conversion panels supply the radiation film on which the radiation image is recorded to the developing device to perform development processing, or supply the storage phosphor panel to the reading device to perform reading processing, A visible image can be obtained.

  On the other hand, in an operating room or the like, it is necessary to be able to immediately read and display a radiation image from a radiation conversion panel after imaging in order to perform a quick and accurate treatment on a patient. As a radiation conversion panel that can meet such demands, a direct conversion type radiation conversion panel using a solid-state detection element that directly converts radiation into an electrical signal, or a scintillator that temporarily converts radiation into visible light, and the visible light. An indirect conversion type radiation conversion panel using a solid-state detection element that converts light into an electrical signal has been developed.

  The direct conversion type or indirect conversion type radiation conversion panel described above is housed in a panel unit, and a radiation image obtained by the radiation conversion panel is read out by a control unit that controls the radiation conversion panel. And the radiographic imaging device called an electronic cassette is comprised by the said panel part and the said control part.

  In this case, it is desirable that the electronic cassette is configured to be portable by a doctor or an engineer (user).

  In view of this, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2004-26883 proposes that a gripping portion that is gripped by the user is provided integrally with the control portion, and the control portion is configured to be detachable from the panel portion.

  Patent Document 2 proposes that a grip portion is provided on a side surface of an electronic cassette, and the grip portion is configured to be movable along the side surface.

  Furthermore, Patent Document 3 proposes that the center of gravity of the electronic cassette be on the center line of the grip portion.

  Furthermore, Patent Document 4 proposes that the panel unit and the control unit are transported in an integrated state, and after transporting, shooting is performed with the control unit being separated from the panel unit. .

JP 2008-256665A JP 200477641 A JP 2002-82172 A JP 2009-80103 A

  By the way, in an electronic cassette, since an electric signal converted from radiation is read out as a radiation image, relatively expensive electronic components are mounted as compared with a radiation image capturing apparatus using a radiation film or a storage phosphor panel. . Therefore, when transporting, it is necessary to pay careful attention to carrying around so as not to cause a failure of the electronic component due to impact caused by dropping or the like. Therefore, as disclosed in Patent Documents 1 to 3, the electronic cassette is provided with a grip portion.

  However, normally, the control unit is equipped with a power supply unit such as a battery that supplies power to the radiation conversion panel and each unit in the control unit, and a communication unit that communicates with the outside. The proportion of the weight of the control unit is large. Moreover, the power supply unit and the communication unit are often concentrated at a specific location in the control unit. Therefore, depending on the position of the control unit in the electronic cassette, the entire apparatus becomes an unbalanced load arrangement, and as a result, when the user grips the gripping part during transportation, the user exceeds the actual weight of the electronic cassette. You may feel heavy.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and provides a radiographic imaging apparatus that can be stably carried by eliminating an unbalanced load arrangement during transportation. Objective.

  A radiographic imaging apparatus according to the present invention includes a panel unit that houses a radiation conversion panel that converts radiation into a radiographic image, a control unit that controls the radiation conversion panel, and the control unit along the surface of the panel unit. And a moving mechanism that translates the panel portion.

  According to this configuration, the center of gravity of the radiographic imaging apparatus can be easily changed by translating the control unit causing the unbalanced load arrangement with respect to the panel unit by the moving mechanism. It becomes possible to do.

  That is, since the ratio of the weight of the control unit is relatively large in the total weight of the radiographic image capturing apparatus, the control unit is arranged so as to be shifted with respect to the center position of the geometric shape of the radiographic image capturing apparatus. If so, the position of the center of gravity of the radiographic image capturing apparatus does not coincide with the center position and is eccentric, resulting in an unbalanced load arrangement for the entire apparatus.

  Therefore, in the present invention, by moving the control unit in parallel with respect to the panel unit, the center position and the position of the center of gravity can be made to substantially coincide with each other, and an unbalanced load arrangement can be easily eliminated. As a result, the user feels the radiographic imaging device lightly during transportation, and thus the radiographic imaging device can be carried stably and easily. As a result, it is possible to transport the radiographic imaging apparatus without hitting the control unit against an arbitrary object or dropping the radiographic imaging apparatus, and the burden on the user during transportation Is also reduced.

  Thus, according to the present invention, since the control unit is moved in parallel with respect to the panel unit by the moving mechanism, an unbalanced load arrangement in the radiographic image capturing apparatus can be easily eliminated. The user can stably carry the radiographic imaging apparatus during transportation.

  In addition, the panel unit houses the radiation conversion panel in a substantially rectangular casing capable of transmitting the radiation, and the moving mechanism is an imageable region in the surface of the casing that is irradiated with the radiation. It is desirable that the guide portion is formed of a substantially linear guide portion formed at a location other than the above and a moving member that can move in parallel with the control portion along the guide portion.

  Since the moving member and the control unit are translated integrally and linearly along the guide unit, the control unit can be translated with respect to the panel unit by a simple mechanism. In addition, even when the control unit is arranged so as to cover the imageable region during transportation, the control unit can be retracted from the imageable region during image capture, so the presence of the control unit and the guide unit is There is no hindrance to radiographic imaging.

  In this case, in the case, the radiation irradiation surface having the imageable region and the two sides facing each other in at least one of the side surfaces of the case are substantially perpendicular to the two sides. The guide portion may be formed along the direction.

  Accordingly, the guide portion can be formed along the longitudinal direction of the casing, and the moving member and the control portion can be linearly and integrally translated along the guide portion. As a result, the center position and the center-of-gravity position can be easily matched, and unbalanced load arrangement can be reliably eliminated.

  At that time, the imageable region may be formed at a substantially central portion of the irradiation surface, and the two guide portions may be formed so as to sandwich the imageable region between two opposing sides of the irradiation surface. Alternatively, the guide portions may be formed in parallel with each other on two opposite side surfaces of the casing.

  As a result, the two moving members are attached to the control unit, and the two moving members are respectively disposed on the two guide units. As a result, the control unit and the two moving members can be translated more stably and reliably along the two guide portions.

  The guide portion is a recess, groove or rail formed substantially linearly on the surface of the housing, and the moving member is slidable linearly in the recess or along the rail. Or a wheel that can travel linearly along the groove, the control unit can be easily and reliably translated with respect to the panel unit.

  Further, a stop member capable of stopping sliding of the sliding portion along the recess or the rail, or traveling of the wheel along the groove may be disposed in the recess, the groove or the rail. The control unit can be stopped at an arbitrary position with respect to the panel unit.

  In this case, the stop member is formed in the concave portion, the groove, or the rail, and the sliding portion or the wheel abuts to stop sliding of the sliding portion or traveling of the wheel. If it is a convex part, the said control part can be reliably stopped in the said arbitrary positions.

  In addition, the above-described radiographic imaging device further includes a gripping unit that is provided in the control unit and / or the panel unit and is gripped by a user to carry the radiographic imaging device. The photographing device can be easily carried.

  In this case, the gripping part is provided on the side surface of the casing of the panel unit and / or the upper surface or side surface of another casing constituting the control unit.

  When the grip portion is provided on the panel portion, the radiographic image capturing apparatus can be easily carried.

  In addition, when the control unit is provided with the grip portion, the user grips the grip portion and holds the control unit with a relatively large weight during transportation. It is possible to increase the stability during Furthermore, it is possible for the user to easily translate the control unit relative to the panel unit while holding the holding unit.

  Further, when the grip unit is provided in the control unit, the grip unit may be pulled out from the top surface or the side surface when the radiographic imaging apparatus is transported or the control unit is moved in parallel. .

  By making the gripping part a retractable gripping part that is pulled out only during transportation or parallel movement of the control part, the presence of the gripping part does not hinder photographing. Thereby, the usability of the radiographic imaging device is improved.

  In this case, the control unit drives and controls the radiation conversion panel and reads out the radiation image from the radiation conversion panel, a communication unit capable of communicating with the outside, the panel control unit, A power supply unit that supplies power to the communication unit and the radiation conversion panel.

  And if the said power supply part stops the electric power supply with respect to the said communication part and the said radiation conversion panel at the time of the parallel movement of the said control part by the said moving mechanism, useless power consumption can be suppressed.

  Further, a connection part for electrically connecting the radiation conversion panel and the control part is provided in the panel part, and the connection part and the control part are separated from each other when the control part is translated by the moving mechanism. When the electrical connection is released, if the power supply unit stops supplying power to the communication unit and the radiation conversion panel, wasteful power consumption can be reliably suppressed.

  Furthermore, the panel control unit may include a connection detection unit that detects the presence or absence of an electrical connection between the connection unit and the control unit.

  Since the panel control unit is electrically connected to the radiation conversion panel via the connection unit, the connection detection unit determines whether or not there is an electrical connection between the connection unit and the control unit. By detecting, it is possible to easily grasp the control timing for the radiation conversion panel and the read timing of the radiation image for the radiation conversion panel.

  Further, by making the thickness of the panel part thinner than the thickness of the control part, it is possible to realize a reduction in thickness and weight of the radiographic imaging apparatus.

  In the radiographic imaging apparatus described above, the radiation conversion panel includes a scintillator that converts the radiation into visible light, a solid-state detection element that converts the visible light into an electrical signal indicating the radiation image, and the solid-state detection element. A switching element that reads the electrical signal from, and a substrate on which the solid state detection element and the switching element are formed, the substrate is a flexible plastic substrate, and the solid state detection element includes: Preferably, the switching element is made of an organic photoconductor, and the switching element is made of an organic semiconductor material.

  This makes it possible to form the solid state detection element and the switching element on the substrate at a low temperature, and also reduce the thickness and weight of the radiation conversion panel and the panel unit that houses the radiation conversion panel. It becomes possible. In addition, by using the flexible substrate, the radiation conversion panel and the panel unit that accommodates the radiation conversion panel can also have flexibility. Generation | occurrence | production of the failure | damage etc. of the said radiation conversion panel when a load is added to a part can be avoided.

  In this case, a high-quality radiation image can be obtained by arranging the substrate, the switching element, the solid state detection element, and the scintillator made of CsI in this order along the radiation direction.

  According to the present invention, by moving the control unit relative to the panel unit by the moving mechanism, the unbalanced load arrangement in the radiographic image capturing apparatus can be easily eliminated. It becomes possible to carry the radiographic imaging apparatus stably.

It is a lineblock diagram of a radiographic imaging system to which a cassette concerning this embodiment is applied. It is a perspective view of the cassette of FIG. It is a perspective view of the cassette of FIG. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in FIG. 3. It is the top view which fractured | ruptured and illustrated some cassettes of FIG. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VI-VI in FIG. 5. 7A to 7C are cross-sectional views taken along line VII-VII in FIG. 5, and are cross-sectional views illustrating the parallel movement of the control unit with respect to the panel unit. 8A and 8B are perspective views illustrating the parallel movement of the control unit with respect to the panel unit. FIG. 9A to FIG. 9C are plan views illustrating how the cassette is transported. It is explanatory drawing which shows typically the arrangement | sequence of the pixel in a radiation conversion panel, and the electrical connection between a pixel and a cassette control part. It is a block diagram of the cassette of FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating imaging | photography using the cassette of FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the state of the charging process with respect to a cassette. 14A and 14B are perspective views illustrating a cassette provided on the buffer member in the control unit. 15A and 15B are cross-sectional views illustrating the parallel movement of the control unit with respect to the panel unit by the wheels. It is a perspective view of the cassette which provided the guide part in the side surface of the panel part. It is sectional drawing along the XVII-XVII line | wire of FIG. 18A and 18B are cross-sectional views illustrating the parallel movement of the control unit with respect to the panel unit in the cassette of FIG. 19A and 19B are perspective views of a cassette in which two gripping portions are provided on the panel portion. 20A and 20B are perspective views of a cassette in which a grip portion is provided on each of the control unit and the panel unit. FIG. 21A and FIG. 21B are perspective views of a cassette in which a grip portion is provided on each of the control unit and the panel unit. It is a perspective view of the cassette which provided the holding part in the control part. It is a perspective view of the cassette which provided the rail-shaped guide part in the side surface of the panel part. It is a block diagram of the radiographic imaging system which applied the cassette for double-sided imaging. It is a figure which shows roughly the structure for 3 pixels of the radiation detector which concerns on a modification. FIG. 26 is a schematic configuration diagram of a TFT and a charge storage unit shown in FIG. 25.

  A preferred embodiment of a radiographic image capturing apparatus according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to FIGS.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a radiographic imaging system 10 includes a radiation source 18 that irradiates a subject 14 such as a patient lying on an imaging table 12 such as a bed with radiation 16 having a dose according to imaging conditions; An electronic cassette 20 that detects radiation 16 transmitted through the subject 14 and converts it into a radiographic image, a console 22 that controls the radiation source 18 and the electronic cassette 20, and a display device 24 that displays the radiographic image are provided.

  Between the console 22, the radiation source 18, the electronic cassette 20, and the display device 24, for example, UWB (Ultra Wide Band), IEEE802.11. Signals are transmitted and received by wireless communication using a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) such as a / g / n or millimeter waves. It goes without saying that signals may be transmitted and received by wired communication using a cable.

  The console 22 is connected to a radiology information system (RIS) 26 for comprehensively managing radiographic images and other information handled in the radiology department in the hospital, and the RIS 26 has medical information in the hospital. Is connected to a medical information system (HIS) 28 for overall management.

  An electronic cassette 20 as a radiographic imaging device according to the present embodiment includes a panel unit 30 disposed between the imaging table 12 and the subject 14, a control unit 32 disposed on the panel unit 30, and a panel unit. It is a portable electronic cassette provided with the grip part 34 arrange | positioned by the side part of 30. FIG. Note that the thickness of the panel unit 30 is set to be thinner than the thickness of the control unit 32.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the panel unit 30 includes a substantially rectangular casing 40 made of a material that can transmit the radiation 16, and the upper surface of the casing 40 on which the subject 14 lies is exposed to the radiation 16. The irradiation surface 42 is irradiated. A guide line 44 indicating the shooting area and shooting position of the subject 14 is formed at a substantially central portion of the irradiation surface 42. The outer frame of the guide line 44 becomes a photographable area 36 indicating the irradiation field of the radiation 16. Further, the center position of the guide line 44 (intersection of the two guide lines 44 intersecting in a cross shape) is the center position of the imageable area 36 and the geometric center position of the electronic cassette 20. .

  Further, a guide portion 48 made of a linear recess or groove is formed along the arrow X direction (direction parallel to the side surfaces 46c and 46d) on the side surface 46c side of the irradiation surface 42 outside the imageable region 36. Thus, a guide portion 50 parallel to the guide portion 48 is formed along the arrow X direction on the side surface 46d side outside the imageable region 36. In this case, the linear guide portions 48 and 50 sandwich the shootable region 36 between the two side surfaces 46a and 46b (between the two sides of the irradiation surface 42) as shown in a plan view of FIG. Are formed parallel to each other.

  Further, a grip portion 34 is provided on the side surface 46a of the housing 40, and a hole having a size that allows a doctor or an engineer (user) to pass a hand between the handle portion of the grip portion 34 and the side surface 46a. 52.

  Further, a protrusion 54 protruding upward is provided on the side surface 46b side of the irradiation surface 42, and the control unit 32 is arranged on the side surface 46b side of the irradiation surface 42 so as to cover the protrusion 54 from above. .

  The control unit 32 includes a substantially rectangular casing (another casing) 60 made of a material that is impermeable to the radiation 16. The housing 60 extends along the arrow Y direction (direction parallel to the side surfaces 46a and 46b) so as to cover a part of the guide portions 48 and 50 on the arrow X2 direction side (side surface 46b side) from above. (See FIG. 5). In this case, inside the housing 60, a connector 64 that can be fitted to a connector (connecting portion) 62 provided on the side surface of the protruding portion 54 in the arrow X1 direction, and a connector that is electrically connected to the connector 64 and is a connector. A cassette control unit (panel control unit) 66 that controls the panel unit 30 via 62, 64, a power source unit 68 such as a battery, and a communication unit 70 that can transmit and receive signals wirelessly between the console 22. Has been placed.

  In this case, when the connectors 62 and 64 are fitted, the power supply unit 68 supplies power to the panel unit 30 via the connectors 62 and 64, while supplying power to the cassette control unit 66 and the communication unit 70. Also supply power. Further, the power supply unit 68 supplies power only to the cassette control unit 66 when the connector 62 and the connector 64 are separated from each other and the electrical connection between the panel unit 30 and the control unit 32 is cut off.

  On the side surface 80 on the arrow Y2 direction side (side surface 46d side) of the control unit 32, information is input between the input terminal 82 of the AC adapter for charging the power source unit 68 from an external power source and the external device. A USB (Universal Serial Bus) terminal 84 as an interface means capable of transmission / reception, and a card slot 88 for loading a memory card 86 such as a PC card are provided.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the panel unit 30 includes a grid 90 for removing scattered rays of the radiation 16 from the subject 14 when the subject 16 is irradiated with the radiation 16 from the radiation source 18, and the subject. A radiation conversion panel 92 that detects the radiation 16 that has passed through 14, and a lead plate 94 that absorbs backscattered rays of the radiation 16 are sequentially disposed on the irradiation surface 42 on the subject 14 side. In this case, the grid 90, the radiation conversion panel 92, and the lead plate 94 substantially coincide with the imageable region 36 in plan view (see FIG. 5). Note that the irradiation surface 42 may be configured as a grid 90.

  As the radiation conversion panel 92, for example, the radiation 16 that has passed through the subject 14 is once converted into visible light by a scintillator, and the converted visible light is made of a solid detection element (hereinafter referred to as “a-Si”). Indirect conversion type radiation conversion panel that converts an electric signal into an electric signal by a direct conversion type that directly converts the dose of radiation 16 into an electric signal by a solid state detection element made of a substance such as amorphous selenium (a-Se). The radiation conversion panel can be adopted.

  The radiation 16 transmitted through the subject 14 is temporarily converted into visible light by a scintillator composed of, for example, cesium iodide (CsI) or gadolinium oxide sulfa (GOS), and the converted visible light is solid-state detecting element. 2. Description of the Related Art Indirect conversion type radiation conversion panels (radiation detectors) that convert electrical signals using (pixels) include a surface reading type radiation detector and a back side reading type radiation detector. Among these, a radiation detector of an ISS (Irradiation Side Sampling) method that is a surface reading method has a configuration in which a solid detection element and a scintillator are sequentially arranged along the irradiation direction of the radiation 16. In addition, a PSS (Penetration Side Sampling) type radiation detector which is a back side reading system has a configuration in which a scintillator and a solid state detection element are sequentially arranged along the irradiation direction of the radiation 16.

  In the panel unit 30, the radiation conversion panel 92 is electrically connected to the drive circuit unit 98 via the flexible substrate 96, and the drive circuit unit 98 is electrically connected to the connector 62 via the flexible substrate 100. It is connected.

  As shown in FIG. 4, a recess 110 is formed on the side of the housing 60 in the direction of the arrow X <b> 2, and a connector 64 is provided in the recess 110. In this case, when the protrusion 54 and the recess 110 are engaged and the connector 62 and the connector 64 are fitted, the cassette control unit 66 is electrically connected to the drive circuit unit 98 via the connectors 64 and 62 and the flexible substrate 100. Connected to. The drive circuit unit 98 drives and controls the radiation conversion panel 92 according to a control signal (address signal) from the cassette control unit 66, reads out a radiation image from the radiation conversion panel 92, and outputs the radiation image to the cassette control unit 66. The power supply unit 68 drives the radiation conversion panel 92 from the drive circuit unit 98 through the flexible substrate 96 by supplying power to the drive circuit unit 98 through the connectors 64 and 62 and the flexible substrate 100.

  4 illustrates a case where the drive circuit unit 98 is disposed on the side of the panel unit 30 in the arrow X2 direction. However, in practice, other drive circuit units are also arranged in the panel unit 30 along the guide units 48 and 50. However, in the present embodiment, for ease of explanation, the other drive circuit units are not provided. Illustration is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the bottom portions of the guide portions 48 and 50 extending in the direction of the arrow X are formed as chambers 120 and 122 that are wider than the upper portions of the guide portions 48 and 50 communicating with the outside. In this case, the guide portion 48 includes a sliding portion 124 disposed in the chamber 120 and a connecting portion 126 that passes through the guide portion 48 and connects the sliding portion 124 and the housing 60. A member 128 is provided. Further, the guide part 50 includes a sliding part 130 disposed in the chamber 122 and a moving member configured to connect the sliding part 130 and the housing 60 through the guide part 50. 134 is arranged.

  Here, the width along the arrow Y direction of the sliding portions 124 and 130 substantially matches the width along the arrow Y direction of the chambers 120 and 122, while the position of the upper surface of the sliding portions 124 and 130 is The positions of the chambers 120 and 122 are lower than the ceiling. That is, the chambers 120 and 122 are provided with a clearance that allows the sliding portions 124 and 130 to move up and down. Further, as shown in FIGS. 7A to 7C, the lengths of the sliding parts 124 and 130 and the connecting parts 126 and 132 along the arrow X direction are substantially the same as each other, and the arrow of the housing 60. The length is set slightly shorter than the width along the X direction. Note that both end portions of the sliding portions 124 and 130 along the arrow X direction have a slightly rounded shape with rounded corners.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 7A to 7C, a plurality of mountain-shaped convex portions (stop members) 140a to 140d are arranged along the arrow X direction at the bottoms of the chambers 120 and 122, respectively. Yes. In this case, the spacing between the side surface 46a and the convex portion 140a, the spacing between the convex portion 140b and the convex portion 140c, and the spacing between the convex portion 140d and the side surface 46b are respectively the sliding portions 124 and 130 and the connecting portion 126, The length is set to be approximately the same as the length along the arrow X direction of 132.

  As described above, the moving members 128 and 134 are connected to the bottom surface of the housing 60 of the control unit 32, and the moving members 128 and 134 are disposed in the guide portions 48 and 50. As described above, when the casing 60 is translated along the arrow X direction, the moving members 128 and 134 slide in the arrow X direction integrally with the casing 60 while being guided by the guide portions 48 and 50. At that time, a plurality of convex portions 140a to 140d are disposed in the chambers 120 and 122 of the guide portions 48 and 50, but between the upper surfaces of the sliding portions 124 and 130 and the ceiling of the chambers 120 and 122. Since the clearances are provided so that the sliding parts 124 and 130 can move up and down (see FIG. 6), even if the sliding parts 124 and 130 come into contact with the convex parts 140a to 140d, the moving members 128 and 134 are provided. Can travel over the projections 140a to 140d in the direction of the arrow X. Therefore, the moving members 136, 134 and the guide portions 48, 50 constitute a moving mechanism 136 that translates the control unit 32 in the arrow X direction with respect to the panel unit 30.

  Here, if the sliding portions 124 and 130 are stopped between the side surface 46b and the convex portion 140d, the housing 60 of the control unit 32 is positioned on the side surface 46b side shown in FIGS. 3 and 7A. Moreover, if the sliding parts 124 and 130 are stopped between the convex part 140b and the convex part 140c, the housing | casing 60 will be positioned in the approximate center part of the imaging | photography possible area | region 36 shown to FIG. 7B and FIG. 8A. Further, if the sliding portions 124 and 130 are stopped between the convex portion 140a and the side surface 46a, the housing 60 is positioned on the side surface 46a and the gripping portion 34 side shown in FIGS. 7C and 8B.

  In addition, when the housing | casing 60 is positioned in the position of FIG.3 and FIG.7A, the connectors 62 and 64 fit as mentioned above. On the other hand, when the housing 60 is positioned at the positions of FIGS. 7B and 8A, or when the housing 60 is positioned at the positions of FIGS. 7C and 8B, the fitting state of the connectors 62 and 64 is released. The electrical connection state between the control unit 32 and the panel unit 30 is interrupted.

  9A to 9C illustrate how the electronic cassette 20 is transported by a user 142 such as a doctor or a technician.

  In the case of FIG. 9A, the control unit 32 is disposed on the side surface 46b (see FIG. 3) side, and the user 142 holds the grip unit 34 with the control unit 32 at the bottom and the grip unit 34 at the top. The electronic cassette 20 is transported by gripping.

  Here, among the components of the electronic cassette 20, the power supply unit 68 (see FIGS. 3 and 5) has a relatively large weight, so that the ratio of the weight of the control unit 32 to the total weight of the electronic cassette 20 is large. In the control unit 32, a cassette control unit 66, a power supply unit 68, and a communication unit 70 are centrally arranged in the central portion of the housing 60. Therefore, in the case of FIG. 9A, the geometric center position of the electronic cassette 20 (the center position of the imageable area 36) and the gravity center position (the position on the control unit 32 side) are in an eccentric state. The load distribution is unbalanced as a whole.

  However, in FIG. 9A, since the user 142 carries the electronic cassette 20 with the control unit 32 at the bottom and the center of gravity of the electronic cassette 20 lowered, for example, even in an unbalanced load arrangement The electronic cassette 20 can be carried stably.

  On the other hand, in the case of FIG. 9B, the user 142 holds the grip portion 34 with the control portion 32 disposed at a substantially central portion of the shootable area 36 and the grip portion 34 at the top, and the electronic cassette 20. Transport. In this case, since the geometric center position of the electronic cassette 20 and the center of gravity position substantially coincide with each other, the eccentric state is eliminated and the load arrangement is well balanced as the entire apparatus. As a result, the user 142 can carry the electronic cassette 20 stably.

  Further, in the case of FIG. 9C, the control unit 32 is arranged on the side surface 46 a side, and the user 142 holds the gripping unit 34 with the control unit 32 and the gripping unit 34 at the top, and the electronic cassette 20. Transport.

  Even in this case, the geometric center position of the electronic cassette 20 and the position of the center of gravity do not coincide with each other, and the load is unbalanced as the entire apparatus. However, the position of the center of gravity of the electronic cassette 20 is on the upper side, and the user 142 grips the heavy control unit 32 via the gripping portion 34. Even in this case, the electronic cassette 20 is stably carried. be able to.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 7A to 8B, in the present embodiment, the position of the housing 60 is located on the side surface 46 b side, the substantially central portion of the imageable region 36, and the grip portion 34 and side surface 46 a side. Since each can be positioned, the electronic cassette 20 can be reliably transported even if the control unit 32 is arranged at any position in FIGS. 9A to 9C with respect to the panel unit 30.

  Incidentally, as schematically shown in FIG. 10, in the radiation conversion panel 92, a large number of pixels 150 are arranged on a substrate (not shown), and further, the drive circuit unit 98 passes through the flexible substrate 96 to these pixels 150. A large number of gate lines 152 for supplying control signals and a large number of signal lines 154 for reading out electric signals output from the large number of pixels 150 and outputting them to the drive circuit unit 98 via the flexible substrate 96 are arranged.

  Next, as an example, a circuit configuration and a block diagram of the electronic cassette 20 when the indirect conversion type radiation conversion panel 92 is employed will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

  The radiation conversion panel 92 has a structure in which a photoelectric conversion layer in which each pixel 150 made of a substance such as a-Si that converts visible light into an electrical signal is formed is arranged on an array of matrix-shaped TFTs 156. In this case, in each pixel 150 to which a bias voltage is supplied from the bias circuit 160 that constitutes the drive circuit unit 98, electric charges generated by converting visible light into an electric signal (analog signal) are accumulated, and for each column. By sequentially turning on the TFTs 156, the charge can be read out as an image signal.

  To the TFT 156 connected to each pixel 150, a gate line 152 extending in parallel with the column direction and a signal line 154 extending in parallel with the row direction are connected. Each gate line 152 is connected to the gate drive circuit 158, and each signal line 154 is connected to the multiplexer 170. A control signal for controlling on / off of the TFTs 156 arranged in the column direction is supplied from the gate drive circuit 158 to the gate line 152. In this case, the gate drive circuit 158 is supplied with an address signal from the cassette control unit 66.

  In addition, the charge held in each pixel 150 flows out to the signal line 154 through the TFTs 156 arranged in the row direction. This charge is amplified by the amplifier 164. A multiplexer 170 is connected to the amplifier 164 through a sample and hold circuit 166. The multiplexer 170 includes an FET (field effect transistor) switch 168 that switches the signal line 154 and a multiplexer drive circuit 162 that outputs a selection signal for turning on one FET switch 168. The multiplexer driving circuit 162 is supplied with an address signal from the cassette control unit 66. An A / D converter 172 is connected to the FET switch 168, and a radiation image converted into a digital signal by the A / D converter 172 is supplied to the cassette control unit 66.

  Note that the TFT 156 functioning as a switching element may be realized in combination with another imaging element such as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor. Furthermore, it can be replaced with a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) image sensor that transfers charges while shifting them with a shift pulse corresponding to a gate signal referred to as a TFT.

  The cassette control unit 66 includes an address signal generation unit 180, an image memory 182, a cassette ID memory 184, and a connection state detection unit (connection detection unit) 186.

  The address signal generator 180 supplies an address signal to the gate driving circuit 158 and the multiplexer driving circuit 162. The image memory 182 stores the radiation image detected by the radiation conversion panel 92. The cassette ID memory 184 stores cassette ID information for specifying the electronic cassette 20. The connection state detection unit 186 detects the presence or absence of an electrical connection state between the connector 62 and the connector 64, and controls power supply from the power supply unit 68 to each unit in the electronic cassette 20 based on the detection result.

  The radiographic imaging system 10 including the electronic cassette 20 according to the present embodiment is basically configured as described above. Next, the operation will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  Here, after the electronic cassette 20 is transported to the imaging table 12 in the state shown in FIG. 9B, the electronic cassette 20 is taken in the state shown in FIG. The case of returning to the state and transporting again will be described.

  In step S1 of FIG. 12, the user 142 who is a doctor or an engineer holds the grip part 34 in a state where the grip part 34 is the uppermost part and the control part 32 is arranged at a substantially central portion of the imageable region 36. Then (see FIG. 9B), the electronic cassette 20 is transported from a predetermined storage location such as a radiology department in the hospital to the imaging table 12 (see FIG. 1). In this case, since the connector 62 and the connector 64 are not fitted, the connection state detection unit 186 (see FIG. 11) detects that the electrical connection between the connector 62 and the connector 64 is interrupted. The power supply unit 68 is controlled to supply power only to the cassette control unit 66. As a result, the electronic cassette 20 enters a sleep state in which only the cassette control unit 66 is operating.

  In the next step S <b> 2, the user 142 arranges the electronic cassette 20 on the imaging table 12 with the control unit 32 and the irradiation surface 42 facing upward, and then determines the position of the housing 60 of the control unit 32 in the imageable region. 36 is moved in parallel from the position of the substantially central portion 36 (see FIGS. 7B and 8A) to the position on the side face 46b (see FIGS. 1 to 5 and 7A).

  In this case, when the user 142 pushes the casing 60 of the control unit 32 in the direction of the arrow X2, the moving members 128 and 134 connected to the control unit 32 are moved in the direction of the arrow X2 under the guiding action of the guide units 48 and 50. And slides (translates) integrally with the housing 60. The ends of the sliding portions 124 and 130 on the arrow X2 direction side are in contact with the convex portions 140c, respectively, but between the upper surfaces of the sliding portions 124 and 130 and the ceilings of the chambers 120 and 122 of the guide portions 48 and 50. Since there is a clearance (see FIG. 6), the sliding portions 124 and 130 can slide over the convex portion 140c in the arrow X2 direction.

  When the user 142 further pushes the housing 60 in the direction of the arrow X2, the moving members 128 and 134 slide in the direction of the arrow X2 integrally with the housing 60, and the sliding portions 124 and 130 move to the convex portion 140d. Even if they come into contact with each other, they move over the projections 140d and slide further in the direction of the arrow X2.

  When the end portions of the sliding portions 124 and 130 on the arrow X2 direction side come into contact with the side surface 46b, the moving members 128 and 134 are positioned between the side surface 46b and the convex portion 140d. That is, the housing 60 of the control unit 32 connected to the moving members 128 and 134 is positioned on the side surface 46b side, and the connector 62 of the protrusion 54 and the connector 64 of the recess 110 are fitted.

  When the connection state detection unit 186 detects that the connector 62 and the connector 64 are electrically connected by fitting the connector 62 and the connector 64, the connection state detection unit 186 controls the cassette control unit 66 with respect to the power supply unit 68. In addition, the communication unit 70 and the panel unit 30 are controlled to supply power. As a result, the power supply unit 68 starts supplying power to the communication unit 70 and the panel unit 30, so that the communication unit 70 can transmit and receive signals wirelessly to and from the console 22. In addition, the drive circuit unit 98 of the panel unit 30 is activated by power supply from the power supply unit 68, and the bias circuit 160 supplies a bias voltage to each pixel 150 so that the charge can be accumulated in each pixel 150. To reach. As a result, the electronic cassette 20 shifts from the sleep state to the active state.

  In the next step S <b> 3, the user 142 prepares for imaging for imaging a radiographic image of the imaging region of the subject 14.

  In this case, the user 142 operates the console 22 to perform imaging conditions such as subject information related to the subject 14 to be imaged (for example, the tube voltage and tube current of the radiation source 18 and the exposure time of the radiation 16). Register. When the imaging region and the imaging method are determined in advance, the user 142 also registers these imaging conditions.

  Next, the user 142 adjusts the inter-imaging distance between the radiation source 18 and the radiation conversion panel 92 to SID (distance between the source image reception images), while placing the subject 14 on the irradiation surface 42, The subject 14 is positioned (positioned) so that the imaging region of the subject 14 enters the imageable region 36 and the center position of the imaging region substantially coincides with the center position of the imageable region 36.

  In step S4 after the preparation for imaging is completed in this way, the user 142 turns on an exposure switch (not shown) provided in the console 22 or the radiation source 18. When the console 22 is provided with an exposure switch, the imaging conditions are transmitted from the console 22 to the radiation source 18 by wireless communication after the exposure switch is turned on. If the radiation source 18 is equipped with an exposure switch, after the exposure switch is turned on, transmission of imaging conditions is requested from the radiation source 18 to the console 22 by wireless communication. In response to a transmission request from the source 18, the imaging conditions are transmitted to the radiation source 18 by wireless communication.

  When receiving the imaging conditions, the radiation source 18 irradiates the subject 14 with radiation 16 having a predetermined dose according to the imaging conditions for a predetermined exposure time. The radiation 16 passes through the subject 14 and reaches the radiation conversion panel 92 in the panel unit 30.

  In step S5, when the radiation conversion panel 92 is an indirect conversion type radiation conversion panel, the scintillator constituting the radiation conversion panel 92 emits visible light having an intensity corresponding to the intensity of the radiation 16, and the photoelectric conversion layer Each of the pixels 150 constituting the above converts visible light into an electric signal and accumulates it as an electric charge. Next, the charge information that is the radiation image of the subject 14 held in each pixel 150 is read according to the address signal supplied from the address signal generation unit 180 constituting the cassette control unit 66 to the gate drive circuit 158 and the multiplexer drive circuit 162. It is.

  That is, the gate driving circuit 158 supplies a control signal to the gate of the TFT 156 connected to the gate line 152 corresponding to the address signal supplied from the address signal generator 180. On the other hand, the multiplexer drive circuit 162 outputs a selection signal in accordance with the address signal supplied from the address signal generation unit 180 and sequentially switches (turns on and off sequentially) the FET switch 168, and the gate line selected by the gate drive circuit 158. The radiographic image as the charge information held in each pixel 150 connected to 152 is sequentially read out via the signal line 154.

  The radiation image read out from each pixel 150 connected to the selected gate line 152 is amplified by each amplifier 164, sampled by each sample hold circuit 166, and A / D converted via the FET switch 168. Is supplied to the device 172 and converted into a digital signal. The radiation image converted into the digital signal is temporarily stored in the image memory 182 of the cassette control unit 66 (step S6).

  Similarly, the gate drive circuit 158 sequentially switches the gate line 152 that outputs a control signal in accordance with the address signal supplied from the address signal generation unit 180 and is held in each pixel 150 connected to each gate line 152. The radiation image as the charge information is read out via the signal line 154 and stored in the image memory 182 of the cassette control unit 66 via the FET switch 168 and the A / D converter 172 (step S6).

  The radiation image stored in the image memory 182 is transmitted to the console 22 by wireless communication via the communication unit 70 together with the cassette ID information stored in the cassette ID memory 184. The console 22 performs predetermined image processing on the received radiographic image, and transmits the radiographic image after the image processing to the display device 24 by wireless communication. The display device 24 displays the received radiation image (step S7).

  The user 142 visually recognizes the radiographic image displayed on the display device 24, confirms that an appropriate radiographic image of the subject 14 is obtained, and in step S8 after the imaging of the subject 14 is completed, the user 142 The position of the housing 60 of the control unit 32 is changed from the current position on the side surface 46b (see FIGS. 1 to 5 and 7A) to the position of the substantially central portion of the shootable region 36 (see FIGS. 7B and 8A). Translate to.

  In this case, the user 142 pushes the casing 60 in the direction of the arrow X1, and moves the moving members 128 and 134 connected to the control unit 32 in the direction of the arrow X1 under the guiding action of the guide portions 48 and 50. And slide (translate) together.

  At that time, the ends of the sliding portions 124 and 130 on the arrow X1 direction side are in contact with the convex portions 140d, respectively, but the upper surfaces of the sliding portions 124 and 130 and the ceilings of the chambers 120 and 122 of the guide portions 48 and 50, respectively. (See FIG. 6), the sliding portions 124 and 130 can move over the convex portion 140d and translate in the direction of the arrow X1.

  Due to the parallel movement of the housing 60 in the direction of the arrow X1, the recess 110 is separated from the protrusion 54, so that the fitting state between the connector 62 and the connector 64 is released, and the electrical connection between the connectors 62 and 64 is established. Blocked.

  When the connection state detection unit 186 detects that the electrical connection between the connector 62 and the connector 64 is cut off, the connection state detection unit 186 controls the power supply unit 68 to supply power only to the cassette control unit 66. As a result, the power supply unit 68 immediately stops power supply to the communication unit 70 and the panel unit 30 and supplies power only to the cassette control unit 66. As a result, the electronic cassette 20 shifts from the active state to the sleep state where only the cassette control unit 66 can operate.

  Next, when the user 142 further pushes the housing 60 in the arrow X1 direction, the moving members 128 and 134 move in parallel with the housing 60 in the arrow X1 direction, and the sliding portions 124 and 130 protrude. Even if they come into contact with the portions 140c, they move over the convex portions 140c and further translate in the direction of the arrow X1.

  When the end portions of the sliding portions 124 and 130 on the arrow X1 direction side come into contact with the convex portion 140b, the moving members 128 and 134 are positioned between the convex portion 140c and the convex portion 140b, and the moving member 128, The casing 60 of the control unit 32 connected to the position 134 is positioned at a substantially central portion of the imageable area 36.

  In step S <b> 9, the user 142 holds the electronic cassette 20 by gripping the grip portion 34 with the grip portion 34 as the uppermost portion and the control unit 32 being disposed at a substantially central portion of the imageable region 36. Transport to a designated storage location such as a radiology department in the hospital.

  When the user 142 carries the electronic cassette 20 in the state shown in FIG. 9C in steps S1 and S9 in FIG. 12, in step S2, the user 142 moves from the grip portion 34 and the side surface 46a side to the side surface 46b side. On the other hand, in step S8, the user 142 may translate the control unit 32 from the side surface 46b side to the gripping unit 34 and the side surface 46a side. When the user 142 carries the electronic cassette 20 in the state shown in FIG. 9A in steps S1 and S9 in FIG. 12, the operations in steps S2 and S8 are omitted.

  As described above, according to the electronic cassette 20 according to the present embodiment, the control unit 32 that causes the unbalanced load arrangement is moved by the guide units 48 and 50 and the moving members 128 and 134. Using the mechanism 136, the center of gravity of the electronic cassette 20 can be easily changed by translating the panel 30 along the arrow X direction.

  That is, since the proportion of the weight of the control unit 32 is relatively large in the total weight of the electronic cassette 20, the control unit is located with respect to the center position of the geometric shape of the electronic cassette 20 (substantially central portion of the imageable region 36). If 32 is displaced, the position of the center of gravity of the electronic cassette 20 does not coincide with the center position and is decentered, resulting in an unbalanced load arrangement for the entire apparatus.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the control unit 32 is translated along the direction of the arrow X with respect to the panel unit 30 to make the center position and the center of gravity position substantially coincide with each other so that unbalanced load arrangement is easy. Can be resolved.

  Specifically, using the guide portions 48 and 50 and the moving members 128 and 134, the position of the control portion 32 with respect to the panel portion 30 is set to the position of the substantially central portion of the imageable region 36 shown in FIGS. 7B and 8A. After the parallel movement, as shown in FIG. 9B, the electronic cassette 20 is transported with the gripping portion 34 as the uppermost portion.

  Thereby, since the user 142 feels the electronic cassette 20 lightly at the time of conveyance, it becomes possible to carry the electronic cassette 20 stably and easily. As a result, it is possible to transport the electronic cassette 20 without hitting the control unit 32 against an arbitrary object or dropping the electronic cassette 20, and the burden on the user 142 during transportation is reduced. The

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the control unit 32 is translated with respect to the panel unit 30 by the moving mechanism 136, the unbalanced load arrangement in the electronic cassette 20 can be easily eliminated. The user 142 can stably carry the electronic cassette 20 during transportation.

  In addition, since the moving members 128 and 134 and the control unit 32 are moved integrally along the guide portions 48 and 50 and linearly along the arrow X direction, the control unit is controlled with respect to the panel unit 30 by a simple mechanism. 32 can be translated. Further, even if the control unit 32 is arranged so as to cover the shootable area 36 during transportation, the control unit 32 can be retracted from the shootable area 36 during shooting. However, it does not interfere with radiographic image capturing.

  In this case, the guide portions 48 and 50 are formed along the arrow X direction (longitudinal direction of the housing 40) substantially perpendicular to the two sides (side surfaces 46a and 46b) of the irradiation surface 42. By moving the control unit 32 and the control unit 32 in a straight line, the center position and the center of gravity position can be easily matched, and the unbalanced load arrangement can be reliably eliminated.

  Further, by forming the two guide portions 48 and 50 so as to sandwich the imageable region 36 between two opposite sides (side surfaces 46a and 46b) on the irradiation surface 42, the control unit 32 has two moving members 128. , 134 are attached, and the two moving members 128, 134 are arranged in the two guide portions 48, 50, respectively. As a result, the controller 32 and the two moving members 128 and 134 can be translated more stably and reliably along the two guide portions 48 and 50.

  And the guide parts 48 and 50 are the recessed part or groove | channel formed in the irradiation surface 42 of the housing | casing 40 substantially linearly, and the moving members 128 and 134 can slide linearly along a recessed part or a groove | channel. Therefore, the control unit 32 can be easily and reliably translated with respect to the panel unit 30.

  In addition, since the convex portions 140a to 140d that can stop the sliding of the moving members 128 and 134 are disposed in the chambers 120 and 122 of the guide portions 48 and 50 as the concave portions or the grooves, Thus, the control unit 32 can be reliably stopped at an arbitrary position.

  Moreover, since the grip part 34 for the user 142 to hold | grip and convey the electronic cassette 20 is provided in the side surface 46a of the panel part 30, this electronic cassette 20 can be carried easily.

  Further, when the control unit 32 moves in parallel, the power supply unit 68 stops power supply to the communication unit 70 and the panel unit 30, so that useless power consumption can be suppressed.

  In this case, when the fitting state between the connector 62 and the connector 64 is released during the parallel movement of the control unit 32 and the electrical connection between the panel unit 30 and the control unit 32 is cut off, the power supply unit 68 communicates with the communication unit. If power supply to 70 and the panel unit 30 is stopped, wasteful power consumption can be reliably suppressed.

  Further, the cassette control unit 66 includes a connection state detection unit 186 that detects the presence or absence of an electrical connection between the connectors 62 and 64, and the connection state detection unit 186 determines whether or not there is an electrical connection between the connectors 62 and 64. By detecting this, it is possible to easily grasp the control timing for the panel unit 30 and the radiation image readout timing for the radiation conversion panel 92. In addition, it is possible to realize efficient power supply by notifying the power supply unit 68 of the detection result from the connection state detection unit 186.

  Furthermore, the thickness and weight of the electronic cassette 20 can be reduced by making the thickness of the panel unit 30 thinner than the thickness of the control unit 32.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the control unit 32 can be translated in the direction of the arrow X using the moving mechanism 136 constituted by the guide portions 48 and 50 and the moving members 128 and 134. After the control unit 32 is moved to the position shown in FIGS. 3 and 7A with respect to the unit 30, the gripping unit 34 is at the top and the control unit 32 is at the bottom, as shown in FIG. 9A. Thus, the electronic cassette 20 can be transported.

  Thus, even with an unbalanced load arrangement, the electronic cassette 20 is transported in a state where the center of gravity of the electronic cassette 20 is lowered, so that the electronic cassette 20 can be stably carried.

  That is, by grasping the grip portion 34 with the center of gravity of the entire apparatus being lowered, the user 142 feels the electronic cassette 20 lightly when carrying the electronic cassette 20, so that the electronic cassette 20 can be stably and easily held. It can be carried around. Accordingly, even in the case of FIG. 9A, the electronic cassette 20 can be transported without hitting the control unit 32 against an arbitrary object or dropping the electronic cassette 20, and the user 142 at the time of transportation can be provided. The burden of is also reduced.

  Further, in the present embodiment, after the control unit 32 is moved to the position shown in FIGS. 7C and 8B with respect to the panel unit 30, as shown in FIG. 9C, the grip unit 34 and the control unit 32 are set to the uppermost part. In this state, the electronic cassette 20 can be transported.

  As described above, even if the load arrangement is unbalanced, the user 142 holds the control unit 32 having a large weight via the holding unit 34, and thus can carry the electronic cassette 20 stably.

  That is, the user 142 feels the electronic cassette 20 lightly when carrying the electronic cassette 20 by grasping the heavy control unit 32 via the grasping unit 34, so that the electronic cassette 20 can be stably and easily held. It can be carried around. Accordingly, even in the case of FIG. 9C, the electronic cassette 20 can be transported without hitting the control unit 32 against an arbitrary object or dropping the electronic cassette 20, and the user 142 at the time of transport is also provided. The burden of is also reduced.

  The electronic cassette 20 according to the present embodiment is not limited to the above description, and the embodiments shown in FIGS. 13 to 26 can also be realized.

  FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a charging process of the power supply unit 68 by the cradle 190 arranged at a necessary place in the medical institution.

  In this case, the electronic cassette 20 and the cradle 190 are electrically connected by a USB cable 192 having connectors 194 and 196.

  The cradle 190 may transmit and receive necessary information to and from the console 22 and the RIS 26 in the medical institution using not only the charging of the power supply unit 68 but also the wireless communication function or the wired communication function of the cradle 190. Good. The information to be transmitted / received can include a radiographic image recorded in the image memory 182 of the electronic cassette 20.

  In addition, a display unit 198 may be provided in the cradle 190, and the display unit 198 may display necessary information including a charging state of the electronic cassette 20 and a radiographic image acquired from the electronic cassette 20. .

  Further, a plurality of cradle 190 is connected to the network, and the charging state of the electronic cassette 20 connected to each cradle 190 is collected via the network so that the location of the electronic cassette 20 in the usable charging state can be confirmed. It can also be configured.

  FIG. 14A illustrates a case where the casing 60 of the control unit 32 is entirely covered with the buffer member 200, and FIG. 14B illustrates a case where the side surface 46 b side of the casing 60 is covered with the buffer member 202. It is a thing.

  When the electronic cassette 20 is transported in a state where the control unit 32 is arranged on the side surface 46b with respect to the panel unit 30, the control unit 32 is arranged at the lowermost part of the electronic cassette 20 as shown in FIG. 9A. Therefore, by providing a buffer member 200 that covers the entire casing 60 of the control unit 32 or a buffer member 202 that covers a part thereof, the control unit 32 is hit against another object or the electronic cassette 20 is mounted. It becomes possible to protect the control part 32 effectively from the impact at the time of dropping.

  15A and 15B illustrate a case where the control unit 32 is translated in the direction of the arrow X by the moving member 208 using the wheels 210 instead of the moving members 128 and 134 of FIGS. 6 to 7C. In this case, the moving mechanism 136 includes the moving member 208 and the guide portions 48 and 50.

  The moving members 208 arranged in the guide portions 48 and 50 respectively have four wheels 210 that can travel on the bottoms of the chambers 120 and 122, and the axles 212 of the four wheels 210 pass therethrough along the arrow X direction. Each includes a chassis 214 that extends, and a connecting portion 216 that couples the chassis 214 and the housing 60 of the control unit 32. In this case, the total length of each moving member 208 along the arrow X direction (the distance from the wheel 210 on the arrow X1 direction side to the wheel 210 on the arrow X2 direction side) substantially matches the distance between the side surface 46b and the convex portion 140d. ing. Also, a clearance is provided between each wheel 210 and the ceiling of the chambers 120 and 122 so that each wheel 210 moves up and down.

  Therefore, also in FIGS. 15A and 15B, as in the case of the moving members 128 and 134, when the housing 60 is translated along the direction of the arrow X, the moving member 208 is guided by the guide portions 48 and 50. Travels in the direction of arrow X integrally with the body 60. In this case, since the moving member 208 travels by the rotation of the wheel 210, the control unit 32 can be easily and reliably translated in the direction of the arrow X with respect to the panel unit 30. In addition, since a clearance is provided between the wheel 210 and the ceiling of the chambers 120 and 122 so that the wheel 210 can move up and down, even if the wheel 210 comes into contact with the convex portions 140a to 140d, the moving member 208 can travel over the convex portions 140a to 140d in the arrow X direction.

  16 to 18B illustrate the case where the guide portions 220 and 222 are formed on the side surfaces 46c and 46d.

  The guide portions 220 and 222 are arranged in parallel with each other along the arrow X direction between the side surface 46a and the side surface 46b in the same manner as the guide portions 48 and 50 (see FIGS. 2, 3, 5, and 6). It is installed.

  In this case, a protruding portion 226 extending downward along the side surface 46d is formed on the side surface 80 side of the housing 60 of the control unit 32, and downward along the side surface 46c on the other side surface 308 side. A projecting portion 224 extending in the direction is formed. Therefore, each protrusion part 224,226 is arrange | positioned so that a part by the side 46b side in the guide parts 220 and 222 may be covered (refer FIG.16 and FIG.17).

  The radiation conversion panel 92 side of the guide portions 220 and 222 is formed as chambers 230 and 232 that are wider in the vertical direction than the entrance side communicating with the outside.

  The guide portions 220 and 222 are like the moving members 238 and 244 having substantially the same shape as the moving members 128 and 134 (see FIGS. 6 to 7C) or the moving member 208 (see FIGS. 15A and 15B). Moving members 258 and 264 that can travel by the wheels 254 and 260 are arranged in a state of being connected to the protruding portions 224 and 226 of the housing 60. Accordingly, the moving mechanism 136 includes moving members 238, 244, 258, 264 and guide portions 220, 222.

  In this case, the moving members 238 and 244 include sliding portions 234 and 240 disposed in the chambers 230 and 232, and connecting portions 236 and 242 that connect the sliding portions 234 and 240 and the protruding portions 224 and 226, respectively. Have each. Further, the moving members 258 and 264 include two wheels 254 and 260 disposed in the chambers 230 and 232, and axles 256 and 262 that connect the wheels 254 and 260 and the protruding portions 224 and 226, respectively.

  Here, the total length of each moving member 238, 244, 258, 264 along the direction of the arrow X substantially matches the distance between the side surface 46b and the convex portion 270. In addition, clearances are provided between the sliding portions 234 and 240 and the wheels 254 and 260 and the ceiling of the chambers 230 and 232 so that the sliding portions 234 and 240 and the wheels 254 and 260 move up and down. .

  16 to 18B, as in the case of the moving members 128 and 134 and the moving member 208, when the casing 60 is translated in the direction of the arrow X, the moving members 238, 244, 258, and 264 are guided portions. While being guided by 220 and 222, the body 60 and the housing 60 are translated in the direction of the arrow X. In addition, clearances are provided between the sliding portions 234 and 240 and the wheels 254 and 260 and the ceiling of the chambers 230 and 232 so that the sliding portions 234 and 240 and the wheels 254 and 260 move up and down. Therefore, even if the sliding portions 234 and 240 and the wheels 254 and 260 come into contact with the convex portion 270, the moving members 238, 244, 258 and 264 can move over the convex portion 270 and advance in the arrow X direction. It is.

  Accordingly, even in the case of FIGS. 16 to 18B, the control unit 32 can be easily and reliably translated in the direction of the arrow X with respect to the panel unit 30.

  FIGS. 19A to 22 each illustrate a case where a gripping portion is disposed at a place other than the side surface 46a.

  In FIG. 19A, in addition to the grip portion 34, a grip portion 280 is also provided on the side surface 46 b side of the protrusion portion 54, and the user 142 has a hand between the handle portion of the grip portion 280 and the protrusion portion 54. The hole 282 has a size enough to pass through.

  In this case, for example, the user 142 grips the grip portion 34 with one hand and moves the control portion 32 to the position of FIGS. 7B and 8A with respect to the panel portion 30 with the other hand. What is necessary is just to hold | grip the holding part 280 and to convey the electronic cassette 20. FIG. Thereby, while being able to carry the electronic cassette 20 in the state of load arrangement with a good balance, since the electronic cassette 20 is carried with both hands, the stability at the time of carrying can be further improved. In addition, since the two gripping portions 34 and 280 are provided, in addition to transporting the gripping portion 34 in a gripped state (see FIGS. 9A to 9C), the electronic cassette can be used with the gripping portion 280 at the top. 20 can be transported, and the usability during transport is improved.

  In FIG. 19B, in addition to the grip portion 34, the grip portion 330 is also arranged on the side surface 46c side, and the user 142 can pass the hand between the handle portion of the grip portion 330 and the side surface 46c. The hole portion 332 is formed.

  In this case, for example, the user 142 holds the gripping part 330 as the uppermost part in the state where the control part 32 is translated to the position of FIGS. 7B and 8A with respect to the panel part 30 and carries the electronic cassette 20. do it. Even in this case, since the load arrangement is well balanced, the electronic cassette 20 can be stably transported. Further, since the two gripping portions 34 and 330 are disposed, the usability during transportation is improved as in the case of FIG. 19A.

  In FIG. 20A, in addition to the gripping part 34, the gripping part 290 is arranged on the upper surface of the housing 60 of the control unit 32, and the space between the handle portion of the gripping part 290 and the upper surface of the housing 60 is the user. The hole 292 has a size enough to allow 142 to pass through.

  In this case, for example, the user 142 may hold the grip 290 as the uppermost part and carry the electronic cassette 20 in a state where the control unit 32 is disposed at the position of FIG. As a result, the electronic cassette 20 can be transported in a well-balanced load arrangement, and the heavy control unit 32 is directly gripped via the grip 290. Therefore, when the electronic cassette 20 is carried, the electronic cassette 20 is It feels light and the electronic cassette 20 can be carried stably and easily.

  Further, when the control unit 32 is translated with respect to the panel unit 30, the control unit 32 only needs to be translated while grasping the grasping unit 290. Therefore, the translation can be easily performed.

  Therefore, in the case of FIG. 20A, by providing the grip portion 290, the usability when the electronic cassette 20 is transported and the control portion 32 is translated is further improved.

  FIG. 20B is different from FIG. 20A in that a tiltable grip 300 is provided on the upper surface of the housing 60.

  A substantially hexagonal concave portion 302 is formed on the upper surface of the housing 60, and both end portions of the gripping portion 300 are disposed in the concave portion 302. Further, a rectangular support portion 304 is disposed in the recess 302, and both end portions of the shaft portion 306 penetrating the support portion 304 are connected to both end portions of the grip portion 300.

  When the user 142 does not grip the grip portion 300, the grip portion 300 is accommodated in the recess 302. On the other hand, when gripping the grip portion 300, the user 142 pulls the grip portion 300 from the recess 302 and grips it while rotating the central portion of the grip portion 300 around the shaft portion 306. Further, when the grip 300 is accommodated in the recess 302, the central portion of the grip 300 may be rotated toward the recess 302 with the shaft 306 as a center.

  In this way, in the case of FIG. 20B, in addition to the effects in FIG. 20A, it is only necessary to pull out the gripping part 300 only during transportation or parallel movement of the control part 32. The usability of the electronic cassette 20 is further improved.

  FIG. 21A is different from the case of FIG. 20A in that the grip portion 310 is disposed on the side surface 308 of the housing 60. In this case, a hole 312 is formed between the handle portion of the grip portion 310 and the side surface 308 of the housing 60 so that the user 142 can pass the hand.

  21B is different from the case of FIG. 20B in that a tiltable grip portion 320 is disposed on the side surface 308 of the housing 60. FIG. In this case, a substantially hexagonal concave portion 322 is formed on the side surface 308 of the housing 60, and both end portions of the grip portion 320 are disposed in the concave portion 322. In addition, a rectangular support portion 324 is disposed in the recess 322, and both end portions of the shaft portion 326 that penetrates the support portion 324 are connected to both end portions of the grip portion 320.

  Even in the case of FIG. 21A and FIG. 21B, the same effect as that of FIG. 20A and FIG. 20B can be obtained.

  FIG. 22 illustrates a case where a tiltable gripping portion 410 is provided on the side surface 46a side of the housing 60 instead of the gripping portion 34 on the side surface 46a. In this case, a substantially hexagonal concave portion 412 is formed on the side surface 46 a side of the housing 60, and both end portions of the grip portion 410 are disposed in the concave portion 412. Further, a rectangular support portion 414 is disposed in the recess 412, and both end portions of the shaft portion 416 that penetrates the support portion 414 are connected to both end portions of the grip portion 410.

  Even in the case of FIG. 22, as in the case of FIGS. 20A to 21B, the user 142 directly grips the heavy control unit 32 via the gripping portion 410, and thus when the electronic cassette 20 is carried. The electronic cassette 20 is felt lightly, and the electronic cassette 20 can be carried stably and easily.

  In addition, since the gripping part 410 is a retractable gripping part 410, the gripping part 410 only has to be pulled out during transportation or during the parallel movement of the control part 32. Therefore, the presence of the gripping part 410 does not hinder the photographing of the subject 14. The usability of the electronic cassette 20 is improved.

  Furthermore, the electronic cassette 20 according to the present embodiment can employ the configuration illustrated in FIGS. 23 and 24.

  FIG. 23 illustrates a case where rail-shaped guide portions 500 and 502 are formed on the side surfaces 46c and 46d, respectively, instead of the guide portions 220 and 222 described above. The guide portions 500 and 502 are provided with a plurality of mountain-shaped convex portions 506a to 506d having the same functions as the convex portions 140a to 140d and 270 described above. Further, a protrusion 504 having the same function as the protrusion 54 described above is detachably disposed on the side surface 46 b of the irradiation surface 42. In FIG. 23, the protruding portions 224 and 226 are configured as moving members (sliding portions) that slide along the guide portions 500 and 502.

  Even in the case of FIG. 23, the same effects as those of the guide portions 220 and 222 and the convex portion 270 described above can be obtained. In addition, it is possible to remove the control unit 32 from the panel unit 30 by sliding the control unit 32 in the direction of the arrow X2 along the guide units 500 and 502 in a state where the projecting unit 504 is removed from the housing 40. It becomes. As a result, maintenance and component replacement of the electronic cassette 20 are facilitated.

  In the electronic cassette 20 in which the guide portions 48, 50, 220, and 222 and the convex portions 140a to 140d and 270 are disposed, the projecting portion 504 is disposed instead of the projecting portion 54, thereby providing the projecting portion. Needless to say, the above-mentioned effects produced by 504 can be easily obtained.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the case where the radiation 16 is irradiated on the irradiation surface 42 has been described. However, as shown in FIG. 24, when the electronic cassette 20 for double-sided photographing is used, the top and bottom are reversed. It is also possible to shoot the subject 14 after being placed on the photographic stand 12. In this case, the bottom surface side of the panel unit 30 is an imaging surface to which the radiation 16 is irradiated, and the grid 90 and the lead plate 94 are omitted.

  Even in this case, the same effects as those of the embodiments described so far can be obtained, and the irradiation surface 42 or the bottom surface can be selected as the imaging surface in accordance with the imaging method for the subject 14, so that the usability of the electronic cassette 20 is improved. Further improve.

  Furthermore, the present embodiment can also be applied to a case where a radiation image is acquired using an optical readout type radiation conversion panel. In this light readout type radiation conversion panel, when radiation is incident on each solid state detection element, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the dose is accumulated and recorded in the solid state detection element. When reading the electrostatic latent image, the radiation conversion panel is irradiated with reading light, and the value of the generated current is acquired as a radiation image. In addition, the radiation conversion panel can erase and reuse a radiation image that is a remaining electrostatic latent image by irradiating the radiation conversion panel with erasing light (see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-105297).

  Furthermore, in the electronic cassette 20, in order to prevent the risk of blood and other germs adhering, for example, the entire apparatus is structured to be waterproof and hermetically sealed, and sterilized and washed as necessary to obtain one unit. The electronic cassette 20 can be used repeatedly.

  In addition, the present embodiment is not limited to radiographic imaging in a medical institution, but can also be applied to disaster scenes, home nursing scenes, and mounted on examination cars to shoot subjects in health examinations. Is possible. Furthermore, the present embodiment is not limited to such medical-related radiographic image capturing, and can of course be applied to radiographic image capturing in various nondestructive inspections, for example.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and it is needless to say that various configurations can be adopted without departing from the gist of the present invention.

  For example, the radiation conversion panel 92 may be the radiation detector 600 according to the modification shown in FIGS. FIG. 25 is a schematic cross-sectional view schematically showing the configuration of three pixel portions of the radiation detector 600 according to the modification.

  The radiation detector 600 is formed by sequentially laminating a signal output unit 604 including a switching element, a sensor unit 606 including a solid state detection element, and a scintillator 608 on an insulating substrate 602, and the signal output unit 604. The sensor unit 606 constitutes a pixel unit. The pixel units are arranged in a matrix on the substrate 602, and the signal output unit 604 and the sensor unit 606 in each pixel unit are configured to overlap each other.

  The scintillator 608 is formed by forming a phosphor that is formed on the sensor unit 606 via the transparent insulating film 610 and emits light by converting the radiation 16 into light. 25, for example, the irradiation surface 42 (FIGS. 2 to 5, 8A to 9C, FIGS. 13 to 14B, FIGS. 16 and 19A to the upper side (the side opposite to the side on which the substrate 602 is located) is disposed. When the radiation 16 enters from above, the radiation detector 600 functions as a PSS radiation detector, and the phosphor of the scintillator 608 converts the incident radiation 16 into light. Converts to emit light.

  The wavelength range of light emitted by the scintillator 608 is preferably the visible light range (wavelength 360 nm to 830 nm), and in order to enable monochrome imaging by the radiation detector 600, the wavelength range of green is included. Is more preferable.

  Specifically, the phosphor used in the scintillator 608 preferably contains CsI when imaging using X-rays as the radiation 16, and CsI (Tl) having an emission spectrum of 420 nm to 600 nm during X-ray irradiation. It is particularly preferable to use (cesium iodide added with thallium). Note that the emission peak wavelength of CsI (Tl) in the visible light region is 565 nm.

  The scintillator 608 may be formed, for example, by vapor-depositing CsI (Tl) having a columnar crystal structure on a vapor deposition base. When the scintillator 608 is formed by vapor deposition as described above, Al is often used as the vapor deposition substrate from the viewpoint of X-ray transmittance and cost, but is not limited thereto. Note that in the case where GOS is used as the scintillator 608, GOS is preferably applied to a resin base and then bonded to the surface of the TFT active matrix substrate. As a result, the TFT active matrix substrate can be preserved even if GOS application fails.

  The sensor unit 606 includes an upper electrode 612, a lower electrode 614, and a photoelectric conversion film 616 disposed between the upper electrode 612 and the lower electrode 614.

Since the upper electrode 612 needs to make the light generated by the scintillator 608 incident on the photoelectric conversion film 616, it is preferable that the upper electrode 612 is made of a conductive material that is transparent at least with respect to the emission wavelength of the scintillator 608. It is preferable to use a transparent conductive oxide (TCO) having a high transmittance for visible light and a small resistance value. Note that although a metal thin film such as Au can be used as the upper electrode 612, a resistance value tends to increase when the transmittance of 90% or more is obtained, so that the TCO is preferable. For example, ITO (Indium Tin Oxide), IZO, AZO, FTO, SnO ₂ , TiO ₂ , ZnO _{2 and the} like can be preferably used, and ITO is most preferable from the viewpoint of process simplicity, low resistance, and transparency. Note that the upper electrode 612 may have a single configuration common to all the pixel portions, or may be divided for each pixel portion.

  The photoelectric conversion film 616 includes an organic photoconductor (OPC), absorbs light emitted from the scintillator 608, and generates a charge corresponding to the absorbed light. If the photoelectric conversion film 616 includes an organic photoconductor (organic photoelectric conversion material), the photoelectric conversion film 616 has a sharp absorption spectrum in the visible light region, and electromagnetic waves other than light emitted by the scintillator 608 are almost absorbed by the photoelectric conversion film 616. In addition, noise generated when the radiation 16 is absorbed by the photoelectric conversion film 616 can be effectively suppressed. Note that the photoelectric conversion film 616 may be configured to include a-Si instead of the organic photoconductor. In this case, it has a wide absorption spectrum and can efficiently absorb light emitted by the scintillator 608.

  The organic photoconductor constituting the photoelectric conversion film 616 preferably has a peak wavelength closer to the emission peak wavelength of the scintillator 608 in order to absorb light emitted by the scintillator 608 most efficiently. Ideally, the absorption peak wavelength of the organic photoconductor coincides with the emission peak wavelength of the scintillator 608. However, if the difference between the two is small, the light emitted from the scintillator 608 can be sufficiently absorbed. . Specifically, the difference between the absorption peak wavelength of the organic photoconductor and the emission peak wavelength of the scintillator 608 with respect to the radiation 16 is preferably within 10 nm, and more preferably within 5 nm.

  Examples of organic photoconductors that can satisfy such conditions include quinacridone organic compounds and phthalocyanine organic compounds. For example, since the absorption peak wavelength of quinacridone in the visible region is 560 nm, if quinacridone is used as the organic photoconductor and CsI (Tl) is used as the material of the scintillator 608, the difference between the peak wavelengths may be within 5 nm. Thus, the amount of charge generated in the photoelectric conversion film 616 can be substantially maximized.

  The sensor unit 606 is a stack of a part that absorbs electromagnetic waves, a photoelectric conversion part, an electron transport part, a hole transport part, an electron blocking part, a hole blocking part, a crystallization prevention part, an electrode, an interlayer contact improvement part, or the like. An organic layer formed by mixing is included. The organic layer preferably contains an organic p-type compound (organic p-type semiconductor) or an organic n-type compound (organic n-type semiconductor).

  An organic p-type semiconductor is a donor organic semiconductor (compound) typified by a hole-transporting organic compound and refers to an organic compound having a property of easily donating electrons. More specifically, an organic compound having a smaller ionization potential when two organic materials are used in contact with each other. Therefore, any organic compound can be used as the donor organic compound as long as it is an electron-donating organic compound.

  An organic n-type semiconductor is an acceptor organic semiconductor (compound) typified by an electron-transporting organic compound and refers to an organic compound having a property of easily accepting electrons. More specifically, the organic compound having the higher electron affinity when two organic compounds are used in contact with each other. Accordingly, as the acceptor organic compound, any organic compound can be used as long as it is an electron-accepting organic compound.

  The materials applicable as the organic p-type semiconductor and the organic n-type semiconductor and the configuration of the photoelectric conversion film 616 are described in detail in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-32854, and thus the description thereof is omitted. Note that the photoelectric conversion film 616 may be formed to further contain fullerene or carbon nanotube.

  The thickness of the photoelectric conversion film 616 is preferably as large as possible in terms of absorbing light from the scintillator 608. However, when the thickness is more than a certain level, the photoelectric conversion film 616 is generated in the photoelectric conversion film 616 by a bias voltage applied from both ends of the photoelectric conversion film 616. In this case, the electric field strength is reduced and the charge cannot be collected. Therefore, the thickness is preferably 30 nm to 300 nm, more preferably 50 nm to 250 nm, and particularly preferably 80 nm to 200 nm.

  The photoelectric conversion film 616 has a single-layer configuration common to all the pixel portions, but may be divided for each pixel portion. The lower electrode 614 is a thin film divided for each pixel portion. However, the lower electrode 614 may have a single configuration common to all the pixel portions. The lower electrode 614 can be made of a transparent or opaque conductive material, and Al, silver, or the like can be suitably used. The thickness of the lower electrode 614 can be, for example, 30 nm or more and 300 nm or less.

  In the sensor unit 606, by applying a predetermined bias voltage between the upper electrode 612 and the lower electrode 614, one of charges (holes, electrons) generated in the photoelectric conversion film 616 is moved to the upper electrode 612. And the other can be moved to the lower electrode 614. In the radiation detector 600 according to this modification, a wiring is connected to the upper electrode 612, and a bias voltage is applied to the upper electrode 612 via the wiring. In addition, the polarity of the bias voltage is determined so that electrons generated in the photoelectric conversion film 616 move to the upper electrode 612 and holes move to the lower electrode 614, but this polarity is opposite. May be.

  The sensor unit 606 included in each pixel unit only needs to include at least the lower electrode 614, the photoelectric conversion film 616, and the upper electrode 612. In order to suppress an increase in dark current, the electron blocking film 618 and the hole are included. It is preferable to provide at least one of the blocking films 620, and it is more preferable to provide both.

  The electron blocking film 618 can be provided between the lower electrode 614 and the photoelectric conversion film 616. When a bias voltage is applied between the lower electrode 614 and the upper electrode 612, the electron blocking film 618 is exposed from the lower electrode 614 to the photoelectric conversion film 616. It is possible to prevent the dark current from being increased due to the injection of electrons.

  An electron-donating organic material can be used for the electron blocking film 618. The material actually used for the electron blocking film 618 may be selected according to the material of the adjacent electrode, the material of the adjacent photoelectric conversion film 616, and the like, and 1.3 eV or more from the work function (Wf) of the material of the adjacent electrode. Those having a large electron affinity (Ea) and an Ip equivalent to or smaller than the ionization potential (Ip) of the material of the adjacent photoelectric conversion film 616 are preferable. Since the material applicable as the electron donating organic material is described in detail in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-32854, description thereof is omitted.

  The thickness of the electron blocking film 618 is preferably 10 nm or more and 200 nm or less, more preferably 30 nm or more and 150 nm or less, and particularly preferably, in order to surely exhibit the dark current suppressing effect and prevent a decrease in photoelectric conversion efficiency of the sensor unit 606. It is good to set it to 50 nm or more and 100 nm or less.

  The hole blocking film 620 can be provided between the photoelectric conversion film 616 and the upper electrode 612, and when a bias voltage is applied between the lower electrode 614 and the upper electrode 612, the photoelectric conversion film is formed from the upper electrode 612. An increase in dark current due to injection of holes into 616 can be suppressed.

  An electron-accepting organic material can be used for the hole blocking film 620. The thickness of the hole blocking film 620 is preferably 10 nm or more and 200 nm or less, more preferably 30 nm or more and 150 nm or less, and particularly preferably, in order to reliably exhibit the dark current suppressing effect and prevent a decrease in photoelectric conversion efficiency of the sensor unit 606. Is preferably 50 nm to 100 nm.

  The material actually used for the hole blocking film 620 may be selected according to the material of the adjacent electrode, the material of the adjacent photoelectric conversion film 616, and the like, and 1.3 eV from the work function (Wf) of the material of the adjacent electrode. As described above, it is preferable that the ionization potential (Ip) is large and that the Ea is equal to or larger than the electron affinity (Ea) of the material of the adjacent photoelectric conversion film 616. Since the material applicable as the electron-accepting organic material is described in detail in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-32854, description thereof is omitted.

  Note that, among the charges generated in the photoelectric conversion film 616, when a bias voltage is set so that holes move to the upper electrode 612 and electrons move to the lower electrode 614, the electron blocking film 618 and the hole blocking are set. The position relative to the film 620 may be reversed. Further, it is not necessary to provide both the electron blocking film 618 and the hole blocking film 620. If either of them is provided, a certain dark current suppressing effect can be obtained.

  As shown in FIG. 26, the signal output unit 604 is provided on the surface of the substrate 602 corresponding to the lower electrode 614 of each pixel unit, and the storage capacitor 622 for storing the electric charge moved to the lower electrode 614; The TFT 624 converts the electric charge accumulated in the accumulation capacitor 622 into an electric signal and outputs the electric signal. The region where the storage capacitor 622 and the TFT 624 are formed has a portion that overlaps with the lower electrode 614 in plan view. With such a configuration, the signal output unit 604 and the sensor unit 606 in each pixel unit Will have an overlap in the thickness direction. If the signal output unit 604 is formed so as to completely cover the storage capacitor 622 and the TFT 624 with the lower electrode 614, the plane area of the radiation detector 600 (pixel unit) can be minimized.

  The storage capacitor 622 is electrically connected to the corresponding lower electrode 614 through a wiring made of a conductive material formed through an insulating film 626 provided between the substrate 602 and the lower electrode 614. Thereby, the charge collected by the lower electrode 614 can be moved to the storage capacitor 622.

  The TFT 624 includes a gate electrode 628, a gate insulating film 630, and an active layer (channel layer) 632, and a source electrode 634 and a drain electrode 636 are formed on the active layer 632 at a predetermined interval. Yes. The active layer 632 can be formed of, for example, a-Si, amorphous oxide, organic semiconductor material, carbon nanotube, or the like. Note that the material forming the active layer 632 is not limited thereto.

The amorphous oxide that can form the active layer 632 is preferably an oxide containing at least one of In, Ga, and Zn (for example, In—O-based), and at least two of In, Ga, and Zn. Oxides containing one (for example, In—Zn—O, In—Ga—O, and Ga—Zn—O) are more preferable, and oxides including In, Ga, and Zn are particularly preferable. As the In—Ga—Zn—O-based amorphous oxide, an amorphous oxide whose composition in a crystalline state is represented by InGaO ₃ (ZnO) _m (m is a natural number less than 6) is preferable, and InGaZnO is particularly preferable. ₄ is more preferable. Note that the amorphous oxide that can form the active layer 632 is not limited thereto.

  Examples of the organic semiconductor material that can form the active layer 632 include, but are not limited to, phthalocyanine compounds, pentacene, vanadyl phthalocyanine, and the like. In addition, about the structure of a phthalocyanine compound, since it describes in detail in Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 2009-212389, description is abbreviate | omitted.

  If the active layer 632 of the TFT 624 is formed of an amorphous oxide, an organic semiconductor material, or a carbon nanotube, the radiation 16 such as X-rays is not absorbed, or even if it is absorbed, a very small amount remains. Generation of noise in the output unit 604 can be effectively suppressed.

  In addition, when the active layer 632 is formed of carbon nanotubes, the switching speed of the TFT 624 can be increased, and a TFT 624 having a low light absorption in the visible light region can be formed. Note that when the active layer 632 is formed of carbon nanotubes, the performance of the TFT 624 is remarkably deteriorated only by mixing a very small amount of metallic impurities into the active layer 632, so that extremely high purity carbon nanotubes are separated by centrifugation or the like.・ It needs to be extracted and formed.

  Here, any of the above-described amorphous oxide, organic semiconductor material, carbon nanotube, and organic photoconductor can be formed at a low temperature. Therefore, the substrate 602 is not limited to a substrate having high heat resistance such as a semiconductor substrate, a quartz substrate, and a glass substrate, and a flexible substrate such as plastic, aramid, or bio-nanofiber can also be used. Specifically, flexible substrates such as polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene phthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polystyrene, polycarbonate, polyethersulfone, polyarylate, polyimide, polycycloolefin, norbornene resin, polychlorotrifluoroethylene, etc. Can be used. If such a plastic flexible substrate is used, it is possible to reduce the weight, which is advantageous for carrying around, for example.

  In addition, the photoelectric conversion film 616 is formed from an organic photoconductor, and the TFT 624 is formed from an organic semiconductor material, whereby the photoelectric conversion film 616 and the TFT 624 are formed at a low temperature on a plastic flexible substrate (substrate 602). It is possible to reduce the thickness and weight of the radiation detector 600 as a whole. Accordingly, the panel unit 30 (see FIGS. 1 to 6, FIGS. 8A to 9C, FIGS. 13 to 14B, FIGS. 16, 17, and 19A to 24) that accommodates the radiation detector 600 is made thinner and lighter. It becomes possible. In addition, by using the flexible substrate 602, the radiation conversion panel 92 and the housing 40 of the panel unit 30 that accommodates the radiation conversion panel 92 can also have flexibility, and as a result, Occurrence of damage or the like of the radiation conversion panel 92 when a load is applied from the subject 14 to the panel unit 30 can be avoided.

  Note that the substrate 602 is provided with an insulating layer for ensuring insulation, a gas barrier layer for preventing permeation of moisture and oxygen, an undercoat layer for improving flatness or adhesion to electrodes, and the like. May be.

  In addition, since aramid can be applied at a high temperature process of 200 ° C. or higher, the transparent electrode material can be cured at a high temperature to reduce the resistance, and can be used for automatic mounting of a driver IC including a solder reflow process. Moreover, since aramid has a thermal expansion coefficient close to that of ITO or a glass substrate, warping after production is small and it is difficult to break. In addition, aramid can form a substrate thinner than a glass substrate or the like. Note that the substrate 602 may be formed by stacking an ultrathin glass substrate and an aramid.

  The bionanofiber is a composite of a cellulose microfibril bundle (bacterial cellulose) produced by bacteria (acetobacterium Xylinum) and a transparent resin. The cellulose microfibril bundle has a width of 50 nm and a size of 1/10 of the visible light wavelength, and has high strength, high elasticity, and low thermal expansion. By impregnating and curing a transparent resin such as acrylic resin and epoxy resin in bacterial cellulose, a bio-nanofiber having a light transmittance of about 90% at a wavelength of 500 nm can be obtained while containing 60% to 70% of the fiber. Bionanofiber has a low coefficient of thermal expansion (3-7 ppm) comparable to silicon crystals, is as strong as steel (460 MPa), has high elasticity (30 GPa), and is flexible, compared to glass substrates, etc. Thus, the substrate 602 can be formed thin.

  In this modification, the signal output unit 604, the sensor unit 606, and the transparent insulating film 610 are formed in order on the substrate 602, and the scintillator 608 is attached to the substrate 602 using an adhesive resin having low light absorption. Thus, the radiation detector 600 is formed.

  In the radiation detector 600 according to the above-described modification, the photoelectric conversion film 616 is made of an organic photoconductor, and the active layer 632 of the TFT 624 is made of an organic semiconductor material. The part 604 hardly absorbs the radiation 16. Thereby, the fall of the sensitivity with respect to the radiation 16 (refer FIG.1, FIG.4 and FIG.24) can be suppressed.

  Both the organic semiconductor material constituting the active layer 632 of the TFT 624 and the organic photoconductor constituting the photoelectric conversion film 616 can be formed at a low temperature. Therefore, the substrate 602 can be formed of a plastic resin, aramid, or bionanofiber that absorbs less radiation 16. Thereby, the fall of the sensitivity with respect to the radiation 16 can be suppressed further.

  Further, for example, when the radiation detector 600 is arranged in the housing 40 and the substrate 602 is formed of a highly rigid plastic resin, aramid, or bionanofiber, the rigidity of the radiation detector 600 itself can be increased. The housing 40 can be formed thin. Further, when the substrate 602 is formed of a highly rigid plastic resin, aramid, or bionanofiber, the radiation detector 600 itself has flexibility as described above, so that even when an impact is applied to the housing 40, the radiation detector. 600 is hard to break.

  25, as described above, in FIG. 25, as an example, the light emitted from the scintillator 608 is a sensor unit 606 (photoelectric conversion) positioned on the side opposite to the side where the radiation source 18 (see FIGS. 1 and 24) is positioned. A PSS type radiation detector 600 is shown which reads a radiation image after being converted into electric charge by a film 616).

  The radiation detector 600 is not limited to this configuration, and may be configured as an ISS radiation detector. In this case, the substrate 602, the signal output unit 604, the sensor unit 606, and the scintillator 608 are stacked in this order along the irradiation direction of the radiation 16, and the light emitted from the scintillator 608 is sensor unit on the side where the radiation source 18 is positioned. At 606, the radiation image is read after being converted into electric charges. In general, the scintillator 608 emits light more strongly on the irradiation surface side of the radiation 16 than on the back side. Therefore, the radiation detector 600 configured by the ISS system is more scintillator than the radiation detector 600 configured by the PSS system. The distance until the light emitted in 608 reaches the photoelectric conversion film 616 can be shortened. Thereby, since the diffusion / attenuation of the light can be suppressed, the resolution of the radiation image can be increased.

  In addition, when the radiation conversion panel 92 (radiation detector 600) is configured using the above-described plastic and organic materials, the radiation conversion panel 92 is arranged along the irradiation direction of the radiation 16 in the substrate 602, TFT 624, photoelectric. A high-quality radiation image can be easily obtained by using an ISS panel arranged in the order of the conversion film 616 and the CsI scintillator 608.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, CsI or GOS can be used as the scintillator 608.

  Here, when an electric circuit portion such as the control unit 32 generates heat, the sensitivity of the GOS does not change with respect to the heat generation, but with CsI, the sensitivity decreases as the temperature increases (for a temperature increase of 1 ° C.). Sensitivity is reduced by about 0.3%).

  However, in the present embodiment, the housing 40 of the panel unit 30 that houses the scintillator 608 and the control unit 32 are separate, and the control unit 32 is separated from the scintillator 608 during operation. Therefore, even if the scintillator 608 made of CsI is used, it is possible to avoid a change in sensitivity with respect to heat generated by the control unit 32. Therefore, a highly sensitive radiation image can be acquired even during long-time imaging.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, 13 to 14B, 16, 19, 19A, 19B, and 22 to 24, the control unit 32 is controlled in plan view during operation. The portion 32 is prevented from overlapping the radiation conversion panel 92 in the panel portion 30. This is because the heat generated by the control unit 32 is transmitted to the radiation conversion panel 92, so that the temperature distribution due to the heat is easily generated at both ends of the radiation conversion panel 92, and the image correction is performed when the scintillator 608 is CsI. This is because the sensitivity will be uneven. Therefore, when the CsI scintillator 608 is used, it is necessary to devise a measure not to transfer the heat generated in the control unit 32 to the radiation conversion panel 92 in the panel unit 30. Specifically, the following measures may be taken.

  (1) A heat radiating window or a heat radiating plate for radiating the heat generated by the control unit 32 to a part of the casing 60 of the control unit 32 that is away from the panel unit 30 (the side opposite to the panel unit 30). The heat dissipating member is arranged.

  (2) The gripping portions 290, 300, 310, 320, and 410 (see FIGS. 20A to 22) are made of a material having high thermal conductivity and used as a heat radiating member for radiating heat generated by the control unit 32. . In this case, a wave-shaped or rectangular member that functions as a heat sink may be attached to the grip portions 290, 300, 310, 320, and 410 to increase the heat dissipation area. In addition, since the holding parts 290, 300, 310, 320, and 410 are directly provided on the housing 60 of the control unit 32, heat generated by the control unit 32 can be directly radiated. In addition, since the gripping portions 290, 300, 310, 320, and 410 are locations where the user 142 grips, it is needless to say that the user 142 needs to dissipate heat to the extent that the user 142 does not cause low-temperature burns.

  On the other hand, grips 34, 280, 330 (FIGS. 1-5, 8A, 9A-9C, 13-14B, 16, 19A-21B, 23, and 23) mounted on the panel unit 30 and Even if it is (refer FIG. 24), if the control part 32 is arrange | positioned in the holding | grip part 34,280,330 vicinity, it can utilize as a heat radiating member by comprising with a substance with high heat conductivity. In these gripping portions 34, 280, and 330, it is possible to increase the heat radiation area by attaching the above-described wave-shaped or rectangular members, and furthermore, to the extent that the user 142 does not cause low-temperature burns. Of course, it is necessary to dissipate heat.

  It should be noted that since the heat generating component such as the power supply unit 68 is disposed in the housing 60 of the control unit 32, the parts near the grips 290, 300, 310, 320, 410 in the housing 60 are arranged. If the parts having a large heat generation amount are arranged, the heat generated by the control unit 32 can be efficiently radiated through the gripping units 290, 300, 310, 320, and 410.

  (3) The guide parts 48, 50, 220, 222, 500, 502 and the moving members 128, 134, 208, 238, 244, 258, 264 for translating the control part 32 are, for example, thermal conductivity. By constituting with a high metal, it is possible to make these components function as a heat radiating member that radiates heat generated by the control unit 32. In this case, each guide part 48, 50, 220, 222, 500, 502 is provided in the casing 40 of the panel part 30 so as to be exposed to the outside along the arrow X direction. Therefore, even if the housing 40 is made of a material such as carbon that hardly releases heat to the outside, the heat from the control unit 32 can be efficiently radiated. In addition, since the drive circuit unit 98 (including the IC) also generates heat, the drive circuit unit 98 is thermally coupled to the respective guide units 48, 50, 220, 222, 500, and 502, thereby driving the drive circuit unit 98. The heat generated in the above can be dissipated through the guide portions 48, 50, 220, 222, 500, 502.

  (4) A gel-like cooling sheet may be used as the buffer members 200 and 202 (see FIGS. 14A and 14B) that protect the housing 60 from impact. The cooling sheet has a structure in which a nonwoven fabric and a polymer gel gel are bonded together, and the control unit 32 takes away the heat generated in the control unit 32 and evaporates the water contained in the gel with the heat of evaporation. The heat generated at 32 is dissipated to lower the temperature of the control unit 32.

  By devising the above (1) to (4), heat transfer to the radiation detector 600 (radiation conversion panel 92) including the CsI scintillator 608 is avoided, and a decrease in sensitivity to radiation 16 and occurrence of sensitivity unevenness are prevented. It becomes possible to suppress.

16 ... Radiation 20 ... Electronic cassette 30 ... Panel part 32 ... Control part 34, 280, 290, 300, 310, 320, 330, 410 ... Grasping part 36 ... Shootable area 40, 60 ... Housing 42 ... Irradiation surface 46a- 46d, 80, 308 ... side surfaces 48, 50, 220, 222, 500, 502 ... guide portions 62, 64 ... connector 66 ... cassette control portion 68 ... power supply portion 70 ... communication portion 92 ... radiation conversion panels 124, 130, 234, 240 ... sliding parts 128, 134, 208, 238, 244, 258, 264... Moving member 136. ... buffer members 210, 254, 260 ... wheels

Claims (16)

A panel unit containing a radiation conversion panel for converting radiation into a radiation image;
A control unit for controlling the radiation conversion panel;
A moving mechanism for translating the control unit relative to the panel unit along the surface of the panel unit;
A radiographic imaging apparatus comprising: The apparatus of claim 1.
The panel unit accommodates the radiation conversion panel in a substantially rectangular casing capable of transmitting the radiation,
The moving mechanism is integrally formed with the control unit along the guide part, and a substantially linear guide part formed at a position other than the imageable region where the radiation is irradiated on the surface of the housing. A radiographic imaging apparatus comprising a movable member that can move in parallel. The apparatus of claim 2.
In the case, the radiation irradiation surface having the imageable region and a side surface of the case between two opposing sides of at least one surface along a direction substantially perpendicular to the two sides. A radiation image capturing apparatus, wherein the guide portion is formed. The apparatus of claim 3.
Both when the photographable region is formed in the substantially central portion of the irradiation surface, that two of the guide portion is formed so as to sandwich the imaging area between two opposed sides of the irradiation surface A radiographic imaging device as a feature. The apparatus of claim 3.
The radiographic imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the guide portions are formed in parallel to each other on two side surfaces facing each other of the casing. In the apparatus of any one of Claims 2-5,
The guide portion is a recess, groove or rail formed in a substantially linear shape on the surface of the housing,
The moving member has a sliding part that can slide linearly in the recess or along the rail, or a wheel that can run linearly along the groove. . The apparatus of claim 6.
The recess, the groove, or the rail is provided with a stop member that can stop sliding of the sliding portion along the recess or the rail, or stop traveling of the wheel along the groove. The radiographic imaging device characterized by the above-mentioned. The apparatus of claim 7.
The stop member is formed in the recess, the groove, or the rail, and a convex part that stops the sliding of the sliding part or the traveling of the wheel when the sliding part or the wheel comes into contact therewith. The radiographic imaging device characterized by being. The device according to any one of claims 2 to 8,
A radiographic imaging apparatus, further comprising a gripping part that is provided on the control unit and / or the panel unit and is gripped by a user to carry the radiographic imaging apparatus. The apparatus of claim 9.
The radiographic imaging apparatus, wherein the gripping part is provided on a side surface of the casing of the panel unit and / or an upper surface or a side surface of another casing constituting the control unit. The apparatus of claim 10.
When the grip portion is provided in the control unit, the grip portion is pulled out and gripped from the upper surface or the side surface when the radiographic imaging apparatus is transported or when the control unit is moved in parallel. A radiographic imaging device. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11,
The control unit drives and controls the radiation conversion panel and reads out the radiation image from the radiation conversion panel, a communication unit capable of communicating with the outside, the panel control unit, and the communication unit And a radiographic imaging apparatus comprising: a power supply unit that supplies power to the radiation conversion panel. The apparatus of claim 12.
The radiographic imaging apparatus, wherein the power supply unit stops power supply to the communication unit and the radiation conversion panel when the control unit is translated by the moving mechanism. The apparatus of claim 13.
The panel unit is provided with a connection unit for electrically connecting the radiation conversion panel and the control unit,
When the connection unit and the control unit are separated from each other and the electrical connection is released during the parallel movement of the control unit by the moving mechanism, the power supply unit is configured to supply power to the communication unit and the radiation conversion panel. A radiographic imaging apparatus characterized by stopping supply. The apparatus of claim 14.
The said panel control part is provided with the connection detection part which detects the presence or absence of the electrical connection of the said connection part and the said control part, The radiographic imaging apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 15,
The radiation image capturing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a thickness of the panel unit is thinner than a thickness of the control unit.

Images