JPH07115517A - Radiograph image pickup system - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To prevent erroneous designation of a read area and erroneous setting of an image pickup range. CONSTITUTION:An area indicating a maximum read zone of the reader is displayed on a CRT 23, on which an actual read size, and its direction and its position are graphically illustrated by nonmagnification thereby selecting/ confirming a proper read size, its direction and its position. That is, a valid image pickup range is confirmed and a patient is properly positioned. Moreover, the read picture element size and the read area (position and size) are revised by displaying an area indicating the maximum read zone of the reader onto the CRT 23, illustrating graphically the actual read size, and its direction and its position with nonmagnification and illustrating the radiation region with nonmagnification.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a radiographic image capturing method in which image information obtained by irradiating a subject with radiation is read by a reading device, the read image is subjected to predetermined processing, and output as an output image to an output device. Regarding the system.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art An X-ray imaging apparatus has been conventionally known as a radiation image capturing apparatus. However, since the process of photographing, developing, and diagnosing with an X-ray film is required, it is necessary to consume the film and finish the development. There were various problems such as uncertain whether the shooting conditions were good or bad. In order to solve such a problem of the X-ray imaging apparatus, a radiation image capturing system using a stimulable phosphor as an X-ray detector has been put into practical use.

This is constructed as shown in FIG.
That is, the X-rays emitted from the X-ray irradiator 1 including an X-ray tube and the like are transmitted through the detection object 2 and are applied to the radiation conversion panel 3. This radiation conversion panel 3 has a stimulable phosphor layer, and when this phosphor is irradiated with excitation light such as X-rays, electron beams, and ultraviolet rays, a part of its energy is changed depending on the irradiation amount. Accumulated. As a result, the radiation conversion panel 3 accumulates a latent image due to the energy transmitted through the subject 2. Excitation light such as visible light or infrared light is emitted from the excitation light source 4 to the radiation conversion panel 3 by a scanning method. By this irradiation,
The radiation conversion panel 3 produces stimulated emission in proportion to the stored energy. This emitted light is input to the photoelectric converter 6 via the filter 5, and the photoelectric converter 6 converts it into a voltage signal proportional to the emission intensity and outputs it to the A / D converter 7. The A / D converter 7 converts the input voltage signal into digital image data and outputs it to the controller 8. The controller 8 stores the digital image data in a memory, controls data input / output for CRT display and film output, and sets shooting conditions of an object and image processing. The digital image data is transferred to the external output device 9 as needed. The output device 9 is a hard copy device for recording digital image data on a film,
A host computer or the like.

The radiation conversion panel 3 can be repeatedly used by irradiating the radiation conversion panel 3 whose image has been read with erasing light. That is, the radiation image capturing system reads image information obtained by irradiating a subject with radiation by a reading device, performs a predetermined process on the read image, and outputs the read image as an output image to an output device.

[0005]

By the way, as a conventional image capturing system, an original image and a processed image displayed outside the area of the original image (see Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 3-70087), a soft image, Image in which a bone image and a normal image are simultaneously displayed on one screen (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 3-212)
No. 074), a reproduced image and a reproduced image in which characteristic points are clearly displayed are displayed side by side (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 4-13).
No. 4494) is known.

[0006] Further, there are conventionally known ones that display characters on a display device (for example, half-cut / large-angle / ...) and ones that display an image read after photographing on the display device. However, such a conventional technique does not show a relative relationship between the actual reading area and the maximum reading area of the reading device, and does not display the maximum reading area or the like before photographing. Furthermore, it is difficult to visually confirm on the display device.

Further, as a conventional image photographing system, a photographing region is determined based on irradiation region information (Japanese Patent Publication No.
-26809), the irradiation range at the image receiving screen position and the irradiation range at the subject position are visualized (numerical values) displayed (see Japanese Examined Patent Publication No. 3-44768), and the look-ahead region is set based on the irradiation region information. The one that is decided (see Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 4-54933) is known.

However, in such conventional techniques, the relative positions of the reading area and the irradiation area in the maximum reading area cannot all be confirmed. In particular, a conventional device that determines the imaging region based on the irradiation region information and a device that determines the pre-reading region based on the irradiation region information require a large-scale device that is linked to the irradiation region.

On the other hand, an apparatus in which the reading area can be changed but cannot be surely confirmed from the outside has the following problems. That is, the position of the patient and the reading area do not match, the part of the patient desired to be imaged cannot be imaged, and clinically important information is lost. In addition, the reading area and the radiation irradiation area may be largely displaced.

Further, the reading area becomes smaller than the desired imaging range (radiation irradiation area), and the radiation is irradiated more than necessary, which is clinically undesirable for the patient.
In addition, a part of the captured image is missing, so clinically,
Important information may be lost. Furthermore, the reading area becomes larger than the desired photographing range (irradiation area), and the read image contains unnecessary parts. When data is stored in a storage device, more memory than necessary is required and more memory is required. Also, when outputting to an external output device, the transfer time becomes long.

Also, a conventional image capturing system that displays a reduced image (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 4-25328).
5), thinning out images every time image processing is performed,
It is known to obtain a thinned image of a size required for image processing. However, the former one is an image for display and cannot be used for image processing. In the latter case, there is a problem that it takes time because a thinning operation is performed every time image processing is performed.

In view of the above conventional problems, it is an object of the present invention to prevent erroneous designation of a reading area and erroneous setting of a photographing range. Another object is to prevent erroneous designation of the reading area and erroneous setting of the irradiation area. Further, it is possible to create thinned image data necessary for image processing and to shorten the time required for the thinning.

[0013]

Therefore, in the invention of claim 1, the image information obtained by irradiating the subject with radiation is read by the reading device, and the read image is subjected to predetermined processing, A radiographic image capturing system for outputting an output image to an output device, comprising: a maximum reading area designating unit for designating a maximum reading area of the reading apparatus as shown in FIG. 1;
The actual reading area designating means for designating the actual reading area, the maximum reading area displaying means for displaying the maximum reading area of the reading device on the display device, and the actual reading area are displayed on the display device at the same scale. And an actual reading area display means for displaying within the maximum reading area.

In the invention of claim 2, in the invention of claim 1, as shown in FIG. 1, the irradiation area designating means for designating the irradiation area of the radiation and the irradiation area are displayed at the same scale. And an irradiation area display means for displaying within the maximum reading area displayed on the apparatus.

According to the invention of claim 3, in the invention of claim 1 or 2, the display pixel size of the read image is the same as the display pixel size of the maximum read area,
A reduction means for reducing the read image is provided. According to a fourth aspect of the invention, in the radiation image capturing system, as shown in FIG. 2, an actual reading area designating unit for designating an actual reading area and an irradiation area for designating an irradiation area of the radiation. Designating means, determining means for comparing the designated actual reading area and the designated irradiation area to determine whether the mutual relationship between the areas is appropriate, and a notification for notifying the determination result of the determining means And means.

According to the invention of claim 5, in the invention of claim 4, the determining means divides the overlapping area of the reading area and the irradiation area by the larger area of the reading area and the irradiation area. At least one of the value, the difference in center position between the reading area and the irradiation area, and the difference in area between the reading area and the irradiation area is determined. According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the radiation image capturing system, as shown in FIG. 3, the read image storage means for storing the read image and the image stored in the read image storage means are thinned out. A thinned image creating unit that creates a thinned image of a size necessary for image processing; and a thinned image storage unit that stores the thinned image,
A parameter calculation unit that calculates a parameter for performing image processing from the thinned image stored in the thinned image storage unit; and an image processing unit that performs image processing on the read image by the calculated image processing parameter. Configured.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the read pixel size is variable, and the thinned-out image creating means of the sixth aspect of the present invention specifies the pixel size for designating the size of one pixel after thinning out. And thinning rate calculating means for calculating a thinning rate based on the pixel size, and thinning means for thinning a read image based on the thinning rate.

[0018]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, an area showing the maximum reading area of the reading device is displayed on the display device, and the actual reading size / direction / position is graphically displayed at the same scale. As a result, it is possible to select / confirm an appropriate reading size / direction / position. According to the invention of claim 2, since the irradiation area is graphically displayed at the same scale, the read pixel size and the read area (position / size) can be changed, which can be confirmed from the outside. It is effective for reading devices that cannot. By displaying the reading area / irradiation area in the maximum area, the relative size / position of the reading area and the irradiation area in the maximum reading area can be confirmed.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, the read image is effectively reduced so that the display pixel size of the read image becomes the same as the display pixel size of the maximum read area. According to the invention of claim 4, the input irradiation area and the reading area are compared with each other, and when both are different from each other by a certain amount or more, a warning is given by a lamp display or an alarm. The relative relationship can be clarified, and erroneous setting of the reading area and the irradiation area can be prevented.

In the fifth aspect of the invention, the reading area and the irradiation area are overlapped as a determination means for comparing the reading area and the irradiation area and determining whether or not the mutual relationship between the areas is appropriate. A configuration in which at least one of a value obtained by dividing the area by the larger area of the reading area and the irradiation area, a difference in center position between the reading area and the irradiation area, and a difference in area between the reading area and the irradiation area is determined. Therefore, it is possible to surely compare the input irradiation area with the reading area.

According to the sixth aspect of the invention, the thinned-out image data required for the image processing is created / created at the time of the first image processing.
Since the thinned-out image data is stored and used in the subsequent calculation of the image processing parameter, the time required for thinning can be shortened, and the device for storing the image data can use the image processing parameter. When the device for calculating is connected by communication, the communication time can be shortened.

According to a seventh aspect of the invention, in the system in which the read pixel size can be varied, the thinning rate is calculated so that the size of one pixel after thinning becomes equal, and the read image is thinned out. In the case of display, since one pixel has the same length, it is easy to predict the actual size. Further, when images having different read pixel sizes are displayed and compared with each other, since the size of one display pixel is the same, the sizes can be easily compared.

Further, in the case of image processing, the parameters determined by the geometrical position and size can be easily used.

[0024]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the radiation image capturing system of the present invention. In this block diagram,
The radiation image capturing system includes a reading device (hereinafter referred to as a reader) 11, a main control device (hereinafter referred to as a controller) 12, and a CR for displaying digital image data.
An image display device (hereinafter referred to as CRT) 13 such as a T display, a hard copy device such as a laser imager 14, a host computer 15, an image storage device 16 such as a magneto-optical disk (MOD), and radiation. Device (hereinafter referred to as X-ray device) 17 and, for example, RIS 18
And a patient information input device such as a magnetic guard reader.

The reader 11 obtains by converting the read information from the photostimulable phosphor panel in which the radiation image information of the subject is stored and recorded into digital image data. The controller 12 controls the operation of the entire radiation image capturing system, and is a man-machine interface operated by the user. Specifically, (1) the user performs an operation for making an imaging reservation.

(2) The user performs a shooting operation. (3) The image data read by the reader 11 is received. (4) Temporarily save the image data. (5) Form an output image. (6) Transfer to the output device.

It has the function of The controller 12 includes an imaging control unit A, a reading control unit B, and an output control unit C. Next, the function and configuration of each control unit A to C of the controller 12 will be described. The functions of the image capturing control unit A include a man-machine interface (operation control such as image capturing reservation and image capturing), management and control of the entire system (management of image capturing / reading / output control units, storage of system information, management), Online input of shooting information (R
IS18, X-ray device 17, control of information input device such as magnetic card reader).

The photographing control section A, as shown in FIG.
U21 and a character input device 22 such as a keyboard,
For example, a character information display device (hereinafter referred to as CRT) 23 such as a liquid crystal display or a CRT display, an input device 24 such as a touch panel, a storage device 25 such as a hard disk, and a removable device such as a floppy disk or a magneto-optical disk. Storage device 26 and RIS1
8 or X-ray device 17, an interface 27 for inputting / outputting information online, a read control unit interface 28 for communicating with the read control unit B, and an output control unit interface 29 for communicating with the output control unit C. It consists of and.

The keyboard 22 is used to input image processing commands and subject ID information. The CRT 23 outputs ID information, shooting conditions, thinned images, and the like. The input device 24 is attached to the surface of the CRT 23 and inputs information. The storage device 25 stores system information, a shooting reservation file, and an image header file.

The removable storage device 26 inputs / outputs information stored in the storage device 25 offline. The function of the reading control unit B is to control the reader 11 (input image data from the reader 11, shading correction,
Fading correction, unevenness correction, and afterglow correction), transfer of thinned image data (for display and image processing) to the shooting control unit A, and transfer of image data to the output control unit C.

The reading control section B, as shown in FIG.
U21, a reader interface 32 that controls the reader 11 and receives image data, shading correction,
An input image correction device 33 that performs fading correction, unevenness correction, and afterglow correction, an image memory 34 that temporarily stores image data from the reader 11, and an output control unit interface that communicates with the output control unit C. 35 and an imaging control unit interface 36 for communicating with the imaging control unit A
And the thinned-out image creating device 37 for transferring to the photographing control section A.
It consists of and.

Here, the functions of the output control unit C are to input image data from the reading control unit B, temporarily store image data, input an image header file from the photographing control unit A, and form an output image. Image file transfer to the output device. The output control unit C, as shown in FIG.
A read control unit interface 4 for communicating with the image memory 34, the image storage device 43, and the read control unit B.
4, an imaging control unit interface 45 that communicates with the imaging control unit A, a host interface 46 that communicates with the host computer 15, an imager interface 47 that communicates with the imager 14, and an external image storage device 16 such as a MOD. An external image storage device interface 48 that communicates with the output image forming device 49, and a system storage device 50 that stores control software, a table, and the like.
And a CRT 13 for displaying image data. The host computer 15 and the imager 1
4, the image storage device 16 such as MOD, and the CRT 13 correspond to an output device.

Here, the image storage device 43 stores the read image data until the end of the transfer, and also receives the input image data from the read control unit B and the output image data which has been subjected to gradation processing / enlargement / reduction. To store. The image memory 34 temporarily stores display image data for display.

The output image forming device 49 performs frequency processing, gradation processing, enlargement / reduction processing, overlay and the like. Here, the controller 12 is provided with a maximum reading area designating unit for designating a maximum reading area of the reader 11 (a maximum size at which an image can be read by a reading device), and an actual reading area (the size and position of an image actually read). ) For specifying the actual reading area, a maximum reading area displaying means for displaying the maximum reading area of the reader 11 on the CRT 23, and the actual reading area within the maximum reading area displayed on the CRT 23 at the same scale. And an actual reading area display means for displaying in the form of software (invention of claim 1).

Further, the controller 12 is provided with an irradiation area designating unit for designating an irradiation area of the radiation (a range of irradiation of the radiation) and the CRT 2 at the same scale of the irradiation area.
Irradiation area display means for displaying within the maximum reading area displayed in No. 3 is installed by software.
Invention). Further, the controller 12 is equipped with a reducing means for reducing the read image by software so that the display pixel size of the read image becomes the same as the display pixel size of the maximum read area (claim 3). invention).

The functions of the embodiments of the invention of claim 1 and the invention of claim 3 based on the above configuration will be described. First, the parameters are specified as follows. That is, the maximum reading area is a size peculiar to the apparatus, and is a half-cut vertical size in this embodiment. The reading area is determined by a combination of size (half-cut / large-square / large-square / quarter-cut / six-section) and direction (vertical / horizontal).

Then, the reading position (positions Rsx, Rsy in the maximum reading area) for each combination of the size and the direction,
A reading range (vertical and horizontal lengths Rlx, Rly) is designated in advance. The size and orientation are set for each shooting condition key described later. For example, “size = half cut, orientation = vertical” is preset for the “front of chest” of the photographing condition key. Next, the operation will be described.

Before photographing, when the photographing mode is entered, the maximum reading area is displayed in a rectangle on the CRT 23 together with the patient information. If the shooting reservation is registered, the size / direction of the reading area, that is, the reading position / reading range is determined by the registered shooting condition key. Then, the reading area determined by the reading position and the reading range is displayed in a rectangle in the maximum reading area.

When the photographing condition key, the reading size and the reading direction are changed, the display of the reading area is also changed. After shooting, the read image is reduced (thinned) by the reduction means,
Displayed in the reading area. The maximum read area, read area, and reduction ratio of the thinned image are the same so that the photographer can confirm the relative relationship.

FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 show display examples of the maximum reading area and the reading area, respectively, and FIG. 8 shows the case where the maximum reading area is half-cut, the reading area is six-cut (center), and the vertical direction.
Further, FIG. 9 shows the case where the maximum reading area is half-cut and the reading area is six-cut (top-justified) in the horizontal direction. The functions of the embodiments of the invention of claim 1, the invention of claim 2 and the invention of claim 3 based on the above-mentioned configuration will be described.

In this embodiment, in addition to specifying the parameters of the above embodiment, the irradiation area is input online from the X-ray device 17. This irradiation area includes an irradiation position (positions Ssx and Ssy during maximum reading), an irradiation range (longitudinal length S).
lx, Sly). In the operation, in the above-described embodiment, the reading area determined by the reading position and the reading range is displayed in a rectangular shape in the maximum reading area, and then the irradiation area is input online from the X-ray device. The irradiation area determined by the irradiation position and irradiation range is displayed in a rectangular shape within the maximum reading area. When the photographing condition key, the reading size, the reading direction, and the irradiation area are changed, the display of the reading area is also changed.

After photographing, the read image is reduced (thinned) by the reduction means and displayed in the reading area. The maximum reading area / reading area / irradiation area / thinning-out image reduction ratio should be the same so that the photographer can confirm the relative relationship.
10 and 11 show display examples of the maximum reading area, the reading area, and the irradiation area, respectively, and FIG. 10 shows the case where the maximum reading area is half-cut, the reading area is six-section (center), and the vertical direction. Further, FIG. 11 shows a case where the maximum reading area is half-cut and the reading area is six-cut (top-justified) in the horizontal direction.

Next, in the invention of claim 4, the controller 12 is provided with an actual reading area designating means for designating an actual reading area, an irradiation area designating means for designating an irradiation area of the radiation, and The determination means for comparing the designated actual reading area with the designated irradiation area and determining whether or not the mutual relationship between the areas is appropriate is equipped by software, and the determination result of the determination means is displayed. A lamp and a notification means for issuing an alarm are provided.

Further, the judging means divides the overlapping area of the reading area and the irradiation area by the larger area of the reading area and the irradiation area, the difference between the central positions of the reading area and the irradiation area, and the reading area. And at least one of the differences in the area of the irradiation region is determined (the invention of claim 5). The functions of the embodiments of the invention of claim 4 and the invention of claim 5 based on the above configuration will be described.

First, the parameters are specified as follows. That is, the reading area is determined by a combination of size (half-cut / large-angle / large-square / quarter-cut / six-section) and direction (vertical / horizontal). Then, a reading position (positions Rsx, Rsy in the maximum reading area) and a reading range (vertical and horizontal lengths Rlx, Rly) are designated in advance for each combination of the size and the orientation.

The size and orientation are set for each photographing condition key described later. For example, “size = half cut, orientation = vertical” is preset for the “front of chest” of the photographing condition key. The determination condition is A. Overlap area ratio, B. Center distance, C.I. Select from the area ratio and specify. A plurality of designations can be specified. The A. The overlapping area ratio is determined to be inappropriate when the ratio of the overlapping area of the reading area and the irradiation area to the larger area of the reading area and the irradiation area is equal to or less than a predetermined value.

That is, the overlapping area ratio is expressed by the following equation,
For example, when the overlapping area ratio is 90% or more, it is determined that the reading area and the irradiation area have an appropriate relationship. Overlap area ratio = (overlap area of reading area and irradiation area) /
(Large area of reading area and irradiation area) × 100% B. The center distance is the distance between the center position of the reading area and the center position of the irradiation area. If the difference is equal to or more than a predetermined distance, it is determined that the position of the irradiation area is displaced.

For example, if the center distance is within 30 mm,
It is determined that the reading area and the irradiation area have an appropriate relationship. C. The area ratio is the ratio of the area of the reading area to the area of the irradiation area. If this ratio is outside the predetermined range, it is determined that the irradiation area is too large or too small.

For example, the area ratio ± 10%, that is, 0.9 ≦
If reading area / irradiation area ≦ 1.1, it is determined that the reading area and the irradiation area have an appropriate relationship. Next, the operation will be described. Before shooting, when the shooting mode is entered, the maximum reading area is displayed in a rectangle on the CRT 23 together with the patient information. If the shooting reservation is registered, the size / direction of the reading area, that is, the reading position / reading range is determined by the registered shooting condition key.

Then, the reading area determined by the reading position and the reading range is displayed in a rectangle in the maximum reading area. X-ray device 17
Enter the irradiation area online from. The irradiation area determined by the irradiation position and irradiation range is displayed in a rectangular shape within the maximum reading area. When the photographing condition key, the reading size, the reading direction, and the irradiation area are changed, the display of the reading area is also changed.

Then, the reading area and the irradiation area are compared,
It is automatically determined whether or not the relationship between the respective areas is appropriate, and when it is determined that the relationship is not appropriate, notification is given by a lamp display, warning sound announcement, or the like. At this time, shooting is prohibited. Figure 1
2 is a diagram for explaining the overlapping area ratio, and the overlapping area of the irradiation area shown by the dotted line and the reading area shown by the solid line is Cxy.

FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the center distance, and the center of the irradiation area shown by the dotted line is Sc (Sc
x, Scy), and the center of the reading area indicated by the solid line is R
c (Rcx, Rcy). Further, FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the area ratio, and the area of the irradiation region shown by the dotted line is Sxy = Slx × Sly, and the area of the reading region shown by the solid line is Rxy = Rlx × Rly.

Next, in the invention of claim 6, the image memory 3 as the read image storage means for storing the read image.
4 and the images stored in the image memory 34 are thinned out,
The thinned-out image creating device 37 as thinned-out image creating means for creating a thinned-out image of a size required for image processing;
A storage device 25 as a thinned image storage device that stores the thinned image, a parameter calculation device that calculates a parameter for performing image processing from the thinned image stored in the storage device 25, and the calculated image processing. The controller 12 is equipped with image processing means for performing image processing on the read image in accordance with the parameters for software, and as software.

Particularly, in the invention of claim 7, the read pixel size is variable, and the thinned-out image creating device 37 is provided with a pixel size designating unit for designating the size of one pixel after thinning out, and the pixel. The thinning-out rate calculating means calculates a thinning-out rate based on the size, and the thinning-out means thinning out the read image based on the thinning-out rate. The functions of the embodiments of the inventions of claims 6 and 7 based on the above configuration will be described.

The thinned-out image file is data obtained by thinning out image data to a certain fraction and reducing it, and the thinning-out ratio is such that one pixel after reduction has the same predetermined length as the above-mentioned thinned-out image creation. Determined by device 37. This thinned-out image file is stored in the shooting control unit A. As a result, the difference in the read pixel size can be corrected in the image after thinning.

The calculation of the image processing parameter is performed on the thinned image stored in the photographing control section A, and the image data stored in the output control section C is not used. The thinned image is used as the data displayed on the CRT 23 of the image pickup control unit A, and the image data stored in the output control unit C is not used. The operation of this configuration will be described in detail in a shooting procedure described later.

On the other hand, in this embodiment, in order to protect the hardware of the reader 11, the reader 11 is placed in the sleep state,
That is, the sleep mode (a mode in which a part of the device is stopped or the operation mode is changed to save power consumption or extend the device life) is set. Initiation of sleep mode is as follows: In the modes / screens that allow shooting, the character input device 2
2. When there is no input from the input device 24 for a designated time.

B. When the designated time has elapsed in the non-shooting mode / screen regardless of the presence or absence of the above input. The sleep mode is terminated by A. In the modes / screens that allow shooting, the character input device 2
2. When there is an input from the input device 24.

B. When entering a new shooting mode / screen. A specific operation of this configuration will be described. First, a shooting mode (screen) is set as a shooting mode. Shooting is possible in the shooting mode. Further, a mode for making a shooting reservation is a reservation mode, and a mode for confirming a shot image and setting the device is a utility mode. Shooting is not possible in these modes.

When the shooting mode is entered by the input from the character input device 22 or the input device 24, the controller 12 is ready to shoot. The character input device 22, the input device 2 for a predetermined time (for example, 20 minutes) in the shooting mode.
If there is no input from 4, the controller 12
Command to start sleep mode. As a result, the reader 11 enters the sleep mode.

The photographer inputs the character input device 22 and the input device 2
4 is input, the controller 12 causes the reader 11
Notify the sleep mode release to. As a result, the reader 11 releases the sleep mode and returns to the normal state.
When the reader 11 returns to the normal state, the controller 12
It is possible to shoot at.

When the user inputs a photographing reservation in the reservation mode, confirms an image previously photographed in the utility mode, or sets the device, that is, photographing cannot be executed in a mode other than the photographing mode. When a predetermined time (for example, 20 minutes) has passed in a mode other than the shooting mode, the controller 12 commands the reader 11 to start the sleep mode.
As a result, the reader 11 enters the sleep mode. When the shooting mode is entered by the operation of the photographer, the controller 1
2 notifies the reader 11 of sleep mode release.

When the reader 11 receives the sleep mode release command, it erases the panel and then returns to the normal state. When the reader 11 returns to the image capturing / reading standby, the controller 12 can perform image capturing. Further, in the present embodiment, when the patient information is input once, the set photographing can be designated to automatically reserve the photographing under a plurality of preset conditions. in this case,
A set shooting key in which a plurality of shooting condition keys are sequentially registered is used.

The set radiography refers to radiography in which a plurality of radiographings performed in one normal examination are combined for the same patient. For example, in the case of set radiography of the chest, the front of the chest and the chest of the same patient are taken. Take two side shots. Specifically, first, set shooting is registered in the set shooting key. In this case, one unregistered set shooting key is selected and given a name. For example, the name "chest" is given.

Then, the photographing condition key is selected and registered in the set photographing key. For example, 1. "Chest front" 2.
Register as "chest side". Next, a reservation for set shooting is made. In this case, the patient information is input, and after the patient information is input, the set photographing key is selected. When "Chest" is selected, two reservation files for the front chest side and the chest side are created for imaging information with the same patient information.

When the set photographing is reserved and the photographing mode is entered, the reserved patient information and the "front of chest" of the photographing condition key are automatically displayed as the photographing condition.
It is possible to shoot under the condition of "front of chest". When the photographing is completed, the "Chest side" of the photographing condition key is automatically displayed with the same patient information and the "Chest side" can be photographed.

Next, a set of multi-format shooting will be described. First, multi-format shooting is 1
This refers to shooting in which a single output area (for example, film) is divided into a plurality of areas, an image is reproduced in each divided area, and size adjustment is performed by enlarging / reducing processing. Specifically, multi-format set shooting is registered in the set shooting key. Select one of the unregistered set shooting keys and name it. For example, the name "chest" is given.

Then, the photographing condition key is selected and registered in the set photographing key. For example, 1. "Chest front" 2.
Register as "chest side". Next, specify the multi-format. The multi-format can be selected from 2 divisions, 4 divisions, 6 divisions, 8 divisions, 9 divisions and 12 divisions. Since two shots are set in the set shot key, splitting into two is automatically determined. The positions to be reproduced are determined from the upper left to the lower right in the order in which they are set.

In FIG. 15, reference numeral 1 is a first "front of chest" image, and 2 is a second "side of chest" image. Next, a reservation for set shooting is made. In this case, the reservation mode is entered. Then, the patient information is input, and after the patient information is input, the set photographing key is selected. When "Chest" is selected, two reservation files for the front chest side and the chest side are created for imaging information with the same patient information. Then, multi-format output is automatically specified.

The confirmation of this multi-format output is performed as follows. That is, when the photographing mode is entered and the output key is pressed, the maximum output area and the like are displayed together with the patient information. If the shooting reservation is registered, the size / direction of the output area, that is, the output area is determined by the registered shooting condition key. An output area determined by the output range is displayed in a rectangle in the maximum output area (the position is, for example, the center). The size / position of the output image is obtained from the read image area by the designated enlargement / reduction method, and displayed in the output area as an image area. When the multi-format is specified, it is possible to confirm the division mode and which segment is output.

FIG. 16 shows a display example of multi-format shooting. Next, a set of divided photographing will be described. First, the divided shooting refers to shooting in which one output area (for example, a film) is divided into a plurality of areas, an image is reproduced in each divided area, and size adjustment is performed by trimming processing.

Specifically, the set shooting of divided shooting is registered in the set shooting key. One unregistered set shooting key is selected and given a name, for example, "upper limb bone".
Select the shooting condition key and register it to the set shooting key. For example, 1. "Upper right limb bone" 2. Register as "Upper left limb bone". Next, split shooting is designated. The split shooting can be selected from vertical split and horizontal split. The positions to be reproduced are determined from the upper left to the lower right in the order in which they are set.

In FIG. 17, 1 is an image taken by the first "upper right limb bone" and 2 is an image taken by the second "upper left limb bone". Next, a reservation for set shooting is made. In this case, the reservation mode is entered. Then, the patient information is input, and after the patient information is input, the set photographing key is selected. When "upper limb bone" is selected, two reserved files are created for the upper right limb bone and the upper left limb bone for the imaging information with the same patient information. Then, the divided photographing output is automatically designated.

The confirmation of the divided photographing output is the same as the confirmation of the multi-format output described above. Note that FIG. 18 is a display example of split imaging. Next, a set of pseudo photographing will be described. First, the pseudo shooting refers to shooting in which, instead of inputting an image from a reader, re-processing imaged image data to create an image.

Specifically, the set shooting of the pseudo shooting is registered in the set shooting key. Select one unregistered set shooting key and give it a name, for example, "chest". Select the shooting condition key and register it to the set shooting key.
For example, 1. "Chest lung", 2. Register as "Chest Abdomen". Next, the above 2. Pseudo shooting is specified for the "chest abdomen".

Reservations for set photography are as follows. Enter reservation mode. Then, the patient information is input, and after the patient information is input, the set photographing key is selected. When “Chest” is selected, two reserved files are created with the same patient information, the imaging information being “chest lung” and “chest abdomen”. "Chest abdomen"
Pseudo shooting is specified for shooting.

The set photographing is performed as follows. Enter shooting mode. The reserved patient information and the “chest lung” of the radiographing condition key are automatically displayed as the radiographing conditions, and radiographing under the condition of “chest lung” is possible. When the imaging is performed, the processing parameters suitable for diagnosing the “chest lung” are calculated, the image header and the image data are saved, and the imaging ends.

With the same patient information, the "chest abdomen" of the photographing condition key is automatically displayed. Since the pseudo shooting is set, a display for confirming the "pseudo shooting" is displayed. If the pseudo-imaging is confirmed, the processing parameters suitable for the "chest abdomen" are calculated using the image data of the "thorax lung" captured last time, and the image header and the image data are created separately from the "chest lung". Is saved and the shooting ends.

Next, the overall operation of the radiation image capturing system will be described. First, information handled by the radiation image capturing system will be described. That is, the information handled by this system is classified into the following five (1) to (5).
The information other than the corrected image data and the image-processed image data is stored in the photographing control unit A.

(1) Imaging Information Information for performing X-ray imaging, obtaining image data, and outputting it as an image file to the output device a. Reader reading conditions Reading method by the reader 11, that is, reading area, reading pixel size, reading sensitivity, etc. b. Information of the X-ray device 17 c. Image processing information Information on gradation processing and frequency processing d. Information about output device Information about output device that reproduces / outputs image data Output area, enlargement / reduction ratio, output format (multi-format, divided shooting format), overlay, gradation processing, frequency processing, etc. for each output device specify.

E. Overlay information Presence / absence / position of overlays such as AP / PA / R / L / comments f. Special designation Protect Even after transferring images, the image files until protection is removed are saved.

Hold (Pending) Holds the transfer. Specify when you want to review the images later and transfer them. Priority (Emergency) Specify when you want to prioritize transfer such as in case of emergency shooting.
Registered at the head of the queue.

(2) Patient information a. Patient ID information Patient ID number, name, sex, date of birth, etc. b. Order information Information requested by doctors for radiography Information regarding the patient's condition, date and time instructions regarding inspection requests, etc. (3) Radiographing execution information Information regarding radiographing results a. Shooting result Shooting date, shooting number, etc. b. Image processing result When the image processing parameter calculation result is output, the image data is image-processed based on this result.

C. System information Part of system information such as the system configuration at the time of shooting (4) System information Information system configuration for managing and controlling the system (connected output device, its name) System configuration Parameters for controlling the equipment to
Table reader 11 information, imager 14 information, HOST1
Setting information related to the output device, such as information in (5) Image data a. Thinned-out image data for display / image processing b. Corrected image data such as shading, fading, unevenness correction, etc. c. Output image data such as gradation processing and frequency processing d. The corrected image data and the image processed image data are stored in the output control unit C.

Next, files handled by the radiation image capturing system will be described. That is, the files handled by this system are classified into the following seven (1) to (7). (1) Shooting condition key file The shooting condition key is a key for presetting a shooting method, and has a shooting condition key file corresponding to each shooting condition key.

The shooting condition key file is composed of only the above shooting information. Classification is based on imaging site (lung field, abdomen, head, etc.), imaging position (standing position, recumbent position, etc.), imaging direction (front, side), patient characteristics (sex, age, physique, etc.), disease name, etc.
A name and shooting information corresponding to each are set in advance.
You can choose one of the most suitable conditions for shooting.

(2) Reservation file This is a file in which information relating to shooting reservations is stored. One reservation file is created for each shooting. The reservation file is composed of imaging information selected by the imaging condition key and patient information.

(3) Image header file Created after the end of shooting. The image header is composed of imaging information, patient information, and imaging execution information. When referring to or changing imaging information, patient information, or imaging execution information, the imaging control unit A
Refer to the image header file saved in.

(4) Thinned-out image file This is data that is obtained by thinning out the image data into a fraction. The thinning rate is determined so that one pixel after reduction has the same length specified in advance. Thereby, the difference in read pixel size can be corrected in the image after thinning. Shooting control unit A
Stored in.

The image processing parameters are calculated by the photographing control unit A.
The image data stored in the output control unit C is not used. The thinned image is used as the data displayed on the CRT 23 of the imaging control unit A, and the image data stored in the output control unit C is not used. (5) Image data file The corrected image data received from the reading control unit B is stored in the output control unit C.

(6) Output image data file This is a file of output image data which has been subjected to the designated processing of frequency processing, gradation processing, overlay, rotation, enlargement / reduction, and is designated and saved only when necessary. By creating and storing the output image data in advance, it is possible to shorten the processing time when transferring to the output device. Designate which processing to save the output image data in consideration of the file storage capacity.

The storage of the output image data will be described in detail later. (7) System file The system information is a file. next,
The input / output method and display method of main information in the radiation image capturing system will be described.

(1) Setting of reading area The reading area is an area for converting the X-ray image accumulated in the stimulable phosphor into image data. An appropriate area is designated according to the part to be imaged. In this case, the scan size (half size /
Large angle / large four / quarter / slice), orientation (vertical / horizontal), position (top left justified / top center justified / top right justified / left center / center / right center / left bottom justified / bottom center justified / right bottom justified) Is specified.
The reading area is registered in advance in the photographing condition key file.

When the photographing condition key is selected, the reading area is displayed on the CRT 23 under the condition designated in advance. CR
The size of the reading area display area on T23 is the maximum reading area (usually half-cut size) in reading. The reading area is determined from the designated reading size, orientation and position, and is graphically displayed in the reading area display area.

As a result, the proper reading size / direction / position can be selected / confirmed. The irradiation area is received from the X-ray device 17 and is simultaneously displayed in the reading area display area. The reading area and the irradiation area are compared, and if the positions are significantly different, a message is displayed and a warning is given.

(2) Output Area Setting The output area is an area for outputting to the output device. Output size (half-cut / large square / large quarter / quarter / six), orientation (vertical /
Horizontal), trimming position (top left justification / top center justification / top right justification / center left / center / right center / bottom left justification / bottom center justification / bottom right justification), output position (top left justification / top center justification / top right justification / left) Center / center / right center / bottom left justified / bottom center justified / bottom right justified), enlargement / reduction means (trimming / life size +
Specify trimming / maximum size. The output area is registered in advance in the shooting condition key file.

When the photographing condition key is selected, the output area and the output image area are determined under the conditions specified in advance, and the CRT is selected.
23 is displayed. The size of the output area display area on the CRT 23 is the maximum output area (usually half-cut size) in output. The output area and the output image area are graphically displayed in the output area display area.

As a result, it is possible to select / confirm an appropriate output area and output image area for each device. (3) Overlay information setting Specify whether or not to overlay "AP", "PA", "R", "L", comments, scales, etc., and at which position to overlay. It is registered in advance in the shooting condition key file. An output image is displayed in the output area display area on the CRT 23, and overlay information is displayed graphically there. Touch the place you want to overlay in the output area display area and the overlay graphic will move to that area. This allows you to select an appropriate overlay and specify the position, and make sure that there are no hidden parts in the overlay. If the overlay causes a problem in diagnosis, it can be moved.

(4) Automatic determination of overlay position Designate to automatically determine the overlay position. The overlay position is automatically determined according to the position of the output image area in the output area. Overlay in line symmetry or point symmetry with the output position. This reduces the portion that overlaps the image.

(5) Online information input / output from the RIS 18 Input an order from a doctor. This input order is converted to the format of this system and saved in the reservation file. The imaging part and the imaging method are converted into corresponding imaging condition keys. The image header file is converted to the RIS18 side format and output.

(6) Online information input / output from the X-ray device 17 Input the photographing condition and irradiation area set before photographing. If this information does not match the information determined by the shooting condition key, a message warns. After the image capturing, the image capturing conditions actually used for the image capturing are input from the X-ray device 17 and stored in the image header file.

Before imaging, the information of the X-ray device 17 set in the imaging condition key is converted into the X-ray device 17 side format and transmitted to the X-ray device 17. The X-ray device 17 sets the designated imaging conditions. At this time, an appropriate irradiation area can be set by designating the reading area as the irradiation area.

(7) Reservation list setting Shooting reservations can be displayed as a list in the order of reservations. After the end of shooting, the shooting reservation registered at the top of the reservation list is automatically set as the shooting target. The shot reservations are not deleted and are saved up to the specified number. As a result, re-imaging under the same patient and under the same conditions, such as re-imaging after confirming the hard copy, can be easily performed.

Next, the types of radiography performed in the radiation image radiographing system will be described. (1) Normal photography Similar to X-ray photography with film, one image is output by one photography. (2) Set imaging The patient information is input once, and the set imaging key in which a plurality of imaging condition keys are registered in the order of imaging is selected once. As a result, a plurality of shootings registered in the set shooting key are automatically reserved.

By specifying the set radiography, radiography under a plurality of preset conditions can be automatically reserved, and a plurality of radiographings of the same patient can be easily reserved. For example, a shooting condition key for “front of chest” and a shooting condition key for “side of chest” are registered as one of the set shooting keys, and are named “chest”. After inputting patient information, set chest key "Chest"
If you select, the imaging information will be "front of chest" for the same patient information.
Then, two reservation files of "chest side" are created and registered in the reservation list.

(3) Pseudo shooting Preset to the shooting condition key. By using the set shooting key, pseudo shooting can be registered for continuous shooting, and setting mistakes can be prevented. Several kinds of processed images are obtained by one shot. An image captured immediately before or a thinned image selected from images previously captured is used, and image processing is performed with a processing method and parameters different from those of the previous time.

For example, an image of the chest is imaged, image processing suitable for the lung field is performed, and then processing suitable for the abdomen is performed by pseudo imaging. This makes it possible to obtain two images suitable for the lung field and the abdomen by one shot. (4) Multi-format shooting Preset to the shooting condition key. If you use the set shooting key, you can register in multiple formats for continuous shooting and prevent setting mistakes.

The positions are automatically set in the order of shooting. (5) Divided shooting Preset to the shooting condition key. If you use the set shooting key, you can register divided shooting for continuous shooting and prevent setting mistakes. Trimming multiple shots into a single image and output.

Next, the photographing reservation procedure will be described. There are three methods (1) to (3) below for inputting the photographing reservation procedure depending on the environment of the facility where the system is installed. (1) Online input method Most of the information necessary for imaging such as patient information and imaging information is RIS1.
Input online from 8. Usually, character input device 2
2 is not necessary, and the character input device 22 is used only when it is desired to input information that is not included in the information from the RIS 18.

For the patient information, an order from a doctor or the like is inputted online, and the patient information is reserved by multitasking while photographing. Usually, each facility is set up to capture all the necessary information about the patient. As the imaging information, an order from a doctor or the like is input online together with patient information. When ordering, the doctor selects the most suitable imaging condition key from the imaging condition keys.

Alternatively, the photographing condition key most suitable for the order designated by the doctor is automatically selected. (2) Input method using magnetic card, bar code, etc. Only the minimum necessary information such as ID number and patient name is input online. The character input device 22 is required to input information that is not included in the card.

As the patient information, the minimum necessary information regarding radiography is read from a magnetic card or the like. If necessary, enter additional information from the keyboard. For the shooting information, the shooting condition key used for the previous shooting is automatically selected. If you want to change it, select from the shooting condition keys. (3) Input Method by Character Input Device 22 All necessary information is input by the character input device 22.

The patient information is input from the character input device 22. Since it takes time to manually input all the patient ID numbers and patient names, use the mode that automatically creates the patient ID number from the number of images (the number of images taken), the time of image capture, etc.
You can correspond to the order written on the paper. For the shooting information, the shooting condition key used for the previous shooting is automatically selected. To change, select from the shooting condition keys.

Next, the procedure of actual photographing by the user and the system operation during photographing will be described. First, a shooting condition key is selected for shooting. The shooting procedure is as follows. 1. When the previous shooting ends or the shooting mode is entered, the screen for the next shooting is displayed, and the shooting information of the reserved shooting is displayed at the beginning.

2. If there is no reservation, select the shooting condition key here. The default is the shooting condition key used for the previous shooting. If there is insufficient information for shooting, enter the required information here. 3. Looking at the patient information and imaging information displayed on the screen,
Check if the settings are correct.

4. The technician shoots in the same manner as film radiography. 5. The captured images are sequentially displayed on the screen in parallel with reading. 6. The gradation process is performed and the image is displayed again. 7. A message is displayed to indicate whether the configuration is successful or not. 8. Confirm that the picture was taken normally from the image and message, and press the key to end shooting.

9. If shooting fails, press the key for reshooting. The system operation during shooting is as follows. 1. Enter shooting mode (press the shooting mode key). 2. If the reservation is made in advance (there is a reservation file), the reservation content registered at the head of the queue for managing the reservation file is displayed on the screen.

3. If there is no reservation, the shooting condition key for the previous shooting is automatically selected. If necessary, reselect / modify the imaging condition key and input patient information. 4. Imaging is started by pressing the imaging switch of the X-ray irradiation device. 5. The subject is irradiated with X-rays from the X-ray irradiation device, and the radiation image accumulated in the photostimulable luminescent panel in the reader 11 is read by the reader as digital image information by scanning the excitation light.

6. The reading control unit B receives the image data from the reader 11 and performs correction processing in real time,
Store in image memory. 7. The image data stored in the frame memory is thinned out at a preliminarily specified thinning rate, and transferred to the photographing control unit A as thinned image data. 8. In the imaging control unit A, the thinned images are sequentially displayed on the CRT 23.

9. After reading and displaying, the digital image information is image-processed and re-displayed by a method designated in advance by a photographing condition key. Thinned images are used for image processing. 10. A message is displayed by automatically determining the success or failure of shooting and the success or failure of processing. 11. At the same time, the image data is transferred to the output control unit C and stored in the image memory 34. 12. The output control unit C sequentially temporarily stores the images in the image storage device 43. 13. When the CRT 13 is connected to the output control section C, the images are sequentially displayed, and after the display is finished, the gradation-processed image is displayed again. 14. When the reading is completed, the reservation file / shooting execution information is stored in the shooting control unit A as an image header file. 15. The thinned-out image data is stored in the shooting control unit A as a thinned-out image file. 16. The image header file / thinned-out image data file of the imaging control unit A and the image data of the output control unit C are managed by being associated with a common unique number. 17. These files are automatically saved after the reading by the reader 11 and before the confirmation operation by the operator. This is because the captured image is not lost even when the power is turned off or the system is broken due to an accident, an operator's operation error, or the like immediately after the reading is completed. 18. After the reading is completed, the operator can operate it. 19. When the operator sees the radiation image displayed on the image display device and determines that the radiography is normal, a key for confirming the end of radiography by the character information input device (next radiography key)
Enter to end shooting. 20. When it is desired to change the patient information, the image processing method, the output method, etc., new information can be input from the character information input device. 21. When the next shooting key is pressed, the shooting ends and the following processing is performed. 22. The reservation file is stored in the shooting control unit A as a shooting completed reservation file. 23. If the information is changed before the next shooting key is pressed, the image header file saved at the end of reading is updated. 24. The image that has been photographed is registered in a queue for transfer to an output device. 25. When the re-shooting key is pressed, shooting ends and the following processing is performed. 26. The image header file, the thinned-out image file, and the image data saved at the time when the reading ends are discarded. 27. It is possible to shoot with the same reservation.

Next, the transfer operation to the output device will be described. The transfer is asynchronous with the shooting. The queue is provided and managed for each output device, and the respective queues operate independently of each other so that they do not affect each other. Therefore, the transfer is performed asynchronously for each output device. The numbers assigned to the respective images are stored in the queue in the order of transfer. The queue of which output device the image is registered is stored as a queue registration table in the storage device 25, and is updated and managed for each registration and deletion in the queue.

The images registered in the queue are transferred to the output device in the order of registration, and the transferred images are deleted from the queue. When executing the transfer, the image header file stored in the storage device 25 and the image data file stored in the image storage device 43 are specified from the numbers registered in the queue.

An output image is formed under the conditions stored in the image header file. The image header is converted into a format determined for each output device and transferred together with the image data file. Next, formation of output image data performed by the output control unit C will be described. That is, the output image data is mainly formed by the following processing.

(1) Image data is read from the image storage device 43 to the image memory 34. (2) Perform frequency processing. (3) Perform equalization processing. (4) Perform gradation processing. (5) Rotate the image.

(6) Mirror inversion is performed. (7) Enlarge / reduce. (8) Perform overlay. Whether or not to execute the processes (2) to (8) can be specified for each processing device by the photographing information. Also, (2) ~
It is possible to specify that the output image data that has been subjected to the specified process of (8) is stored in the image storage device 43 as a processed image data file.

The processing of the above (5) and (6) is (2),
It is executed at the same time as either of the processes (3) and (4). The output image data is automatically stored after being processed as the image data to be first transferred to the output device, or processed at the time of reading the image data and then automatically stored. As described above, a predetermined process among the processes such as the frequency process, the gradation process, and the enlargement / reduction process is designated, and the output image data subjected to the designated process is stored in the image storage device 43. By storing and storing and outputting this output image data to a plurality of output devices asynchronously, for example, when the enlargement / reduction ratio to each output device is different, If the output image data subjected to the common processing (processing (2) to (6) described in the description of the formation of the output image data) is stored and stored, it can be stored when it is transferred to another output device. The output image data before the enlargement / reduction that has been performed is read and the processing after the enlargement / reduction is performed (described in the description of the formation of the output image data (7), (8)).
Processing) and then transferring, the reprocessing of the common processing part of the output image data to each output device becomes unnecessary,
The processing time can be shortened. Further, since the transfer of the output image data to the plurality of output devices is performed asynchronously, even if a trouble occurs in any of the output devices, the transfer to all the output devices does not stop.

Next, the utility function of the system will be described. That is, it has several functions as a utility for the user. The utility function is restricted by general user, manager, and manufacturer depending on the password. In particular, changing information about an image requires a manager password for security.

(1) Image file operation a. The image file list is displayed, and information regarding the stored images is displayed in the order of shooting. b. When a desired image is selected from the image file list, patient information, imaging information, and thinned-out images are displayed in the same form as the screen at the time of imaging.

C. Patient information, image processing method, output method, etc. can be changed. d. An image for which "hold" has been designated at the time of shooting can be released from the "hold" by reconfirming here. e. The image file list can be rearranged and displayed in the order of output to each output device.

F. Whether to output to each output device, you can change the output order. (2) Photographing record and irradiation record a. Radiographic information and patient information are statistically processed and provided to users as radiographic records and irradiation records. b. It is possible to output the number of images of each imaged part in a designated period, a list of imaging conditions taken in one day, and the like.

According to the radiation image capturing system having such a configuration, the area indicating the maximum reading area of the reading device is displayed on the CRT 23, and the actual reading size, orientation, and position are graphically displayed at the same scale. , You can select / check the appropriate reading size, orientation, and position. That is,
The effective imaging range can be confirmed and the patient can be positioned accurately.

Further, as described above, the area indicating the maximum reading area of the reading device is displayed on the CRT 23, and the actual reading size / direction / position is graphically displayed at the same scale,
Furthermore, since the irradiation area is graphically displayed at the same scale, the read pixel size / read area (position / size)
Can be changed, and it is effective for a reader that cannot confirm it from the outside. Further, by displaying the reading area / irradiation area in the maximum area, the relative size / position of the reading area and the irradiation area in the maximum reading area can be confirmed, and the patient can be accurately positioned.

Furthermore, the input irradiation area and the reading area are compared, and when the two are different from each other by a certain amount or more, a warning is given by a lamp display, an alarm, or the like. Therefore, it is possible to prevent erroneous setting of the reading area and the irradiation area. You can select / check the exact reading size, orientation, and position. That is, the effective imaging range can be confirmed, and the patient can be accurately positioned.

Further, the thinned-out image data necessary for the image processing is created and stored at the time of the first image processing, and the thinned-out image data is used at the time of calculating the image processing parameters thereafter. The time required for thinning can be shortened, and the communication time can be shortened when the device that stores the image data is connected to the device that calculates the image processing parameter by communication.

In particular, in a system in which the read pixel size can be varied, the thinning rate is calculated so that the size of one pixel after thinning becomes equal, and the read image is thinned, resulting in the following advantages. . That is, in a system in which the read pixel size can be changed, if the thinning rate is determined by the number of pixels, the scale of the image after thinning changes depending on the pixel size, and the actual size becomes unclear.

However, as described above, if the thinning rate is determined so that the size of one pixel after thinning is equal (for example, the image after thinning is an image of 128 × 154 pixels), the display is reduced. In this case, since one pixel has the same length, it is easy to predict the actual size. Further, when images having different read pixel sizes are displayed and compared with each other, since the size of one display pixel is the same, the sizes can be easily compared.

Further, in the case of image processing, the parameters determined by the geometrical position and size can be easily used. As an example of using the above geometrical position and size,
There are the following (1) and (2). (1) The target area for calculating the image processing parameters is
When X-ray imaging is performed, the length is set to be a fixed length (for example, 10 mm) from the outside where X-rays are likely to be unevenly irradiated.

(2) Initial region (for example, 100 mm from the upper end) and range (for example, radius 30) when the region of interest is extracted.
mm). Further, according to the above-described embodiment, regarding the sleep mode for protecting the hardware of the reader, the sleep mode should be entered as much as possible when not shooting, and the reader may enter the sleep mode when trying to shoot. Can be prevented.

By inputting the patient information once and selecting the set photographing key in which a plurality of photographing condition keys are sequentially registered, the plural photographing registered in the set photographing key is automatically reserved. Therefore, it is possible to easily take a plurality of images of the same patient. In particular, if the set shooting key is configured to specify multi-format, split shooting, and pseudo shooting respectively, it is possible to easily specify output of multiple shots in multi format, split shooting, and pseudo shooting when making a shooting reservation. it can.

As described above, the present invention has been described with reference to the specific embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to this, and is attached to the present invention by those skilled in the art. It should be noted that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0141]

As described above, according to the first aspect of the invention, it is possible to select / confirm an appropriate reading size / direction / position. According to the second aspect of the invention, the reading pixel size and the reading area can be changed, which is effective in a reading device in which the reading pixel size and reading area cannot be confirmed from the outside. By displaying the reading area / irradiation area in the maximum area, the relative size / position of the reading area and the irradiation area in the maximum reading area can be confirmed.

According to the third aspect of the invention, the read image is effectively reduced. According to the invention of claim 4, the relative relationship between the reading area and the irradiation area can be clarified,
It is possible to prevent wrong setting of the reading area and the irradiation area. According to the invention of claim 5, it is possible to surely compare the input irradiation area and the input area.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the time required for thinning can be shortened, and the device for storing the image data can communicate with the device for calculating the image processing parameter by communication. The time can be shortened. According to the invention of claim 7, in the case of display, since one pixel has the same length, it is easy to predict the actual size.
Further, when images having different read pixel sizes are displayed and compared with each other, since the size of one display pixel is the same, the sizes can be easily compared.

Further, in the case of image processing, the parameters determined by the geometrical position and size can be easily used.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a radiation image capturing system of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of a radiographic image capturing system of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of a radiographic image capturing system of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a radiation image capturing system of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a shooting control unit according to the embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a reading control unit according to the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an output control unit according to the embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a display example of a maximum reading area.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a display example of a reading area.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example of a maximum reading area, a reading area, and an irradiation area.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a display example of a maximum reading area, a reading area, and an irradiation area.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an overlapping area ratio.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating center distance.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an area ratio.

[Figure 15] Illustration of multi-format shooting

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a display example of multi-format shooting.

[Figure 17] Illustration of split shooting

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a display example of split photography.

FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram illustrating a conventional radiographic image capturing system.

[Explanation of symbols]

 A shooting control unit B reading control unit C output control unit 11 reader 12 controller 14 imager 15 host computer 21 CPU 23 CRT 25 storage device 34 image memory 37 thinned-out image creating device

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. A radiographic image capturing system for reading image information obtained by irradiating a subject with radiation, using a reading device, subjecting the read image to a predetermined process, and outputting the image as an output image to an output device. Maximum reading area designating means for designating a maximum reading area of the reading device, actual reading area designating means for designating an actual reading area, maximum reading area displaying means for displaying the maximum reading area of the reading device on a display device, A radiographic image capturing system comprising: an actual reading area display means for displaying the actual reading area in the maximum reading area displayed on the display device at the same scale. 2. An irradiation area designating means for designating an irradiation area of the radiation, and an irradiation area display means for displaying the irradiation area within the maximum reading area displayed on the display device at the same scale. The radiographic image capturing system according to claim 1. 3. A reduction means for reducing the read image so that the display pixel size of the read image becomes the same as the display pixel size of the maximum read area.
The radiographic image capturing system described. 4. A radiographic image capturing system for reading image information obtained by irradiating a subject with radiation by a reading device, subjecting the read image to predetermined processing, and outputting the image as an output image to an output device. The actual reading area designating means for designating the reading area, the irradiation area designating means for designating the irradiation area of the radiation, and the designated actual reading area and the designated irradiation area are compared, and the relationship between the areas is shown. A radiographic image capturing system comprising: a determination unit that determines whether or not it is appropriate, and a notification unit that notifies a determination result of the determination unit. 5. The determining means divides the overlapping area of the reading area and the irradiation area by the larger area of the reading area and the irradiation area, the difference between the central positions of the reading area and the irradiation area, and the reading area. The radiation image capturing system according to claim 4, wherein at least one of the differences between the irradiation area and the irradiation area is determined. 6. A radiographic image capturing system for reading image information obtained by irradiating a subject with radiation by a reading device, performing a predetermined process on the read image, and outputting the read image as an output image to an output device. A read image storage unit that stores a read image, a thinned image creation unit that thins out the images stored in the read image storage unit, and creates a thinned image of a size necessary for image processing, and a thinning unit that stores the thinned image Image storage means, parameter calculation means for calculating a parameter for performing image processing from the thinned image stored in the thinned image storage means, and image processing means for performing image processing on the read image by the calculated image processing parameter And a radiation image capturing system characterized by including the following. 7. The read pixel size is variable, and the thinned-out image creating means is a pixel size designating means for designating the size of one pixel after thinning, and a thinning rate is calculated based on the pixel size. 7. The radiographic image capturing system according to claim 6, comprising thinning-out rate calculating means and thinning-out means for thinning out read images based on the thinning rate.