JPH11191152A - Laser imager device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To output interpolation images on a film with a magnification and arrangement suitable for images from different kinds of image diagnostic devices by processing image data from the image diagnostic devices through interpolating processing corresponding to the diagnostic devices and recording images on the film. SOLUTION: A control part 101 controls respective parts of a laser imager 100 and controls the transmission and reception of data through communication with a laser imager 200. A format information part 102 temporarily stores format information indicated and selected from outside and a mode register 103 holds interpolation mode information as to various modes for determining the interpolation magnification of the laser imagers. A magnification determination part 104 determines the interpolation magnification of an image, an image processing part 105 interpolates diagnostic images from the image diagnostic devices according to the determined interpolation magnification and generates recorded images in image arrangement based upon the format information, and a film output part 106 output recorded images thus generated on a film.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to CT, MRI, D
The present invention relates to an imager that records an output image of a medical diagnostic device such as an SA on a sheet-like film, and in particular, is connected to a plurality of diagnostic imaging devices and outputs an image from each diagnostic imaging device as a film in an optimal state for diagnosis. The present invention relates to a laser imager device capable of performing the following.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art CT (Computed Tomography) equipment, MR
2. Description of the Related Art An image diagnostic apparatus such as an I (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) apparatus scans a three-dimensional human body to generate a plurality of slice images.

[0003] The slice images generated in this manner are displayed on a CRT of a display device, and are output in a state where a plurality of slice images are simultaneously arranged on a film by a laser imager device, and are used for diagnosis. .

Further, the size of a sheet-like film used in such a laser imager device (hereinafter referred to as a film size) is unified into several types, and an optimal arrangement on the sheet film is considered in view of the purpose of observation. Is determined and used.

The film size is 8 ×
10 (inch), 10 x 12 (inch), 14 x 14
(Inch), 14 × 17 (inch), and the like. For example, in a diagnostic image obtained by a CT apparatus, an MRI apparatus, or the like, images of 10 slices or more are arranged for one film, and therefore it is desired that each image be output as large as possible.

For this reason, the image arrangement and the magnification at the time of enlargement processing have been determined so as to output an image enlarged as much as possible in the effective recording area of the sheet film. In recent years, CR (Compu
A ted Radiography (DR) device and a DR (Digital Radiography) device have become widespread.

On the other hand, in conventional analog X-ray photography, since an image is generated by directly exposing to an X-ray film, an image recorded in a size approximately 1: 1 as large as the size of a photographed part of a human body is obtained. There is a background that has been observed.

For this reason, it is desired that the output from the CR device or the DR device to the laser imager device is such that the diagnostic image size and the recording size are 1: 1. For this reason, in the image output of the CR device, the pixel size of the diagnostic image and the pixel size of the imager are fixed, and the interpolation magnification is also fixed, so that the image is exclusively used as a CR imager.

Here, the definition of the above-mentioned "film size", "diagnosis image size", "recording size", and "pixel size", and their relationship will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 13 shows a recorded image 5 on a film 5 by a laser imager 3 upon receiving a diagnostic image from the CT apparatus 1.
1 schematically shows a state in which a is formed and a state in which a recording image 6a is formed on a film 6 by a laser imager 3 upon receiving a diagnostic image from the CR device 2.

Here, "film size" means the size of films 5, 6 which are recording media for images output from laser imagers 3, 4. The “recorded size” refers to the recorded images 5a, 5a,
6a.

The "diagnosis image size" means the size of a diagnosis image generated by the CT device 1 or the CR device 2. The diagnostic image size may be represented by the number of pixels in addition to the specific dimensions.

Further, "pixel size" means the size of each pixel (pixel or dot) forming a diagnostic image or a recorded image. From the viewpoint of the laser imager, the pixel size of the diagnostic image from the diagnostic imaging apparatus is also referred to as “input pixel size”, and the pixel size of the recorded image is also referred to as “recorded pixel size”.

FIG. 14 shows the film 5 and the recorded image 5a. Here, one of the squares shown in the upper right part of the recorded image 5a schematically shows one pixel. That is, the recording image 5a is composed of a large number of pixels. Further, as is apparent from FIG. 14, the following relationship holds: vertical recording size = vertical pixel number × vertical pixel size, horizontal recording size = horizontal pixel number × horizontal pixel size.

That is, the diagnostic image size is determined by the number of pixels and the input pixel size. The recording size is determined by the number of pixels and the recording pixel size. Similarly, for a diagnostic image obtained by the CT apparatus 1 or the CR apparatus 2, the number of pixels × input pixel size is the diagnostic image size.

[0016]

On the other hand, a laser imager apparatus can be connected to a plurality of image diagnostic apparatuses, and one laser imager apparatus can output images from a plurality of image diagnostic apparatuses. ing.

However, since there is a difference in the method of determining the image magnification from the above, it is necessary to output a diagnostic image of a normal CT apparatus or MRI apparatus and a diagnostic image of a CR apparatus by the same laser imager apparatus. Could not.

For example, when an image from a CR device is printed on a laser imager device of a CT device of an automatic magnification setting, an image to be recorded as a quarter size may be enlarged to half and output.

Conversely, when an image from a CT apparatus is printed on a laser imager apparatus for a CR apparatus having a fixed magnification, a small image with a small magnification to be enlarged is recorded, and an image having many gaps left on the film is recorded. In some cases, it would output.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and has as its object to be able to connect to a plurality of types of image diagnostic apparatuses, and to select a magnification suitable for an image from each image diagnostic apparatus. It is an object to realize a laser imager device capable of outputting an interpolated image on a film in an arrangement.

[0021]

That is, the present invention which constitutes means for solving the problems is as described below.

(1) According to the first aspect of the present invention, the image data from the image diagnostic device is processed by an interpolation process corresponding to each image diagnostic device, and an image is formed on a film based on the processed image data. Is recorded.

In this laser imager apparatus, an image is processed by interpolation processing corresponding to each connected diagnostic imaging apparatus, and the interpolated image is recorded and output on a film. Therefore, it is possible to connect to a plurality of types of image diagnostic apparatuses, and it is possible to output an interpolated image on a film at an interpolation magnification and format suitable for an image from each image diagnostic apparatus.

(2) The invention according to claim 2 is a processing means for processing the image data from the image diagnostic apparatus in the interpolation processing corresponding to each image diagnostic apparatus, and the image data processed by the processing means. And an output means for recording an image on a film based on the laser imager.

In this laser imager apparatus, the processing means processes the image by interpolation processing corresponding to each connected diagnostic imaging apparatus, and the output means records and outputs the interpolated image on a film.

Therefore, it is possible to connect to a plurality of types of image diagnostic apparatuses, and it is possible to output an interpolated image on a film at an interpolation magnification and format suitable for an image from each image diagnostic apparatus.

(3) The invention according to claim 3 is an interpolation process corresponding to format information relating to a diagnostic image size and an arrangement of recorded images on a film for each image diagnostic apparatus,
A laser imager apparatus comprising: processing means for processing image data from the diagnostic imaging apparatus; and output means for recording an image on a film based on the image data processed by the processing means. .

In this laser imager apparatus, the processing means processes the image by interpolation processing corresponding to the diagnostic image size and format information for each connected diagnostic imaging apparatus, and the output means records and outputs the interpolated image on a film. I do.

Therefore, it is possible to connect to a plurality of types of image diagnostic apparatuses, and it is possible to output an interpolated image on a film at an interpolation magnification and format suitable for an image from each image diagnostic apparatus.

(4) A magnification determining means for determining a magnification of an interpolation process in accordance with format information on a diagnostic image size and an arrangement of recorded images on a film for each image diagnostic apparatus, Processing means for processing the image data from the diagnostic imaging apparatus in an interpolation process corresponding to the magnification determined by the magnification determining means; and an output for recording an image on a film based on the image data processed by the processing means And a laser imager device.

In this laser imager device, an interpolation magnification is determined in accordance with the diagnostic image size and format information of each connected image diagnostic apparatus, and the image is interpolated by the interpolation processing corresponding to the interpolation magnification. The recorded image is recorded and output on a film.

Accordingly, it is possible to connect to a plurality of types of image diagnostic apparatuses, and to output an interpolated image on a film at an interpolation magnification and format suitable for the image from each image diagnostic apparatus.

(5) The invention according to claim 5 is a mode information storage means for storing interpolation mode information relating to image interpolation for each connected diagnostic imaging apparatus, a magnification determining means for calculating an image interpolation magnification, Receiving images from the diagnostic device,
Control means for extracting interpolation mode information corresponding to the diagnostic imaging apparatus from the mode information storage means and determining an interpolation magnification in the magnification determining means; and performing interpolation processing in accordance with the determined interpolation magnification. Processing means for processing the image data from, and output means for recording an image on a film based on the image data processed by this processing means,
A laser imager device comprising:

In this laser imager apparatus, an interpolation magnification is determined in accordance with interpolation mode information corresponding to an image diagnostic apparatus, an image is interpolated by an interpolation processing corresponding to the interpolation magnification, and the interpolated image is recorded on a film. Output.

Therefore, it is possible to connect to a plurality of types of image diagnostic apparatuses, and it is possible to output an interpolated image on a film at an interpolation magnification and format suitable for the image from each image diagnostic apparatus.

(6) The mode information storage means includes an item for transmitting and receiving image data and interpolation mode information between a plurality of laser imager devices, so that the image connected to the laser imager device is provided. The image from the diagnostic device can be transmitted to another laser imager device and recorded and output.

Accordingly, it is possible to output an interpolated image on a film in another laser imager device at an interpolation magnification and format suitable for the image of the diagnostic imaging device connected to the laser imager device.

[0038]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS A laser imager according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

First, the overall configuration of a laser imager device to which the embodiment of the present invention is applied will be described for each functional block with reference to FIG. Prior to the description of the embodiment, terms used in the embodiment will be described. In the specification of the present application, “diagnosis image” is an image generated by photographing of various image diagnostic apparatuses, and “diagnosis image size” is the size (specific dimensions or pixels) of a diagnostic image generated by various image diagnostic apparatuses. number),
The “recorded image” is an image output to a recording medium by a laser imager, the “recorded size” is the size of a recorded image formed on the recording medium, the “film” is a recording medium that forms a recorded image by a laser imager, “Film size” is the size of the film as the recording medium, “effective recording area” is the size of the recordable area on the film, “pixel” is the minimum unit that constitutes a diagnostic or recorded image, “pixel” The “size” is the size of each pixel forming a diagnostic image or a recorded image, the “input pixel size” is the pixel size of a diagnostic image from an image diagnostic device, the “recorded pixel size” is the pixel size in a recorded image, "Enlargement" is a process of performing image processing on a diagnostic image to generate a recorded image of a desired size,
The process of increasing at least one of the size or the number of pixels, “enlargement magnification” is a magnification when a recorded image is enlarged and generated from a diagnostic image, and “interpolation” is a newly generated pixel according to an existing pixel. Various types of image processing to be arranged between existing pixels, “interpolation magnification” means magnification at which the number of pixels is increased by arranging pixels newly generated by the interpolation between existing pixels, and “interpolation mode information”. Is various information related to interpolation for each diagnostic imaging apparatus, and "format information" is information related to the arrangement of recorded images on a film.

The "interpolation" is one mode for realizing the "enlargement" described above. The newly generated pixel data is obtained by performing an arithmetic process (for example, an averaging process) on the data of surrounding existing pixels (for example, including data on density). The number of pixels is increased by the image processing of the interpolation, and the image is enlarged. Although enlargement without interpolation is possible, enlargement by interpolation is desirable from the viewpoint of image quality as described later.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 10 denotes an MRI apparatus as an image diagnostic apparatus connected to a laser imager apparatus;
20 is a CR device as an image diagnostic device connected to the laser imager device, and 30 is a CT device as an image diagnostic device connected to the laser imager device.

Reference numeral 11 denotes an operation controller which is arranged near the MRI apparatus 10 and instructs an image from the MRI apparatus. An operation controller 21 is arranged near the CR device 20 and issues an instruction regarding an image from the CR device. And 31 is CT
An operation controller that is arranged near the device 30 and that issues an instruction regarding an image from the CT device.

Reference numeral 100 denotes a first laser imager (laser imager # 1), which is a characteristic part of the present embodiment, and performs interpolation on a film with an interpolation magnification and format suitable for images from a plurality of types of image diagnostic apparatuses. It can output an image and is composed of the following.

The following internal configuration of the laser imager 100 and the laser imager 200 is an example of a configuration for realizing necessary functions, and a portion for realizing processing is replaced by equivalent software, firmware, hardware, or the like. It is possible to realize with.

The control unit 101 includes a laser imager 100
Is a control means for controlling each of the components and outputting a desired interpolation image, and also controls transmission and reception of data by communication with a laser imager 200 described later.

The format information section 102 is means for temporarily storing format information (information on image arrangement) selected and selected from an external operation controller or the like.
Together with an external operation controller, it constitutes a format information selecting means.

The mode register 103 includes various modes for determining the interpolation magnification of the laser imager, a mode operating in accordance with the connected image diagnostic apparatus,
This is a data holding unit that holds interpolation mode information such as size data in each mode, a diagnostic image size, a recording size, and a recording position sent from the image diagnostic apparatus.

The magnification determining unit 104 calculates the interpolation mode information, the format information, and the diagnostic image size of the diagnostic imaging apparatus.
A magnification determining unit that determines an interpolation magnification of an image according to a film size or the like supplied from the control unit 101.

The image processing unit 105 interpolates a diagnostic image from the diagnostic imaging apparatus in accordance with the determined interpolation magnification, and performs various image processing for generating a recorded image with an image arrangement according to format information. This is an image interpolation unit to be executed.

The film output unit 106 is an output unit that outputs a recorded image generated by being enlarged by being interpolated by the image processing in the image processing unit 105 onto a film.

The information on the size of the film loaded in the film output unit 106 is transmitted to the control unit 101 via detection means (not shown) in the film output unit 106. Then, the control unit 101 transmits the film size or the size of the effective recording area in the film size to the magnification determining unit 104 and the like.

Reference numeral 200 denotes a second laser imager (laser imager #) which is a feature of this embodiment.
2), capable of outputting an interpolated image on a film at an interpolation magnification and format suitable for images from a plurality of types of image diagnostic apparatuses, and having an internal configuration similar to that of the laser imager 100 described above. Has become.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the laser imager 100 includes the MRI apparatus 10 and the CR.
Device 20 is connected to the laser imager 200
Is connected to a CT device 30.

<Basic Operation> In the laser imager apparatus of this embodiment, (a) a film effective use mode, and (b) a mode for determining an interpolation magnification of an image.
Recording size setting mode, (c) Pixel size setting mode, (d)
Four types of modes, a recording size external designation mode, can be set.

The mode register determines which mode is operated individually for each image diagnostic apparatus connected to the laser imager apparatus, that is, the correspondence between the connected image diagnostic apparatus and the mode operated accordingly. 10
3 and 203.

As a result, the laser imager 100 does not need an operation such as mode selection by referring to the mode register 103, and the laser imager 200 needs an operation such as mode selection by referring to the mode register 203. Instead, it operates in one of the above modes corresponding to the connected diagnostic imaging apparatus.

The setting in each of the above-described modes and the selection of the correspondence between each of the image diagnostic apparatuses and the operating modes are performed.
It can be changed through an operation controller attached to the laser imager (such as a dedicated keypad for each diagnostic imaging device) or a communication path dedicated to service personnel.

Here, the basic contents of the above-mentioned four modes will be described as the following. The specific operation will be described separately. Film effective use mode: A mode in which the interpolation magnification is increased as much as possible to reduce film waste. That is, regarding an image sent to the laser imager from the diagnostic imaging apparatus set in the mode registers 103 and 203 so as to operate in the film effective use mode, an effective recording area in the film size detected by the film output units 106 and 206 A diagnostic image size sent together with the diagnostic image from the image diagnostic apparatus; an image format information in the format information units 102 and 202; a recording pixel size recognized by the control units 101 and 201; 104 and 204 determine the interpolation magnification.
Then, according to the interpolation magnification, the image processing units 105 and 205
, The image is enlarged and output on the film by interpolating the film to the recording size that can be used most effectively (there is no waste of the film).

Recording size setting mode: This is a mode in which the image is interpolated and enlarged to a size that fits within the recording size set by the operator. That is, when an operation performed by the operation controller of the image diagnostic apparatus to change the operation of the laser imager to the recording size setting mode is performed, the image transmitted from the image diagnostic apparatus to the laser imager is: The diagnostic image size sent together with the diagnostic image from the above; the recording size set by the operator in the operation controllers 11, 21 and 31; the recording pixel size recognized by the control units 101 and 201; 104 and 204 determine the interpolation magnification.
Then, according to the interpolation magnification, the image processing units 105 and 205
The image processing is performed, and the image is enlarged and output on a film by interpolating to a size that can fit in the recording size. Note that this recording size setting mode is used for the slide size (24 mm × 35 m
m) and is suitable for use when outputting to film. This specific example will be described in detail separately.

Pixel size setting mode: diagnostic image size in a CR device, such as a CR device or film duplication,
Alternatively, it is a mode in which the output is made the same size as the size of the original image on the film. That is, regarding an image sent to the laser imager from the image diagnostic apparatus set in the mode register 203 to operate in the pixel size setting mode, the input pixel size stored in the mode register 203, the control unit 201, etc. The magnification determining unit 204 determines the interpolation magnification based on the ratio between the recognized recording pixel size and. Then, image processing is performed by the image processing unit 205 in accordance with the interpolation magnification, so that the diagnostic image or the original image is output on a film in the same size.

Recording size external designation mode: A mode in which information on the recording size is received from the image diagnostic apparatus on the side of the laser imager which is not directly connected, and is enlarged to the size and printed.

That is, with respect to the image sent from the image diagnostic apparatus to the laser imager set in the mode registers 103 and 203 so as to operate in the recording size external designation mode, a diagnosis transmitted together with the diagnostic image from the image diagnostic apparatus When the image size, the recording size sent together with the diagnostic image from the diagnostic imaging device, and the designation of the output by the laser imager that is not directly connected are specified, the control units 101 and 20 receiving this information.
Reference numeral 1 denotes control units 201 and 101 on the other laser imager side.
To communicate. Then, the magnification determining units 204 and 104 determine the interpolation magnification. Then, image processing is performed by the image processing units 205 and 105 in accordance with the interpolation magnification, so that the laser imager on the side not directly connected is output on the film at the recording size designated by the image diagnostic apparatus.

In this mode, a plurality of different images can be printed by one apparatus, and further, the slide or OHP size can be recorded, or the size can be transmitted to another laser imager. It is possible to record and output at the same size.

<Concrete Operation> Here, a specific example suitable for processing images from various image diagnostic apparatuses by the laser imager having the mode register described above is shown in FIG. 2 showing an example of the contents of the mode register. The following (1) to FIG. 3 and flowcharts after FIG.
This will be described as (5). The specific numerical values in FIGS. 2 and 3 will be described in detail in embodiments described later.

First, the laser imager receives an image from the connected diagnostic imaging apparatus and information associated therewith (FIG. S1). If the designation of the output destination is included in the accompanying information (S2 in FIG. 4), the processing shifts to the external recording size designation mode described below (S4 in FIG. 4).
3). If the recording size is included in the accompanying information (S4 in FIG. 4), the mode shifts to the recording size setting mode (S5 in FIG. 4). When an image is sent from the MRI apparatus (S6 in FIG. 4), the mode shifts to the film effective use mode (S7 in FIG. 4). Further, when an image is sent from the CR device (S8 in FIG. 4), the mode shifts to the pixel size setting mode (S9 in FIG. 4).

The determination shown here (S2, S4 in FIG. 4)
Steps S4, S6, and S8) are performed by the control unit of the laser imager with reference to the mode register, and the determination may be made all at once and the mode may be shifted to each mode.

(1) Film effective use mode: conventional C
When a T apparatus, an MRI apparatus, or the like is connected, images of 10 slices or more are often arranged per film. For this reason, the mode register 10 is used to output an image as large as possible in the effective recording area of the sheet film.
3, the "film effective use mode" in 3, 203 is set in association with the CT apparatus and the MRI apparatus.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 1, in the mode register 103 of the laser imager 100 to which the MRI apparatus 10 is connected, the film effective use mode for MRI is set to N.
o. 1 (FIG. 2). Therefore, MRI
When a diagnostic image is sent from the device 10, the laser imager 100 controls the mode number of the mode register 103 under the control of the control unit 101. The data of the mode No. 1 is activated (S1 in FIG. 5). In this case, the camera operates as a film effective use mode based on the first data.

In the configuration shown in FIG.
0 in the mode register 203 of the laser imager 200 to which the film effective use mode for CT is set to N.
o. 1 (FIG. 3). Therefore, when a diagnostic image is sent from the CT device 30, the laser imager 200 controls the mode number of the mode register 203 under the control of the control unit 201. Activate the data No. 1 and operate in the film effective use mode based on this data.

In this mode, the diagnostic image size and format information sections 102 and 10 input from the diagnostic imaging apparatus
Format information (including layout information such as 3 horizontal frames × 4 vertical frames and observation direction information such as whether to observe a film vertically or horizontally), the film size used by the laser imager, In accordance with the effective recording area and the recording pixel size, the magnification determining units 104 and 204 determine the interpolation magnification that enables the image output with the least space available on the film (S2 in FIG. 5).

The image processing units 105 and 205 perform image processing according to the interpolation magnification (S3 in FIG. 5), and after performing image processing on all images to be output on the same film (FIG. 5).
(S3, S4), images are output from the film output units 106 and 206 onto the film (S5 in FIG. 5). This operation is the same as that of a conventional CT image laser imager.

(2) Recording size setting mode: The mode register 10 is used to prepare slides for images from the diagnostic imaging apparatus, or to unify film outputs of the same recording size between different laser imagers.
A recording size setting mode is provided in 3,203. In the examples of FIGS. 2 and 3, the recording size is set to the slide size (2
The size is fixed so as to be a fixed size (recording size fixed mode) of 4 mm × 35 mm (No. 8, FIG. 3N).
o. 8). Here, the slide size of 35 mm is illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, but a recording size of another size may be prepared in a fixed size.

In this case, the operation controllers 11, 21, 21
31 and the operator sets the recording size together with the instruction to output the film, whereby the laser imager-side control units 101 and 102 receiving the recording size information.
01 is the mode No. of the mode registers 103 and 203.
8 is activated (S1 in FIG. 6). And the control unit 1
01, 201, the mode registers 103, 2
03 and the magnification determining units 104 and 204 operate in a recording size setting mode.

Here, the magnification determining units 104 and 204
The interpolation magnification is determined from the diagnostic image size, the recording size, and the recording pixel size so that the recording size is fixed (FIG. 6).
S2).

The image processing units 105 and 205 perform image processing according to the interpolation magnification (S3 in FIG. 6).
The data is recorded and output from the film output units 106 and 206 in the size set in the size registers in the mode registers 103 and 203 (S5 in FIG. 6). If the format information exists, image processing is performed on all images to be output on the same film (S3 and S4 in FIG. 6), and then the images are output from the film output units 106 and 206 onto the film (FIG. 6). 6S5). If no format information exists,
One image is output on one film.

(3) Pixel size setting mode: When an X-ray photograph is digitized with a fixed pixel size, duplication of an image is performed, an image captured by a CR device is printed, or an image input device of a fixed input resolution is used. When outputting an image in a size used for diagnosis, the mode register 103
Is set to be fixed in size (fixed pixel size mode) in the “pixel size setting mode”.

Therefore, when the diagnostic image is sent from the CR device 20 associated with the pixel size setting mode, the laser imager 100 controls the mode No. of the mode register 103 under the control of the control unit 101. 2 is activated (S1 in FIG. 7), and the mode No. 2 is activated.
2 operates in a pixel size setting mode based on the data of the second data.

As a result, the ratio between the input pixel size (size data of mode No. 2 in FIG. 2) set in the size register inside the mode register 103 and the recording pixel size recognized by the control unit 101 is used to determine the magnification. The determination unit 104 determines the interpolation magnification (S2 in FIG. 7). Then, the image processing unit 105 performs image processing according to the interpolation magnification (FIG. 7S
3) If the format information exists, image processing is performed for all images output to the same film (FIG. 7S
3, S4), and outputs an image on the film from the film output unit 106 (S5 in FIG. 7). If there is no format information, one image is output on one film.

(4) Recording size external designation mode: A mode register 103 for enabling the image diagnostic apparatus to output a film with a recording size set arbitrarily to a laser imager that is not directly connected. , 203
"Recording size external designation mode" is set in advance. When the operator designates the film size together with the designation of the recording size and the designation of the output by the laser imager which is not directly connected by one of the operation controllers 11, 21 and 31, the control unit 10 receiving this information.
After confirming the connection with the control unit 201 or 101 on the laser imager side of the output destination, 1 or 201 transmits various information.

For example, from the operation controller 21 of the CR device 20 connected to the laser imager 100,
When the output to the laser imager 200 is specified, the laser imager 100
Mode No. 7 is activated (FIG. 8S
1), this mode No. 7 operates as the recording size external designation mode based on the data No. 7.

First, the control unit 101 is connected to the control unit 21 of the output destination.
Confirm connection with 0 (S2 in FIG. 8). If the connection is confirmed, the process proceeds to the next step. If the connection is not confirmed, the process ends (S3 in FIG. 8).

Here, the magnification determining unit 104 determines the interpolation magnification, and determines the recording size for printing at the output destination (S4 in FIG. 8). Then, the control unit 101 sets the CR device 20
The diagnostic image, the format information, and the calculated recording size received from are transmitted to the control unit 201 (S5 in FIG. 8). Using the diagnostic image size, recording size, and format information transmitted from the control unit 101, the control unit 201 checks whether recording is possible in the effective recording area of the film in the film output unit 206 (S6 in FIG. 8). If not possible, terminate.

If recording is possible, the magnification determining unit 204 determines the interpolation magnification as the recording size setting mode (FIG. 8).
S7) The image processing unit 205 performs image processing according to the interpolation magnification (S8 in FIG. 8), and outputs a film at the designated recording size (S10 in FIG. 8). If format information exists, image processing is performed on all images to be output on the same film (S8 and S9 in FIG. 8), and then the image is output from the film output unit 106 onto the film (S1 in FIG. 8).
0).

(5) It should be noted that the information on the recording size is rarely transmitted from the operator console of the external diagnostic imaging apparatus. In this case, the mode and various sizes can be easily selected by an operation controller (not shown) provided in the vicinity of the laser imager, so that the mode can be switched according to the purpose of image output. In particular, slide creation and film duplication can be easily set for purposes other than clinical purposes.

[0085]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Referring to FIG. 2 (mode register contents of laser imager # 1) and FIG. 3 (mode register contents of laser imager # 2), FIG. The embodiment will be described below.

In the example whose configuration is shown in FIG. 1, basically,
Images from the MRI apparatus 10 and the CR apparatus 20 are transmitted to the laser imager # 1 for output, and images from the CT apparatus 30 are transmitted to the laser imager # 2 for output.

Further, images from the MRI apparatus 10 and the CR apparatus 20 can be transferred to the laser imager 200 via a communication line and output after entering the laser imager 100. Similarly, the CT device 3
After the image from 0 enters the laser imager 200, the image can be transferred to the laser imager 100 via the communication line and output.

The contents of mode register 103 are shown in FIG.
And the contents of the mode register 203 are shown in FIG. Note that the column labeled "No." is the number of each mode,
The column labeled “mode” is the name of each mode, and the column labeled “size data” is the size data in each mode (in the pixel size setting mode, the input pixel size (×
0.1 μm), the recording size (× 0.1 mm) in the recording size setting mode, and the column labeled “image size” is information on the size or the number of pixels at the time of input or recording in each mode. .

As shown in FIG.
Can store eight types of data groups, but in the example shown here, No. 3-No. Reference numeral 6 denotes an unused state, which is ready for future function expansion.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 3, the mode register 203 can also store eight types of data groups. 2-No. Reference numeral 6 denotes an unused state, which is ready for future function expansion.

In this case, the laser imager 100
Is 40 pixels (the size of one pixel at the time of recording)
μm, the recording pixel size of the laser imager 200 is 78
μm. This recording pixel size is recognized by each control unit, and can be notified to the magnification determining unit as needed.

It is also assumed that the film output unit 106 of the laser imager 100 and the film output unit 206 of the laser imager 200 are loaded with a half-size (354 mm × 430 mm) sheet film. This film size is notified to the control unit via a detection unit (not shown) in the film output unit.

In the above configuration, specific examples of operation in each mode will be described below. , MRI images are printed on a half-cut film by the laser imager # 1 in a format of 12 frames (3 horizontal frames × 4 vertical frames):
o. Since the film effective use mode 1 is associated with the MRI apparatus 10, by receiving an image signal from the MRI apparatus, the control unit 101 causes the laser imager 1 to operate.
00 is controlled to operate as a film effective use mode.

First, the mode No. is read from the mode register 103 of the laser imager 100. 1 (film effective use mode) is read out in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 101, and based on this data, an effective recording area (for example, 350 mm wide *) detected by the film output unit 106 and recognized by the control unit 101 An interpolation magnification is calculated by the magnification determination unit 104 so that recording can be performed most effectively on the vertical (420 mm).

Regarding the interpolation magnification, the horizontal interpolation magnification is called “horizontal interpolation magnification”, and the vertical interpolation magnification is called “vertical interpolation magnification”. Here, the horizontal interpolation magnification: 350 / (1024 × 3) /0.04=
2.848 times vertical interpolation magnification: 420 / (1024 × 4) /0.04=
2.563 times. The smaller one of the interpolation magnifications calculated in this way is the actually possible interpolation magnification. In this case, 2.563
Double is set as the interpolation magnification.

Therefore, 10 frames per frame from the MRI system
An image of 2425 × 2625 pixels (see FIG. 9A) is subjected to image processing of interpolating 2.563 times by the image processing unit 105 to generate an image of 2625 × 2625 pixels.

Then, the image of 2625 × 2625 pixels is formed on a film at a recording pixel size of 40 μm by the film output unit 106 and output, so that 10
An image in which 5 mm × 105 mm images are arranged in a format of three horizontal frames and four vertical frames is completed (see FIG. 9B).

In this case, even if three frames are arranged side by side, the distance is only 315 mm.
It is possible to select whether to distribute the three pieces in close contact with each other at the center or to arrange them at regular intervals of 8.7 mm at equal intervals between the pieces. In such a case, an image is selected and output according to an instruction from the operation controller 11 or data stored in the mode register 103 in advance.

The CR image (input pixel size of 175 μm
When printing ()): In the mode register 103,
Mode No. The pixel size setting mode of the CR device 20
Since the control unit 101 receives the image signal from the CR device 20, the control unit 101 controls the laser imager 100 to operate in the pixel size setting mode.

First, from the mode register 103 of the laser imager 100, the mode No. 2 (pixel size setting mode) is read in accordance with an instruction from the control unit 101.

In the example shown in FIG.
3 “1750 × 1750” is obtained from the internal size register. This is, as already explained, the CR device 20.
Means that the input image has a resolution of 175 μm × 175 μm (input pixel size).

Based on the input pixel size, the control unit 1
The magnification determining unit 104 calculates an interpolation magnification for obtaining a recording size of the same size as the diagnostic image size from the ratio with the recording pixel size (40 μm) recognized by 01.

Here, the interpolation magnification is 175/40 =
4.375 times. Therefore, if the diagnostic image size transmitted from the CR device is 1792 × 2048 pixels, the image processing unit 105 performs interpolation processing to 4.375 times and performs 7
An image of 840 × 8960 pixels is generated.

Then, the image of 7840 × 8960 pixels is formed on a film with a recording pixel size of 40 μm by the film output unit 106 and output, so that the horizontal 3
An image of 13.6 mm x 358.4 mm in height is output. In this case, since the film is left over both vertically and horizontally, the control unit 101 gives an instruction to the image processing unit 105 to arrange the film at the center, for example.

By performing such processing, a diagnostic image of 1792 × 2048 pixels with an input pixel size of 175 μm (diagnostic image size of 313.6 mm × 358.4 mm, FIG.
(A)) at 7840 × with a recording pixel size of 40 μm.
8960 pixels recorded image (recorded size 313.6 mm x 3
58.4 mm, see FIG. 10 (b)).

When printing an MRI image in a slide size: On the menu screen of the operation controller 11 as an MRI controller arranged near the MRI apparatus 10, the operator selects “recording size setting mode (slide size)”. Then, on the next page of the menu screen, a setting can be made such that the film is output as “slide size” from a plurality of options for specific recording sizes. Note that this setting is temporary, and returns to the original film valid mode (for example, the initial mode is mode No. 1) after printing is completed.

As described above, when the recording size is set by the operator at the operation controller 11 together with the instruction of the film output, the control unit 101 of the laser imager, which has received the information on the recording size, sets the mode register 103.
Mode No. Enable 8 Here, since the recording size setting mode is set, the size data “350 × 240” of the size register becomes valid.

As described above, this means that the recording size is 24 mm × 35 mm. Therefore, the magnification determining unit 104 determines an interpolation magnification such that the recording size becomes 24 mm × 35 mm. The image processing unit 105 performs image processing based on the interpolation magnification, and the film output unit 106 prints with a recording pixel size of 40 μm. Form and output.

For example, from the operation controller 11, M
MRI images generated by the RI device 10 (per image,
When 1024 × 1024 pixels) are printed in a format of 4 horizontal frames × 5 vertical frames, a total of 20 frames are printed.
Since the image is square, each frame has a film output of 24 mm × 24 mm size.

Specifically, the length of the MRI image is compared with the length of the MRI image so that the length of the MRI image matches the length of the recorded image. In this case, since the image is square, the orientation is irrelevant.

Then, the magnification determining unit 104 determines that the
24 / 0.04 = 0.586 times the interpolation magnification is determined,
According to the interpolation magnification, the image processing unit 105 sets the 600 × 60
After interpolation and reduction to 0 pixels, the film output unit 106 arranges each frame into 4 horizontal frames and 5 vertical frames at equal intervals and prints.

When the CT images are arranged on the laser imager # 2 in three horizontal frames and four horizontal frames and printed, the mode register 203 sets the mode No. Since the film effective use mode 1 is associated with the CT device 30, the control unit 201 receives the image signal from the CT device and receives the image signal.
Controls the laser imager 200 to operate in the film effective use mode.

First, the mode No. is read from the mode register 203 of the laser imager 200. 1 (film effective use mode) is read out according to an instruction from the control unit 201, and based on this data, an effective recording area (for example, 350 mm wide × width) detected by the film output unit 206 and recognized by the control unit 201. An interpolation magnification is calculated by the magnification determining unit 204 so that recording can be performed most effectively on the vertical (420 mm).

Here, the horizontal interpolation magnification: 350 / (640 × 3) /0.078=2.
337 times vertical interpolation magnification: 420 / (512 × 4) /0.078=2.
629 times. The smaller one of the interpolation magnifications obtained in this way is the actually possible interpolation magnification, and here, 2.337
Double is set as the interpolation magnification.

Therefore, 640 per frame from the CT device is used.
The image of × 512 pixels (FIG. 11A) is
In 05, the image processing for interpolating by 2.337 times is executed and 14
An image of 95 × 1196 pixels is generated.

Then, 149 per frame from the CT device
An image of 5 × 1196 pixels is formed on a film with a recording pixel size of 78 μm by the film output unit 206 and output, so that an image of 116.6 mm × 93.3 mm is formed in a format of three horizontal frames and four vertical frames. The images arranged in a line are completed (FIG. 11B).

Since there is a margin of about 47 mm in the vertical direction of the film effective recording area in comparison with the film effective recording area, the image is obtained by dividing this gap almost equally in the vertical direction and moving four frames to the center in the vertical direction. Is generated by the control unit 201 at the time of the above-described image processing. Alternatively, the frames may be arranged at equal intervals between the vertical pieces. In this case, an image is selected and output according to an instruction from the operation controller 21 or data stored in the mode register 203 in advance.

When printing CT images by arranging them on the laser imager # 1 in three horizontal frames and four vertical frames: CT apparatus 3
The CT image from 0 is usually a laser imager 2
00 is printed. However, when it becomes necessary to output this CT image with the laser imager 100,
The output destination is changed to the laser imager 100 by the operation controller 31 for the CT device.

That is, from the operation controller 31 of the CT device 30 connected to the laser imager 200,
When the output to the laser imager 100 is specified, the laser imager 200
Mode No. 7 is activated, and the mode No. 7 is activated. 7 operates as the recording size external designation mode based on the data No. 7.

In this case, the control unit 201 of the laser imager 200 uses the communication line to
The connection is confirmed with the control unit 101 of 0, and when there is no problem in connection and output change, the output destination change to the laser imager 100 is set.

Then, the same magnification calculation as described above is performed by the magnification determining unit 204 to obtain 2.337 times, and the recording size 11 when printing with the laser imager 200 is performed.
6.6 x 93.3 mm is required.

When outputting to another laser imager via a communication line, the mode No. in the mode register is output. 7
, And the mode is usually a recording size external designation mode. Therefore, when the output destination is specified, the control unit sets the mode No. 7
Is read.

For this reason, the control unit 201 of the laser imager 200 sends a diagnostic image size (640, 512), a recording size (1166, 933), and format information (3, 3) to the control unit 101 of the laser imager 100.
4) and image data for 12 frames is transmitted.

On the laser imager 100 side, an output request is obtained from the laser imager 200, and the control unit 101 sets the mode No. 7 to know that the recording size external designation mode is active.

Thus, the control unit 101 first uses the diagnostic image size, recording size, and format information transmitted from the laser imager 200 to
It is confirmed whether recording is possible in the effective recording area (350 mm wide × 420 mm long) of the film in 06.

Here, 350 / (116.6 × 3) = 1.001 times 420 / (93.3 × 4) = 1.125 times From the above, the control unit 101 determines that the effective recording area of the film is After confirming that the image is larger than the image (magnification> 1), it is determined that there is no problem and the processing is continued.

Next, the magnification determining unit 104 obtains an interpolation magnification for the CT image. Here, the horizontal interpolation magnification: 116.6 / 640 / 0.04 = 4.554
× Vertical interpolation magnification: 93.3 / 512 / 0.04 = 4.555. The smaller one of the interpolation magnifications calculated in this way is the actually possible interpolation magnification, and here, 4.554
Double is set as the interpolation magnification.

Therefore, 640 × 51 from the CT device 30
The image of two pixels (see FIG. 12A) is
5. Perform image processing to interpolate 4.554 times with 5, and
An image of 15 × 2332 pixels is generated.

Then, this image of 2915 × 2332 pixels is formed on a film with a recording pixel size of 40 μm by the film output unit 106 and output, whereby 1111
An image in which images of 6.6 mm × 93.3 mm are arranged in a format of three horizontal frames and four vertical frames is completed (see FIG. 12B).

By performing such processing, the laser imager 100 can execute a film output equivalent to the diagnostic image size and arrangement obtained by the laser imager 200 in the above case.

Here, the laser imager 200
The CT image from the CT device 30 connected to the laser imager 100 is transmitted to the laser imager 100 and printed on the laser imager 100 side. Conversely, the MRI image from the MRI device 10 connected to the laser imager 100 and the CR device 2
It is also possible to transmit the CR image from 0 to the laser imager 200 and output the film on the laser imager 200 side.

The numerical values in each specific example of the above embodiment are merely examples for explanation, and processing with different sizes and magnifications is also possible. Further, an MRI apparatus, a CR apparatus, a CT apparatus, and the like are examples of an image diagnostic apparatus, and various types of image diagnostic apparatuses of different types can be used without any problem. Further, instead of the image diagnostic apparatus, an image can be output from an image management workstation or the like by the same operation.

As described above in detail with the embodiments, according to the laser imager apparatus of this embodiment,
It is possible to connect to multiple types of diagnostic imaging devices,
It is possible to output an interpolated image on a film at an interpolation magnification and format suitable for an image from each image diagnostic apparatus.

Therefore, it is not necessary to prepare a dedicated laser imager device for each image diagnostic device, and it is not necessary to adjust the laser imager device according to the connected image diagnostic device.

[0135]

As described above, according to the present invention, the following effects can be obtained. (1) According to the first aspect of the present invention, an image is processed by an interpolation process corresponding to each of the connected image diagnostic apparatuses, and the interpolated image is recorded and output on a film, so that a plurality of types of image diagnostic apparatuses can be used. It is possible to output an interpolated image on a film at an interpolation magnification and format suitable for the image from each image diagnostic apparatus.

(2) According to the second aspect of the present invention, the processing means processes the image by interpolation processing corresponding to each connected diagnostic imaging apparatus, and the output means records and outputs the interpolated image on the film. Accordingly, it is possible to connect to a plurality of types of image diagnostic apparatuses, and to output an interpolated image on a film at an interpolation magnification and format suitable for an image from each image diagnostic apparatus.

(3) In the invention according to claim 3, the processing means processes the image by interpolation processing corresponding to the diagnostic image size and format information for each connected diagnostic imaging apparatus, and the output means outputs the interpolated image. By recording and outputting on film, it is possible to connect to multiple types of diagnostic imaging devices, and it is possible to output interpolated images on film with interpolation magnification and format suitable for images from each diagnostic imaging device become.

(4) According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the interpolation magnification is determined according to the diagnostic image size and format information of each connected diagnostic imaging apparatus, and the image is interpolated by the interpolation processing corresponding to the interpolation magnification. By processing and recording and outputting the interpolated image on the film, it is possible to connect to multiple types of diagnostic imaging devices, and to interpolate on the film with an interpolation magnification and format suitable for the image from each diagnostic imaging device. To output the interpolated image.

(5) According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the interpolation magnification is determined according to the interpolation mode information corresponding to the image diagnostic apparatus, and the image is interpolated by the interpolation processing corresponding to the interpolation magnification. Can be connected to multiple types of diagnostic imaging devices to record and output on a film, and an interpolated image can be output on the film with an interpolation magnification and format suitable for the image from each diagnostic imaging device become.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a laser imager device used in an embodiment of the present invention for each functional block.

FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of a mode register of a laser imager # 1 used in the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the contents of a mode register of a laser imager # 2 used in the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of determination when shifting to each mode.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in a film effective use mode.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in a recording size setting mode.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in a pixel size setting mode.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in a recording size external designation mode.

FIG. 9 shows a diagnostic image from a MR apparatus, which is a laser imager #
1 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a state in which images in a state of being arranged in a format of three horizontal frames and four vertical frames by 1 are output.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a state in which a diagnostic image is output from a CR device by a laser imager # 1.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a state in which diagnostic images are output from a CT apparatus in a format of three horizontal frames and four vertical frames by a laser imager # 2.

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a state in which diagnostic images are output from a CT apparatus in a format of three horizontal frames and four vertical frames by a laser imager # 1.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a state in which a recording image is formed on a film by a laser imager upon receiving a diagnostic image from an image diagnostic apparatus.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a relationship between a pixel size, the number of pixels, and a recording size.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 10 MRI apparatus 11 Operation controller 20 CR apparatus 21 Operation controller 30 CT apparatus 31 Operation controller 100 Laser imager # 1 101 Control section 102 Format information section 103 Mode register 104 Magnification determination section 105 Image processing section 106 Film section 200 Laser imager # 2 201 Control section 202 Format information section 203 Mode register 204 Magnification determination section 205 Image processing section 206 Film section

Claims (5)

[Claims] 1. A laser, wherein image data from the image diagnostic apparatus is processed by interpolation processing corresponding to each image diagnostic apparatus, and an image is recorded on a film based on the processed image data. Imager device. 2. A processing means for processing image data from the image diagnostic device in an interpolation process corresponding to each image diagnostic device; and recording an image on a film based on the image data processed by the processing means. A laser imager device comprising: an output unit. 3. A processing means for processing image data from said image diagnostic apparatus by interpolation processing corresponding to format information relating to a diagnostic image size for each image diagnostic apparatus and an arrangement of recorded images on a film; And an output unit for recording an image on a film based on the image data processed in (1). 4. Magnification determining means for determining a magnification of interpolation processing in accordance with format information relating to a diagnostic image size and an arrangement of recorded images on a film for each image diagnostic apparatus, and a magnification determined by the magnification determining means Processing means for processing image data from the diagnostic imaging apparatus in an interpolation process corresponding to the above, and output means for recording an image on a film based on the image data processed by the processing means. Laser imager device. 5. Mode information storage means for storing interpolation mode information relating to image interpolation for each connected diagnostic imaging apparatus; magnification determining means for calculating an interpolation magnification of an image; receiving an image from the diagnostic imaging apparatus; Control means for extracting interpolation mode information corresponding to an image diagnostic apparatus from the mode information storage means, and determining an interpolation magnification in the magnification determining means; and performing interpolation processing according to the determined interpolation magnification, from the image diagnostic apparatus. A laser imager device comprising: a processing unit that processes the image data of the above; and an output unit that records an image on a film based on the image data processed by the processing unit.