Medical image photographing support apparatus, method of operating medical image photographing support apparatus, recording medium, program product, and medical image photographing system

Abstract

Provided is a medical image photographing support device capable of determining whether or not an installation state is eccentric, a medical image photographing support device, a method of operating a medical image photographing support device, a recording medium, a program product, and a medical image photographing system. The medical image photographing support device performs the following processes: acquiring a first photographing image of a subject obtained by photographing the subject placed on a table using a photographing device; detecting an adjustment reference provided on the table from the first photographing image; deriving a difference between a photographing image reference provided in the first photographing image and the adjustment reference; and determining eccentricity of an installation state of the photographing device based on the difference.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a medical imaging support device, a method and procedure for operating the medical imaging support device, and a medical imaging system. Background Technology

[0002] In medical imaging devices such as MRI and X-ray CT scanners, operators pre-set imaging conditions such as the patient's position, then fix the patient on a bed in a shielded room and begin scanning, thus commencing the examination. "Operator" refers to a technician or other person who operates the medical imaging device. The patient is the person being examined and can be referred to as the subject, examinee, or person subject to examination.

[0003] Additionally, MRI is an abbreviation for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and CT is an abbreviation for Computed Tomography.

[0004] In medical imaging devices equipped with cameras in the ceiling of a shielded room, the cameras can be used to capture images of a patient fixed on a bed, and the movement of the bed can be controlled based on the images of the patient captured in the medical imaging system.

[0005] Patent Document 1 describes an MRI device that uses a camera mounted on a head coil to capture images of a patient's head and monitors the movement of the patient's head. In the device described in this document, the difference between the current position of the camera and a reference position is derived through cross-calibration of the MRI coordinates and the optical coordinate system applicable to the camera.

[0006] Patent Document 2 describes a positioning method capable of repeatedly positioning a patient in an image diagnostic device or a radiotherapy device. In this method, the patient's positional offset is derived based on the difference between an image of the patient at an initial reference position and an image of the same patient taken within the same device using the same camera position, viewpoint, and camera axis.

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-538957

[0008] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-319930

[0009] However, due to accidental contact with cameras mounted on the ceiling or other surfaces, or camera vibrations caused by earthquakes, the pre-adjusted camera mounting may become misaligned. This misalignment can lead to reduced accuracy in the movement control of the bed using the camera images of the subject.

[0010] The device described in Patent Document 1 derives the difference between the current position and the reference position of the camera in the cross-calibration of the coordinate system of the MRI scanner and the coordinate system of the camera mounted on the head coil, etc., but it cannot solve the above-mentioned problem caused by the eccentricity of the installation state of the camera mounted on the head coil, etc.

[0011] In the method described in Patent Document 2, when medical images of the same patient are acquired using the same device, the position of the patient applicable to the initial image is reproduced in subsequent images, but this does not solve the aforementioned problem caused by the eccentricity of the camera's installation state. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The present invention was made in view of this situation, and its object is to provide a camera device for acquiring camera images of a subject, a medical image camera support device capable of determining whether the installation state is eccentric, a method and procedure for operating the medical image camera support device, and a medical image camera system.

[0013] The medical imaging support device according to the first aspect of the present invention includes: a processor; and a memory storing a program that causes the processor to execute, wherein the processor performs the following processing: acquiring a first image of the subject obtained by capturing the subject placed on a bed using an imaging device; detecting an adjustment reference specified on the bed from the first image; deriving the difference between the image reference set in the first image and the adjustment reference; and determining the eccentricity of the installation state of the imaging device based on the difference.

[0014] According to the medical imaging support device involved in the first method, the installation state eccentricity of the imaging device acquiring the imaging image is determined based on the difference between the imaging image reference set in the imaging image of the subject and the adjustment reference detected from the imaging image. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether the installation state of the imaging device is eccentric based on the determination result.

[0015] The difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference can be the difference between the positions of the camera image reference and the adjustment reference. The positions of the camera image reference and the adjustment reference can be represented using coordinate values ​​in the camera image.

[0016] The difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference can also be the difference between the directions of the camera image reference and the adjustment reference. The directions of the camera image reference and the adjustment reference can be represented by the in-plane rotation angle of the camera image.

[0017] In the medical image camera support device of the second method, if the difference exceeds the first range, the processor can determine that the installation state of the camera device has become eccentric.

[0018] In the third embodiment of the medical imaging support device, in the first or second embodiment, the processor can output a control signal to correct the movement control of the bed based on the difference.

[0019] In the medical imaging support device involved in the fourth method, if the difference exceeds the second range in any of the medical imaging support devices in the first to third methods, the processor can issue a warning.

[0020] In the medical imaging support device of the fifth method, in any of the medical imaging support devices of the first to fourth methods, the processor can detect the positioning light displayed on the bedside table as an adjustment reference.

[0021] In the fifth method, the processor can detect the position of the positioning light in the first camera image as the position of the adjustment reference.

[0022] In the medical image camera support device involved in the sixth method, in any of the medical image camera support devices in the first to fourth methods, the processor can detect image marks displayed on the bedside table as an adjustment reference.

[0023] In the medical image camera support device of the 7th method, the processor can detect the position of the image marker in the 1st image as the position of the adjustment reference.

[0024] In the medical image camera support device of the 8th method, the processor can perform the following processing: acquiring the shape of the image mark displayed on the bed as a camera image reference; detecting the shape of the image mark in the first camera image as an adjustment reference; and deriving the difference between the shape of the image mark displayed on the bed and the shape of the image mark in the first camera image.

[0025] In the medical imaging support device of the 9th method, in any of the 1st to 4th methods, the processor can detect the structure of the bed as an adjustment reference.

[0026] In the ninth method, the processor can detect the position of the structure of the bed as the position of the adjustment reference.

[0027] In the medical image camera support device involved in the 10th method, in any of the 1st to 9th methods, the processor can set the adjustment reference contained in the second camera image acquired by the camera device in the prescribed installation state as the camera image reference.

[0028] The operating method of the medical image camera support device according to the 11th aspect of the present invention is as follows: The computer, which functions as the medical image camera support device, performs the following processing: acquiring a first image of the subject obtained by taking a picture of the subject placed on a bed using an imaging device; detecting an adjustment reference specified on the bed from the first image; deriving the difference between the image reference set in the first image and the adjustment reference; and determining the eccentricity of the installation state of the imaging device based on the difference.

[0029] The method of operating the medical image capture support device according to the 11th aspect of the present invention can achieve the same effect as the medical image capture support device according to the 1st aspect. The constituent elements of the medical image capture support device according to the 2nd to 10th aspects can be applied as constituent elements of the method of operating the medical image capture support device according to other aspects.

[0030] The program involved in the 12th aspect of the present invention is a program that enables a computer, as a medical imaging support device, to perform the following functions: acquiring a first image of the subject obtained by taking a picture of the subject placed on a bed using an imaging device; detecting an adjustment reference specified on the bed from the first image; deriving the difference between the image reference set in the first image and the adjustment reference; and determining the eccentricity of the installation state of the imaging device based on the difference.

[0031] According to the procedure of the 12th aspect of the present invention, the same effect as that of the medical imaging support device according to the 1st aspect can be obtained. The constituent elements of the medical imaging support device according to the 2nd to 10th aspects can be applied to the constituent elements of the procedures according to other aspects.

[0032] The medical imaging system according to the 13th aspect of the present invention is a medical imaging system comprising: an imaging device for capturing images of a subject and generating imaging data of the subject; an image reconstruction unit for generating a reconstructed image based on the imaging data; a processor; and a memory for storing a program that causes the processor to execute, the processor performing the following processing: acquiring a first imaging image of the subject obtained by capturing images of the subject placed on a bed using the imaging device; detecting an adjustment reference specified on the bed from the first imaging image; deriving the difference between the imaging reference set in the first imaging image and the adjustment reference; and determining the eccentricity of the installation state of the imaging device based on the difference.

[0033] The medical imaging system according to the 13th aspect of the present invention can achieve the same effect as the medical imaging support device according to the 1st aspect. The constituent elements of the medical imaging support device according to the 2nd to 10th aspects can be applied as constituent elements of the medical imaging system according to other aspects.

[0034] -Invention Effects-

[0035] According to the present invention, the eccentricity of the installation state of the camera device acquiring the camera image is determined based on the difference between the camera image reference set in the camera image of the subject and the adjustment reference detected from the camera image. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether there is an eccentricity in the installation state of the camera device based on the determination result. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of the medical imaging system involved in the implementation method.

[0037] Figure 2 This is a functional block diagram representing an example of the electrical configuration of an automatic camera position movement control unit.

[0038] Figure 3 This is a block diagram representing an example of a hardware structure consisting of the electrical components of an operating unit.

[0039] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of an automatic camera position movement correction method.

[0040] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a camera image.

[0041] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the camera image when the camera's installation position is off-center in all directions.

[0042] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the camera image when the camera's installation state has undergone rotational eccentricity.

[0043] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a camera image representing a specific example of a camera image reference.

[0044] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram representing the first specific example of adjusting the reference.

[0045] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram representing the second specific example of adjusting the benchmark.

[0046] Figure 11 This is an illustrative diagram illustrating a variation of image markers.

[0047] Symbol Explanation

[0048] 1-Subject, 10-Medical imaging system, 20-Scanning gantry, 22-X-ray source, 24-Rotating plate, 25-Opening, 26-Collimator, 28-X-ray detector, 30-Data collection unit, 32-Table, 33-Tabletop, 50-Rotating plate control unit, 52-Table control unit, 54-X-ray control unit, 56-High voltage generation unit, 100-Operating unit, 102-Input device, 104-Image generation unit, 106-Display, 108-Storage device, 110-System control unit, 1 11-Automatic camera position movement control unit, 120-Camera, 130-Camera image acquisition unit, 132-Camera position setting unit, 134-Camera position adjustment unit, 140-Camera image reference setting unit, 142-Adjustment reference detection unit, 144-Difference confirmation unit, 146-Motion correction unit, 148-Warning determination unit, 202-Processor, 204-Memory, 206-Storage device, 208-Input / output interface, 210-Bus, 300-Camera image, 302-Positioning light, 302A - Line segment, 302B - Line segment, 303 - Intersection point, 304 - Camera position, 310 - Camera image, 312 - Positioning light, 312A - Line segment, 312B - Line segment, 313 - Intersection point, 314 - Camera position, 320 - Camera image, 322 - Positioning light, 322A - Line segment, 322B - Line segment, 323 - Intersection point, 324 - Camera position, 340 - Camera image, 342 - Positioning light, 343 - Intersection point, 346 - Image marker, 348 - Edge of bed, 350A - Camera image Reference, 350B - Camera image reference, 352 - Positioning light, 366 - Image marker, 400 - Schematic diagram, 402 - Camera image, 404 - AR marker, 410 - Schematic diagram, 412 - Camera image, 414 - AR marker, dX1 - Displacement, dX2 - Displacement, dY1 - Displacement, dY3 - Displacement, dθ2 - Angle, dθ3 - Angle, dθ5 - Angle, OA1 - Camera optical axis, OA2 - Camera optical axis, S10 to S24 - Each step of the automatic camera position movement correction method. Detailed Implementation

[0049] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the following description and drawings, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same constituent elements, and repeated descriptions are omitted. Also, when multiple constituent elements are exemplified in the following embodiments, it can be interpreted as including at least one of the multiple constituent elements.

[0050] [Structure example of a medical imaging camera system]

[0051] Figure 1This is a schematic structural diagram of the medical imaging system according to the embodiment. The medical imaging system 10 is a system for capturing medical images of the subject 1 used in diagnosis and other purposes by detecting X-rays transmitted through the subject 1 and nuclear magnetic resonance signals generated from the subject 1.

[0052] Hereinafter, as an example of a medical imaging system 10, an X-ray CT system is described that acquires X-ray projection images of a subject 1 at various projection angles and acquires tomographic images of the subject 1.

[0053] Figure 1 The medical imaging system 10 shown includes a scanning gantry 20, an operation unit 100, and a camera 120. The scanning gantry 20 and the camera 120 are disposed in an imaging chamber surrounded by a shielding material that blocks X-rays. The operation unit 100 is disposed in an operation room located outside the imaging chamber.

[0054] The scanning gantry 20 includes an X-ray source 22, a rotating plate 24, a collimator 26, an X-ray detector 28, a data collection unit 30, and a table 32. The scanning gantry 20 also includes a rotating plate control unit 50, a table control unit 52, an X-ray control unit 54, and a high-voltage generation unit 56.

[0055] X-ray source 22 irradiates the subject 1 placed on the bed 32 with X-rays. An example of X-ray source 22 is an X-ray tube device. Collimator 26 limits the irradiation range of the X-rays. Rotating plate 24 has an opening 25 for the subject 1 placed on the bed 32 to enter, and is equipped with X-ray source 22 and X-ray detector 28, allowing the X-ray source 22 and X-ray detector 28 to rotate around the subject 1.

[0056] The X-ray detector 28 is positioned opposite the X-ray source 22. The X-ray detector 28 is a device that includes multiple detection elements to detect X-rays transmitted through the subject 1 and to detect the spatial distribution of the X-rays, functioning as a detection unit for detecting signals received from the subject 1. The detection elements of the X-ray detector 28 are arranged two-dimensionally in the rotation direction and the rotation axis direction of the rotating plate 24. The data collection unit 30 collects the spatial distribution of the X-rays detected by the X-ray detector 28 as digital data.

[0057] The rotary plate control unit 50 controls the rotation and tilting of the rotary plate 24. The bed control unit 52 controls the forward, backward, width-direction movement, and lifting of the bed 32. The high-voltage generating unit 56 generates a high voltage applied to the X-ray source 22. The X-ray control unit 54 controls the output of the high-voltage generating unit 56. Furthermore, the scanning gantry unit 20 is an example of a component of an imaging unit that captures images of the subject of the present invention and generates imaging data of the subject.

[0058] The operation unit 100 includes an input device 102, an image generation unit 104, a display 106, a storage device 108, a system control unit 110, and an automatic camera position movement control unit 111.

[0059] The input device 102 is used to input examination data such as the subject's name, examination date and time, and imaging conditions. The input device 102 may include pointing devices such as a keyboard and mouse.

[0060] The image generation unit 104 uses digital data collected by the data collection unit 30 to generate a tomographic image. The image generation unit 104 is an example of the constituent elements of an image reconstruction unit that generates a reconstructed image from camera data according to the present invention.

[0061] The display 106 displays tomographic images generated by the image generation unit 104 and various information input using the input device 102. Examples of the display 106 include liquid crystal displays and organic EL displays. Alternatively, a touch panel display can be used to integrate the input device 102 and the display 106. EL is an abbreviation for electroluminescence.

[0062] Storage device 108 stores digital data collected by data collection unit 30, tomographic images generated by image generation unit 104, programs executed by system control unit 110, and data used by those programs. Storage device 108 can be compatible with HDDs and SSDs. HDD stands for Hard Disk Drive, and SSD stands for Solid State Drive.

[0063] The system control unit 110 reads programs corresponding to various functions of the medical imaging system 10 from the storage device 108 and executes these programs to achieve the various functions. That is, the system control unit 110 controls various processing units such as the rotary plate control unit 50, the bed control unit 52, and the X-ray control unit 54.

[0064] The system control unit 110 acquires various input information sent from the input device 102 and sends control signals corresponding to the input information to each unit. The system control unit 110 sends display signals representing information displayed on the display 106 to the display 106.

[0065] The system control unit 110 acquires camera images of the subject 1 placed on the bed table 32, transmitted from the camera 120. The system control unit 110 then transmits the camera images to the automatic camera position movement control unit 111.

[0066] The automatic camera position movement control unit 111 acquires camera images and determines the position of the camera-captured portion of the subject 1 based on the camera images. The position of the camera-captured portion of the subject 1 can be determined using coordinate values ​​from the camera images. Alternatively, the position of the camera-captured portion of the subject 1 can be determined using coordinate values ​​in real space converted from the coordinate values ​​in the camera images. Furthermore, the camera images are an example of camera images of the subject according to the present invention.

[0067] The system control unit 110 sets the camera center of the scanning frame unit 20 in the camera space. For example, the camera center in the camera space can be the coordinate value of the positioning light illuminating the camera space in real space.

[0068] The automatic camera position movement control unit 111 implements automatic camera position movement control of the bed 32 via the bed control unit, moving the bed 32 towards a position where the camera position of the subject 1 aligns with the camera center of the camera space. Alignment can include a deviation within a specified range. Further details regarding the automatic camera position movement control unit 111 will be described later.

[0069] The camera 120 captures an image of the patient 1 placed on the bed 32 from above. The camera 120 can be positioned on the ceiling of the imaging room or on the upper part of the scanning gantry 20, etc. In this embodiment, the camera 120 is shown positioned on the ceiling of the imaging room. The relative positional relationship between the camera 120 and the bed 32 is adjusted. The adjustment of the camera 120's mounting state is performed during the initial adjustment when the medical imaging system 10 is started. Adjustments to the camera 120's mounting state can be appropriately performed in case of abnormalities.

[0070] The camera image of the subject 1, captured by the camera 120 and placed on the bedside table 32, can be displayed on the monitor 106. The operator in the control room can visually recognize the camera image of the subject 1 and confirm the status of the subject 1. The camera image of the subject 1 can be used for movement control of the bedside table 32 towards the medical imaging space. The camera image of the subject 1 can be stored in the storage device 108.

[0071] According to the imaging conditions of the medical image set by the input device 102, the high voltage generating unit 56 generates a tube voltage applied to the X-ray source 22. The X-ray source 22 with the applied tube voltage irradiates the subject 1 with X-rays corresponding to the imaging conditions.

[0072] The X-ray detector 28 uses multiple detection elements to detect transmitted X-rays that have irradiated and transmitted through the subject 1 from the X-ray source 22, and to obtain the spatial distribution of the transmitted X-rays.

[0073] The rotating plate 24 is controlled by the rotating plate control unit 50. That is, the rotating plate 24 rotates according to the camera conditions obtained by the input device 102, especially the speed setting.

[0074] The bed 32 is controlled by the bed control unit 52. That is, the bed 32 moves relative to the rotating plate 24, so that the imaging area set for the subject 1 moves to the range of transmission X-ray detection, i.e., the imaging field of view.

[0075] During the rotation of the rotating plate 24, X-ray irradiation using the X-ray source 22 and X-ray detection using the X-ray detector 28 are repeatedly performed, and the X-ray projection image of the subject 1, i.e., the projection data, is measured at various projection angles. A corresponding relationship is established between the projection data and the views representing each projection angle and the detection element number of the X-ray detector 28. The detection element number may include channel number and column number.

[0076] The measured projection data is sent to the image generation unit 104. The image generation unit 104 performs backprojection processing on multiple projection data to generate a tomographic image. The generated tomographic image can be displayed as a medical image on the display 106 or stored in the storage device 108.

[0077] [Structural Example of an Automatic Camera Position Movement Control Unit]

[0078] Figure 2 This is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of the electrical configuration of the automatic camera position movement control unit. Before capturing medical images of the patient 1, the camera position of the patient 1 in the medical image capture is automatically set using the camera image of the patient 1 placed on the bed 32. The bed control unit 52 performs movement control of the bed 32 based on the information of the camera position of the patient 1 in the medical image capture.

[0079] The automatic camera position movement control unit 111 includes a camera image acquisition unit 130, a camera position setting unit 132, and a camera position adjustment unit 134. The storage device 108 stores adjustment data used for adjusting the camera position. The adjustment data can be generated for each facility and each operator. For example, the adjustment data can be a table associated with the identification information of each facility, or a table associated with the identification information of each operator.

[0080] The camera image acquisition unit 130 acquires camera images of the subject 1 obtained by the camera 120. The camera image can be a still image or a frame image constituting a moving image. The camera image acquisition unit 130 can acquire camera images generated in the camera 120, or it can acquire camera signals from the camera 120 and generate camera images based on the camera signals. That is, the term "acquisition" can encompass the generation and conversion of information.

[0081] The camera image acquisition unit 130 can... Figure 1 The system control unit 110 shown can acquire camera images, and can also be used as follows: Figure 2 As shown, the camera image is directly acquired from camera 120.

[0082] The camera location setting unit 132 sets the camera location of the subject 1 in the medical image capture based on the camera image acquired by the camera image acquisition unit 130. That is, the camera location setting unit 132 sets the camera location of the subject 1 in the medical image capture using the shape of the subject 1 extracted from the camera image and information about the examination area included in the imaging conditions.

[0083] For example, when the examination site is the chest, the camera position is set based on the position of the chin and the position of the shoulders inferred from the shape of the subject 1 in the camera image. The camera position setting unit 132 may include a learned model that has learned the shape of the human body and the camera position of the medical image of each examination site.

[0084] The camera position adjustment unit 134 adjusts the position of the camera position set by the camera position setting unit 132. During the adjustment of the camera position, adjustment data stored in the storage device 108 is used. The camera position adjustment unit 134 can read the adjustment data from the storage device 108 based on the identification information of each facility and the identification information of the operator.

[0085] The automatic camera position movement control unit 111 detects the deterioration in the accuracy of movement parameter calculation during automatic camera position movement caused by the eccentricity of the camera 120's installation state, and corrects it. Figure 1 The movement control of the camera portion of the subject 1 in the scanning gantry 20 towards the camera center in the imaging space.

[0086] The eccentricity of the camera 120's installation state refers to the offset in the positional relationship between the camera 120 and the bed platform 32. This offset can include offsets in the width direction, forward / backward direction, and rotation direction of the bed platform 32. Causes of this eccentricity include operator contact with the camera 120 and external forces applied to the camera 120 due to earthquakes.

[0087] The automatic camera position movement control unit 111 monitors the deviation of the camera's installation state based on the difference between a pre-set camera image reference and an adjustment reference reflected in the camera image, and issues a warning corresponding to the degree of deviation. Furthermore, the automatic camera position movement control unit 111 corrects the automatic camera position movement based on the deviation of the camera's installation state.

[0088] Furthermore, the automatic camera position movement control unit 111 is an example of a component of the medical image imaging support device of the present invention. The camera image reference is an example of an image imaging reference of the present invention.

[0089] The automatic camera position movement control unit 111 includes a camera image reference setting unit 140, an adjustment reference detection unit 142, a difference confirmation unit 144, a movement correction unit 146, and a warning determination unit 148.

[0090] The camera image reference setting unit 140 sets the camera image reference. The camera image reference can be applied to positioning lights, image markers, and the edges of the bed 32 in the camera image when the camera 120 is properly configured and adjusted. The camera image reference can use coordinate values ​​applicable to the camera image to represent the position in the camera image.

[0091] For example, a positioning light can be shone onto the position that enters the camera's field of view of the camera 120, and the positioning light in the camera image can be used as the camera image reference.

[0092] Here, the normal configuration of camera 120 means that the position and orientation of camera 120 are adjusted to a state within a specified error range relative to a pre-defined posture.

[0093] The camera image reference can be physically mounted on the bed frame 32, such as by a seal or tape affixed thereto, or optically displayed on the bed frame 32, such as by light shining onto it. Furthermore, the camera image when the camera 120 is properly configured and adjusted is an example of the second camera image of the present invention.

[0094] The adjustment reference detection unit 142 performs image processing such as object detection on the camera image and detects the adjustment reference contained in the camera image. The adjustment reference can be the positioning light, image markers, and edges of the bed frame 32 contained in the camera image. Similar to the camera image reference, the adjustment reference can be physically installed on the bed frame 32, such as a seal or tape attached to it, or optically displayed on the bed frame 32, such as light rays shining onto it.

[0095] For example, when the positioning light illuminating the bed 32 is set as the camera image reference, the positioning light contained in the camera image is detected as the adjustment reference. The position of the adjustment reference can be represented using coordinate values ​​applicable to the camera image. Furthermore, the camera image used in the detection of the adjustment reference is an example of the first camera image of the present invention.

[0096] The difference confirmation unit 144 confirms the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference. Confirmation of the difference may include deriving an index representing the difference. Derivation may include calculating the index value. The difference confirmation unit 144 determines whether the installation state of the camera 120 is skewed based on the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference. That is, if the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference exceeds a first range, the difference confirmation unit 144 determines that the installation state of the camera 120 is skewed. On the other hand, if the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference is within the first range, the installation state of the camera 120 can be determined to be a normal state without skew. The first range can be defined according to imaging conditions such as the imaging location of the medical image. Furthermore, the skewness of the installation state of the camera 120 is an example of skewness in the installation state of the imaging device of the present invention.

[0097] The difference confirmation unit 144 can determine whether the installation state of the camera 120 has been eccentric based on the difference in position between the first direction and the second direction orthogonal to the first direction. Orthogonality can include substantial orthogonality that intersects with a predetermined range of error relative to orthogonality.

[0098] The difference confirmation unit 144 can also determine whether the installation state of the camera 120 has been eccentric based on the difference in tilt relative to the first direction or the second direction. For example, the first direction may be the forward or backward direction of the bed platform 32 in the camera image, and the second direction may be the width direction of the bed platform 32 in the camera image.

[0099] The motion correction unit 146 performs automatic camera position movement correction calculations based on the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference. The automatic camera position movement correction calculations of the motion correction unit 146 may include processing that converts pixel positions in the camera image into positions in real space or processing that converts the number of pixels in the camera image into distances in real space.

[0100] The movement correction unit 146 sends the result of the automatic camera position movement correction calculation to the bed control unit 52. The bed control unit 52 corrects the automatic camera position movement based on the result of the automatic camera position movement correction calculation. Furthermore, the result of the automatic camera position movement correction calculation is an example of a control signal representing a correction of the bed movement control based on the differences of the present invention.

[0101] The warning determination unit 148 determines whether the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference constitutes a warning level. If the difference constitutes a warning level, the warning determination unit 148 issues a warning. Figure 2 As an example of a warning notification, the figure illustrates the display of warning information on display 106. The warning information displayed on display 106 can be character information. The character information may include symbols and graphics, etc. Warnings may be accompanied by audio information such as warning sounds and voices. Furthermore, the determination of whether a difference constitutes a warning level is an example of the determination of whether a difference exceeds the second range in this invention.

[0102] [Example of hardware structure for electrical components of the operating unit]

[0103] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the electrical configuration of the operation unit. The various processes of the operation unit 100 can be implemented using any computer. Any computer can execute the various processes of the operation unit 100 by having its processor execute a program.

[0104] Any computer can be a general-purpose computer such as a personal computer, or a computer designed for a specific purpose such as a server computer. Any computer can be a system such as a workstation, or other hardware components capable of executing programs such as a virtual machine.

[0105] At least a portion of the functionality of the operating unit 100 can be implemented using cloud computing. At least a portion of the functionality of the operating unit 100 can be provided as a SaaS. Furthermore, SaaS is an abbreviation for Software as a Service.

[0106] The operation unit 100 includes a processor 202, a memory 204 as a main storage device, a storage device 206 as an auxiliary storage device, an input / output interface 208, and a bus 210.

[0107] The processor 202 is connected to the memory 204, storage device 206, input / output interface 208, input device 102 and display 106 via bus 210.

[0108] Memory 204 includes RAM. Memory 204 may include ROM. Storage device 206 may be, for example, a hard disk drive, a solid-state drive, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, storage device 206 may include external storage devices such as removable media.

[0109] Additionally, RAM is an abbreviation for Random Access Memory, and ROM is an abbreviation for Read Only Memory. Hard disk drives (HDDs) can be referred to as Hard Disk Drives, and solid-state drives (SSDs) can be referred to as Solid State Drives.

[0110] The storage device, including memory 204 and storage device 206, stores programs or data that implement various functions of the operation unit 100. The processor 202 implements various functions by executing the programs stored in memory 204. The processor 202 centrally controls the various parts of the operation unit 100 and the various devices and units included in the operation unit 100 to perform various processes.

[0111] The input / output interface 208 includes a communication interface for connecting to telecommunications lines such as local area networks (LANs) and a connection interface for connecting to external devices. For example, the connection interface for connecting to external devices can be compatible with Universal Serial Bus (USB) or HDMI (HDMI is a registered trademark). HDMI is an abbreviation for High-Definition Multimedia Interface.

[0112] The processor 202 communicates with various devices of the operation unit 100 through the input / output interface 208 to send and receive various information.

[0113] Examples of input devices 102 include pointing devices such as keyboards and mice. Input device 102 may include numeric keys and various switch buttons. Input device 102 may include a voice input device. Input device 102 may be a touch panel type input device integrated with the display screen of display 106.

[0114] Display 106 can be a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic EL display (OLED), or a projector. Display 106 can also be a suitable combination of LCDs, etc. In addition to images captured by the operation unit 100, various information is displayed on display 106. Display 106 serves as part of the user interface (UI) when receiving input from input device 102. Display 106 is not limited to one; it can also be a multi-display setup with multiple display devices. Furthermore, organic EL can be abbreviated as OEL (organic electroluminescence). UI is an abbreviation for User Interface.

[0115] In this embodiment, each process is executed by any computer. Furthermore, any computer may employ a processor, a program, or a combination thereof to execute these processes. Any computer may be a general-purpose computer, a purpose-built computer, a workstation, or other hardware capable of executing programs.

[0116] The processor 202 can be configured using one or more hardware components, and the type of hardware is not limited. The hardware of the processor 202 can include programmable logic devices such as CPUs, MPUs, and FPGAs. The processor 202 can also include dedicated circuits such as ASICs that perform specific processing. The hardware of the processor 202 can include GPUs specifically designed for image processing and NPUs specifically designed for AI processing.

[0117] The processor 202 functions as various processing units (Units) and various processing mechanisms (Means) that perform various processes.

[0118] Additionally, CPU stands for Central Processing Unit, MPU for Micro-Processing Unit, and FPGA for Field-Programmable Gate Array. GPU stands for Graphics Processing Unit, AI for Artificial Intelligence, and NPU for Neural Network Processing Unit.

[0119] The processor 202 can be constructed by combining different types of hardware. The hardware of the processor 202 can be a circuit composed of semiconductor components and other circuit elements.

[0120] When multiple pieces of hardware execute any one or more processes of processor 202, each of the multiple pieces of hardware may be configured in a physically separate device or in the same device. The order in which the processes executed by processor 202 are executed is not limited to the order disclosed in this specification and may be modified as appropriate. The hardware is constructed using circuits or the like, which combine circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0121] Furthermore, this implementation can be achieved using hardware, software, firmware, microcode, or a combination thereof. Software, firmware, and microcode can be configured as programs. For example, a program can be a group of program modules, and the functions of the software can be implemented using processors that execute the respective functions.

[0122] A program may be, for example, program code and multiple code segments stored on one or more non-transitory computer-readable media such as storage media and storage devices. A program may be divided and stored on multiple non-transitory computer-readable media existing in physically separate devices.

[0123] Program code or code segments can represent any combination of procedures, functions, subroutines, routines, subroutines, modules, software packages, classes, commands, data structures, or program statements. Program code or code segments can be connected to other code segments or hardware circuits by sending and receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents.

[0124] [The process of automatic camera position movement correction method]

[0125] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of an automatic camera position movement correction method. Figure 4 The automatic camera position movement correction method shown in the figure is achieved by using [a method] as [a method]. Figure 1 The operation unit 100 shown is implemented by a computer execution program.

[0126] In step S10, the camera image acquisition unit 130 acquires a camera image. The acquisition of the camera image can be performed according to instructions input by the operator using the input device 102. In step S10, one camera image or multiple camera images can be acquired. Multiple camera images can be multiple still images or multiple frames contained in a moving image.

[0127] In step S12, the camera image reference setting unit 140 sets the camera image reference. In step S12, a pre-stored camera image reference can be read and set.

[0128] In step S14, the adjustment reference detection unit 142 detects adjustment references from the camera image acquired in step S10. In step S14, adjustment references selected from a plurality of candidate adjustment references can be selectively detected. In step S14, the position of the adjustment reference, represented using coordinate values ​​from the camera image, can be derived.

[0129] In step S16, the difference confirmation unit 144 confirms the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference, and determines whether the installation state of the camera 120 has become eccentric based on the difference. In step S16, the installation state of the camera 120 can be determined to be eccentric based on the difference between the position of the camera image reference and the position of the adjustment reference.

[0130] In step S16, it is determined whether the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference exceeds the first range. If the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference exceeds the first range, it is determined that the installation state of the camera 120 has become eccentric.

[0131] In step S18, the motion correction unit 146 performs correction calculations for the automatic camera position movement. The motion correction unit 146 then sends the results of the automatic camera position movement correction calculations to the bed control unit 52.

[0132] In step S20, the warning determination unit 148 determines whether the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference exceeds the warning level. If it determines that the difference exceeds the warning level, it determines "yes" and proceeds to step S22.

[0133] In step S22, the warning determination unit 148 issues a warning indicating that the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference exceeds the warning level. The warning issued in step S22 may be a warning that prompts maintenance such as adjustment of the camera 120. If the warning is issued in step S22, the process proceeds to step S24.

[0134] On the other hand, in step S20, if it is determined that the warning level has not been exceeded, a "No" decision is made, and the process proceeds to step S24. In step S24, the movement correction unit 146 performs correction of the automatic camera position movement. That is, the movement correction unit 146 sends the result of the automatic camera position movement correction calculation calculated in step S18 to the bed control unit 52. The bed control unit 52 performs automatic camera position movement control using the result of the correction calculation.

[0135] The automatic camera position movement correction method can be implemented each time a medical image is captured, or it can be implemented when the medical imaging camera system 10 is started every workday. It can also be implemented during regular maintenance of the medical imaging camera system 10. Furthermore, it can be implemented in case of an anomaly such as an emergency stop of the medical imaging camera system 10. Moreover, the automatic camera position movement correction method can be implemented according to operator instructions. This automatic camera position movement correction method is an example of the operating method of the medical imaging camera support device of the present invention.

[0136] [Specific examples of camera image reference and adjustment reference]

[0137] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a camera image. Figure 5 schematically shown Figure 1 A portion of the camera image 300 when the camera 120 is properly configured and adjusted.

[0138] Figure 5 In this context, DY- indicates the forward direction of the bed 32 towards the camera space of the medical image, and DY+ indicates the backward direction of the bed 32 from the camera space of the medical image. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the forward and backward directions, both will sometimes be referred to collectively as the forward and backward directions. Furthermore, DX indicates the width direction of the bed 32. Regarding... Figures 6 to 11 The same.

[0139] Figure 5 The camera image 300 shown includes the subject 1 lying supine in a head-first position. The positioning light 302 illuminating the bed 32 and the imaging portion 304 of the subject 1 in the medical image are schematically shown in the camera image 300. Figure 5 In the image, the heart is shown as an example, serving as the camera location 304.

[0140] Automatic camera position movement is a function that moves the bed 32 to move the camera portion 304 of the subject 1 placed on the bed 32 toward a predetermined camera center in the imaging space of the medical image. The camera center is defined as the intersection of the positioning lights illuminating the imaging space.

[0141] In addition, it means Figure 5 The two dashed lines at the camera location 304 shown are virtual lines that are not included in the actual camera image 300. Furthermore, Figure 5 The dashed line with arrows shown is a schematic representation of the automatic camera position movement when the intersection 303 of the positioning light 302 shown in the figure is assumed to be the camera center of the medical image's imaging space.

[0142] Figure 2 The camera part setting unit 132 shown acquires... Figure 5 The position of the camera portion 304 in the camera image 300 shown. Figure 5 In the image, position 304 is used as an example to illustrate the representative position of the heart as the examination site. The representative position of the examination site can be a geometrical representation or an anatomical representation. For example, the center of gravity can be considered a geometrical representation.

[0143] The camera image reference setting unit 140 can set the positioning light 302 contained in the camera image 300 as the camera image reference. Figure 5 The image shows a positioning light 302 comprising a line segment 302A extending along the width direction of the bed 32 and a line segment 302B extending along the forward and backward direction of the bed 32.

[0144] The camera image reference setting unit 140 can set the position of the intersection point 303 of line segment 302A and line segment 302B as the position of the camera image reference. The position of the intersection point 303 in the camera image 300 can be represented using coordinate values ​​applicable to the camera image 300.

[0145] For example, the position of the camera image reference in the width direction of the bed platform 32 can be the coordinate value of the intersection point 303 in the same direction. Similarly, the position of the camera image reference in the forward and backward directions of the bed platform 32 can be the coordinate value of the intersection point 303 in the same direction.

[0146] The camera image reference setting unit 140 can also... Figure 5 Image markers not shown and the edge of the bed 32 are set as camera image references. The camera image reference setting unit 140 can store the set camera image references.

[0147] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a camera image when the camera's installation position is off-center in all directions. In this diagram, dashed lines are used to indicate areas not included in the camera image 310. Figure 5 The positioning light 302 is shown. Regarding... Figure 7 The same.

[0148] because Figure 1 The camera 120 shown is eccentric in all directions (forward, backward, left, and right). Figure 6 The camera portion 314 in the camera image 310 shown is relative to Figure 5 The camera portion 304 in the camera image 300 shown extends along the width direction of the bed frame 32. Figure 6The displacement occurred to the right and also moved backward towards the bed 32.

[0149] Similarly, Figure 6 The positioning light 312 in the camera image 310 shown is relative to Figure 5 The positioning light 302 in the camera image 300 shown is directed towards the width of the bed 32. Figure 6 It shifted to the right and also shifted backward towards the bed 32. Figure 6 The displacement of the bed platform 32 in the width direction in the camera image 310 shown is represented by the symbol dX1, and the displacement of the bed platform 32 in the backward direction is represented by the symbol dY1.

[0150] Figure 2 The camera image reference setting unit 140 shown can set the positioning light 302 as the camera image reference in the camera image 310. The camera image reference setting unit 140 can set the coordinate value of the intersection point 303 of the positioning light 302 as the position of the camera image reference in the camera image 310.

[0151] The adjustment reference detection unit 142 detects the positioning light 312 from the camera image 310 as an adjustment reference in the camera image 310. The adjustment reference detection unit 142 can obtain the coordinate value of the intersection point 313 of the line segment 312A extending along the width direction of the bed 32 and the line segment 312B extending along the forward and backward direction of the bed 32 contained in the positioning light 312 as the position of the adjustment reference.

[0152] As a difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference, the difference confirmation unit 144 confirms the difference between the positioning light 302 and the positioning light 312. For example, as a difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference in the width direction of the bed 32, the difference between the coordinate value of the intersection point 303 of the positioning light 302 and the coordinate value of the intersection point 313 of the positioning light 312 can be calculated.

[0153] Specifically, the difference confirmation unit 144 can calculate the displacement dX1 in the width direction of the bed 32 as the difference between the coordinate value of the intersection point 303 of the positioning light 302 and the coordinate value of the intersection point 313 of the positioning light 312, and calculate the displacement dY1 in the forward and backward direction of the bed 32 as the difference between the coordinate value of the intersection point 303 of the positioning light 302 and the coordinate value of the intersection point 313 of the positioning light 312.

[0154] The motion correction unit 146 performs automatic camera position movement correction calculations based on the difference between the positioning light 302 and the positioning light 312. For example, the motion correction unit 146 uses the displacement dX1 in the width direction of the bed 32 and the displacement dY1 in the forward and backward direction of the bed 32 to calculate the correction value of the movement distance of the automatic camera position movement derived from the position of the camera part 314 of the camera image 310.

[0155] Based on Figure 6 In the correction of automatic camera position movement in the camera image 310 shown, the automatic camera position movement, schematically indicated by the dashed line with arrows in the figure, is corrected as follows: Figure 5 The movement of the automatic camera position is schematically shown using dashed lines with arrows.

[0156] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the camera image when the camera's installation has undergone rotational eccentricity. Because... Figure 1 The rotational eccentricity of the camera 120 in its installed state is shown. Figure 7 The subject 1 in the camera image 320 shown is relative to Figure 5 The subject 1 in the camera image 300 shown has rotated. Figure 7 The image shown in camera image 320 shows the subject 1 in the width direction of the bed 32. Figure 7 An example where the image has shifted to the right and rotated clockwise in the same direction.

[0157] Similarly, Figure 7 The positioning light 322 in the camera image 320 shown is relative to the positioning light 302, and is directed towards the width direction of the bed 32. Figure 7 The displacement occurred to the right and it rotated clockwise in the diagram. The displacement in the width direction of the platform 32 is represented by the symbol dX2, and the displacement in the rotation direction is represented by the symbol dθ2. The displacement in the rotation direction has the same meaning as the rotation angle. In addition, symbols 322A and 322B are line segments included in the positioning light 322, representing line segments that are orthogonal to each other. Furthermore, symbol 323 represents the intersection point of line segments 322A and 322B.

[0158] With positioning light 302 set as the camera image reference and positioning light 322 detected as the adjustment reference, the difference confirmation unit 144 outputs the difference between positioning light 302 and positioning light 322. Specifically, the difference confirmation unit 144 can calculate the displacement dX2 in the width direction and the displacement dθ2 in the rotation direction of the bed 32.

[0159] The motion correction unit 146 performs automatic camera position movement correction calculations based on the difference between the positioning light 302 and the positioning light 322. For example, the motion correction unit 146 uses the displacement dX2 in the width direction and the displacement dθ2 in the rotation direction of the platform 32 to calculate the correction value of the automatic camera position movement distance calculated based on the position of the camera part 324 of the camera image 320.

[0160] Based on Figure 7 In the correction of automatic camera position movement in the camera image 320 shown, the automatic camera position movement, schematically indicated by the dashed line with arrows in the figure, is corrected as follows: Figure 5 The movement of the automatic camera position is schematically shown using dashed lines with arrows.

[0161] [Specific examples of camera image references]

[0162] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a camera image representing a specific example of a camera image reference. In this diagram, a camera image 340 encompassing the entire bed 32 is shown. Two mutually orthogonal dashed lines, as shown in the diagram, define the center of the camera image 340, which can be displayed on the camera image 340.

[0163] The camera image reference can be applied to the positioning light 342, image marker 346, and edge 348 of the bed 32, which are located in the camera space outside the scanning frame section 20.

[0164] exist Figure 8 In the positioning light 342 shown, the position of the intersection point 343 in the width direction of the bed 32 coincides with the center position of the bed 32 in the same direction, and also coincides with the center position of the camera image 340 in the same direction. The position of the intersection point 343 of the positioning light 342 in the forward and backward directions can be any position in the same direction, preferably a position separated from the camera part 304 of the subject 1 by a predetermined distance.

[0165] about Figure 8 The image marker 346 shown has its center position in the width direction of the bed 32 consistent with the center position of the bed 32 in the same direction, and also consistent with the center position of the camera image 340 in the same direction. The position of the image marker 346 in the forward and backward directions can be arbitrary, but is preferably located at a predetermined distance from the camera portion 304 of the subject 1. Figure 8 The image shows an example of the centroid position of the image marker 346 as the position of the image marker 346.

[0166] The edge of the bed 32 used as a camera image reference can be the edge of the bed 32 on the right side of the figure, or the edge of the bed 32 on the left side of the figure, or the front end in the forward direction, or the front end in the backward direction. Furthermore, the front end in the forward direction of the bed 32 is... Figure 8 The upper edge of the figure is the lower edge of the figure, and the front end in the backward direction is the lower edge of the figure.

[0167] The camera image reference can be specified in the camera image 340 of the bed 32 where the subject 1 is not placed, or it can be specified in... Figure 5 The subject 1 shown is placed on the bedside table 32 and is defined in the camera image 300.

[0168] [Specific examples of adjusting the benchmark]

[0169] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the first specific example of adjusting the reference. In this diagram, a device is shown... Figure 5 A portion of the tabletop 33 of the bed 32 for the subject 1, as shown. Furthermore, in Figure 9 In the image, a single-dotted line is used to indicate the camera image reference 350A in the width direction of the bed platform 32 and the camera image reference 350B in the forward and backward direction of the bed platform 32. (About...) Figure 10 The same.

[0170] exist Figure 9 In this example, as a first specific example of the adjustment reference, a positioning light 352 is shown that illuminates the platform 33 of the bed 32. Figure 9 The positioning light 352 shown is positioned relative to the camera image reference 350B in the forward and backward directions of the bed 32. It is only displaced by a displacement amount dY3 in the forward direction, and... Figure 9 The clockwise rotation only involves a displacement dθ3.

[0171] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a second specific example of the adjustment reference. In this diagram, an image marker 366 with a triangular shape is shown as the second specific example of the adjustment reference. The image marker 366 is displaced by a displacement amount d×4 in the right direction of the diagram relative to the camera image reference 350A in the same direction, along the width direction of the platform 32.

[0172] Furthermore, the image marker 366 is displaced by only a displacement amount dY4 relative to the camera image reference 350B in the same direction in the forward direction of the bed 32.

[0173] Figure 11This is an explanatory diagram of a variation of the image marker. The symbol DZ shown in this diagram represents the vertical upward direction. In schematic diagram 400, AR marker 404 is shown in a camera image 402 captured by a camera 120 that is properly mounted and adjusted. In schematic diagram 400, a camera 120 is shown that is properly mounted and adjusted with its camera optical axis OA1 pointing in the vertical downward direction.

[0174] In schematic diagram 410, an AR marker 414 is shown in a camera image 412 captured by a camera 120 with an eccentric mounting configuration. Schematic diagram 410 also shows a camera 120 with its optical axis OA2 oriented in a direction that has been rotated only by a displacement dθ5 relative to the vertical direction. Additionally, AR is an abbreviation for Augmented Reality.

[0175] The AR mark 414 in the camera image 412 is visually perceived as a trapezoid because of the eccentricity of the camera 120's mounting position, which makes its original rectangular shape appear as a trapezoid. Figure 2 The difference confirmation unit 144 shown can use the difference in shape between the AR mark 404, which is visually perceived as a rectangle, and the AR mark 414, which is visually perceived as a trapezoid, as the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference.

[0176] Additionally, the trapezoid referred to herein may be a substantial trapezoid that is not a straight line but is, for example, curved, at least part or all of any one side, but can be identified as a trapezoid as a whole.

[0177] The motion correction unit 146 can perform automatic camera position movement correction calculations based on the shape difference between AR marker 404 and AR marker 414. Furthermore, the shape of AR marker 404 is not limited to a rectangle; it can be any shape that is distorted in the camera image due to the eccentricity of the camera 120's mounting position.

[0178] [Effects of the Implementation Method]

[0179] The medical imaging system 10 and the automatic camera position movement correction method involved in the implementation can achieve the following effects.

[0180] [1]

[0181] A camera image reference is established by capturing camera images 310 of the subject 1 placed on the bed 32 using a camera 120 mounted on the ceiling or similar surface. The reference is then checked and adjusted based on the camera images 310. The difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference is used to determine whether the installation state of the camera 120 has become skewed. This allows operators to ascertain the skewness of the camera 120's installation state.

[0182] [2]

[0183] The automatic camera position movement control of the bed 32 is corrected based on the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference. This corrects the automatic camera position movement of the bed 32 based on the results of the correction calculation, thus suppressing any decrease in the accuracy of the automatic camera position movement of the bed 32.

[0184] [3]

[0185] The system determines whether the difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference exceeds the warning level. If the difference exceeds the warning level, a warning is issued. This notifies operators that the installation status of camera 120 has become misaligned.

[0186] [4]

[0187] The camera image reference and adjustment reference can be applied to the positioning light illuminating the bed 32, image markers, and the structure of the bed 32. Therefore, a camera image reference can be set for the camera image 310, and the adjustment reference can be detected from the camera image 310, etc.

[0188] [5]

[0189] The difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference can be applied to the difference between the position of the camera image reference and the position of the adjustment reference. Therefore, it is possible to determine the eccentricity of the camera 120's installation state in the width direction and the forward and backward directions of the bed platform 32.

[0190] [6]

[0191] The difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference can be applied to differences in the rotational direction within the camera image. Therefore, the rotational eccentricity of the camera 120's installation state can be determined.

[0192] [7]

[0193] The difference between the camera image reference and the adjustment reference can be attributed to the difference between the shapes of the camera image reference and the adjustment reference. Therefore, the difference between the shapes of the camera image reference and the adjustment reference is used to determine whether the installation state of the camera 120 has become misaligned.

[0194] [Examples of applicability to programs and program products]

[0195] The automatic camera position movement correction method involved in the implementation method can be configured as a program or program product in which the functions of each step are implemented by a processor or a computer equipped with a processor.

[0196] For example, the program or the program product can enable the computer to perform the following functions: acquire camera images; set a camera image reference for the camera images; detect and adjust the reference from the camera images; and determine whether the installation state of the camera 120 has become eccentric based on the difference between the adjustment reference and the camera image reference.

[0197] Furthermore, the program or the program product can also enable the computer to perform the following functions: to perform correction calculations for the automatic camera position movement of the bed 32 based on the difference between the adjustment reference and the camera image reference; to correct the automatic camera position movement based on the result of the correction calculation; to determine whether the difference between the adjustment reference and the camera image reference is a warning level; and to issue warnings, etc.

[0198] Programs or program products may be stored in a computer-readable medium that is a tangible, non-transitory information storage medium, or may be provided through such an information storage medium.

[0199] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and intent of the invention. Furthermore, the first to fourth embodiments can be appropriately combined.

Claims

1. A medical imaging support device, comprising: Processor; and The memory stores programs that the processor executes. The processor performs the following processing: Acquire a first camera image of the subject by photographing the subject placed on a bed table using a camera device; Detect the adjustment reference specified on the bed table from the first camera image; Export the difference between the camera image reference set in the first camera image and the adjustment reference; and The eccentricity of the installation state of the camera device is determined based on the difference.

2. The medical image capture support device according to claim 1, wherein, If the difference exceeds the first range, the processor determines that the installation state of the camera device has become eccentric.

3. The medical imaging support device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The processor outputs a control signal that corrects the movement control of the bed based on the difference.

4. The medical image capture support device according to claim 1, wherein, If the difference exceeds the second range, the processor issues a warning.

5. The medical imaging support device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The processor detects the positioning light displayed on the bed as the adjustment reference.

6. The medical imaging support device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The processor detects image markers displayed on the bedside table as the adjustment reference.

7. The medical image capture support device according to claim 6, wherein, The processor detects the position of the image marker in the first camera image as the position of the adjustment reference.

8. The medical image capture support device according to claim 6, wherein, The processor performs the following processing: The shape of the image marker displayed on the bedside table is used as the reference for the camera image; The shape of the image marker in the first camera image is used as the adjustment reference. and As a result of the difference, the shape of the image marker displayed on the bedside table is derived to differ from the shape of the image marker in the first camera image.

9. The medical imaging support device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The processor detects the structure of the bed as the adjustment reference.

10. The medical imaging support device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The processor sets the adjustment reference contained in the second camera image acquired by the camera device in the specified installation state as the camera image reference.

11. A method of operating a medical imaging support device, wherein, The computer, which functions as a medical imaging support device, performs the following processing: Acquire a first camera image of the subject by photographing the subject placed on a bed table using a camera device; Detect the adjustment reference specified on the bed table from the first camera image; Export the difference between the camera image reference set in the first camera image and the adjustment reference; and The eccentricity of the installation state of the camera device is determined based on the difference.

12. A non-transitory and computer-readable recording medium containing a program that, when read by a computer functioning as a medical imaging support device, causes the computer to perform the working method of claim 11.

13. A program product, when read by a computer functioning as a medical imaging support device, causes the computer to perform the following functions: The function of acquiring a first camera image of the subject, obtained by using a camera device to capture the subject placed on a bedside table; The function of detecting the adjustment reference specified on the bed table from the first camera image; The function of exporting the difference between the camera image reference set in the first camera image and the adjustment reference; and The function of determining the eccentricity of the installation state of the camera device based on the difference is as follows.

14. A medical imaging system, comprising: The camera device captures images of the subject and generates video data of the subject. The image reconstruction unit generates a reconstructed image based on the camera data; Processor; and The memory stores programs that the processor executes. The processor performs the following processing: Acquire a first camera image of the subject by photographing the subject placed on the bed table using the camera device; Detect the adjustment reference specified on the bed table from the first camera image; Export the difference between the camera image reference set in the first camera image and the adjustment reference; and The eccentricity of the installation state of the camera device is determined based on the difference.

Images