Medical image diagnosis device and control method

Abstract

The medical image diagnosis device of this embodiment comprises: a gantry; at least one support; an image generating unit; a supporting moving mechanism; and a mechanism control unit. The gantry has an imaging system related to imaging of a subject. At least one support supports the gantry so as to be movable in a vertical direction. The image generating unit generates an image based on an output from the imaging system. The supporting moving mechanism is configured to be movable in a direction intersecting the direction of movement of the gantry, and supports the subject from below. The mechanism control unit controls the movement of the supporting moving mechanism.

Description

[0001] Reference to related applications

[0002] This application benefits from the priority of Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-126390 filed on July 27, 2020 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-110162 filed on July 1, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments generally relate to a medical image diagnosis apparatus and a control method. Background Art

[0004] Conventionally, there are known medical image diagnosis devices such as X-ray computed tomography (CT) devices that can image subjects in a standing or sitting position. In the imaging space of the medical image diagnosis device, the user performs an inquiry to the subject while placing the subject at a position desired by the user, and the subject moves according to the user's instructions. Since the subject cannot be freely moved according to the user's intention, there is a problem in that high-quality medical images cannot be obtained in the medical image diagnosis device.

[0005] Therefore, in a medical image diagnosis apparatus using a mobile terminal, the throughput of examination may be reduced. Summary of the invention

[0006] The medical image diagnostic device involved in the embodiment comprises a gantry, at least one support, a processing circuit and a supporting moving mechanism. The gantry has a camera system related to the camera of the subject. At least one support supports the gantry so that it can move in a vertical direction. The processing circuit generates an image based on the output from the camera system. The indicating moving mechanism is set to be able to move in a direction intersecting the direction of movement of the gantry, supporting the subject from below. The processing circuit controls the movement of the supporting moving mechanism. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing a configuration example of an upright CT apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of the positioning process according to the embodiment.

[0009] Figure 3 The present invention relates to the embodiment and is a diagram showing an example of a case where a pre-scan is performed on a subject that is positioned on a support movement mechanism in an upright state.

[0010] Figure 4The present invention relates to the embodiment and is a diagram showing an example of the positional relationship between the region of interest, the opening, and the support movement mechanism set in the pre-scan image.

[0011] Figure 5 Involving implementation methods, is about Figure 4 The pre-scan image shown is a diagram showing an example of the movement of the support movement mechanism based on the mechanism control function.

[0012] Figure 6 Involving implementation methods, is to Figure 5 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the support moving mechanism after movement together with a pre-scan image, a region of interest, and an imaging center.

[0013] Figure 7 It is a diagram showing a configuration example of an upright CT apparatus according to a modified example of the embodiment.

[0014] Figure 8 The modification example according to the embodiment is a diagram showing an example of the positional relationship of a plurality of gas bags with respect to a subject.

[0015] Fig. 9 The modification example according to the embodiment is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the pump control process.

[0016] Fig.10 The modification example according to the embodiment is a diagram showing an example of the positional relationship among a region of interest, an opening, and a plurality of gas bags in a subject during a pre-scan.

[0017] Fig.11 A modification example of the embodiment is about Fig.10 The figure shows an example of injecting gas into each of the plurality of gas bags and exhausting gas from each of the plurality of gas bags.

[0018] Fig.12 The first application example according to the embodiment is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of a center-of-gravity tracking process.

[0019] Fig.13 The first application example according to the embodiment is a diagram showing an example of how gravity changes according to the tilt of a subject.

[0020] Fig.14 The first application example according to the embodiment is a diagram showing an example of a support moving mechanism that moves in the X direction as the center of gravity of the subject moves due to the inclination of the subject's posture.

[0021] Fig.15 It is a diagram showing a configuration example of an upright CT apparatus according to a third application example of the embodiment.

[0022] Fig.16This is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of a motion tracking process according to the third application example of the embodiment.

[0023] Fig.17 The fourth application example according to the embodiment is a diagram showing an example of a plurality of sensors provided between the support movement mechanism and the top plate.

[0024] Fig.18 It is a diagram showing a configuration example of an upright CT apparatus according to a sixth application example of the embodiment.

[0025] Fig.19 This is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of a positioning process according to a sixth application example of the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Hereinafter, the implementation of the medical image diagnostic apparatus will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In order to make the description more specific, it is assumed that the medical image diagnostic apparatus is an X-ray computed tomography apparatus (hereinafter referred to as a standing CT (Computed tomography) apparatus) that can photograph a subject in a standing state or a sitting state. The standing state refers to a state in which the subject is standing upright on the ground on which the standing CT apparatus 1 is installed. In addition, the sitting state refers to a state in which the subject is sitting in a wheelchair or a chair (hereinafter referred to as a wheelchair, etc.). In addition, the standing CT apparatus 1 only needs to be able to photograph a subject in a standing state at least.

[0027] In addition, the medical image diagnosis apparatus of the embodiment is not limited to the standing CT apparatus 1. For example, the technical idea of ​​the present embodiment can be appropriately implemented by a magnetic resonance imaging apparatus or a nuclear medicine diagnosis apparatus that can image a subject in a standing state or a sitting state. In the following embodiments, parts marked with the same reference numerals are assumed to perform the same operation, and repeated descriptions are appropriately omitted.

[0028] (Implementation Method)

[0029] The medical image diagnostic device of the embodiment comprises a gantry, at least one support, a processing circuit and a supporting moving mechanism. The gantry has an imaging system related to imaging of a subject. At least one support supports the gantry so that it can move in a vertical direction. The processing circuit generates an image based on the output from the imaging system. The indicating moving mechanism is configured to be able to move in a direction intersecting the direction of movement of the gantry, supporting the subject from below. The processing circuit controls the movement of the supporting moving mechanism.

[0030] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a standing CT apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. Figure 1As shown, the standing CT apparatus 1 of this embodiment includes a gantry device 10 and a console device 100. For example, the gantry device 10 is set in a CT imaging room, and the console device 100 is set in a control room adjacent to the CT examination room. The gantry device 10 and the console device 100 are connected by wire or wirelessly in a manner that allows mutual communication. In addition, in this embodiment, the axial direction perpendicular to the ground, that is, the vertical direction is defined as the Z-axis direction, and two directions orthogonal to the Z-axis direction and orthogonal to each other are defined as the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction.

[0031] The gantry device 10 is a scanning device having a structure for performing X-ray CT imaging on a subject in a sitting state or a standing state. The console device 100 is a computer for controlling the gantry device 10. The gantry device 10 has a frame (gantry) 11, a support column 13, a rotation drive device 23, a gantry control circuit 25, a support column drive device 27, an operation panel 29, and a support moving mechanism 35.

[0032] The frame 11 has an opening 15 that forms an imaging space related to imaging of the subject. For example, the frame 11 is a substantially cylindrical structure having the opening 15 formed therein. Figure 1 As shown, the gantry 11 accommodates an X-ray tube 17 and an X-ray detector 19 which are arranged in a manner opposite to each other with an opening 15 therebetween. The X-ray tube 17 and the X-ray detector 19 are included in an imaging system related to imaging of the subject in this embodiment. In addition, the imaging system may further include a data acquisition circuit (hereinafter referred to as DAS (Data Acquisition System)) 33, a high voltage generator 31, a collimator, and a wedge. That is, the gantry 11 has an imaging system related to imaging of the subject. The gantry 11 is supported by the support 13 in a manner that allows it to move in the vertical direction along the support 13.

[0033] The frame 11 includes a main frame (not shown) formed of a metal such as aluminum, and a rotating frame 21 supported by the main frame so as to be rotatable around a rotation axis A1 via bearings, etc. An annular electrode (not shown) is provided at a contact portion between the main frame and the rotating frame 21. A conductive sliding member (not shown) is mounted on the contact portion of the main frame in a manner that slides in contact with the annular electrode.

[0034] The support 13 is a base body that supports the gantry 11 away from the ground. The support 13 has a columnar shape such as a cylindrical shape or a prism shape. The support 13 is formed of any material such as plastic or metal. The support 13 is attached to the side surface of the gantry 11. In order to perform X-ray CT imaging of a subject in a sitting or standing position, the support 13 supports the gantry 11 in a state where the rotation axis A1 of the opening 15 is oriented approximately perpendicular to the ground so as to be able to slide in the vertical direction relative to the ground.

[0035] Typically, the support pillars 13 are provided on both sides of the frame 11. However, the present embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, one support pillar 13 may be connected to only one side of the two sides of the frame 11. That is, at least one support pillar 13 supports the frame 11 so as to be movable in the vertical direction. In addition, the support pillars 13 are assumed to have a columnar shape, but the present embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the support pillars 13 may have any shape such as a U-shape if they can support at least one side of the frame 11.

[0036] In addition, the support 13 does not need to fix the frame 11 in a manner that the rotation axis A1 is perpendicular to the ground. In other words, the support 13 may be configured to support the frame 11 so that it can rotate around a horizontal axis (hereinafter referred to as a tilt axis) parallel to the ground. In this case, the support 13 and the frame 11 may be connected via a bearing or the like so that the frame 11 can rotate around the tilt axis.

[0037] The X-ray tube 17 is a vacuum tube that generates X-rays by irradiating thermal electrons from the cathode (filament) to the anode (target) by applying a high voltage from a high voltage generator 31 and supplying a filament current. The thermal electrons collide with the target to generate X-rays. The X-rays generated at the focus of the tube in the X-ray tube 17 are formed into a cone beam shape, for example, by a collimator, and irradiated to the subject P. For example, the X-ray tube 17 includes a rotating anode type X-ray tube that generates X-rays by irradiating thermal electrons to a rotating anode. In addition, in the present embodiment, it can also be applied to a so-called multi-tube type standing CT device in which a plurality of pairs of X-ray tubes 17 and X-ray detectors 19 are mounted on a rotating frame 21 in a single-tube type standing CT device.

[0038] The X-ray detector 19 detects X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 17 and passing through the subject P, and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the X-ray amount to the DAS 33. The X-ray detector 19, for example, has a plurality of detection element rows formed by arranging a plurality of detection elements in the channel direction along an arc with the focus of the X-ray tube 17 as the center. The X-ray detector 19, for example, has a structure in which a plurality of such detection element rows are arranged in the slice direction (column direction, row direction). In addition, in the standing CT apparatus 1, there are a Rotate / Rotate-Type (third generation CT) in which the X-ray tube 17 and the X-ray detector 19 rotate around the subject P as a whole, and a Stationary / Rotate-Type (fourth generation CT) in which a plurality of X-ray detection elements arranged in a ring are fixed and only the X-ray tube 17 rotates around the subject P. Either type can be applied to the present embodiment. In the following, in order to make the description more specific, the standing CT apparatus 1 of the present embodiment is described by taking the third generation CT as an example.

[0039] In addition, the X-ray detector 19 is, for example, an indirect conversion type detector having a grid, a scintillator array, and a photosensor array. The scintillator array has a plurality of scintillators, and the scintillator has a scintillator crystal that outputs light of a photon amount corresponding to the amount of incident X-rays. The grid is arranged on the surface of the scintillator array on the X-ray incident side, and has an X-ray shielding plate, which has the function of absorbing scattered X-rays. In addition, the grid is sometimes also called a collimator (one-dimensional collimator or two-dimensional collimator). The photosensor array has the function of converting into an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of light from the scintillator, for example, it has a photosensor such as a photomultiplier tube (photomultiplier tube: PMT). In addition, the X-ray detector 19 can also be a direct conversion type detector having a semiconductor element that converts the incident X-rays into electrical signals. In addition, the X-ray detector 19 can also be a photon counting type X-ray detector. The X-ray detector 19 is an example of an X-ray detection unit.

[0040] The rotating frame 21 has an opening 15 and is equipped with an X-ray tube 17 that generates X-rays. Specifically, the rotating frame 21 is an annular frame that supports the X-ray tube 17 and the X-ray detector 19 opposite to each other and rotates the X-ray tube 17 and the X-ray detector 19 through a gantry control circuit 25 described later. The rotating frame 21 is rotatably supported on the main frame via a support bearing. The rotating frame 21 receives power from a rotation drive device 23 under the control of the gantry control circuit 25 and rotates around the rotation axis A1 at a constant angular velocity.

[0041] In addition, the rotating frame 21 is provided with and supports a high voltage generator 31 and a DAS 33 in addition to the X-ray tube 17 and the X-ray detector 19. Such a rotating frame 21 is housed in a substantially cylindrical frame body having an opening 15 constituting an imaging space. The central axis of the opening 15 coincides with the rotation axis A1 of the rotating frame 21. In addition, the detection data generated by the DAS 33 is transmitted, for example, from a transmitter having a light emitting diode (LED) through optical communication to a receiver having a photodiode provided in a non-rotating portion (e.g., a main frame) of the gantry device 10, and is transferred to the console device 100. In addition, the method of transmitting the detection data from the rotating frame 21 to the non-rotating portion of the gantry device 10 is not limited to the above-mentioned optical communication, and any method may be used as long as it is non-contact data transmission.

[0042] The rotation drive device 23 generates power for rotating the rotating frame 21 according to the control from the gantry control circuit 25. The rotation drive device 23 generates power by driving at a rotation speed corresponding to the duty ratio of the drive signal from the gantry control circuit 25. The rotation drive device 23 is realized by a motor such as a direct drive motor or a servo motor. The rotation drive device 23 is accommodated in the frame 11, for example.

[0043] The gantry control circuit 25 controls the high voltage generator 31, the rotation drive device 23, the support drive device 27, and the DAS 33 according to the command from the control console device 100. The gantry control circuit 25 has a function of receiving input signals from input interfaces installed in the control console device 100 and the gantry device 10 to control the operation of the gantry device 10. For example, the gantry control circuit 25 receives input signals to control the rotation of the rotating frame 21, the tilt of the gantry device 10, and the like. In addition, the gantry control circuit 25 can be provided in either the gantry device 10 or the control console device 100.

[0044] The rack control circuit 25 has, as hardware resources, processing devices (processors) such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and an MPU (Micro Processing Unit) and storage devices (memory) such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory). In addition, the rack control circuit 25 may also be implemented by an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), other complex programmable logic devices (CPLD), and simple programmable logic devices (SPLD).

[0045] The processing device realizes the above functions by reading out and executing the program stored in the storage device. In addition, instead of storing the program in the storage device, the program can be directly loaded into the circuit of the processing device. In this case, the processing device realizes the above functions by reading out and executing the program loaded into the circuit.

[0046] The drive device 27 used for the vertical sliding of the frame 11 (hereinafter referred to as the support drive device) is as follows: Figure 1As shown, the support column 13 is accommodated in the support column 13. The support column driving device 27 generates power for sliding the frame 11 in the vertical direction according to the control from the gantry control circuit 25. Specifically, the support column driving device 27 generates power by driving at a rotation speed corresponding to the duty ratio of the driving signal from the gantry control circuit 25. The support column 13 receives the power from the support column driving device 27, and the frame 11 slides in the vertical direction relative to the support column 13. The support column driving device 27 is realized by a motor such as a servo motor, for example.

[0047] The operation panel 29 is implemented by switch buttons, a touch panel for input operation by touching the operation surface, and a touch panel display in which a display screen and the touch panel are integrated. The operation panel 29 converts the input operation received from the user into an electrical signal and outputs it to the gantry control circuit 25. For example, the operation panel 29 receives a selection operation to select a sitting imaging mode for imaging a subject in a sitting position, or a standing imaging mode for imaging a subject in a standing position.

[0048] The high voltage generator 31 has an electrical circuit such as a transformer and a rectifier, and generates a high voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube 17 and a filament current to be supplied to the X-ray tube 17. In addition, the high voltage generator 31 controls the output voltage corresponding to the X-rays irradiated by the X-ray tube 17. The high voltage generator 31 may be a transformer type or an inverter type. In addition, the high voltage generator 31 may be provided on the rotating frame 21 or on the main frame side of the gantry device 10.

[0049] The wedge-shaped member not shown is a filter for adjusting the X-ray dose of the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 17. Specifically, the wedge-shaped member is a filter that transmits and attenuates the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 17 so that the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 17 to the subject P have a predetermined distribution. The wedge-shaped member is, for example, a wedge filter or a bow-tie filter, which is a filter made by processing aluminum in a manner to achieve a predetermined target angle or a predetermined thickness.

[0050] The collimator (not shown) is a lead plate or the like for filtering the X-rays transmitted through the wedge into the X-ray irradiation range, and a slit is formed by combining a plurality of lead plates or the like.

[0051] The DAS 33 includes an amplifier for amplifying the electrical signal output from each X-ray detection element of the X-ray detector 19 and an A / D converter for converting the electrical signal into a digital signal, and generates detection data. The detection data generated by the DAS 33 is transferred to the console device 100 .

[0052] The supporting and moving mechanism 35 is provided to be movable in a direction (X-axis direction and Y-axis direction) intersecting with the moving direction of the rack 11, i.e., the vertical direction (Z direction). The supporting and moving mechanism 35 supports the subject from below, i.e., from the vertical direction upward. The supporting and moving mechanism 35 is provided, for example, on the ground below the opening 15 of the rack 11. Specifically, the supporting and moving mechanism 35 has a top plate supporting the subject and a moving mechanism that moves the top plate in at least one of the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, i.e., in the horizontal direction. The top plate is equivalent to a scaffolding for the subject. When the subject is in a standing state below the opening 15, the top plate on the upper surface of the supporting and moving mechanism 35 supports the sole of the subject's foot. In addition, a sole guide is provided on the top plate to guide the arrangement of the sole of the subject's foot. The sole guide is provided near the center of gravity of the top plate, i.e., in the center portion of the top plate.

[0053] The moving mechanism has, for example: at least one guide (for example, a linear guide such as a direct-acting guide), a block that supports the top plate and a track that guides the block; and a driving mechanism that moves the block in the guide along the track. The driving mechanism has, for example, various motors that generate driving force and various transmission mechanisms (ball screws, chains, belts, etc.) that transmit the driving force to the block. The supporting moving mechanism 35 generates a driving force through the driving mechanism according to a control signal output from the mechanism control function 119 described later. The supporting moving mechanism 35 moves the top plate in the horizontal direction through the generated driving force. In addition, the supporting moving mechanism 35 may also have a structure that can support the subject in a sitting state. For example, a chair or the like may be set on the top plate or the block.

[0054] The console device 100 has a memory 101, a display 103, an input interface 105, and a processing circuit 107. For example, data communication among the memory 101, the display 103, the input interface 105, and the processing circuit 107 is performed via a bus (BUS).

[0055] The memory 101 is a storage device such as a HDD (Hard disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), an integrated circuit storage device, etc., which stores various information. The memory 101 stores, for example, projection data and reconstructed image data. In addition to HDD, SSD, etc., the memory 101 can also be a drive device that reads and writes various information between a removable storage medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), a flash memory, a semiconductor storage element such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. In addition, the storage area of ​​the memory 101 can be located in the upright CT device 1, or in an external storage device connected via a network. In addition, the memory 101 stores the control program of this embodiment. The memory 101 stores volume data generated by pre-scanning and main scanning, etc. In addition, the memory 101 stores the center position of the imaging at the opening 15 (hereinafter referred to as the imaging center) according to the position of the gantry 11 relative to the support 13.

[0056] The display 103 displays various information. For example, the display 103 outputs a medical image (CT image) generated by the processing circuit 107, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for accepting various operations from the user, and the like. For example, as the display 103, a liquid crystal display (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display), a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube: cathode ray tube) display, an organic EL display (OELD: Organic ElectroLuminescence Display), a plasma display, or any other display can be appropriately used. In addition, the display 103 can also be set on the gantry device 10. In addition, the display 103 can be either a desktop type or a tablet terminal that can communicate wirelessly with the console device 100 main body. The display 103 is equivalent to a display unit.

[0057] The input interface 105 receives various input operations from the user, converts the received input operations into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the processing circuit 107. For example, the input interface 105 receives from the user collection conditions when collecting projection data, reconstruction conditions when reconstructing CT images, image processing conditions when generating post-processed images from CT images, etc. As the input interface 105, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a trackball, a switch, a button, a joystick, a touch pad, a touch panel display, etc. can be used as appropriate.

[0058] In addition, in the present embodiment, the input interface 105 is not limited to an input interface having physical operating components such as a mouse, a keyboard, a trackball, a switch, a button, a joystick, a touchpad, and a touch panel display. For example, a processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device that is separate from the device and outputs the electrical signal to the processing circuit 107 is also included in the example of the input interface 105. In addition, the input interface 105 is an example of an input unit. In addition, the input interface 105 can also be provided on the gantry device 10. In addition, the input interface 105 can also be composed of a tablet terminal that can wirelessly communicate with the console device 100 body. The input interface 105 is equivalent to the input unit.

[0059] The processing circuit 107 controls the overall operation of the upright CT apparatus 1 according to the electrical signal of the input operation output from the input interface 105. For example, the processing circuit 107 has a processor such as a CPU, an MPU, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) and a memory such as a ROM and a RAM as hardware resources. The processing circuit 107 executes the system control function 111, the preprocessing function 113, the reconstruction function 115, the image processing function 117, and the mechanism control function 119 through the processor executing the program expanded in the memory. The processing circuit 107 that executes the system control function 111, the preprocessing function 113, the reconstruction function 115, the image processing function 117, and the mechanism control function 119 respectively corresponds to the system control unit, the preprocessing unit, the image generation unit, the image processing unit, and the mechanism control unit. In addition, the system control function 111, the preprocessing function 113, the reconstruction function 115, the image processing function 117, and the mechanism control function 119 are not limited to the case where they are realized by a single processing circuit. A plurality of independent processors may be combined to form a processing circuit, and each processor executes a program to thereby implement the system control function 111 , the preprocessing function 113 , the reconstruction function 115 , the image processing function 117 , and the mechanism control function 119 .

[0060] The processing circuit 107 controls each function of the processing circuit 107 based on the input operation accepted from the user via the input interface 105 through the system control function 111. Specifically, the system control function 111 reads out the control program stored in the memory 101 and expands it on the memory in the processing circuit 107, and controls each part of the upright CT apparatus 1 according to the expanded control program. For example, the processing circuit 107 controls each function of the processing circuit 107 based on the input operation accepted from the user via the input interface 105.

[0061] The processing circuit 107 generates data by performing preprocessing such as logarithmic transformation, offset correction, inter-channel sensitivity correction, and beam hardening correction on the detection data output from the DAS 33 through the preprocessing function 113. The data before preprocessing is called raw data, and the data after preprocessing is called projection data.

[0062] The processing circuit 107 generates CT image data by performing reconstruction processing using a filter-corrected back projection method (FBP method: Filtered Back Projection) or a successive approximation reconstruction method on the projection data generated by the preprocessing function 113 through the reconstruction function 115. That is, the reconstruction function 115 generates an image based on the output from the imaging system. The reconstruction function 115 stores the reconstructed CT image data in the memory 101.

[0063] The processing circuit 107 performs various image processing on the CT image reconstructed by the reconstruction function 115 through the image processing function 117. For example, the image processing function 117 performs three-dimensional image processing such as volume rendering, surface volume rendering, image value projection processing, MPR (Multi-Planar Reconstruction) processing, and CPR (Curved MPR) processing on the CT image to generate a display image. In addition, in the medical image generated by the pre-scan (hereinafter referred to as the pre-scan image), when a region of interest (hereinafter referred to as ROI (Region Of Interest)) is input through the input interface 105, the image processing function 117 calculates the center position of the ROI.

[0064] The processing circuit 107 controls the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 through the mechanism control function 119. For example, the mechanism control function 119 controls the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 based on the ROI in the pre-scan image and the imaging center in the imaging system. Specifically, the mechanism control function 119 controls the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 so that the center position of the ROI is aligned with the position of the imaging center. In addition, the position of the ROI aligned with the position of the imaging center is not limited to the center position, and may be, for example, the center of gravity of the ROI.

[0065] More specifically, the mechanism control function 119 outputs information corresponding to at least one of the moving direction and the moving amount of the supporting moving mechanism 35 (hereinafter referred to as the recommended moving amount) based on the center position of the ROI and the position of the imaging center. The recommended moving amount corresponds to a control value related to the control of the movement of the supporting moving mechanism 35. At this time, the mechanism control function 119 controls the movement of the supporting moving mechanism 35 based on the output information, that is, according to the control value as the recommended moving amount. The mechanism control function 119 that outputs the recommended moving amount corresponds to an output unit.

[0066] In addition, the mechanism control function 119 may also output information corresponding to at least one of the moving direction and the moving amount of the support moving mechanism 35 to the display 103. At this time, when the user inputs an operation related to the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 based on the displayed information, the mechanism control function 119 controls the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 according to the input operation. In addition, the mechanism control function 119 may also control the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 based on the user's instruction based on the ROI in the pre-scan image and the imaging center in the imaging system. In addition, the mechanism control function 119 may also control the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 based on the user's instruction to make the center position of the ROI coincide with the position of the imaging center.

[0067] use Figure 2 The following describes the positioning process performed by the upright CT apparatus 1 of the present embodiment configured as described above. The positioning process is to control the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 so that the center position of the ROI coincides with the imaging center. Figure 2 This is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure of the positioning process according to the embodiment.

[0068] (Alignment processing)

[0069] (Step S201)

[0070] The ROI is set in the pre-scan image generated by the pre-scan. Specifically, the subject is placed in an upright position on the support moving mechanism 35 provided below the opening 15. Next, the imaging system performs a pre-scan on the subject under the control of the system control function 111. Figure 3 1 is a diagram showing an example of performing a pre-scan on a subject P in a standing position on the support moving mechanism 35. Figure 3 As shown, a pre-scan is performed on the subject P contained in the imaging space at the opening 15 .

[0071] The processing circuit 107 generates projection data related to the pre-scan through the pre-processing function 113. Then, the processing circuit 107 performs reconstruction processing using the generated projection data through the reconstruction function 115, thereby generating volume data. The processing circuit 107 performs MPR processing on the volume data through the image processing function 117, thereby generating a pre-scan image. The display 103 displays the pre-scan image. The input interface 105 sets the ROI in the pre-scan image according to the user's instruction.

[0072] Figure 4 1 is a diagram showing an example of the positional relationship among the ROI, the opening 15, and the support moving mechanism 35 set in the pre-scan image PSI. Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the imaging center CI for obtaining good image quality may be different from the center of the ROI.

[0073] (Step S202)

[0074] The processing circuit 107 calculates the center position of the ROI in the displayed image through the image processing function 117. When the ROI is circular, the center position is equivalent to the center of the circle. In addition, when the ROI is elliptical, the center position is equivalent to the midpoint of the major axis or minor axis of the ellipse, for example. When the ROI is a polygon, the center position is equivalent to the center of gravity of the ROI. At this time, the processing circuit 107 can also overlap the ROI, the center position of the ROI, and the position of the camera center on the pre-scan image PSI, and display it on the monitor, display 103, etc. set on the frame 11 and the support 13. At this time, the user can input the moving direction and movement amount of the supporting moving mechanism 35 as a vector such as an arrow through the input interface 105.

[0075] (Step S203)

[0076] The processing circuit 107 outputs the recommended movement amount based on the center position of the ROI and the position of the imaging center through the mechanism control function 119. In addition, the mechanism control function 119 may also display the recommended movement amount together with the center position of the ROI and the position of the imaging center on a monitor, display 103, etc. provided on the frame 11 or the support 13. Thus, the user can be notified of the recommended movement amount. The recommended movement amount is, for example, equivalent to the direction (movement direction) from the center position of the ROI toward the position of the imaging center, or the distance between the center position of the ROI and the position of the imaging center. In other words, the recommended movement amount is equivalent to the vector from the center position of the ROI toward the position of the imaging center. In addition, the mechanism control function 119 may also display the recommended movement amount together with the pre-scan image PSI on the display 103. At this time, the user may also appropriately correct the recommended movement amount via the input interface 105.

[0077] (Step S204)

[0078] The processing circuit 107 moves the top plate by operating the driving mechanism based on the moving direction and the moving amount through the mechanism control function 119. In addition, the mechanism control function 119 can also move the support moving mechanism 35 manually according to the instruction of the operator through the input interface 105, according to the moving amount input or corrected by the user or the recommended moving amount. Figure 5 About Figure 4 The pre-scan image PSI shown in FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 based on the mechanism control function 119. Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , the center position of ROI is located on the left side of the imaging center CI on the X-axis. Therefore, the mechanism control function 119 is as follows: Figure 5 As shown, the support moving mechanism 35 is moved in the + direction of the X axis by the output movement amount MM.

[0079] Figure 6 Yes Figure 5 An example of the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 in FIG. 3 is shown together with the pre-scan image PSI, ROI, and imaging center. Figure 6 As shown, after the support moving mechanism 35 moves by the movement amount MM, the center position of the ROI and the position of the imaging center are aligned. Thus, the center position of the ROI and the position of the imaging center are roughly consistent, and a high-quality medical image can be obtained in the main scan performed after this step in the alignment process.

[0080] According to the above-described embodiment, the upright CT apparatus 1 includes: a gantry 11 having an imaging system related to imaging of a subject P; at least one support column 13 supporting the gantry 11 so as to be movable in the vertical direction; an image generating unit generating a pre-scan image PSI based on an output from the imaging system; a support moving mechanism 35 provided to be movable in a direction intersecting the direction of movement of the gantry 11 and supporting the subject P from below; and a mechanism control unit controlling the movement of the support moving mechanism 35. Thus, according to the upright CT apparatus 1, the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 can be controlled based on the region of interest in the pre-scan image PSI and the imaging center in the imaging system, for example, so that the center position of the region of interest coincides with the position of the imaging center.

[0081] In addition, according to the standing position CT apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, information corresponding to at least one of the moving direction and the moving amount of the support moving mechanism 35 is output based on the region of interest in the subject P and the imaging center of the imaging system, and the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 is controlled based on the output information. In addition, according to the standing position CT apparatus 1 of the embodiment, the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 can be controlled according to the user's instruction based on the region of interest in the pre-scan image PSI and the imaging center of the imaging system, for example, the user's instruction to make the center position of the region of interest coincide with the position of the imaging center. For example, if the output information is displayed on the display 103, and the user inputs an operation related to the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 through the input interface 105 based on the information, the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 can be controlled according to the input operation.

[0082] As described above, according to the standing CT apparatus 1 of the embodiment, the center position of the ROI set in the pre-scan image PSI can be made consistent with the imaging center automatically or according to the user's instruction. That is, the ROI can be arranged at the imaging center according to the user's intention without making inquiries to the subject P. Based on this, according to the standing CT apparatus 1, a high-quality medical image can be generated in the main scan of the subject P. Furthermore, according to the standing CT apparatus 1, the ROI can be arranged at the imaging center without making inquiries to the subject P, so the throughput of the examination of the subject P can be improved.

[0083] (Variation Example)

[0084] In this variation, a plurality of gas bags are provided on the side of the opening 15, which are expanded by the injection of gas and can maintain (fix) the subject P. The injection of gas into the gas bags and the discharge of gas from the gas bags are controlled by controlling the movement of the supporting moving mechanism 35. Figure 7 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an upright CT apparatus 2 according to the present modification. Figure 7 The shown upright CT device 2 is in Figure 1 The upright CT apparatus 1 shown further includes a plurality of gas bags 37 and a plurality of pumps 39. In addition, the technical features of this modification can also be implemented alone without the control of the movement of the support moving mechanism 35. That is, in the implementation of this modification, the support moving mechanism 35 can be omitted.

[0085] A plurality of gas bags 37 are provided on the wall surface of the rack 11 at the opening 15. The plurality of gas bags 37 are made of, for example, a material that can be expanded by the injection of gas and can be contracted by the discharge of gas, and that does not attenuate radiation such as X-rays. The plurality of gas bags 37 are expanded by the injection of gas to maintain the posture of the subject P. The plurality of gas bags 37 are connected to a plurality of pumps 39 via a hose 41. The gas is, for example, air. In this case, the gas bag 37 may also be referred to as an air bag. In addition, the gas is not limited to air, and may be a gas other than air. The plurality of gas bags 37 may also be removable from the rack 11. In addition, a cover, a curtain, etc. that covers the plurality of gas bags 37 and is removable may also be provided on the plurality of gas bags 37. The cover and the curtain are made of a material that does not attenuate radiation such as X-rays. In addition, a pressure sensor that detects the pressure of the gas filled in the gas bag 37 may be provided in each of the plurality of gas bags 37.

[0086] Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of the positional relationship of the plurality of gas bags 37 relative to the subject P. Figure 8 In the figure, the rack 11 is not shown. Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , a hose 41 used for gas injection and gas discharge is provided on each of the plurality of gas bags 37. Figure 8 As shown, a gas bag 37 filled with gas is arranged around the subject P at the opening 15. That is, the gas bag 37 filled with gas is located between the wall surface of the gantry 11 at the opening 15 and the subject P at a predetermined pressure, so that the posture of the subject P is maintained.

[0087] like Figure 8 As shown, the plurality of gas bags 37 are closely attached to the adjacent gas bags. Figure 7 In the figure, only two of the plurality of gas bags 37 and the plurality of pumps 39 are shown, but in reality, Figure 8 As shown, two or more gas bags are provided on the wall surface of the gantry 11 at the opening 15. In addition, a plurality of pumps 39 are provided in the rack device 10 or the like according to the number of gas bags 37. In addition, a single gas bag divided into a plurality of partitions may be used instead of the plurality of gas bags 37. In this case, the plurality of pumps 39 correspond to the plurality of partitions, respectively, and are connected to the plurality of partitions via a plurality of hoses 41.

[0088] The plurality of pumps 39 inject gas into the plurality of gas bags 37 and discharge gas from the plurality of gas bags 37 under the control of the mechanism control function 119. The plurality of pumps 39 and the hose 41 can be installed at any location as long as they are outside the imaging space and do not interfere with the rotation of the rotating frame 21, the movement of the gantry 11, and the movement of the supporting moving mechanism 35.

[0089] The processing circuit 107 further controls the injection and discharge of gas by the plurality of pumps 39 through the mechanism control function 119, along with the control of the movement of the supporting moving mechanism 35. When the gas is injected into the gas bag 37, when the pressure inside the gas bag 37 (hereinafter referred to as the bag internal pressure) reaches a predetermined threshold value (hereinafter referred to as the pressure threshold value), the mechanism control function 119 controls the pumps 39 connected to the gas bag 37 to stop the injection of gas. Fig. 9 Processing related to control of the plurality of pumps 39 related to gas injection and gas discharge (hereinafter referred to as pump control processing) will be described. Fig. 9 This is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the pump control process.

[0090] (Pump Control Processing)

[0091] (Step S901)

[0092] Before the pre-scan is performed, the subject P is placed on the supporting and moving mechanism 35 in a state where gas is exhausted from the plurality of gas bags 37. If the gas bags 37 are filled with gas before the subject P is placed on the supporting and moving mechanism 35, the mechanism control function 119 controls the pump 39 to exhaust the gas from the gas bags 37. At this time, the pump 39 exhausts the gas from the gas bags 37 under the control of the mechanism control function 119. Next, the subject P is placed on the supporting and moving mechanism 35.

[0093] (Step S902)

[0094] The gas is injected into the gas bag 37 by the control of the pump 39 by the mechanism control function 119. The amount of gas injected into the gas bag 37 (hereinafter referred to as the gas injection amount) is determined by the mechanism control function 119 based on, for example, the weight and height of the patient information of the subject P related to the examination. At this time, the mechanism control function 119 controls the pump 39 until the determined injection amount is reached. In addition, the mechanism control function 119 may control the pump 39 until the bag internal pressure detected by the pressure sensor provided in the gas bag 37 reaches a pressure threshold. The pressure threshold is pre-stored in the memory 101.

[0095] (Step S903)

[0096] The imaging system performs a pre-scan on the subject P under the control of the system control function 111. The processing circuit 107 generates projection data related to the pre-scan through the pre-processing function 113. The processing circuit 107 performs reconstruction processing using the generated projection data through the reconstruction function 115, thereby generating volume data. The processing circuit 107 performs MPR processing on the volume data through the image processing function 117, thereby generating a pre-scan image PSI. The display 103 displays the pre-scan image PSI.

[0097] (Step S904)

[0098] The input interface 105 sets the ROI in the pre-scan image PSI according to the user's instruction. The processing circuit 107 calculates the center position of the ROI in the displayed image through the image processing function 117 .

[0099] (Step S905)

[0100] The processing circuit 107 determines the gas injection amount and the gas discharge amount (hereinafter referred to as the gas discharge amount) of each of the plurality of gas bags 37 based on the center position of the ROI, the position of the imaging center, and the correspondence table through the mechanism control function 119. The correspondence table is a correspondence table (hereinafter referred to as the ROI movement correspondence table) that indicates the correspondence relationship between the gas injection amount and the gas discharge amount for each of the plurality of gas bags 37, for example, with respect to the difference between the center position of the ROI and the position of the imaging center, the direction from the center position of the ROI toward the position of the imaging center, and the weight and height of the subject P. The ROI movement correspondence table is pre-stored in the memory 101.

[0101] Fig.10 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the positional relationship among the ROI, the opening 15, and the plurality of gas bags 37 in the subject P during the pre-scan. Fig.10 As shown in FIG. 1 , the imaging center CI for obtaining good image quality is different from the center of ROI. In this step, for example, Fig.10 As shown, the gas injection amount and gas exhaust amount for aligning the center of the ROI with the imaging center are determined. In addition, the processing circuit 107 may also display the gas injection amount and gas exhaust amount for each of the plurality of gas bags 37 on a monitor provided on the display 103, the frame 11, etc. In this case, the mechanism control function 119 can manually correct the gas injection amount and gas exhaust amount according to the instruction of the operator via the input interface 105.

[0102] (Step S906)

[0103] The processing circuit 107 controls the plurality of pumps 39 through the mechanism control function 119 according to the gas injection amount and gas discharge amount determined for each of the plurality of gas bags 37 . Fig.11 About Fig.10 , which is a diagram showing an example of injecting gas into and discharging gas from the plurality of gas bags 37. Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , gas is injected into the two gas bags on the left side of the ROI via two hoses 411, and gas is discharged from the two gas bags on the right side of the ROI via two hoses 413. Fig.11When the processing in this step is executed, the processing in step S204 is also executed simultaneously. That is, along with the control of the movement of the supporting moving mechanism 35, the mechanism control function 119 further controls the injection and discharge of gas based on the pump 39. In addition, the mechanism control function 119 can also manually control the pump 39 according to the instruction of the operator via the input interface 105.

[0104] (Step S907)

[0105] If the pressure of at least one of the plurality of gas bags 37 exceeds the threshold value (Yes in step S907), the process of step S909 is executed. If the pressure of any of the plurality of gas bags 37 does not exceed the threshold value (No in step S907), the process of step S908 is executed.

[0106] (Step S908)

[0107] If the gas injection amount and gas discharge amount in the plurality of gas bags 37 reach the amount determined in step S905 (Yes in step S908), the process of step S909 is executed. If the gas injection amount and gas discharge amount in the plurality of gas bags 37 do not reach the amount determined in step S905 (No in step S908), the process of step S906 is executed.

[0108] (Step S909)

[0109] According to the instruction of the user via the input interface 105, under the control of the system control function 111, a main scan is performed on the subject P. At this time, the processing circuit 107 generates projection data through the preprocessing function 113. Then, the processing circuit 107 reconstructs volume data based on the projection data through the reconstruction function 115. Then, the processing circuit 107 generates a medical image related to the main scan (hereinafter referred to as a main scan image) based on the volume data through the image processing function 117.

[0110] (Step S910)

[0111] In the next examination, if the subject P is not changed (No in step S910), that is, if the same subject is further examined, the processing after step S904 is repeated. In addition, if the ROI is not changed in the further examination of the subject P, step S909 can also be executed. If the subject P is changed in the next examination (Yes in step S910), the processing of step S911 is executed.

[0112] (Step S911)

[0113] The user replaces the gas bag 37. In addition, the gas bag 37 may be disinfected instead of being replaced. In addition, when a cover or a curtain is provided on the gas bag 37, the cover or the curtain is replaced by the user. In addition, from the time after the yes of step S910 to the end of this step, a character string or information urging the replacement of the gas bag 37, the cover or the curtain, the disinfection of the gas bag 37, etc. may be displayed on the monitor or the display 103 provided on the frame 11 or the support 13. Thus, the user can be urged to replace the gas bag 37, the cover or the curtain, the disinfection of the gas bag 37, etc. In addition, at this time, the character string or information, in other words, the information urging the replacement of the gas bag 37, the cover or the curtain, the disinfection of the gas bag 37, etc., may be set to non-display according to the instruction of the user through the input interface 105. In addition, the processing in this step 911 (replacement of the gas bag 37, the cover or the curtain, the disinfection of the gas bag 37) may be performed once a day, for example, after all the inspections of the day are completed.

[0114] According to the standing CT apparatus 2 of the modified example described above, regarding the gas injection and gas discharge into each of the plurality of gas bags 37 provided on the wall surface of the gantry 11 at the opening 15, the gas injection and gas discharge based on the pump 39 are further controlled along with the control of the movement of the supporting moving mechanism 35. As a result, the posture of the subject P can be maintained, that is, fixed, so that the center position of the ROI set in the pre-scan image PSI automatically coincides with the imaging center. As a result, the accuracy of the positioning of the ROI relative to the imaging center can be improved, and the stability of the subject P when it moves can be improved. In addition, according to the standing CT apparatus 2, it is possible to prevent the CT image based on the main scan from shaking due to the shaking of the upper body of the subject P. As a result, according to the standing CT apparatus 2, a high-quality main scan image can be generated. As for other effects, they are the same as those in the embodiment, so the description is omitted.

[0115] (First Application Example)

[0116] In this application example, the support moving mechanism 35 is moved according to the displacement of the center of gravity of the subject P in the support moving mechanism 35. Specifically, the present standing CT apparatus 1 detects the center of gravity of the subject P supported by the support moving mechanism 35, and controls the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 based on the displacement of the detected center of gravity to compensate for the displacement.

[0117] The supporting and moving mechanism 35 also has a detection unit that detects the center of gravity of the subject P supported by the supporting and moving mechanism 35. The detection unit is implemented, for example, by a center of gravity sensor. The center of gravity sensor is implemented, for example, by a pressure sensor and a processor. The pressure sensor detects the pressure on the top plate caused by the sole of the subject's foot, the pressure on the top plate or the block by the wheelchair supporting the subject P, etc. The processor calculates the center of gravity of the subject P based on the output from the pressure sensor. The calculation of the center of gravity based on the output from the pressure sensor can be appropriately implemented by the existing technology, so the description is omitted. Through the above, the detection unit detects the center of gravity of the subject P supported by the supporting and moving mechanism 35. The detection unit outputs the position of the calculated center of gravity to the console device 100. That is, the detection unit has the function of monitoring the position of the center of gravity of the subject P.

[0118] In addition, the structure of the detection unit is not limited to the above, and various sensors such as ultrasonic sensors or optical cameras may be used instead of the pressure sensor. When various sensors or optical cameras are used instead of the pressure sensor, the detection unit is not provided on the supporting moving mechanism 35, but a plurality of detection units are provided at different angles around the rotation axis A1, for example, on the wall surface of the rack 11 at the opening 15. For example, when an optical camera is used as the detection unit, the optical camera monitors the position and posture of the subject P. In addition, the installation location of the optical camera is not limited to the wall surface of the rack 11 at the opening 15, and for example, it may be provided on the ceiling directly above the opening 15.

[0119] In the case where the detection unit is implemented by various sensors or optical cameras, the processor calculates the inclination of the subject based on the data output from the various sensors or optical cameras, and calculates the center of gravity based on the calculated inclination. The calculation of the center of gravity based on the output from the various sensors or optical cameras can be appropriately implemented by existing technology, so the description is omitted. In addition, the detection unit can also be implemented by the image processing function 117 in the processing circuit 107. In this case, the image processing function 117 detects the inclination of the subject P based on a plurality of pre-scan images PSI along the Z direction, for example. Then, the image processing function 117 detects the center of gravity of the subject P based on the detected inclination.

[0120] The processing circuit 107 controls the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 in a manner to compensate for the displacement of the center of gravity of the subject P through the mechanism control function 119. For example, the mechanism control function 119 calculates the displacement of the center of gravity of the subject P monitored by the detection unit and the displacement direction of the center of gravity based on the position of the center of gravity along the time series. The mechanism control function 119 uses the opposite direction of the displacement direction as the movement direction, and moves the top plate by operating the driving mechanism based on the movement direction and the displacement amount.

[0121] Hereinafter, a process of moving the supporting and moving mechanism 35 in accordance with the change of the center of gravity of the subject P in the supporting and moving mechanism 35 (hereinafter referred to as center of gravity following process) will be described. Fig.12 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the center-of-gravity tracking process. The center-of-gravity tracking process can be appropriately executed at any time point before the execution of the main scan, for example.

[0122] (Center of gravity tracking processing)

[0123] (Step S1301)

[0124] The processing circuit 107 calculates the change in the center of gravity (the amount of displacement of the center of gravity) and the displacement direction of the center of gravity based on the position of the center of gravity of the subject P detected by the detection unit through the mechanism control function 119 . Fig.13 PT is a diagram showing an example of how the center of gravity changes due to the tilt PT of the subject P. Fig.13 As shown, when the center of gravity of the subject P moves due to the inclination PT of the posture of the subject P, the mechanism control function 119 calculates the displacement amount and displacement direction of the center of gravity corresponding to the movement of the center of gravity.

[0125] (Step S1302)

[0126] If the displacement of the center of gravity exceeds a predetermined threshold value (hereinafter referred to as the center of gravity threshold value) (Yes in step S1302), the process of step S1303 is executed. If the displacement of the center of gravity is less than the center of gravity threshold value (No in step S1302), the process of step S1304 is executed. The center of gravity threshold value is preset and stored in the memory 101.

[0127] (Step 1303)

[0128] The processing circuit 107 controls the support moving mechanism 35 based on the opposite direction of the displacement direction of the center of gravity, i.e., the moving direction and the displacement amount of the center of gravity, through the mechanism control function 119. Under the control of the mechanism control function 119, the support moving mechanism 35 moves the top plate in the moving direction by the displacement amount of the center of gravity through the driving mechanism. Fig.14 1 is a diagram showing an example of a support moving mechanism 35 that moves in the X direction by a movement amount GM as the center of gravity of the subject P moves due to the inclination PT of the subject P. Fig.14 As shown, even when the center of gravity changes due to the inclination PT of the posture of the subject P or the like, the support moving mechanism 35 moves to compensate for the movement of the center of gravity.

[0129] In addition, the processing circuit 107 may also display the displacement amount and displacement direction of the center of gravity corresponding to the movement of the center of gravity on the display 103 or a monitor provided on the frame 11. At this time, the mechanism control function 119 may also manually move the support moving mechanism 35 according to the instruction of the operator via the input interface 105.

[0130] (Step S1304)

[0131] If the center of gravity of the subject P has changed according to the output from the detection unit (Yes in step S1304), the processing after step S1301 is executed. If the center of gravity of the subject P has not changed according to the output from the detection unit (No in step S1304), the processing of step S1305 is executed.

[0132] (Step S1305)

[0133] If the main scan is executed according to the user's instruction via the input interface 105 (Yes in step S1305), the center-of-gravity tracking process ends. If the main scan is not executed (No in step S1305), the process of step S1304 is repeated.

[0134] According to the standing CT apparatus 1 of the first application example described above, the center of gravity of the subject P supported by the supporting moving mechanism 35 is detected, and based on the displacement of the detected center of gravity, the movement of the supporting moving mechanism 35 is controlled to compensate for the displacement. Therefore, according to the standing CT apparatus 1, even if the center of gravity changes due to the tilt PT of the posture of the subject P, etc., the supporting moving mechanism 35 can be moved to compensate for the change in the center of gravity. According to this situation, according to the standing CT apparatus 1, even if the center of gravity changes, the displacement of the center of gravity can be compensated, so the main scan can be performed at the position desired by the user. Therefore, according to the standing CT apparatus 1, a high-quality main scan image can be generated. As for other effects, they are the same as those in the embodiment, so the description is omitted.

[0135] (Second application example)

[0136] This application example controls the injection of gas into the plurality of gas bags 37 and the discharge of gas from the plurality of gas bags 37 described in the modification example according to the displacement of the center of gravity of the subject P in the support moving mechanism 35. That is, the mechanism control function 119 controls the pump 39 based on the displacement of the center of gravity of the subject P to compensate for the displacement. Figure 7 Hereinafter, in the center-of-gravity tracking process in this application example, the process different from that in the first application example will be described.

[0137] (Step S1303)

[0138] The processing circuit 107 determines the gas injection amount and gas discharge amount in each of the plurality of gas bags 37 based on the displacement direction of the center of gravity, the displacement amount of the center of gravity, and a correspondence table related to the displacement of the center of gravity (hereinafter referred to as the center of gravity displacement correspondence table) through the mechanism control function 119. The center of gravity displacement correspondence table is a correspondence table that indicates, for each of the plurality of gas bags 37, for example, the correspondence relationship between the gas injection amount and the gas discharge amount with respect to the displacement direction of the center of gravity, the displacement amount of the center of gravity, and the weight and height of the subject P. The center of gravity displacement correspondence table is pre-stored in the memory 101.

[0139] The processing circuit 107 controls each of the plurality of pumps 39 through the mechanism control function 119 according to the gas injection amount and gas discharge amount determined in each of the plurality of gas bags 37. The mechanism control function 119 controls the pump 39 until the bag internal pressure detected by the pressure sensor provided in the gas bag 37 reaches the pressure threshold. For example, when injecting gas into the gas bag 37, when the bag internal pressure reaches the pressure threshold, the mechanism control function 119 controls the pump 39 connected to the gas bag 37 to stop injecting gas. The control of other pumps 39 is based on the modified example, so the description is omitted.

[0140] According to the upright CT apparatus 2 of the second application example described above, the center of gravity of the subject P supported by the support moving mechanism 35 is detected, and based on the displacement of the detected center of gravity, the operation of the pump 39 is controlled to compensate for the displacement. The effects in this application example are the same as those in the first application example, and therefore the description thereof is omitted.

[0141] (Third Application Example)

[0142] In this application example, the displacement of the center of gravity of the subject P is not used, but the support moving mechanism 35 is moved. Fig.15 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a standing CT apparatus 3 in this application example. Fig.15 In, with Figure 1 Different structures are described. The beam 50 extends from the upper end of the support 13 in the horizontal direction. The beam 50 is, for example, hung on the upper ends of a pair of supports 13. That is, the beam 50 is configured in a manner of bridging the pair of supports 13. In addition, in the case where there is one support 13, the beam 50 is cantilevered at the upper end of one support 13. The beam 50 supports a camera (for example, an optical camera) 51, for example, directly above the rotation axis A1. That is, the optical camera 51 is configured on the beam 50 extending from the upper end of the support 13 in the horizontal direction, and can photograph the subject P located at the opening 15 of the gantry 11. In addition, as a variation of this application example, the optical camera 51 can also be configured, for example, on the ceiling of an inspection room in which the standing CT device 3 is installed. In this case, the beam 50 is not required.

[0143] The optical camera 51 is arranged on a beam 50 extending in the horizontal direction from the upper end of the support 13 or on the ceiling of the inspection room in which the standing CT device 3 is installed. The field of view of the optical camera 51 includes the opening (hole) 15. Thus, the optical camera 51 can photograph the subject P located in the opening 15 of the rack 11. The optical camera 51 photographs the subject P at a predetermined time interval (frame rate). Thus, the optical camera 51 outputs a plurality of images of the subject P along a time series (hereinafter referred to as subject images) to the processing circuit 107.

[0144] The processing circuit 107 recognizes the position of the subject P in the subject image (for example, the head of the subject P, etc.) through the image processing function 117. The recognition of the position of the subject P in the subject image (hereinafter referred to as the subject position) can be achieved by using known techniques such as a pre-learned learning model and segmentation processing, so the description is omitted. The image processing function 117 determines the amount of movement of the subject P based on a plurality of subject positions along the time series. For example, the image processing function 117 determines the amount of movement of the subject P at predetermined time intervals based on the difference between the subject position when the scan image is photographed (hereinafter referred to as the reference position) and the subject position obtained after the scanning image is photographed. In addition, the image processing function 117 may also determine the amount of movement of the subject P at predetermined time intervals based on the difference between two adjacent subject positions in the time series. In addition, the image processing function 117 determines the direction of movement of the subject P based on the difference.

[0145] The processing circuit 107 controls the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 to compensate for the amount of movement based on the amount of movement of the subject P in the image obtained by the optical camera 51 through the mechanism control function 119. The following describes a process of moving the support moving mechanism 35 in accordance with changes in the movement of the subject P in the support moving mechanism 35 (hereinafter referred to as a motion tracking process). Fig.16 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the motion tracking process. The motion tracking process can be appropriately executed at any time point before the execution of the main scan, for example.

[0146] (Motion tracking processing)

[0147] (Step S1601)

[0148] When the subject image is acquired by the optical camera 51 , the processing circuit 107 determines the amount of movement of the subject P and the direction of movement of the subject P based on the subject image in time series through the image processing function 117 .

[0149] (Step S1602)

[0150] The processing circuit 107 compares the amount of motion with a predetermined threshold value (hereinafter referred to as the motion threshold value) through the mechanism control function 119. The motion threshold value is preset and stored in the memory 101. If the amount of motion exceeds the motion threshold value (Yes in step S1602), the process of step S1603 is executed. If the amount of motion is less than the motion threshold value (No in step S1602), the process of step S1604 is executed.

[0151] (Step 1603)

[0152] The processing circuit 107 controls the supporting moving mechanism 35 based on the opposite direction of the moving direction, i.e., the moving direction and the amount of movement, through the mechanism control function 119. Specifically, the mechanism control function 119 reads out a table that establishes a correspondence between the amount of movement and the amount of movement of the supporting moving mechanism 35 from the memory 101. Next, the mechanism control function 119 compares the determined amount of movement with the read table to determine the amount of movement. Under the control of the mechanism control function 119, the supporting moving mechanism 35 moves the top plate by the amount of movement along the moving direction through the driving mechanism. Thus, the mechanism control function 119 controls the movement of the supporting moving mechanism 35 to compensate for the amount of movement.

[0153] In addition, the processing circuit 107 may also display the movement amount and movement direction on the display 103 or a monitor provided on the frame 11. At this time, the mechanism control function 119 may also manually move the support movement mechanism 35 according to the movement amount based on the instruction of the operator via the input interface 105.

[0154] (Step S1604)

[0155] If the amount of motion of the subject P changes by the image processing function 117 (Yes in step S1604), the processing from step S1601 onwards is executed. If the amount of motion of the subject P does not change by the image processing function 117 (No in step S1604), the processing from step S1605 is executed.

[0156] (Step S1605)

[0157] If the main scan is executed by the user's instruction via the input interface 105 (Yes in step S1605), the motion tracking process ends. If the main scan is not executed (No in step S1605), the process of step S1604 is repeated.

[0158] According to the third application example described above, the standing CT apparatus 3 is provided with an optical camera 51, which is arranged on a beam 50 extending in the horizontal direction from the upper end of the support 13 or on the ceiling of the examination room where the standing CT apparatus 3 is installed, and can take an image of the subject P located in the opening 15 of the gantry 11, and control the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 based on the amount of movement of the subject P in the image obtained by the optical camera 51 to compensate for the amount of movement. Therefore, according to the standing CT apparatus 3, even if the subject P moves, the center of gravity of the subject P can be not calculated, and the support moving mechanism 35 can be moved to compensate for the movement of the subject P in real time. According to this situation, according to the standing CT apparatus 3, even if the subject P moves, the movement of the subject P can be compensated by real-time feedback, so that the main scan can be performed at the position desired by the user. As for other effects, they are the same as those in the embodiment, so the description is omitted.

[0159] (Fourth Application Example)

[0160] This application example does not use the displacement of the center of gravity of the subject P, but moves the support moving mechanism 35. Specifically, this application example detects the load distribution of the subject P supported by the support moving mechanism 35, and controls the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 based on the change in the load distribution to compensate for the change. The following describes the differences between the first application example and this application example.

[0161] Fig.17 1 is a diagram showing an example of a plurality of sensors (SA, SB, SC, SD) provided between the support moving mechanism 35 and the top plate TT in this application example. The sole FG is provided on the top plate TT. The subject P sits on the top plate TT with his or her sole aligned with the sole FG. Fig.17 The plurality of sensors shown correspond to the detection unit. In addition, the relative positional relationship among the plurality of sensors, the support moving mechanism 35, and the top plate TT is not limited to Fig.17 The example shown. In addition, the detection unit may be implemented by n×m (n and m are natural numbers greater than 2) sensors. In this case, the n×m sensors are arranged in a planar shape along the X direction and the Y direction between the support moving mechanism 35 and the top plate TT.

[0162] The multiple sensors that realize the detection unit are realized by, for example, pressure sensors or load sensors (load sensors). In the following, for the sake of specificity, the multiple sensors are described as load sensors. The load sensor SA outputs the detected load Wa to the processing circuit 107. The load sensor SB outputs the detected load Wb to the processing circuit 107. The load sensor SC outputs the detected load Wc to the processing circuit 107. The load sensor SD outputs the detected load Wd to the processing circuit 107.

[0163] The processing circuit 107 measures the load distribution of the subject P on the top plate TT at a predetermined time interval based on the plurality of loads (Wa, Wb, Wc, Wd) output from the plurality of load sensors (SA, SB, SC, SD) through the mechanism control function 119. The load distribution corresponds to, for example, the distribution of the measured values ​​of the plurality of loads corresponding to the relative positional relationship of the plurality of load sensors with respect to the top plate TT. The mechanism control function 119 determines the movement of the subject P based on the plurality of load distributions in time series. For example, the image processing function 117 determines the movement of the subject P at predetermined time intervals based on the difference between the load distribution at the time of imaging of the scan image (hereinafter referred to as the reference load distribution) and the load distribution obtained after the imaging of the scan image. In addition, the image processing function 117 may determine the movement of the subject P at predetermined time intervals based on the difference between two load distributions adjacent to each other in time series.

[0164] Specifically, the mechanism control function 119 compares the difference with a predetermined threshold value (hereinafter referred to as a distribution threshold value). The distribution threshold value is preset and stored in the memory 101. If the difference exceeds the distribution threshold value, the mechanism control function 119 determines that there is movement of the subject. At this time, the mechanism control function 119 determines the movement amount in the support movement mechanism 35 based on the latest load distribution. For example, in the case of Fig.17 When multiple load sensors are provided as shown, the mechanism control function 119 determines the offset in the +Y direction by (Wa+Wb) / 2-(Wc+Wd) / 2, and determines the offset in the +X direction by (Wb+Wc) / 2-(Wd+Wa) / 2.

[0165] In addition, when a plurality of load sensors (n×m) are arranged on the entire lower side of the top plate TT, the mechanism control function 119 can detect the positions of the left and right feet of the subject P by finding the in-plane peak value of the load on the top plate TT. The mechanism control function 119 can determine the positional deviation of the subject, that is, the movement amount of the subject P, by tracking the positions of the left and right feet.

[0166] According to the standing CT apparatus 1 of the fourth application example described above, the load distribution of the subject P supported by the support moving mechanism 35 is detected, and based on the detected change in the load redistribution, the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 is controlled to compensate for the change. Thus, according to the standing CT apparatus 1, even if the subject P moves, the center of gravity of the subject P can be not calculated, but the support moving mechanism 35 can be moved to compensate for the movement of the subject P in real time. Other effects are the same as those in the embodiment, so the description is omitted.

[0167] (Fifth Application Example)

[0168] This application example includes a gripping unit that is fixed to a beam extending in the horizontal direction from the upper end of the support column 13, the ceiling of the examination room in which the standing CT apparatus 1 is installed, or the bottom surface of the examination room, and can be gripped by the subject P located in the opening 15 of the gantry 11. The gripping unit has, for example, a rod-shaped bar that the subject P can grip.

[0169] For example, in the case where the holding portion is fixed to a beam or a ceiling, the holding portion is, for example, constituted by a roughly L-shaped shape. In this case, the holding portion has: one end of the L-shaped holding portion is fixed to the beam or the ceiling and extends vertically downward; and a horizontal second portion extends from the other end of the first portion in parallel with the ground (or the ground). In addition, in the case where the holding portion is fixed to a beam or a ceiling, the holding portion has two rods and one rod. One end of each of the two rods is fixed to the beam or the ceiling and extends vertically downward. One rod is fixed near the other end of the two rods and extends parallel to the ground (or the ground). In addition, in the case where the holding portion is fixed to the bottom surface of the inspection room, it is achieved by a rod extending vertically upward from the ground or the supporting moving mechanism 35 in the opening.

[0170] According to the standing CT apparatus 1 of the fifth application example described above, the subject P located at the opening 15 of the gantry 11 can be held by a holding portion (rod) fixed to the beam 50 extending in the horizontal direction from the upper end of the support 13, the ceiling of the examination room where the standing CT apparatus 1 is installed, or the bottom surface of the examination room. Therefore, according to this application example, when the subject P is moved in relation to the alignment of the ROI with respect to the imaging center, the stability of the subject P can be improved. In addition, according to the standing CT apparatus 1, the CT image based on the main scan can be prevented from shaking due to the shaking of the upper body of the subject P.

[0171] (Sixth Application Example)

[0172] In this application example, the gripping part in the fifth application example is fixed to a beam or a ceiling of an inspection room via a horizontally movable frame, and the movement of the movable frame is controlled by the mechanism control function 119. In the following, for the sake of concreteness, the gripping part is assumed to be L-shaped and is provided on the beam via a movable frame.

[0173] Fig.18 FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a standing CT apparatus 4 of this application example. Fig.18 As shown, the moving frame 53 is fixed to the beam 50. The moving frame 53 supports the gripping portion 55 so as to be movable in the horizontal direction (XY direction). The moving frame 53 moves the gripping portion 55 in the horizontal direction under the control of the mechanism control function 119. The moving frame 53 has a moving mechanism that moves the gripping portion 55 in at least one of the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, that is, in the horizontal direction.

[0174] The moving mechanism includes, for example, at least one guide (for example, a linear guide such as a direct-acting guide), a block supporting the gripping portion 55 and a guide rail guiding the block; and a driving mechanism that moves the block in the guide along the guide rail. The driving mechanism includes, for example, various motors that generate driving force and various transmission mechanisms that transmit the driving force to the block. The moving frame 53 generates a driving force through the driving mechanism according to a control signal output from the mechanism control function 119. The moving frame 53 moves the gripping portion 55 in the horizontal direction through the generated driving force.

[0175] Next, the alignment process in this application example will be described. Fig.19 This is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the positioning process in this application example. Fig.19 Step S1901 and step S1902 in Figure 2 Step S201 and step S202 in the above process correspond to each other and are the same processes as them, so the description is omitted.

[0176] (Alignment processing)

[0177] (Step S1903)

[0178] The processing circuit 107 outputs the movement amount and movement direction of the mobile frame 53 based on the center position of the ROI and the position of the imaging center through the mechanism control function 119. In addition, the mechanism control function 119 may also display the movement amount and movement direction of the mobile frame 53 together with the center position of the ROI and the position of the imaging center on a monitor or display 103 provided on the frame 11 or the support 13. Thus, the user can be informed of the movement amount and movement direction of the mobile frame 53. In addition, the mechanism control function 119 may also display the movement amount and movement direction of the mobile frame 53 together with the pre-scan image PSI on the display 103. At this time, the user may also appropriately modify the movement amount and movement direction of the mobile frame 53 through the input interface 105.

[0179] (Step S1904)

[0180] The processing circuit 107 moves the movable frame 53 by operating the driving mechanism based on the moving direction and moving amount through the mechanism control function 119. In addition, the mechanism control function 119 can also manually move the movable frame 53 according to the instruction of the operator through the input interface 105, according to the moving amount and moving direction input or corrected by the user.

[0181] According to the standing CT device 4 of the sixth application example described above, a gripping portion 55 is fixed to a beam 50 extending in a horizontal direction from the upper end of the support 13 or to the ceiling of the examination room in which the standing CT device 4 is installed via a moving frame 53, and the movement of the moving frame 53 is controlled. The effects in this application example are the same as those in the embodiment and the fifth application example, and thus the description is omitted. In addition, as a variation of this application example, the top plate TT may not move but only the gripping portion 55 may move. In this case, the supporting moving mechanism 35 may also be omitted. In this case, the user can urge the movement of the subject P.

[0182] (Seventh Application Example)

[0183] In this application example, for example, based on the movement amount and movement direction obtained from the center position of the ROI and the position of the imaging center CI, it is determined whether the top plate has moved to a position corresponding to the contact between a part of the subject P and the gantry 11 (hereinafter referred to as the contact position), and the movement amount is corrected according to the determination result. The contact position corresponds to, for example, the position of the support moving mechanism 35 when a part of the subject P is in contact with the gantry 11.

[0184] The mechanism control function 119 determines whether the top plate has moved to the contact position based on the movement amount and movement direction obtained from the center position of the ROI and the position of the imaging center CI. If it is determined that the top plate has moved to the contact position, the mechanism control function 119 reduces (corrects) the movement amount to prevent the top plate from moving to the contact position. The mechanism control function 119 controls the support movement mechanism 35 based on the corrected movement amount. That is, the mechanism control function 119 controls the movement of the support movement mechanism 35 so that a part of the subject P does not contact the gantry 11.

[0185] According to the standing CT apparatus 1 of the seventh application example described above, it is determined whether the support moving mechanism 35 has moved to the contact position based on the region of interest (ROI) in the pre-scan image PSI and the imaging center CI in the imaging system. If it is determined that the support moving mechanism 35 has moved to the contact position, the movement amount of the support moving mechanism 35 is corrected to prevent a part of the subject P from contacting the gantry 11, and the support moving mechanism 35 is controlled based on the corrected movement amount. Thus, according to the standing CT apparatus 1 of this application example, the ROI can be arranged near the imaging center CI without causing a part of the subject P to contact the gantry 11, so that the throughput of the examination of the subject P can be improved.

[0186] (Eighth Application Example)

[0187] This application example determines, for example, based on the movement amount and movement direction obtained from the center position of the ROI and the position of the imaging center CI, whether a part of the region of the subject P deviates from the imaging field of view (FOV: Field of View) in the imaging system due to the movement of the support and movement mechanism 35, and when it is determined that the part of the region deviates from the imaging field of view, the range of deviation from the imaging field of view is displayed on the display 103. Next, this application example changes the movement amount of the support and movement mechanism 35 according to the user's instruction input according to the deviation range, and controls the support and movement mechanism 35 according to the changed movement amount.

[0188] The mechanism control function 119 determines whether a part of the area of ​​the subject P is out of the imaging field of view in the imaging system due to the movement of the support movement mechanism 35, based on the movement amount and movement direction calculated according to the center position of the ROI and the position of the imaging center CI. In the case where it is determined that the part of the area is out of the imaging field of view, the mechanism control function 119 uses the pre-scan image PSI to display the range that is out of the imaging field of view (hereinafter referred to as the out-of-field range) on the display 103. Thus, the out-of-field range is visually confirmed by the user. The mechanism control function 119 changes the movement amount of the support movement mechanism 35 according to the user's instruction via the input interface 105. The mechanism control function 119 controls the support movement mechanism 35 according to the changed movement amount.

[0189] According to the standing position CT apparatus 1 of the eighth application example described above, it is determined whether a part of the region of the subject P deviates from the imaging field of view due to the movement of the support moving mechanism 35 based on the region of interest (ROI) in the pre-scan image PSI and the imaging center CI in the imaging system. If it is determined that the part of the region deviates from the imaging field of view, the out-of-field range is displayed on the display 103, and the movement amount of the support moving mechanism 35 is changed according to the user's instruction input corresponding to the out-of-field range, and the support moving mechanism 35 is controlled according to the changed movement amount. Thus, according to the standing position CT apparatus 1 of this application example, if it is determined that the part of the region deviates from the imaging field of view, the out-of-field range is displayed on the display 103, so that the out-of-field range can be visually notified to the user. Therefore, according to the standing position CT apparatus 1 of this application example, the support moving mechanism 35 can be controlled according to the movement amount changed by the user. According to this situation, according to the standing position CT apparatus 1 of this application example, the movement amount can be changed according to the user's instruction corresponding to the out-of-field range, so that the main scan can be performed on the ROI corresponding to the user's desire. The other effects in this application example are the same as those in the embodiment, and thus description thereof will be omitted.

[0190] (Ninth Application Example)

[0191] This application example determines whether a portion of the subject P deviates from the imaging field of view due to the movement of the supporting moving mechanism 35, based on the movement amount and movement direction calculated according to the center position of the ROI and the position of the imaging center CI. When it is determined that the portion of the area deviates from the imaging field of view, the movement amount of the supporting moving mechanism 35 is changed so that the portion of the area does not deviate from the imaging field of view, and the supporting moving mechanism 35 is controlled according to the changed movement amount.

[0192] The mechanism control function 119 determines whether a part of the subject P deviates from the imaging field of view in the imaging system due to the movement of the support movement mechanism 35, based on the movement amount and movement direction calculated according to the center position of the ROI and the position of the imaging center CI. In the case where it is determined that the part of the area deviates from the imaging field of view, the mechanism control function 119 changes the movement amount of the support movement mechanism 35 so that the part of the area does not deviate from the imaging field of view. Specifically, the mechanism control function 119 changes (reduces) the movement amount so that the part of the area does not deviate from the imaging field of view. The mechanism control function 119 controls the support movement mechanism 35 according to the changed movement amount.

[0193] According to the standing CT apparatus 1 of the ninth application example described above, based on the region of interest (ROI) in the pre-scan image PSI and the imaging center CI in the imaging system, it is determined whether a part of the subject P deviates from the imaging field of view due to the movement of the support moving mechanism 35, and when it is determined that the part deviates from the imaging field of view, the movement amount of the support moving mechanism 35 is changed so that the part does not deviate from the imaging field of view, and the support moving mechanism 35 is controlled according to the changed movement amount. Thus, according to the standing CT apparatus 1 of this application example, since the ROI can be arranged near the imaging center CI without the part of the subject P deviating from the imaging field of view, the throughput of the examination of the subject P can be improved.

[0194] (Tenth application example)

[0195] In this application example, the eighth application example or the ninth application example is executed according to the scan plan of the main scan for the subject P. The scan plan includes, for example, the number of scans, the range of scans, irradiation timing, irradiation conditions, and image processing conditions.

[0196] The mechanism control function 119 determines whether a part of the area of ​​the subject P deviates from the imaging field of view of the imaging system due to the movement of the support moving mechanism 35, based on the movement amount and movement direction calculated according to the center position of the ROI and the position of the imaging center CI. When it is determined that the part of the area deviates from the imaging field of view, the mechanism control function 119 changes the movement amount of the support moving mechanism 35 according to the scanning plan of the main scan related to the subject P, so that the out-of-field range is displayed on the display 103, or the part of the area does not deviate from the imaging field of view. When the out-of-field range is displayed on the display 103, the mechanism control function 119 changes the movement amount of the support moving mechanism 35 according to the user's instruction input corresponding to the out-of-field range. The mechanism control function 119 controls the support moving mechanism 35 according to the changed movement amount. The effects in this application example are the same as those in the eighth application example and the ninth application example, so the description is omitted.

[0197] When the technical idea in the embodiment is realized by a control method, the control method uses a camera system in a gantry 11 supported by at least one support 13 so as to be movable in a vertical direction to capture an image of a subject P supported from below by a support moving mechanism 35, the support moving mechanism 35 being configured to be movable in a direction intersecting the moving direction of the gantry 11, and generates an image based on an output from the camera system, and controls the movement of the support moving mechanism 35. The order and effect of the alignment processing performed by the control method are the same as those in the embodiment, and therefore the description thereof is omitted.

[0198] According to at least one embodiment, a plurality of application examples, and modified examples described above, it is possible to obtain a high-quality medical image.

[0199] Several embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These new embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the subject matter of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope or subject matter of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the scope of their equivalents.

[0200] Regarding the above-mentioned embodiments, the following supplementary notes are disclosed as one aspect and optional features of the invention.

[0201] (Note 1)

[0202] A medical image diagnostic device, comprising:

[0203] at least one support supporting a gantry related to imaging of the subject so as to be movable in a vertical direction;

[0204] a support movement mechanism configured to be movable in a direction intersecting with a movement direction of the gantry to support the subject; and

[0205] The mechanism control unit controls the movement of the support movement mechanism.

[0206] (Note 2)

[0207] The device may further include an image generating unit configured to generate an image based on an output from the imaging system.

[0208] (Note 3)

[0209] The gantry may include an imaging system related to imaging of the subject.

[0210] (Note 4)

[0211] The mechanism control unit may control movement of the support moving mechanism based on the region of interest in the image and an imaging center in the imaging system.

[0212] (Note 5)

[0213] The mechanism control unit may control the movement of the support moving mechanism so that the center position of the region of interest coincides with the position of the imaging center.

[0214] (Note 6)

[0215] The mechanism control unit may control the movement of the support moving mechanism according to a user's instruction based on a region of interest in the image and an imaging center in the imaging system.

[0216] (Note 7)

[0217] The mechanism control unit may control the movement of the support moving mechanism in accordance with a user's instruction to make the center position of the region of interest coincide with the position of the imaging center.

[0218] (Note 8)

[0219] The apparatus may further include a detection unit configured to detect the center of gravity of the object supported by the support movement mechanism.

[0220] The mechanism control unit may control the movement of the support moving mechanism based on the displacement amount of the center of gravity so as to compensate for the displacement amount.

[0221] (Note 9)

[0222] Alternatively, the apparatus may further include a camera, the camera being located above the opening of the rack and including the opening of the rack in a camera field of view.

[0223] The mechanism control unit may control the movement of the support moving mechanism based on the amount of movement of the subject in the image acquired by the camera so as to compensate for the amount of movement.

[0224] (Note 10)

[0225] The camera may be disposed on a beam extending in a horizontal direction from an upper end of the support column or on a ceiling of an examination room in which the medical image diagnosis apparatus is installed, and may be capable of imaging the subject located in an opening of the gantry.

[0226] (Note 11)

[0227] The apparatus may further include a detection unit configured to detect a load distribution of the object supported by the support movement mechanism.

[0228] The mechanism control unit may control the movement of the support moving mechanism based on the amount of change in the load distribution so as to compensate for the amount of change.

[0229] (Note 12)

[0230] Alternatively, the frame may have an opening forming a camera space related to the camera.

[0231] The apparatus may further include: a plurality of gas bags, which are provided on the wall surface of the frame at the opening and are inflated by gas injection to maintain the posture of the subject; and

[0232] a plurality of pumps for injecting the gas into the gas bag or discharging the gas from the gas bag,

[0233] The mechanism control unit may further control injection and discharge of the gas by the pump along with the control of the movement.

[0234] (Note 13)

[0235] The apparatus may further include a detection unit configured to detect the center of gravity of the object supported by the support movement mechanism.

[0236] The mechanism control unit may control the pump based on the displacement of the center of gravity so as to compensate for the displacement.

[0237] (Note 14)

[0238] The apparatus may further include a gripping unit capable of being gripped by the subject positioned in the opening of the gantry.

[0239] (Note 15)

[0240] The holding portion may be fixed to a beam extending in a horizontal direction from an upper end of the support column, a ceiling of an examination room in which the medical image diagnosis apparatus is installed, or a bottom surface of the examination room.

[0241] (Note 16)

[0242] Alternatively, the gripping portion may be fixed to the beam or the ceiling via a horizontally movable frame.

[0243] The mechanism control unit may control movement of the moving frame.

[0244] (Note 17)

[0245] The mechanism control unit,

[0246] It is possible to determine whether the support moving mechanism has moved to a position corresponding to contact between a part of the subject and a gantry based on a region of interest in the image and an imaging center in the imaging system,

[0247] When it is determined that the support movement mechanism has moved to a position corresponding to the contact, the movement amount of the support movement mechanism may be corrected so that a part of the subject is not in contact with the gantry.

[0248] The support moving mechanism may be controlled based on the corrected movement amount.

[0249] (Note 18)

[0250] The mechanism control unit,

[0251] Based on the region of interest in the image and the imaging center in the imaging system, it can be determined whether a part of the subject is deviated from the imaging field of the imaging system due to the movement of the support moving mechanism.

[0252] When it is determined that the image is out of the camera field of view, the range out of the camera field of view may be displayed on a display.

[0253] The movement amount of the support movement mechanism may be changed according to a user instruction input according to the range of the deviation.

[0254] The support moving mechanism may be controlled according to the changed movement amount.

[0255] (Note 19)

[0256] The mechanism control unit,

[0257] Based on the region of interest in the image and the imaging center in the imaging system, it can be determined whether a part of the subject is deviated from the imaging field of the imaging system due to the movement of the support moving mechanism.

[0258] When it is determined that the partial area deviates from the imaging field of view, the movement amount of the support movement mechanism may be changed so that the partial area does not deviate from the imaging field of view.

[0259] The support moving mechanism may be controlled according to the changed movement amount.

[0260] (Note 20)

[0261] The mechanism control unit,

[0262] Based on the region of interest in the image and the imaging center in the imaging system, it can be determined whether a part of the subject is deviated from the imaging field of the imaging system due to the movement of the support moving mechanism.

[0263] When it is determined that the part of the area deviates from the imaging field of view, the movement amount of the support moving mechanism can be changed according to a scanning plan related to the subject so that the display shows the range deviating from the imaging field of view, or the part of the area does not deviate from the imaging field of view.

[0264] When the range of the deviation is displayed on the display, the movement amount of the support moving mechanism may be changed according to a user instruction input according to the range of the deviation.

[0265] The support moving mechanism may be controlled according to the changed movement amount.

[0266] (Note 21)

[0267] The medical image diagnosis apparatus may capture images of the subject in a standing position.

[0268] (Note 22)

[0269] The medical image diagnosis apparatus may be an X-ray computed tomography apparatus or a positron emission tomography apparatus.

[0270] (Note 23)

[0271] Alternatively, the gantry performs scanning imaging on the subject.

[0272] The region of interest may be determined in an image generated by the scanogram.

[0273] (Note 24)

[0274] A control method comprises the following steps:

[0275] The imaging system in the gantry supported by at least one support so as to be movable in the vertical direction is used to image the subject supported from below by a support moving mechanism, wherein the support moving mechanism is arranged to be movable in a direction intersecting the movement direction of the gantry.

[0276] generating an image based on output from the camera system,

[0277] Controlling the movement of the support movement mechanism.

[0278] (Appendix 25)

[0279] A medical image diagnostic device, comprising:

[0280] a frame having an imaging system associated with imaging of the subject;

[0281] at least one support column, supporting the frame to be movable in a vertical direction;

[0282] an image generating unit that generates an image based on an output from the imaging system,

[0283] a support movement mechanism, which is provided to be movable in a direction intersecting with the movement direction of the gantry and supports the subject from below; and

[0284] The output unit outputs information corresponding to at least one of a moving direction and a moving amount of the support moving mechanism based on a region of interest in the subject and an imaging center of the imaging system.

Claims

1. A medical image diagnostic device comprising: a frame having an imaging system associated with imaging of the subject; at least one support column, supporting the frame to be movable in a vertical direction; an image generating unit that generates an image based on an output from the imaging system; a support movement mechanism, which is arranged to be movable in a direction intersecting with the movement direction of the gantry, and supports the subject from below; as well as a mechanism control unit, which controls the movement of the supporting movement mechanism; The mechanism control unit controls movement of the support moving mechanism based on the region of interest in the image and an imaging center in the imaging system.

2. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, The mechanism control unit controls the movement of the support movement mechanism so that the center position of the region of interest coincides with the position of the imaging center.

3. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, The mechanism control unit controls the movement of the support movement mechanism according to a user's instruction based on an area of ​​interest in the image and an imaging center in the imaging system.

4. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 3, The mechanism control unit controls the movement of the support movement mechanism in accordance with a user's instruction to make the center position of the region of interest coincide with the position of the imaging center.

5. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a detection unit configured to detect the center of gravity of the subject supported by the support movement mechanism, The mechanism control unit controls the movement of the support moving mechanism based on the displacement amount of the center of gravity so as to compensate for the displacement amount.

6. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, An optical camera is further provided, the optical camera being arranged on a beam extending in a horizontal direction from the upper end of the support or on a ceiling of an examination room in which the medical image diagnosis apparatus is installed, and being capable of photographing the subject located at the opening of the rack. The mechanism control unit controls the movement of the support moving mechanism based on the amount of movement of the subject in the image acquired by the optical camera so as to compensate for the amount of movement.

7. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a detection unit configured to detect a load distribution of the object supported by the support movement mechanism, The mechanism control unit controls the movement of the support movement mechanism based on the amount of change in the load distribution so as to compensate for the amount of change.

8. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, The frame has an opening forming a camera space related to the camera, The medical image diagnostic apparatus further comprises: A plurality of gas bags are provided on the wall surface of the frame at the opening and are inflated by the injection of gas to maintain the posture of the subject; and a plurality of pumps for injecting the gas into the gas bag or discharging the gas from the gas bag, The mechanism control unit further controls injection and discharge of the gas by the pump along with the control of the movement.

9. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 8, further comprising a detection unit configured to detect the center of gravity of the subject supported by the support movement mechanism, The mechanism control section controls the pump based on the displacement of the center of gravity to compensate for the displacement.

10. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, A gripping unit is also provided, which is fixed to a beam extending horizontally from the upper end of the support, the ceiling of the examination room where the medical image diagnosis apparatus is installed, or the bottom surface of the examination room, and can be gripped by the subject located in the opening of the rack.

11. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 10, The holding portion is fixed to the beam or the ceiling via a horizontally movable frame. The mechanism control section controls movement of the moving frame.

12. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, The mechanism control unit, determining whether the support moving mechanism has moved to a position corresponding to contact between a portion of the subject and a gantry based on a region of interest in the image and an imaging center in the imaging system, When it is determined that the support movement mechanism has moved to a position corresponding to the contact, the movement amount of the support movement mechanism is corrected so that a part of the subject is not in contact with the gantry; The support moving mechanism is controlled based on the corrected movement amount.

13. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, The mechanism control unit, determining whether a part of the subject is deviated from the imaging field of the imaging system due to the movement of the support moving mechanism based on the region of interest in the image and the imaging center of the imaging system, If it is determined that the image is out of the camera field of view, the range out of the camera field of view is displayed on a display. changing the movement amount of the support moving mechanism according to a user instruction inputted corresponding to the range of the deviation, The support moving mechanism is controlled according to the changed movement amount.

14. The medical image diagnostic apparatus according to claim 1, The mechanism control unit, determining whether a part of the subject is deviated from the imaging field of the imaging system due to the movement of the support moving mechanism based on the region of interest in the image and the imaging center of the imaging system, When it is determined that the partial area deviates from the imaging field of view, the movement amount of the support movement mechanism is changed so that the partial area does not deviate from the imaging field of view. The support moving mechanism is controlled according to the changed movement amount.

15. The medical image diagnosis apparatus according to claim 1, The mechanism control unit, determining whether a part of the subject is deviated from the imaging field of the imaging system due to the movement of the support moving mechanism based on the region of interest in the image and the imaging center of the imaging system, When it is determined that the part of the area deviates from the imaging field of view, the movement amount of the support moving mechanism is changed according to a scanning plan related to the subject so that the display shows the range of deviation from the imaging field of view, or the part of the area does not deviate from the imaging field of view, When the range of the deviation is displayed on a display, the movement amount of the support moving mechanism is changed according to a user instruction inputted in accordance with the range of the deviation, The support moving mechanism is controlled according to the changed movement amount.

16. A control method comprising the following steps: The imaging system in the gantry supported by at least one support so as to be movable in the vertical direction is used to image the subject supported from below by a support moving mechanism, wherein the support moving mechanism is arranged to be movable in a direction intersecting the movement direction of the gantry. generating an image based on output from the camera system, The movement of the support moving mechanism is controlled based on the region of interest in the image and the imaging center in the imaging system.

17. A medical image diagnostic device comprising: a frame having an imaging system associated with imaging of the subject; at least one support column, supporting the frame to be movable in a vertical direction; an image generating unit that generates an image based on an output from the imaging system, a support movement mechanism, which is provided to be movable in a direction intersecting with the movement direction of the gantry and supports the subject from below; and The output unit outputs information corresponding to at least one of a moving direction and a moving amount of the support moving mechanism based on a region of interest in the subject and an imaging center of the imaging system.

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