X-ray photography device

Abstract

An X-ray imaging apparatus includes an X-ray source, an X-ray detector, an arm, an arm drive mechanism, an X-ray detector movement mechanism, a bed, and a control unit. The control unit controls a position adjustment operation by moving the X-ray detector toward or away from the surface of a subject phantom to adjust the position of the X-ray detector so that the distance from the surface of the subject phantom to the X-ray detector reaches a predetermined distance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an X-ray imaging apparatus, and more particularly to an X-ray imaging apparatus including an arm for holding an X-ray source and an X-ray detector. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an X-ray imaging apparatus including an arm that holds an X-ray source and an X-ray detector is known. Such an X-ray imaging apparatus is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-95790.

[0003] The X-ray imaging apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-95790 includes a C-arm, an X-ray tube, a flat-panel X-ray detector, a sliding support mechanism, a sliding mechanism, and a bed. The X-ray tube is mounted at one end of the C-arm, and the flat-panel X-ray detector is mounted at the other end of the C-arm. The sliding support mechanism holds the flat-panel X-ray detector so that it can move in a direction perpendicular to the X-ray irradiation axis. Furthermore, the sliding mechanism holds the sliding support mechanism so that it can move relative to the X-ray irradiation axis. Specifically, the X-ray imaging apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-95790 is configured to move the X-ray tube and the flat-panel X-ray detector via the sliding support mechanism and the sliding mechanism, thereby performing imaging from different imaging positions. Furthermore, the X-ray imaging apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-95790 is configured to move the flat-panel X-ray detector in a direction perpendicular to the X-ray irradiation axis and in the direction of the X-ray irradiation axis during imaging, thereby bringing the flat-panel X-ray detector closer to the subject. Furthermore, the slide holding mechanism disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-95790 is configured to enable the flat-panel X-ray detector to be linearly moved manually or electrically.

[0004] Here, the X-ray imaging device disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-95790 is configured to bring a flat-panel X-ray detector (X-ray detector) closer to the subject based on the angle of the C-arm (arm) relative to the bed. However, in a structure that brings the X-ray detector closer to the subject based on the angle of the arm relative to the bed, the X-ray detector is brought closer to the subject based on the distance between the X-ray detector and the bed, not the distance between the subject and the X-ray detector. Therefore, since the body shape of the subject placed on the bed is not taken into account, the distance between the subject and the X-ray detector may sometimes be greater than the specified distance. If the distance between the subject and the X-ray detector is greater than the specified distance, the distance from the X-ray source to the X-ray detector is greater than the specified distance, and the dose of attenuated X-rays increases. If the dose of attenuated X-rays increases, the contrast of the resulting image decreases. Therefore, in order to suppress the decrease in the contrast of the resulting image, the dose of irradiated X-rays needs to be increased. If the dose of irradiated X-rays is increased, there is a disadvantage that the scattered X-rays increase. When scattered X-rays increase, the resulting image quality deteriorates. Furthermore, while it is possible to reduce the distance between the subject and the X-ray detector by having the operator manually move the X-ray detector, this increases the burden on the operator because the operator must manually move the X-ray detector each time the imaging position is changed. Therefore, an X-ray imaging device is desired that can minimize the increase in the distance between the subject and the X-ray detector while suppressing the increase in the burden on the operator. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and one object of the present invention is to provide an X-ray imaging apparatus capable of suppressing an increase in the burden on an operator while preventing the distance between a subject and an X-ray detector from exceeding a predetermined distance.

[0006] To achieve the above-mentioned object, an X-ray imaging apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: an X-ray source that irradiates an object with X-rays; an X-ray detector that detects the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source; an arm that holds the X-ray source and the X-ray detector; an arm driving mechanism that drives the arm; an X-ray detector moving mechanism that is provided on the arm and moves the X-ray detector forward or backward in the direction of the X-ray irradiation axis; a bed for placing the object on the bed; and a control unit that controls the following position adjustment action: the position of the X-ray detector is adjusted by moving the X-ray detector toward or away from the surface of a object model that is a model of the object's surface shape so that the distance from the surface of the object model to the X-ray detector becomes a predetermined distance.

[0007] In one aspect of the present invention, an X-ray imaging device includes a control unit, as described above, that controls a position adjustment operation to adjust the position of the X-ray detector so that the distance from the surface of the subject model to the X-ray detector is a predetermined distance. Thus, by controlling the position adjustment operation, the X-ray detector is positioned at a predetermined distance from the surface of the subject model. This allows the X-ray detector to be brought closer to the subject based not on the distance between the X-ray detector and the bed, but rather on the distance between the subject and the X-ray detector, taking into account the body shape of the subject placed on the bed. Furthermore, the X-ray detector can be brought closer to the subject until the predetermined distance is reached without the operator having to move it. As a result, the distance between the subject and the X-ray detector can be prevented from exceeding the predetermined distance while suppressing any increase in the burden on the operator. Furthermore, the term "predetermined distance" is a concept that also includes the case where the distance is 0 (zero). That is, the predetermined distance can also include the distance where the surface of the subject model and the X-ray detector are in contact. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the overall structure of an X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram for explaining a subject model generated by the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram for explaining conditions under which a control unit performs control of a position adjustment operation according to one embodiment.

[0011] Figure 4 The following are used to explain the conditions for the control unit to perform position adjustment operation in one embodiment. Figure 3 Schematic diagram of different conditions.

[0012] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram for explaining the first imaging position.

[0013] Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram for explaining the second imaging position.

[0014] Figure 7A This is a schematic diagram for explaining a first imaging position in a position adjustment operation when the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment automatically moves the arm.

[0015] Figure 7B This is a schematic diagram for explaining an operation of moving the X-ray detector away from the X-ray detector during a position adjustment operation when the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment automatically moves the arm.

[0016] Figure 7C This is a schematic diagram for explaining an operation of changing the angle of the X-ray detector in a position adjustment operation when the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment automatically moves the arm.

[0017] Figure 7D This is a schematic diagram for explaining an operation of bringing the X-ray detector closer during a position adjustment operation when the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment automatically moves the arm.

[0018] Figure 8A This is a schematic diagram for explaining a first imaging position in a position adjustment operation when an operator manually moves an arm in the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 8B This is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of starting the movement of the X-ray detector during the position adjustment operation when the operator manually moves the arm in the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0020] Figure 8C This is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of continuing to move the X-ray detector during the position adjustment operation when the operator manually moves the arm in the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 8D This is a schematic diagram for explaining the complete movement of the X-ray detector during the position adjustment operation when the operator manually moves the arm in the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 9 This is a flowchart for explaining the processing of the position adjustment operation when the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment automatically moves the arm.

[0023] Figure 10 This is a flowchart for explaining the processing of the position adjustment operation when the operator manually moves the arm in the X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 11 This is a flowchart for explaining a control process for switching whether or not to perform a position adjustment operation in an X-ray imaging apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0025] Figure 12 Schematic diagram showing the overall structure of an X-ray imaging apparatus according to a first modification.

[0026] Figure 13 This is a flowchart for explaining the process of regenerating the subject model according to the first modification.

[0027] Figure 14Schematic diagram showing the overall structure of an X-ray imaging apparatus according to a second modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0029] Reference Figure 1 8 , the structure of an X-ray imaging apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0030] (Structure of X-ray Radiography Apparatus)

[0031] First, refer to Figure 1 The structure of an X-ray imaging apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0032] like Figure 1 As shown, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 includes an X-ray source 1, an X-ray detector 2, an arm 3, an arm driving mechanism 4, an X-ray detector moving mechanism 5, a bed 6, and a control unit 7. In addition, in the present embodiment, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 also includes a contact sensor 8. In addition, in the present embodiment, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 also includes an input receiving unit 9. In addition, in the present embodiment, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 also includes an arm position changing mechanism 10 and a storage unit 11. In the present embodiment, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is set in an examination room, for example, and a contrast agent is administered to a subject 80 for imaging, so that a doctor or the like can perform treatment and diagnosis of an area of ​​interest of the subject 80. In addition, in Figure 1 In the example shown, the vertical direction is referred to as the Z direction, the upward direction is referred to as the Z1 direction, and the downward direction is referred to as the Z2 direction. Furthermore, the directions perpendicular to each other in a horizontal plane perpendicular to the Z direction are referred to as the X and Y directions. One side of the X direction is referred to as the X1 direction, and the other side of the X direction is referred to as the X2 direction. Furthermore, one side of the Y direction is referred to as the Y1 direction, and the other side of the Y direction is referred to as the Y2 direction.

[0033] The X-ray source 1 is configured to irradiate X-rays toward the subject 80. The X-ray source 1 is configured to generate X-rays by applying a high voltage based on a signal from the control unit 7, and to irradiate the generated X-rays toward the X-ray detector 2. Figure 1 In the example shown, the X-ray source 1 radiates X-rays in the direction of the irradiation axis 50. Figure 1 In the example shown, the X-ray source 1 is arranged so that the irradiation axis 50 faces the Z direction.

[0034] X-ray detector 2 is configured to detect X-rays emitted from X-ray source 1. Furthermore, X-ray detector 2 is configured to convert the detected X-rays into electrical signals and read the converted electrical signals as image signals. X-ray detector 2 is, for example, an FPD (Flat Panel Detector).

[0035] The arm 3 is configured to hold the X-ray source 1 and the X-ray detector 2. Figure 1 As shown, the arm 3 has an arc shape and holds an X-ray source 1 and an X-ray detector 2 at one end and the other end. The arm 3 is a so-called C-arm. In addition, the arm 3 is held by an arm drive mechanism 4. Figure 1 In the example shown, the arm 3 is rotatably held by the arm drive mechanism 4. Figure 1 In the illustrated example, the arm 3 is arranged so that the short side of the bed 6 is located between the X-ray source 1 and the X-ray detector 2 .

[0036] The arm drive mechanism 4 is configured to drive the arm 3. In this embodiment, the arm 3 is held so as to be rotatable around the axis of the rotation shaft 51 as indicated by the arrow 60. In addition, the arm drive mechanism 4 is configured to be able to move the arm 3 along the circumferential direction of the arm 3 (the direction of the arrow 61). The arm drive mechanism 4 includes, for example, a motor, etc. Figure 1 In the illustrated example, the arm driving mechanism 4 is configured such that the rotation axis 51 is oriented in the horizontal direction (X direction).

[0037] The arm driving mechanism 4 is held by an arm position changing mechanism 10 that moves the arm 3 and the arm driving mechanism 4. Specifically, the arm driving mechanism 4 is configured to be able to change the position and angle of the arm 3 relative to the bed 6.

[0038] The X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 is provided on the arm 3 and is configured to move the X-ray detector 2 forward or backward in the direction of the X-ray irradiation axis 50. Figure 1 In the example shown, the X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 is configured to move the X-ray detector 2 in the direction of the X-ray irradiation axis 50. Figure 1 In the illustrated example, since X-ray irradiation axis 50 is oriented in the Z direction, X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 is configured to move X-ray detector 2 in the Z direction as indicated by arrow 63. X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 includes, for example, a linear motion mechanism. Details of the structure of X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 for moving X-ray detector 2 in the direction of X-ray irradiation axis 50 will be described later.

[0039] The bed 6 includes a top plate 6a and a top plate moving mechanism 6b. The subject 80 is placed on the top plate 6a. In addition, the X direction is the long side direction of the top plate 6a. In other words, the X direction is the head and foot (body length) direction of the subject 80. In addition, the Y direction is the short side direction of the top plate 6a. In other words, the Y direction is the body width 80b of the subject 80 (refer to Figure 2 )direction.

[0040] The top plate moving mechanism 6b is configured to move the top plate 6a under the control of the control unit 7. Specifically, the top plate moving mechanism 6b is configured to move the top plate 6a in the Z direction. Furthermore, the top plate moving mechanism 6b is configured to translate the top plate 6a within the XY plane. Furthermore, the top plate moving mechanism 6b is configured to tilt the top plate 6a. For example, the top plate moving mechanism 6b includes a direct-acting mechanism for moving the top plate 6a in the X direction, a direct-acting mechanism for moving the top plate 6a in the Y direction, and a direct-acting mechanism for moving the top plate 6a in the Z direction.

[0041] The control unit 7 is configured to control the X-ray imaging apparatus 100. Furthermore, the control unit 7 is configured to control the arm drive mechanism 4 and the arm position changing mechanism 10. Specifically, the control unit 7 is configured to control a position adjustment operation for adjusting the position of the X-ray detector 2. Furthermore, the control unit 7 is configured to control the arm 3 to be positioned at a predetermined imaging position by the arm drive mechanism 4 and the arm position changing mechanism 10 for imaging. The control unit 7 includes, for example, a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Details of the structure of the control unit 7 for controlling the position adjustment operation will be described later.

[0042] Contact sensor 8 is provided on the surface of X-ray detector 2 on the X-ray source 1 side. Therefore, contact sensor 8 is configured to detect whether X-ray detector 2 and subject 80 are in contact. Contact sensor 8 is composed of a mechanical sensor, for example.

[0043] The input receiving unit 9 is configured to receive an operation input from an operator. The input receiving unit 9 includes input devices such as a mouse, a keyboard, and a joystick.

[0044] The arm position changing mechanism 10 is configured to move the arm driving mechanism 4 so as to move the arm 3 together with the arm driving mechanism 4 to the desired photographing position. The arm position changing mechanism 10 is configured to be rotatable around the axis of the rotation shaft 52 as indicated by the arrow 62. The arm position changing mechanism 10 is configured to move the arm 3 together with the arm driving mechanism 4 to the desired photographing position by rotating around the axis of the rotation shaft 52. Figure 1 In the illustrated example, the arm position changing mechanism 10 is configured such that the rotation shaft 52 faces the up-down direction (Z direction).

[0045] The storage unit 11 is configured to store a subject model 90 described later and position information of the arm 3 when performing imaging at various imaging positions, etc. The storage unit 11 includes a nonvolatile memory such as an HDD (hard disk drive) or an SSD (solid state drive).

[0046] (Photography Location)

[0047] In this embodiment, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is configured such that the control unit 7 controls the arm driving mechanism 4 and the arm position changing mechanism 10 , thereby changing the position of the arm 3 to perform imaging at various imaging positions.

[0048] In this embodiment, imaging positions are pre-stored in the storage unit 11. The control unit 7 is configured to automatically change the position and angle of the arm 3 based on an operator's input when the operator selects a desired imaging position from the imaging positions stored in the storage unit 11. Furthermore, the control unit 7 is configured to move the arm 3 to any position and angle based on the operator's input. This allows imaging at imaging positions not pre-stored.

[0049] In the present embodiment, the control unit 7 is configured to change the imaging position by changing at least any one of the position of the bed 6, the position of the arm 3, and the angle. In the present embodiment, the control unit 7 is configured to change the position of the bed 6 by controlling the top plate moving mechanism 6b to move the top plate 6a. In addition, the control unit 7 is configured to change the position and angle of the arm 3 by controlling the arm driving mechanism 4 and the arm position changing mechanism 10. In addition, the position of the bed 6 includes the position in the up and down direction (Z direction), the position in the body axis direction (X direction) of the subject 80, the position in the body width direction (Y direction) of the subject 80, the position in the rotation direction around the vertical axis, the tilted position in the body axis direction (X direction) of the subject 80, and the tilted position in the body width direction (Y direction) of the subject 80. The angle of the arm 3 is the angle formed by the direction in which the X-ray irradiation axis 50 extends and the direction in which the bed 6 extends. That is, the angle of the arm 3 includes the angle 91 formed by the direction in which the X-ray irradiation axis 50 extends and the short side direction (Y direction) of the bed 6 (refer to Figure 5 ), and the angle 92 formed by the direction in which the X-ray irradiation axis 50 extends and the longitudinal direction (X direction) of the bed 6 (see Figure 1 ).

[0050] Here, as the distance between X-ray source 1 and X-ray detector 2 increases, the dose of X-rays attenuated in the space between them increases. Therefore, when imaging, the closer X-ray detector 2 is brought to subject 80, the more the attenuated X-ray dose can be reduced. Therefore, in this embodiment, control unit 7 performs control such that X-ray detector 2 is brought closer to the surface of subject 80 so that X-ray detector 2 is brought closer to X-ray source 1 at each imaging position when imaging subject 80.

[0051] Specifically, in this embodiment, the control unit 7 controls the position adjustment operation as follows: by moving the X-ray detector 2 closer to or farther from the surface of the subject model 90, which is a model of the surface shape of the subject 80, the distance 30 (refer to Figure 3 ) becomes the specified distance 93 (refer to Figure 3 ).

[0052] (Subject Model)

[0053] Next, refer to Figure 2 The subject model 90 is described. In this embodiment, the control unit 7 is configured to obtain the subject model 90. In this embodiment, the control unit 7 is configured to obtain the subject model 90 based on the subject information 81 (see Figure 1 ) to generate the subject model 90.

[0054] Information of the examinee 81 (see Figure 1 ) is stored in, for example, a hospital system server (not shown) or an electronic medical record system (not shown) of a hospital where the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is installed. The control unit 7 acquires the subject information 81 stored in the hospital system server or the like via a network or a portable storage medium.

[0055] Control unit 7 (see Figure 1 ) is configured to generate a subject model 90 by acquiring the body thickness 80a and body width 80b of the subject 80 from the subject information 81. Specifically, the control unit 7 is configured to acquire the body thickness 80a and body width 80b of the subject 80 estimated based on the height and weight of the subject 80 as the subject information 81.

[0056] In addition, in this embodiment, the control unit 7 (see Figure 1) is configured to regenerate the subject model 90 based on the position of the X-ray detector 2 when the contact sensor 8 detects that the X-ray detector 2 and the subject 80 are in contact. That is, the control unit 7 is configured to acquire the body thickness 80a and body width 80b of the subject 80 based on the position of the X-ray detector 2 when the X-ray detector 2 is brought into contact with the subject 80, and to generate the subject model 90 based on the acquired body thickness 80a and body width 80b of the subject 80.

[0057] In addition, in this embodiment, the control unit 7 (see Figure 1 ) is configured based on the input receiving unit 9 (refer to Figure 1 ) to generate the subject model 90. The body thickness level of the subject 80 includes, for example, three levels: "large", "medium", and "small". The operator selects the body thickness level of the subject 80 by visual observation, or selects the body thickness level of the subject 80 based on the subject's information 81. In addition, the body width level of the subject 80 includes, for example, three levels: "large", "medium", and "small". The operator selects the body width level of the subject 80 by visual observation, or selects the body width level of the subject 80 based on the subject's information 81. The control unit 7 generates the subject model 90 based on the body thickness level and the body width level selected by the operator.

[0058] In addition, in this embodiment, the control unit 7 (see Figure 1 ) is configured to set imaging conditions based on the X-ray dose detected by the X-ray detector 2, and to acquire the thickness 80a and width 80b of the subject 80 based on the set imaging conditions. Specifically, in this embodiment, the control unit 7 is configured to generate a subject model 90 based on the thickness 80a and width 80b of the subject 80 acquired according to the imaging conditions. The X-ray imaging apparatus 100 of this embodiment performs imaging after setting imaging conditions such that the contrast of the resulting image does not change due to the thickness 80a and width 80b of the subject 80. Specifically, the imaging conditions are set such that the X-ray dose detected by the X-ray detector 2 does not change due to the thickness 80a and width 80b of the subject 80. Thus, the control unit 7 can acquire the thickness 80a and width 80b of the subject 80 by acquiring the imaging conditions. Furthermore, the imaging conditions include the tube voltage and tube current applied to the X-ray source 1.

[0059] Furthermore, for example, a table or calibration curve indicating the relationship between imaging conditions and the thickness 80a and width 80b of the subject 80 is pre-stored in the storage unit 11. The control unit 7 acquires the thickness 80a and width 80b of the subject 80 from the imaging conditions based on the table or calibration curve stored in the storage unit 11. Furthermore, it is not necessary to image the subject 80 solely to acquire the thickness 80a and width 80b of the subject 80. The control unit 7 can acquire the thickness 80a and width 80b of the subject 80 based on the imaging conditions when the subject 80 is previously imaged, such as in a preliminary imaging process.

[0060] In this embodiment, the control unit 7 is configured to select any of the following methods: a method for generating the subject model 90 based on the subject information 81; a method for generating the subject model 90 based on the position of the X-ray detector 2 when it is brought into contact with the subject 80; a method for generating the subject model 90 based on the thickness and width of the subject 80 selected by the operator; and a method for generating the subject model 90 based on the thickness 80a and width 80b of the subject 80 acquired based on imaging conditions. Furthermore, the control unit 7 is configured to be able to combine the various methods for implementation.

[0061] In addition, the control unit 7 is configured to generate a subject model 90 based on the body thickness level and body width level of the subject 80 selected by the operator, and then make the X-ray detector 2 contact the subject 80 to obtain the actual body thickness 80a and body width 80b of the subject 80, thereby updating the generated subject model 90.

[0062] like Figure 2 As shown, the control unit 7 generates a model having an elliptical shape with a short side of length 90a and a long side of length 90b as the subject model 90. In addition, the length 90a of the short side of the subject model 90 is larger than the body thickness 80a of the subject 80. In addition, the length 90b of the long side of the subject model 90 is larger than the body width 80b of the subject 80. That is, the control unit 7 generates a model having a shape larger than the subject 80 as the subject model 90. In addition, the subject model 90 has a shape larger than the subject 80, and when the X-ray detector 2 is brought close to the surface of the subject model 90, the distance between the X-ray source 1 and the X-ray detector 2 increases by an amount corresponding to the increase in the shape. Therefore, the subject model 90 is preferably as small as possible so that the subject 80 can enter the interior of the subject model 90.

[0063] (Control of position adjustment action)

[0064] Next, refer to Figure 38 to 8 illustrate the control of the position adjustment action performed by the control unit 7 of this embodiment. In addition, in this embodiment, the control unit 7 controls the position adjustment action separately in the case where the arm 3 is automatically moved and in the case where the arm 3 is manually moved by the operator. In addition, the case where the arm 3 is automatically moved means that the control unit 7 controls the arm drive mechanism 4 and the arm position change mechanism 10 based on the photographic position input by the operator, thereby moving the arm 3 to the specified photographic position. In addition, the case where the arm 3 is manually moved by the operator means that the control unit 7 controls the arm drive mechanism 4 and the arm position change mechanism 10 based on the operation input input by the operator through the input receiving unit 9, thereby moving the arm 3.

[0065] (Position adjustment operation when the arm is automatically moved)

[0066] First, refer to Figure 3 7 to the control unit 7 (see Figure 1 ) The control of the position adjustment action when the arm 3 is automatically moved is explained.

[0067] First, refer to Figure 3 A configuration in which control unit 7 performs control to retract X-ray detector 2 as control of the position adjustment operation will be described. Figure 3 The example shown shows a case where the X-ray detector 2 is moved along the arrow 64. When the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 at the changed imaging position is a predetermined distance 93 or less, the control unit 7 controls the X-ray detector 2 to move back as a position adjustment operation. Figure 3 The illustrated example shows a case where distance 30 between X-ray detector 2 and subject model 90 at the imaging position before the change is equal to predetermined distance 93 .

[0068] Figure 3 The example shown shows a case where the distance 31 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 at the changed imaging position is smaller than the predetermined distance 93. Specifically, Figure 3 The example shown shows a case where the X-ray detector 2 is arranged inside the subject model 90 when the X-ray detector 2 is moved to the changed imaging position. Figure 3 In the illustrated example, the X-ray detector 2 in the changed imaging position and before the position adjustment operation is controlled is indicated by a dotted line 20. In this embodiment, the distance between the X-ray detector 2 and the subject model 90 when the X-ray detector 2 is located outside the subject model 90 is set as a positive distance. Furthermore, the distance when the X-ray detector 2 is located inside the subject model 90 is set as a negative distance.

[0069] In this embodiment, the control unit 7 controls the position adjustment operation when the distance 31 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 at the changed imaging position is at or below the predetermined distance 93. Specifically, when the distance 31 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 at the changed imaging position is at or below the predetermined distance 93, the control unit 7 controls the X-ray detector 2 to retract in the Y1 direction as indicated by arrow 65 so that the distance 31 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 becomes the predetermined distance 93. Furthermore, when the predetermined distance 93 includes 0 (zero) (when the X-ray detector 2 is in contact with the surface of the subject model 90), the control unit 7 controls the position adjustment operation when the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 at the changed imaging position is negative.

[0070] Next, refer to Figure 4 An example in which control unit 7 controls X-ray detector 2 to move forward as the control of the position adjustment operation will be described. Figure 4 The example shown shows a case where the X-ray detector 2 is moved along the arrow 66. Figure 4 In the illustrated example, a case is shown where a distance 30 between X-ray detector 2 and subject model 90 at the imaging position before the change is equal to a predetermined distance 93 .

[0071] Figure 4 The example shown shows a case where the distance 32 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 at the changed imaging position is larger than the predetermined distance 93. When the distance 32 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 at the changed imaging position is larger than the predetermined distance 93, the control unit 7 controls the X-ray detector 2 to move forward as control of the position adjustment operation. Figure 4 In the illustrated example, the position of X-ray detector 2 at the changed imaging position and before the control of the position adjustment operation is performed is indicated by a dotted line 21 .

[0072] exist Figure 4 In the example shown, control unit 7 controls X-ray detector 2 to move in the Z2 direction as indicated by arrow 67 so that distance 32 between X-ray detector 2 and subject model 90 at the changed imaging position becomes predetermined distance 93 .

[0073] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, in this embodiment, the control unit 7 acquires the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 while controlling the position adjustment operation when automatically moving the arm 3. The control unit 7 is configured to control the X-ray detector 2 to retract when the acquired distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 is a predetermined size or smaller. That is, the control unit 7 is configured to control the X-ray detector 2 to retract when the acquired distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 is a predetermined distance 93 or smaller. In addition, the predetermined distance 93 can be set to an arbitrary value by the operator.

[0074] Furthermore, the control unit 7 is configured to control the movement of the X-ray detector 2 when the acquired distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 is a predetermined size or larger. In other words, the control unit 7 is configured to control the movement of the X-ray detector 2 when the acquired distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 is a predetermined distance 93 or larger.

[0075] Reference Figure 5 7 to 8 illustrate the control of the position adjustment operation when the photographing position is changed. Figure 5 The first photographing position shown is changed to Figure 6 The control of the position adjustment operation in the case of the second imaging position shown will be described.

[0076] like Figure 5 As shown, the position where the X-ray source 1 and the X-ray detector 2 are arranged so that the irradiation axis 50 is along the Z direction is set as the first imaging position. That is, the first imaging position is from the body thickness 80a of the subject 80 (refer to Figure 2 ) direction of the direction of the photographing position of the subject 80. In addition, as Figure 6 As shown, the position where the X-ray source 1 and the X-ray detector 2 are arranged so that the irradiation axis 50 is along the Y direction is set as the second imaging position. That is, the second imaging position is from along the body width 80b of the subject 80 (refer to Figure 2 ) direction in the direction of the photographing position of the subject 80.

[0077] Reference Figures 7A to 7D Changing the photographic position from the first photographic position (refer to Figure 5 ) automatically changes to the second shooting position (refer to Figure 6 ) is explained below. Figure 7A Schematic diagram of the case where the X-ray detector 2 is arranged at the first imaging position. Figure 7A As shown, distance 30 between X-ray detector 2 and the surface of subject model 90 is equal to predetermined distance 93 .

[0078] like Figure 7B As shown, the control unit 7 moves the X-ray detector 2 backward in advance through the X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 or moves the X-ray detector 2 backward while changing at least one of the position and angle of the arm 3. Specifically, the control unit 7 moves the X-ray detector 2 backward from the position shown by the dotted line 22 as shown by the arrow 68 to a position where the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the subject model 90 is the distance 33. The distance 33 is set when the arm 3 (see FIG. Figure 1 ) is a distance away from the subject model 90 to a degree that does not cause the X-ray detector 2 to abut against the subject 80 when moving, which is a distance greater than the prescribed distance 93.

[0079] Then, if Figure 7C As shown, control unit 7 controls arm driving mechanism 4 and arm position changing mechanism 10 to rotate arm 3 , thereby rotating X-ray detector 2 90 degrees from the position shown by dotted line 23 as indicated by arrow 69 .

[0080] Then, if Figure 7D As shown, the controller 7 is configured to control the position adjustment operation by advancing the X-ray detector 2 or advancing the X-ray detector 2 while changing at least one of the position and angle of the arm 3 via the X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 after the imaging position has been changed. In this embodiment, the controller 7 is configured to control the position adjustment operation by advancing the X-ray detector 2 via the X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 after rotating the X-ray detector 2 90 degrees. Specifically, the controller 7 moves the X-ray detector 2 in the Y2 direction from the position indicated by the dashed line 24, as indicated by arrow 70, so that the distance 34 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 at the changed imaging position becomes a predetermined distance 93. This completes the change from the first imaging position to the second imaging position. Specifically, the controller 7 controls the position adjustment operation so that both the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the subject model 90 before the imaging position change and the distance 34 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 at the position after the movement are equal to the predetermined distance 93.

[0081] In this embodiment, the control unit 7 is configured to control the position adjustment operation in conjunction with the movement of the arm 3. Specifically, the control unit 7 obtains the position coordinates of the X-ray detector 2 before and after the imaging position is changed, as well as the position coordinates of the subject model 90. Furthermore, since the subject model 90 is positioned at a predetermined position on the top plate 6a, the control unit 7 can obtain the position coordinates of the subject model 90 by obtaining the position coordinates of the top plate 6a.

[0082] Control unit 7 is configured to control X-ray detector 2 to move forward or move X-ray detector 2 backward based on the position coordinates of X-ray detector 2 after the imaging position is changed and the position coordinates of subject model 90 .

[0083] (Position adjustment operation when the arm is manually moved)

[0084] Reference Figures 8A to 8D The opponent manually moves the arm 3 from the first photographing position (refer to Figure 5 ) moves to the second photographing position (refer to Figure 6 ) is described below. Figure 8A Schematic diagram of the case where the X-ray detector 2 is arranged at the first imaging position. Figure 8A As shown, distance 30 between X-ray detector 2 and the surface of subject model 90 is equal to predetermined distance 93 .

[0085] The control unit 7 is configured to control the position adjustment action while the operator changes at least any one of the position of the bed 6, the position of the arm 3, and the angle, so that the X-ray detector 2 moves along the surface of the subject model 90 in conjunction with the change of at least any one of the position of the bed 6, the position of the arm 3, and the angle.

[0086] Specifically, if Figure 8B As shown, the control unit 7 maintains the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 at a fixed size when the X-ray detector 2 starts to move from the position shown by the dotted line 25. In other words, the control unit 7 maintains the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 at a predetermined distance 93. Figure 8C and Figure 8DAs shown, even when the angle and position of X-ray detector 2 change and the X-ray detector 2 moves from the position indicated by dashed line 26 or from the position indicated by dashed line 27, control unit 7 controls the position adjustment operation so that the distance 30 between X-ray detector 2 and subject model 90 at each position is a predetermined distance 93. Specifically, control unit 7 is configured to change at least one of the position of bed 6 and the position and angle of arm 3 based on an operator input operation, and to continue controlling the position adjustment operation while the operator input operation is being performed so that the predetermined distance 93 between X-ray detector 2 and the surface of subject model 90 is maintained.

[0087] (Whether to switch the control of position adjustment action)

[0088] Here, depending on the imaging part of subject 80, imaging may be performed with X-ray detector 2 away from subject 80. Therefore, in this embodiment, control unit 7 is configured to switch control of whether to perform position adjustment operation based on input operation by the operator.

[0089] Next, refer to Figure 9 The following describes a process for controlling the position adjustment operation when the arm 3 is automatically moved. Note that this process is initiated based on an operator input to change the imaging position. It is assumed that the subject model 90 is acquired in advance and stored in the storage unit 11 .

[0090] In step 101, control unit 7 acquires the position of X-ray detector 2 at the changed imaging position. Control unit 7 acquires the position coordinates of the changed imaging position to thereby acquire the position of X-ray detector 2 at the changed imaging position.

[0091] In step 102, the control unit 7 obtains the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 at the changed imaging position. The control unit 7 obtains the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 at the changed imaging position based on the position coordinates of the changed imaging position and the position coordinates of the subject model 90.

[0092] In step 103, the control unit 7 determines whether the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 is at or below the predetermined distance 93. If the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 is at or below the predetermined distance 93, the process proceeds to step 104. If the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 is not at or above the predetermined distance 93, the process proceeds to step 105.

[0093] In step 104, control unit 7 controls X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 to retract X-ray detector 2. Specifically, control unit 7 retracts X-ray detector 2 to a position where distance 30 between X-ray detector 2 and the surface of subject model 90 is distance 33 (see FIG. 7 ).

[0094] In step 105 , the control unit 7 controls the arm driving mechanism 4 and the arm position changing mechanism 10 to move the arm 3 .

[0095] In step 106, the control unit 7 determines whether the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 is the predetermined distance 93 or greater. If the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 is the predetermined distance 93 or greater, the process proceeds to step 107. If the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 is neither the predetermined distance 93 nor greater than the predetermined distance 93, the process ends.

[0096] In step 107, the control unit 7 controls the X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 to advance the X-ray detector 2. Specifically, the control unit 7 advances the X-ray detector 2 to a position where the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 is a predetermined distance 93. The process then ends.

[0097] Next, refer to Figure 10 The following describes the process of controlling the position adjustment operation when the operator manually moves the arm 3. Figure 9 The same processing as that of the control of the position adjustment operation in the case of automatically moving the arm 3 is assigned the same step number, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0098] In step 201, the control unit 7 determines whether there is an operation input to move the arm 3. If there is an operation input to move the arm 3, the process proceeds to step 202. If there is no operation input to move the arm 3, the process of step 201 is continued.

[0099] In step 202, the control unit 7 controls the arm drive mechanism 4 and the arm position changing mechanism 10 based on the operation input, thereby moving the arm 3. The movement of the arm 3 in step 202 is equivalent to one clock cycle of the processing of the control unit 7. In other words, the movement distance of the arm 3 in step 202 is a very small distance.

[0100] In step 203 , the control unit 7 acquires the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 .

[0101] In step 204, the control unit 7 determines whether the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 has decreased. If the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 has decreased, the process proceeds to step 104. If the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 has not decreased, the process proceeds to step 205.

[0102] When the process proceeds from step 204 to step 104 , control unit 7 controls X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 in step 104 to retract X-ray detector 2 .

[0103] When the process proceeds from step 204 to step 205, the control unit 7 determines in step 205 whether the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 has increased. If the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 has increased, the process proceeds to step 107. If the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 has not increased, the process proceeds to step 206.

[0104] In step 107 , control unit 7 controls X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 to move X-ray detector 2 forward. The process then proceeds to step 206 .

[0105] In step 206, the control unit 7 determines whether the operation input for moving the arm 3 is continuing. If the operation input for moving the arm 3 is not continuing, the process ends. If the operation input for moving the arm 3 is continuing, the process proceeds to step 202. In addition, in the process of step 206, the process may also be ended based on the input of the operation input for ending the movement of the arm 3. In addition, the process of step 204 and the process of step 104 and the process of step 205 and the process of step 108 may be performed first.

[0106] Next, refer to Figure 11 The following describes a process in which the control unit 7 switches control of whether to perform the position adjustment operation.

[0107] In step 301, the control unit 7 determines whether an operation input for switching the control of whether to perform the position adjustment operation has been received. If an operation input for switching the control of whether to perform the position adjustment operation has been received, the process proceeds to step 302. If an operation input for switching the control of whether to perform the position adjustment operation has not been received, the process of step 301 is repeated.

[0108] In step 302, the control unit 7 determines whether the operation input received in step 301 is an operation input for controlling the position adjustment operation. If the operation input is an operation input for controlling the position adjustment operation, the process proceeds to step 303. If the operation input is not an operation input for controlling the position adjustment operation, the process proceeds to step 304.

[0109] In step 303, the control unit 7 sets the mode for performing the control of the position adjustment operation. If the mode for performing the control of the position adjustment operation has already been set, the process of step 303 is skipped. Thereafter, the process ends.

[0110] When the process proceeds from step 302 to step 304, the control unit 7 sets the control mode not to perform the position adjustment operation in step 304. If the control mode not to perform the position adjustment operation has already been set, the process of step 303 is skipped. The process then ends.

[0111] (Effects of this embodiment)

[0112] In this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0113] In the present embodiment, as described above, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 includes: an X-ray source 1 that irradiates X-rays toward a subject 80; an X-ray detector 2 that detects the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source 1; an arm 3 that holds the X-ray source 1 and the X-ray detector 2; an arm driving mechanism 4 that drives the arm 3; an X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 that is provided on the arm 3 and moves the X-ray detector 2 forward or backward in the direction of the X-ray irradiation axis 50; a bed 6 for placing the subject 80; and a control unit 7 that controls the following position adjustment action: by moving the X-ray detector 2 toward or away from the surface of a subject model 90 that is a model of the surface shape of the subject 80, the position of the X-ray detector 2 is adjusted so that the distance 30 from the surface of the subject model 90 to the X-ray detector 2 becomes a predetermined distance 93. Thus, by controlling the position adjustment operation, X-ray detector 2 is positioned at a predetermined distance 93 from the surface of subject model 90. Therefore, X-ray detector 2 can be brought closer to subject 80 based not on the distance between X-ray detector 2 and bed 6, but rather on the distance between subject 80 and X-ray detector 2, taking into account the body shape of subject 80 placed on bed 6. Furthermore, X-ray detector 2 can be brought closer to subject 80 without the operator having to move X-ray detector 2. Consequently, it is possible to prevent distance 30 between subject 80 and X-ray detector 2 from exceeding predetermined distance 93 while minimizing the burden on the operator.

[0114] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, by configuring as follows, further effects as follows can be obtained.

[0115] That is, in this embodiment, as described above, the control unit 7 is configured to generate the subject model 90 by acquiring the body thickness 80a and body width 80b of the subject 80 from the subject information 81. This makes it possible to more easily generate the subject model 90 than, for example, a configuration in which the subject model 90 is generated by acquiring three-dimensional surface data of the subject 80.

[0116] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the control unit 7 is configured to acquire the thickness 80a and width 80b of the subject 80 estimated based on the height and weight of the subject 80 as the subject information 81. Thus, since the thickness 80a and width 80b of the subject 80 are estimated based on the height and weight of the subject 80, the subject model 90 can be generated without the operator having to actually measure the thickness 80a and width 80b of the subject 80. As a result, the burden on the operator can be reduced.

[0117] Furthermore, as described above, this embodiment further includes contact sensor 8, which detects whether X-ray detector 2 and subject 80 are in contact. Control unit 7 is configured to regenerate subject model 90 based on the position of X-ray detector 2 when contact sensor 8 detects contact between the X-ray detector 2 and subject 80. This allows the actual thickness 80a and width 80b of subject 80 to be determined based on the position of X-ray detector 2 when contact is detected. This improves the accuracy of subject model 90, allowing the X-ray detector 2 to be brought closer to subject 80.

[0118] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, an input receiving unit 9 for receiving an operator's operation input is further provided, and the control unit 7 is configured to generate a subject model 90 based on the body thickness level and body width level of the subject 80 input through the input receiving unit 9. Thus, the operator generates the subject model 90 by selecting the body thickness level and body width level. Therefore, even in a case where it is difficult to obtain the subject's information 81, such as an emergency, the subject model 90 can be generated.

[0119] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the control unit 7 is configured to set imaging conditions based on the X-ray dose detected by the X-ray detector 2, and to acquire the body thickness 80a and body width 80b of the subject 80 based on the set imaging conditions. Thus, by acquiring the body thickness 80a and body width 80b of the subject 80 based on the imaging conditions, it is possible to generate the subject model 90 at the imaging position by acquiring the imaging conditions at the imaging position, thereby improving the accuracy of the subject model 90 at the imaging position.

[0120] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the arm drive mechanism 4 is configured to change the position and angle of the arm 3 relative to the bed 6. The control unit 7 is configured to control the position adjustment operation by retracting the X-ray detector 2 or retracting the X-ray detector 2 while changing at least one of the position and angle of the arm 3 before changing the imaging position. After the imaging position is changed, the X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 advances the X-ray detector 2 or advances the X-ray detector 2 while changing at least one of the position and angle of the arm 3. This advance prevents the X-ray detector 2 from contacting the subject 80 while the imaging position is changed. Furthermore, since the X-ray detector 2 advances after the imaging position is changed, an increase in the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the subject 80 can be prevented. Consequently, after the imaging position is changed, an increase in the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the subject 80 can be prevented.

[0121] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the control unit 7 is configured to acquire the changed imaging position when the imaging position is changed, acquire the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 at the changed imaging position, and control the X-ray detector 2 to retract when the acquired distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 is a predetermined value or smaller, and control the X-ray detector 2 to move when the acquired distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 is a predetermined value or larger. Thus, when the imaging position is changed, if the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the subject model 90 at the changed imaging position deviates from a predetermined range, a position adjustment operation is performed, thereby reliably preventing the X-ray detector 2 from being positioned at a position where the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the subject 80 is outside the predetermined range.

[0122] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the arm drive mechanism 4 is configured to be able to change the position and angle of the arm 3 relative to the bed 6. The control unit 7 is configured to control a position adjustment operation while the operator is changing at least one of the position of the bed 6, the position of the arm 3, and the angle thereof, so that the X-ray detector 2 moves along the surface of the subject model 90 in conjunction with the change in at least one of the position of the bed 6, the position of the arm 3, and the angle thereof. Thus, the position adjustment operation is performed even when the operator manually changes at least one of the position of the bed 6, the position of the arm 3, and the angle thereof. Consequently, even when the imaging position is manually changed, the X-ray detector 2 can be brought closer to the subject 80 without the operator having to perform an action to bring the X-ray detector 2 closer to the subject 80. Consequently, an increase in the burden on the operator can be suppressed.

[0123] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the controller 7 is configured to change at least one of the position of the bed 6 and the position and angle of the arm 3 based on the operator's input operation, and to continue controlling the position adjustment operation while the operator's input operation is in progress, so as to maintain the X-ray detector 2 at a predetermined distance 93 from the surface of the subject model 90. Thus, while the operator is moving at least one of the bed 6 and the arm 3, the distance 30 between the X-ray detector 2 and the surface of the subject model 90 is maintained at the predetermined distance 93. Therefore, even when the operator is performing imaging while changing the imaging position by manipulating at least one of the bed 6 and the arm 3, imaging can be performed while maintaining the X-ray detector 2 close to the subject 80. As a result, even when imaging is performed while changing the imaging position, an increase in X-ray dose can be suppressed, thereby reducing the amount of radiation exposure. Furthermore, even when imaging is performed while changing the imaging position, an increase in X-ray dose can be suppressed, thereby reducing the amount of scattered X-rays. As a result, even when imaging is performed while changing the imaging position, it is possible to suppress degradation of the image quality of the acquired image due to scattered X-rays.

[0124] In addition, in this embodiment, as described above, the control unit 7 is configured to switch control of whether to perform the position adjustment operation based on the operator's input operation. This allows the position adjustment operation to be performed when the operator desires, thereby improving user convenience.

[0125] (Variation)

[0126] In addition, it should be understood that the embodiments disclosed this time are illustrative in all aspects and are not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is not shown by the description of the above embodiments, but by the claims, and also includes all changes (modifications) within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0127] For example, in the above embodiment, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 generates the subject model 90 based on the subject information 81 and moves the X-ray detector 2 closer based on the generated subject model 90, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Figure 12 As in the first modified example shown, the X-ray imaging apparatus 200 may be configured to update the subject model 90 based on the size of the subject model 90 and the relative position between the subject model 90 and the X-ray detector 2 .

[0128] Specifically, if Figure 12 As shown, the X-ray imaging apparatus 200 according to the first modification example is different from the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 according to the above embodiment in that the X-ray imaging apparatus 200 includes a control unit 17 instead of the control unit 7 .

[0129] In the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 of the above embodiment, a configuration is shown for generating a subject model 90 based on subject information 81. Here, the subject model 90 is generated by connecting a plurality of ellipses along the body axis of the subject 80. However, the size of each ellipse may differ from the actual size of the subject 80.

[0130] Therefore, the control unit 17 of the first modified example is configured to regenerate the subject model 90 based on the size of the subject model 90 and the relative position between the subject model 90 and the X-ray detector 2. In addition, the control unit 17 of the first modified example stores the regenerated subject model 90 in the storage unit 11. In other words, the control unit 17 of the first modified example is configured to update the subject model 90 based on the size of the subject model 90 and the relative position between the subject model 90 and the X-ray detector 2.

[0131] In the first modified example, when contact sensor 8 detects contact between X-ray detector 2 and subject 80 when X-ray detector 2 is moved to the surface of subject model 90, control unit 17 determines that the size of subject model 90 is different from the size of subject 80. In other words, if the size of subject 80 is larger than the size of subject model 90, control unit 17 regenerates subject model 90. If the size of subject 80 is larger than the size of subject model 90, control unit 17 regenerates subject model 90 by acquiring the distance between the surface of subject model 90 and the position at which X-ray detector 2 was in contact with subject 80.

[0132] Furthermore, when the X-ray detector 2 is moved to the surface of the subject model 90 and the operator detects that the X-ray detector 2 has been further moved toward the subject 80, the control unit 17 determines that the size of the subject model 90 is different from the size of the subject 80. In other words, when the size of the subject model 90 is too large compared to the size of the subject 80, the control unit 17 regenerates the subject model 90. In the first modified example, the control unit 17 regenerates the subject model 90 based on the amount of movement from the surface of the subject model 90.

[0133] Next, refer to Figure 13 The following describes a process in which the control unit 17 regenerates the subject model 90. The process in which the control unit 17 regenerates the subject model 90 is performed while the position adjustment operation is being performed.

[0134] In step 401, control unit 17 determines whether X-ray detector 2 is in contact with subject 80. If X-ray detector 2 is not in contact with subject 80, the process proceeds to step 402. If X-ray detector 2 is in contact with subject 80, the process proceeds to step 403.

[0135] In step 402, the control unit 17 determines whether the X-ray detector 2 has moved so as to pass over the subject model 90. If the X-ray detector 2 has moved so as to pass over the surface of the subject model 90, the process proceeds to step 403. If the X-ray detector 2 has not moved so as to pass over the surface of the subject model 90, the process ends. In addition, the movement of the X-ray detector 2 so as to pass over the subject model 90 means that the X-ray detector 2 moves from the surface of the subject model 90 toward the side of the subject 80. In other words, the movement of the X-ray detector 2 so as to pass over the subject model 90 means that the X-ray detector 2 is embedded in the inner side of the subject model 90.

[0136] In step 403, the control unit 17 regenerates the subject model 90. Furthermore, the control unit 17 updates the subject model 90 stored in the storage unit 11 using the subject model 90 regenerated in the process of step 403. Thereafter, the process ends.

[0137] In the first modification, the control unit 17 repeats the processing of steps 401 to 403 each time the position adjustment operation is performed. The other configurations of the X-ray imaging apparatus 200 of the first modification are the same as those of the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 of the above embodiment.

[0138] In the first modified example, as described above, the control unit 17 is configured to regenerate the subject model 90 based on the size of the subject model 90 and the relative position between the subject model 90 and the X-ray detector 2. Thus, the subject model 90 is regenerated based on the actual body thickness 80a and body width 80b of the subject 80, thereby improving the accuracy of the subject model 90. Other effects of the X-ray imaging apparatus 200 of the first modified example are the same as those of the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 of the above-described embodiment.

[0139] In addition, in the above embodiment, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 is shown as an example of a structure having one arm 3, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Figure 14 As in the second modified example shown, the X-ray imaging apparatus 300 may include two arms 3 .

[0140] Specifically, if Figure 14 As shown, the X-ray imaging apparatus 300 of the second modification example is different from the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 of the above-described embodiment in that the X-ray imaging apparatus 300 includes a control unit 37 instead of the control unit 7 .

[0141] In the X-ray imaging apparatus 300 of the second modified example, the X-ray source 1 includes a first X-ray source 1a and a second X-ray source 1b. In the X-ray imaging apparatus 300 of the second modified example, the X-ray detector 2 includes a first X-ray detector 2a for detecting X-rays emitted from the first X-ray source 1a and a second X-ray detector 2b for detecting X-rays emitted from the second X-ray source 1b.

[0142] The configurations of the first X-ray source 1 a and the second X-ray source 1 b are the same as that of the X-ray source 1 of the above-described embodiment, and therefore detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0143] The configurations of the first X-ray detector 2a and the second X-ray detector 2b are the same as that of the X-ray detector 2 in the above-described embodiment, and therefore detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0144] In addition, in the X-ray imaging device 300 of the second variant, the arm 3 includes a first arm 3a that holds the first X-ray source 1a and the first X-ray detector 2a, and a second arm 3b that holds the second X-ray source 1b and the second X-ray detector 2b. The structure of the first arm 3a is the same as that of the arm 3 of the above-mentioned embodiment, so detailed description is omitted. The second arm 3b holds the second X-ray source 1b and the second X-ray detector 2b. The second arm 3b is a so-called C-arm. In addition, the second arm 3b is held by the second arm driving mechanism 4b. Figure 14 In the example shown, the second arm 3b is rotatably held by the second arm drive mechanism 4b. Figure 14In the illustrated example, the second arm 3 b is arranged so that the long side of the bed 6 is located between the second X-ray source 1 b and the second X-ray detector 2 b .

[0145] In the X-ray imaging apparatus 300 of the second modified example, the arm driving mechanism 4 includes a first arm driving mechanism 4a for driving the first arm 3a and a second arm driving mechanism 4b for driving the second arm 3b. The structure of the first arm driving mechanism 4a is the same as that of the arm driving mechanism 4 of the above-mentioned embodiment, so detailed description thereof is omitted. The second arm driving mechanism 4b is configured to rotate the second arm 3b around the axis of the rotating shaft 54 ​​as indicated by the arrow 71. Figure 14 In the illustrated example, the second arm driving mechanism 4 b is configured such that the rotation shaft 54 ​​faces the vertical direction.

[0146] In addition, the X-ray imaging device 300 of the second modified example includes a first arm position changing mechanism 10a and a second arm position changing mechanism 10b as the arm position changing mechanism 10. The structure of the first arm position changing mechanism 10a is the same as the structure of the arm position changing mechanism 10 of the above-mentioned embodiment, so a detailed description is omitted. The second arm position changing mechanism 10b is arranged on the ceiling 40 of the examination room. The second arm position changing mechanism 10b is configured to enable the second arm driving mechanism 4b to move along the long axis direction of the bed 6 (the direction of arrow 72 and the direction of arrow 73). The second arm position changing mechanism 10b includes a direct-acting mechanism.

[0147] In addition, in the X-ray imaging device 300 of the second modified example, the X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 includes: a first X-ray detector moving mechanism 5a, which is provided on the first arm 3a and moves the first X-ray detector 2a along the direction of the first X-ray irradiation axis 50; and a second X-ray detector moving mechanism 5b, which is provided on the second arm 3b and moves the second X-ray detector 2b along the direction of the second X-ray irradiation axis 53. Figure 14 In the illustrated example, the second X-ray source 1b and the second X-ray detector 2b are arranged so that the second irradiation axis 53 is oriented in the Y direction. The structures of the first X-ray detector moving mechanism 5a and the second X-ray detector moving mechanism 5b are the same as those of the X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 in the above-described embodiment, and therefore their detailed structures are omitted.

[0148] Furthermore, the X-ray imaging apparatus 300 of the second modified example includes a first contact sensor 8a and a second contact sensor 8b as contact sensors 8. The first contact sensor 8a is provided on the first X-ray detector 2a. The second contact sensor 8b is provided on the second X-ray detector 2b. The structures of the first and second contact sensors 8a and 8b are the same as those of the contact sensor 8 of the above-described embodiment, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0149] Furthermore, in the X-ray imaging apparatus 300 of the second modified example, the control unit 37 is configured to control a first position adjustment operation, wherein the first X-ray detector 2a is moved forward or backward to adjust the position of the first X-ray detector 2a so that the distance 30 from the surface of the subject model 90 to the first X-ray detector 2a becomes a predetermined distance 93, and a second position adjustment operation is configured to control the second X-ray detector 2b by moving the second X-ray detector 2b forward or backward to adjust the position of the second X-ray detector 2b so that the distance 30 from the surface of the subject model 90 to the second X-ray detector 2b becomes the predetermined distance 93. The remaining configuration of the X-ray imaging apparatus 300 is the same as that of the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 of the above-described embodiment.

[0150] In the second modified example, as described above, the X-ray source 1 includes a first X-ray source 1a and a second X-ray source 1b, and the X-ray detector 2 includes a first X-ray detector 2a that detects X-rays emitted from the first X-ray source 1a and a second X-ray detector 2b that detects X-rays emitted from the second X-ray source 1b. Furthermore, the arm 3 includes a first arm 3a that holds the first X-ray source 1a and the first X-ray detector 2a, and a second arm 3b that holds the second X-ray source 1b and the second X-ray detector 2b. Furthermore, the arm drive mechanism 4 includes a first arm drive mechanism 4a that drives the first arm 3a and a second arm drive mechanism 4b that drives the second arm 3b. Furthermore, the X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 includes a first X-ray detector moving mechanism 5a, which is provided on the first arm 3a and moves the first X-ray detector 2a along the first X-ray irradiation axis 50, and a second X-ray detector moving mechanism 5b, which is provided on the second arm 3b and moves the second X-ray detector 2b along the second X-ray irradiation axis 53. In addition, the control unit 37 is configured to control a first position adjustment action and a second position adjustment action as control of the position adjustment action, wherein, in the control of the first position adjustment action, the position of the first X-ray detector 2a is adjusted by moving the first X-ray detector 2a forward or backward so that the distance 30 from the surface of the subject model 90 to the first X-ray detector 2a becomes the prescribed distance 93, and in the control of the second position adjustment action, the position of the second X-ray detector 2b is adjusted by moving the second X-ray detector 2b forward or backward so that the distance 30 from the surface of the subject model 90 to the second X-ray detector 2b becomes the prescribed distance 93.

[0151] In the second modified embodiment, the above-described configuration allows each X-ray detector 2 to be brought closer to the subject 80 without the operator having to move the first X-ray detector 2a and the second X-ray detector 2b. Therefore, the present invention is preferably applied to a so-called biplane imaging apparatus including a first arm 3a and a second arm 3b. The remaining effects of the X-ray imaging apparatus 300 are the same as those of the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 of the aforementioned embodiment.

[0152] Furthermore, while the above embodiment illustrates a configuration example in which the controller 7 controls the X-ray detector 2 to approach the surface of the subject model 90 as a position adjustment action, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the controller 7 may also be configured to control the X-ray detector 2 to be in close contact with the subject 80 at the imaging position as a position adjustment action. With this configuration, for example, when imaging is performed in close contact with the subject 80, the operator can perform imaging while the X-ray detector 2 is in close contact with the subject 80 without having to perform an operation to bring the X-ray detector 2 into close contact with the subject 80. As a result, the burden on the operator can be further reduced.

[0153] In the above embodiment, the control unit 7 generates the subject model 90 , but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the control unit 7 may be configured to acquire a subject model 90 created in advance.

[0154] In addition, the above embodiment shows an example in which the control unit 7 is configured to be able to select any of the following methods, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The above methods are a method for generating a subject model 90 based on the subject information 81, a method for generating a subject model 90 based on the position when the X-ray detector 2 is brought into contact with the subject 80, a method for generating a subject model 90 based on the body thickness level and body width level of the subject 80 selected by the operator, and a method for generating a subject model 90 based on the body thickness 80a and body width 80b of the subject 80 acquired according to the imaging conditions. For example, the control unit 7 may also be configured to perform any only one of the following methods: a method of generating a subject model 90 based on the subject information 81, a method of generating a subject model 90 based on the position of the X-ray detector 2 when it is in contact with the subject 80, a method of generating a subject model 90 based on the body thickness level and body width level of the subject 80 selected by the operator, and a method of generating a subject model 90 based on the body thickness 80a and body width 80b of the subject 80 acquired according to the imaging conditions.

[0155] In addition, in the above embodiment, the control unit 7 is configured to control the position adjustment operation based on the movement of the arm 3, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 7 may be configured to control the position adjustment operation based on the movement of the bed 6 (top board 6a).

[0156] In addition, in the above embodiment, the control unit 7 is configured to obtain the thickness 80a and width 80b of the subject 80 by obtaining imaging conditions, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the control unit 7 may be configured to obtain the thickness 80a and width 80b of the subject 80 based on an X-ray image obtained by imaging the subject 80.

[0157] Furthermore, while the above embodiment illustrates a configuration example in which control unit 7 generates subject model 90 based on the height and weight of subject 80 as subject information 81, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, control unit 7 may also be configured to generate subject model 90 using three-dimensional data of subject 80 previously acquired through CT (Computed Tomography), MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), or imaging with an optical camera, as subject information 81. This data may be used to obtain three-dimensional data of subject 80 as subject information 81, for example, and to generate subject model 90.

[0158] Furthermore, while the above embodiment illustrates a configuration example in which the control unit 7 generates an elliptical model as the subject model 90, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the control unit 7 may pre-store a plurality of models with different combinations of short and long side sizes as the subject model 90, and control the X-ray detector 2 to advance or retract based on the size of the short and long sides of the model selected by the operator.

[0159] In addition, while the above embodiment shows an example configuration in which the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 includes the contact sensor 8, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 may not include the contact sensor 8. If the X-ray imaging apparatus 100 does not include the contact sensor 8, a distance sensor may be provided in place of the contact sensor 8. The control unit 7 may use the distance sensor to determine whether the X-ray detector 2 is in contact with the subject 80.

[0160] In addition, the above embodiment shows a configuration example in which the control unit 7 controls the arm 3 to change the photographic position between the first photographic position and the second photographic position. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 7 may also control the arm 3 to move to a photographic position other than the first photographic position and the second photographic position. The photographic position can be set to any position.

[0161] In addition, while this embodiment shows a configuration example in which the control unit 7 changes the imaging position by controlling the movement of the arm 3, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the control unit 7 may be configured to change the imaging position by controlling the bed 6 without moving the arm 3. Furthermore, the control unit 7 may be configured to change the imaging position by controlling the movement of both the arm 3 and the bed 6.

[0162] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the controller 7 performs a position adjustment operation by retracting the X-ray detector 2 using the X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 in advance and then advancing the X-ray detector 2 using the X-ray detector moving mechanism 5 after the imaging position has been changed. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the controller 7 may also be configured to retract the X-ray detector 2 while changing at least one of the position and angle of the arm 3, and to advance the X-ray detector 2 while changing at least one of the position and angle of the arm 3.

[0163] [Way]

[0164] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the above-described exemplary embodiments are specific examples of the following aspects.

[0165] (Item 1)

[0166] An X-ray imaging device comprising:

[0167] An X-ray source that irradiates X-rays toward the subject;

[0168] an X-ray detector that detects X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source;

[0169] an arm holding the X-ray source and the X-ray detector;

[0170] an arm driving mechanism that drives the arm;

[0171] an X-ray detector moving mechanism provided on the arm for moving the X-ray detector forward or backward in the direction of the X-ray irradiation axis;

[0172] a bed for placing the subject; and

[0173] A control unit controls the following position adjustment action: by moving the X-ray detector close to or away from the surface of a subject model which is a model of the surface shape of the subject, the position of the X-ray detector is adjusted so that the distance from the surface of the subject model to the X-ray detector becomes a predetermined distance.

[0174] (Item 2)

[0175] The X-ray imaging apparatus according to item 1, wherein:

[0176] The control unit is configured to generate the subject model by acquiring the body thickness and body width of the subject from the information of the subject.

[0177] (Item 3)

[0178] The X-ray imaging apparatus according to item 1, wherein:

[0179] The control unit is configured to regenerate the subject model based on the size of the subject model and the relative position between the subject model and the X-ray detector.

[0180] (Item 4)

[0181] The X-ray imaging apparatus according to item 2 or 3, wherein:

[0182] The control unit is configured to acquire, as the information on the subject, a body thickness and a body width of the subject estimated based on the height and weight of the subject.

[0183] (Item 5)

[0184] The X-ray imaging apparatus according to item 2 or 3, wherein:

[0185] A contact sensor is further provided, the contact sensor detecting whether the X-ray detector is in contact with the subject.

[0186] The control unit is configured to regenerate the subject model based on the position of the X-ray detector when the contact sensor detects that the X-ray detector and the subject are in contact.

[0187] (Item 6)

[0188] The X-ray imaging apparatus according to item 2 or 3, wherein:

[0189] It also includes an input receiving unit that receives an operation input from an operator.

[0190] The control unit is configured to generate the subject model based on the body thickness level and body width level of the subject input through the input accepting unit.

[0191] (Item 7)

[0192] The X-ray imaging apparatus according to item 2 or 3, wherein:

[0193] The control unit is configured to set imaging conditions based on a dose of X-rays detected by the X-ray detector, and acquire a body thickness and a body width of the subject based on the set imaging conditions.

[0194] (Item 8)

[0195] The X-ray imaging apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein:

[0196] The arm driving mechanism is configured to be able to change the position and angle of the arm relative to the bed.

[0197] The control unit is configured to, in a case where the photographic position is changed by changing at least one of the position and angle of the arm, retract the X-ray detector in advance by the X-ray detector moving mechanism or retract the X-ray detector while changing at least one of the position and angle of the arm, and to advance the X-ray detector by the X-ray detector moving mechanism or advance the X-ray detector while changing at least one of the position and angle of the arm after the photographic position is changed, thereby controlling the position adjustment action.

[0198] (Item 9)

[0199] The X-ray imaging apparatus according to item 8, wherein:

[0200] The control unit is configured to: acquire the changed imaging position when the imaging position is changed, and acquire the distance between the X-ray detector and the surface of the subject model at the changed imaging position; control the X-ray detector to retreat when the acquired distance between the X-ray detector and the surface of the subject model is a specified size or smaller; and control the X-ray detector to move when the acquired distance between the X-ray detector and the surface of the subject model is a specified size or larger.

[0201] (Item 10)

[0202] The X-ray imaging apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein:

[0203] The arm driving mechanism is configured to be able to change the position and angle of the arm relative to the bed.

[0204] The control unit is configured to control the position adjustment action while the operator changes at least one of the position of the bed, the position of the arm, and the angle, so that the X-ray detector moves along the surface of the subject model in conjunction with the change of at least one of the position of the bed, the position of the arm, and the angle.

[0205] (Item 11)

[0206] The X-ray imaging apparatus according to item 10, wherein:

[0207] The control unit is configured to change at least any one of the position of the bed, the position of the arm, and the angle based on the operator's input operation, and continue to control the position adjustment action while the operator's input operation is being performed, so as to maintain the X-ray detector at a specified distance from the surface of the subject model.

[0208] (Item 12)

[0209] The X-ray imaging apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 11, wherein:

[0210] The control unit is configured to perform control to bring the X-ray detector into close contact with the subject at an imaging position as control of the position adjustment operation.

[0211] (Item 13)

[0212] The X-ray imaging apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 12, wherein:

[0213] The control unit is configured to switch control of whether to perform the position adjustment operation based on an input operation by an operator.

[0214] (Item 14)

[0215] The X-ray imaging apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 13, wherein:

[0216] The X-ray source includes a first X-ray source and a second X-ray source,

[0217] The X-ray detector includes a first X-ray detector that detects X-rays irradiated from the first X-ray source and a second X-ray detector that detects X-rays irradiated from the second X-ray source.

[0218] The arm includes a first arm holding the first X-ray source and the first X-ray detector and a second arm holding the second X-ray source and the second X-ray detector,

[0219] The arm driving mechanism includes a first arm driving mechanism that drives the first arm and a second arm driving mechanism that drives the second arm.

[0220] The X-ray detector moving mechanism includes: a first X-ray detector moving mechanism, which is provided on the first arm and moves the first X-ray detector along a first X-ray irradiation axis direction; and a second X-ray detector moving mechanism, which is provided on the second arm and moves the second X-ray detector along a second X-ray irradiation axis direction.

[0221] The control unit is configured to control a first position adjustment action and a second position adjustment action as control of the position adjustment action, wherein, in the control of the first position adjustment action, the position of the first X-ray detector is adjusted by moving the first X-ray detector forward or backward so that the distance from the surface of the subject model to the first X-ray detector becomes a prescribed distance, and in the control of the second position adjustment action, the position of the second X-ray detector is adjusted by moving the second X-ray detector forward or backward so that the distance from the surface of the subject model to the second X-ray detector becomes a prescribed distance.

Claims

1. An X-ray imaging device comprising: An X-ray source that irradiates X-rays toward the subject; an X-ray detector that detects X-rays irradiated from the X-ray source; an arm holding the X-ray source and the X-ray detector; an arm drive mechanism configured to change the position and angle of the arm relative to the bed; an X-ray detector moving mechanism provided on the arm for moving the X-ray detector forward or backward in the direction of the X-ray irradiation axis; a bed for placing the subject; and A control unit that controls the following position adjustment actions: generates a subject model that is a model of the surface shape of the subject; and adjusts the position of the X-ray detector by moving the X-ray detector closer to or away from the surface of the subject model when the arm is changed from a first imaging position to a second imaging position by changing at least one of the position and angle of the arm, so that any one of the distance from the surface of the subject model to the X-ray detector when the arm is located at the first imaging position and the distance from the surface of the subject model to the X-ray detector when the arm is located at the second imaging position is equal to a specified distance.

2. The X-ray imaging device according to claim 1, wherein The control unit is configured to generate the subject model by acquiring the body thickness and body width of the subject from the information of the subject.

3. The X-ray imaging device according to claim 1, wherein The control unit is configured to regenerate the subject model based on the size of the subject model and the relative position between the subject model and the X-ray detector.

4. The X-ray imaging device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that The control unit is configured to acquire, as the information on the subject, a body thickness and a body width of the subject estimated based on the height and weight of the subject.

5. The X-ray imaging device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that A contact sensor is further provided, the contact sensor detecting whether the X-ray detector is in contact with the subject. The control unit is configured to regenerate the subject model based on the position of the X-ray detector when the contact sensor detects that the X-ray detector and the subject are in contact.

6. The X-ray imaging device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that It also includes an input receiving unit that receives an operation input from an operator. The control unit is configured to generate the subject model based on the body thickness level and body width level of the subject input through the input accepting unit.

7. The X-ray imaging device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that The control unit is configured to set imaging conditions based on a dose of X-rays detected by the X-ray detector, and acquire a body thickness and a body width of the subject based on the set imaging conditions.

8. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The control unit is configured to, in a case where the photographic position is changed by changing at least one of the position and angle of the arm, retract the X-ray detector in advance by the X-ray detector moving mechanism or retract the X-ray detector while changing at least one of the position and angle of the arm, and to advance the X-ray detector by the X-ray detector moving mechanism or advance the X-ray detector while changing at least one of the position and angle of the arm after the photographic position is changed, thereby controlling the position adjustment action.

9. The X-ray imaging device according to claim 8, wherein The control unit is configured to, when the photographic position is changed, obtain the photographic position after the change, and obtain the distance between the X-ray detector and the subject model at the changed photographic position; when the obtained distance between the X-ray detector and the subject model is a specified size or smaller than a specified size, control the X-ray detector to retreat; when the obtained distance between the X-ray detector and the subject model is a specified size or larger than a specified size, control the X-ray detector to move.

10. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The control unit is configured to control the position adjustment action while the operator changes at least one of the position of the bed, the position of the arm, and the angle, so that the X-ray detector moves along the surface of the subject model in conjunction with the change of at least one of the position of the bed, the position of the arm, and the angle.

11. The X-ray imaging device according to claim 10, wherein: The control unit is configured to change at least any one of the position of the bed, the position of the arm, and the angle based on the operator's input operation, and continue to control the position adjustment action while the operator's input operation is being performed, so as to maintain the X-ray detector at a specified distance from the surface of the subject model.

12. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The control unit is configured to perform control to bring the X-ray detector into close contact with the subject at an imaging position as control of the position adjustment operation.

13. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The control unit is configured to switch control of whether to perform the position adjustment operation based on an input operation by an operator.

14. The X-ray imaging apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The X-ray source includes a first X-ray source and a second X-ray source, The X-ray detector includes a first X-ray detector that detects X-rays irradiated from the first X-ray source and a second X-ray detector that detects X-rays irradiated from the second X-ray source. The arm includes a first arm holding the first X-ray source and the first X-ray detector and a second arm holding the second X-ray source and the second X-ray detector, The arm driving mechanism includes a first arm driving mechanism that drives the first arm and a second arm driving mechanism that drives the second arm. The X-ray detector moving mechanism includes: a first X-ray detector moving mechanism, which is provided on the first arm and moves the first X-ray detector along a first X-ray irradiation axis direction; and a second X-ray detector moving mechanism, which is provided on the second arm and moves the second X-ray detector along a second X-ray irradiation axis direction. The control unit is configured to control a first position adjustment action and a second position adjustment action as control of the position adjustment action, wherein, in the control of the first position adjustment action, the position of the first X-ray detector is adjusted by moving the first X-ray detector forward or backward so that the distance from the surface of the subject model to the first X-ray detector is equal to a prescribed distance, and in the control of the second position adjustment action, the position of the second X-ray detector is adjusted by moving the second X-ray detector forward or backward so that the distance from the surface of the subject model to the second X-ray detector is equal to a prescribed distance.

Images