Control method and control system for remotely controlling medical imaging system

Abstract

The invention relates to a control method for remotely controlling a medical imaging system (1) by means of a start signal (S) of a remote control unit (12), comprising the following steps: a) triggering the start signal (S) in the remote control unit (12) for starting a process of the imaging system (1), b) recording a plurality of pieces of optical information (B) in the form of an image (B) and / or a light signal, c) verifying that the optical information (B) comes from the examination region (U) and has reached the remote control unit (12), and in a positive case: determining a recording time (Ta) of the optical information (B), d) determining a start time (Ts) at which a start signal is triggered or sent to the imaging system (1), e) comparing a time period between the recording time (Ta) and the starting time (Ts) with a predetermined comparison time period (Tv), the process of the imaging system (1) being started by the starting signal only if the time period lies within the comparison time period (Tv). The invention also relates to a corresponding control system and to a medical imaging system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a control method and a control system for remotely controlling a medical imaging system, and a corresponding medical imaging system. In particular, the present invention relates to remotely controlling the start of an X-ray examination by means of a securely designed program. Background Art

[0002] Many imaging methods, especially those using ionizing radiation, present certain risks. It is particularly problematic that in any examination using X-ray radiation or other radiation, the dose to which the patient and the surrounding people receive during the examination should be as small as possible. In particular, it should be prevented that the patient is incorrectly imaged or that protective equipment, such as lead vests, slip off. Therefore, at the beginning of the examination, the patient or the examination area should be monitored with regard to whether the patient is still correctly oriented, whether the protective equipment is still correctly positioned, and whether there are no other people in the examination area.

[0003] It is therefore appropriate to start such an imaging method with the aid of a remote control unit. Current implementations propose wired switches or infrared remote control, which do not work if the direct path between the remote control and the imaging system is blocked or too long. For example, a visual connection can be ensured in that the remote control is connected to the imaging system via a relatively short cable. This forces the user to stay in the vicinity of the examination area, whereby he can monitor the examination area.

[0004] However, wired systems are also problematic because they are cumbersome and can interfere with or damage the cables.

[0005] Especially in mobile systems that can be used in completely different spaces, wired or infrared remote control presents problems, especially in small spaces where the operator should be outside the door or in large spaces where the operator has no adjacent protective walls and is therefore exposed to radiation. Summary of the invention

[0006] The object of the present invention is to propose an alternative, more comfortable control method for remote control of a medical imaging system and a corresponding control system, by means of which the above-mentioned disadvantages can be avoided and the imaging system can be remotely controlled, in particular wirelessly.

[0007] The object is achieved by a control method for remotely controlling a medical imaging system by means of a start signal of a remote control unit, a control system for remotely controlling a medical imaging system by means of a method according to the present application, and a medical imaging system.

[0008] The control method according to the invention is used for remote control of a medical imaging system, for example a radiography system, a mammography system or a computed tomography system ("CT" system). The remote control is carried out by means of a start signal of a remote control unit, which is preferably sent wirelessly, in particular via a radio connection. The control method comprises the following steps:

[0009] a) triggering a start signal in the remote control unit for starting a process of the imaging system,

[0010] b) recording a plurality of optical information in the form of images and / or light signals,

[0011] c) verifying that the optical information comes from the inspection area and has reached the remote control unit, and in the affirmative: determining the moment of recording of the optical information,

[0012] d) determining a start time at which a start signal is triggered or sent to the imaging system,

[0013] e) comparing the time period between the recording time and the start time with a preset comparison time period,

[0014] Only if the time period is within the comparison time period is the process of the imaging system started by a start signal.

[0015] In principle, triggering a start signal in a remote control unit to start the process of an imaging system is prior art. For this, an IR transmitter or a wired switch is currently generally used. However, in the prior art, the cable is short so that monitoring of the patient or the examination area is always ensured. The present invention should now also ensure high safety in the case of long cables and in particular in the case of wireless remote control. The start signal is preferably a radio signal here. The remote control unit is preferably connected to the imaging system via Bluetooth, WLAN or via a mobile radio network. The control system (i.e., basically the remote control device and the imaging system or its control device) is then designed to send the start signal from the remote control unit to the imaging system via the connection and start the process there. The remote control unit is preferably a portable computer, in particular a smart phone, a tablet computer or a laptop.

[0016] The following steps are aimed at configuring the triggering of the process of the imaging system in a particularly safe manner and in particular ensuring that the examination region is actually monitored even when the start signal is triggered.

[0017] It should be noted that the start signal still does not necessarily have to be issued by the remote control. The triggering can simply take place in the following manner, that is, the user triggers the start signal in the remote control, for example by pressing a button. The start signal should reach the imaging system at the latest at the start of the process.

[0018] At least after the triggering of the start signal, a plurality of optical information in the form of images and / or light signals is recorded. For a better understanding, it can be assumed here that the camera records the image, since the light signal can of course be recognized in the video stream. In principle, however, a camera is not necessarily required, but a simple optical sensor at the remote control unit is sufficient, which can measure the brightness of the incident light beam.

[0019] It should be noted that the information can also be recorded before the triggering of the start signal and can also be recorded after this. It is important here that at least one of the information comes from approximately the time of triggering the start signal, because it is used to determine whether there is a visual connection to the examination area when the start signal is triggered. Of course, it is not necessary that the information comes from the examination area, because, for example, the remote control unit can be held arbitrarily by the user. However, when it is proven that there is no visual connection to the examination area during the method, the process is not started.

[0020] The recording of the information takes place, for example, by the remote control unit, preferably by means of a camera or, in the case of light signals, possibly also by means of other optical sensors. Alternatively, a plurality of images can be recorded by an external camera, which then transmits the images to the remote control unit. The images must then, however, be shown to the user by the remote control unit, whereby a visual connection exists via the shown images.

[0021] In particular, with a trigger start signal, the recording of information can be started automatically or previously recorded information can be sent.

[0022] If the information has been recorded, it is verified that the optical information also actually comes from the inspection area and has reached the remote control unit. It is therefore important in this control method that the remote control unit also participates in the decision whether a visual connection exists.

[0023] Theoretically, it is possible to check by means of image evaluation whether the examination area has actually been imaged and, if so, to have the remote control unit signal that it has acquired an image. However, a simpler possibility is obtained by checking whether the image shows a specific marking unit which has been placed in the examination area. There are various embodiments at this point in the verification, which are described in more detail further below.

[0024] Common to each of the embodiments is that in the positive case, ie when it is possible to verify that the optical information comes from the examination area, the recording time of the optical information is determined. This can be, for example, the time at which the image is completed, or the start time of the video stream or the recording of the optical signal.

[0025] In addition, the start time for triggering the start signal or for sending the start signal to the imaging system is also determined. This can already be done together with the triggering of the signal (i.e. in step a) or together with the receipt of the start signal in the imaging system. In principle, it is only important to determine the time that is associated with the start signal or its task (i.e. to reach the imaging system or to start a process there). Preferably, the start time is determined when the start signal is triggered and the data are sent at this time to where the comparison is then carried out, for example to the imaging system.

[0026] The time period between the recording time and the start time is now compared with a predefined comparison time period. The time period should not be too short (this is, for example, of the order of microseconds and shorter), since otherwise the start signal would frequently be ignored, but it should also not be too long (for example, of the order of minutes), so as to ensure that the visual connection is not simply established too late or too early and then interrupted. The range between 1 / 100 s and 1 s is an advantageous comparison time period. Therefore, it is now taken into account, for example, whether the triggering of the start signal and the recording of the image of the examination area take place within 1 / 10 s.

[0027] The processing of the imaging system by means of the start signal is only started when the time period lies within the comparison time period.

[0028] It should be noted here that the verification whether the examination area has already been recorded (see above) and the comparison with the comparison time period can be carried out completely in the remote control unit. If the comparison is negative (i.e. the verification failed or the time period is too long), the triggering start signal is simply not sent to the imaging system and the process is not started. In a preferred method for practice, not only the verification but also the comparison is performed in the control device of the imaging system.

[0029] The control system according to the invention is used for remotely controlling a medical imaging system by means of the method according to the invention. The control system comprises the following components:

[0030] - a remote control unit designed for wirelessly transmitting a start signal for starting a process of the imaging system,

[0031] - an optical recording system designed to record a plurality of optical information in the form of images and / or light signals,

[0032] - a verification system, designed to verify that the optical information comes from the inspection area and has reached the remote control unit, and in the affirmative: determine the moment of recording of the optical information,

[0033] -Time stamping system, designed for

[0034] a) determining a start time at which a start signal is triggered or sent to the imaging system, and

[0035] b) determining the recording time of the optical information, and

[0036] c) comparing the time period between the recording time and the start time with a preset comparison time period,

[0037] The control system is designed in such a way that a process of the imaging system is started by a start signal only when the time period is within the comparison time period.

[0038] The functions of the components have been described above in the control method.

[0039] The medical imaging system according to the invention comprises a control system according to the invention and / or is designed to carry out the method according to the invention.

[0040] A large part of the above-mentioned components of the system can be implemented completely or partially in the form of software modules in a processor of a corresponding computing system, for example by a control device of a computed tomography system. The large-scale software implementation has the advantage that the computing system that has been used so far can be retrofitted in a simple manner by a software upgrade so as to work in the manner according to the invention. In this regard, the object is also achieved by a corresponding computer program product with a computer program, which can be directly loaded into a computing system, and the computer program has program segments so that when the program is run in the computing system, the steps of the method according to the invention are performed, at least the steps that can be executed by a computer. It is explained that in the implementation, recording spectral CT data corresponds to receiving CT data, for example via a data bus or by reading a storage unit. In addition to the computer program, such a computer program product can have additional components, such as, for example, documentation and / or additional components, as well as hardware components, such as, for example, hardware keys (software dongles, etc.), in order to use the software.

[0041] For transport to a computing system or a control device and / or for storage at or in a computing system or a control device, a computer-readable medium can be used, such as a memory stick, a hard disk or other transportable or permanently installed data carrier, on which program segments of a computer program that can be read in and executed by a computing system are stored. For this purpose, a computing system can have, for example, one or more cooperating microprocessors or the like.

[0042] It should be noted that the following method steps are performed in a computing system for the method:

[0043] - registering a start signal in the remote control unit for starting a process of the imaging system,

[0044] - outputting control instructions for recording a plurality of optical information in the form of images and / or light signals,

[0045] - verifying that the optical information comes from the inspection area and has reached the remote control unit, and in the affirmative: determining the moment of recording of the optical information,

[0046] - determining a start time at which a start signal is triggered or sent to the imaging system,

[0047] - comparing the time period between the recording time and the start time with a preset comparison time period,

[0048] - When the time period is within the comparison time period, outputting a control instruction for starting a process of the imaging system based on the start signal.

[0049] Further particularly advantageous designs and improvements of the invention are apparent from the following description, in which embodiments of one embodiment category are also improved similarly to embodiments of other embodiment categories and parts of the description, and in particular individual features of different embodiments or variants can also be combined to form new embodiments or variants.

[0050] Preferably, the verification system comprises a marking unit. In particular, the imaging system comprises a marking unit in or at the examination area. The marking unit is in particular an LCD unit, an LED unit or an electronic paper unit, which is preferably arranged at the imaging system, in particular in its examination area, and is designed to be recorded by a camera. For example, the marking unit can be placed at the examination bed or gantry of the CT device.

[0051] Preferably, the marking unit is designed to display the data in the form of a visually detectable code and also to display the transformed code at least at the time of recording. This can be achieved, for example, in that the marking unit starts to transmit the code when the imaging system is switched on and ends when the imaging system is switched off. However, the marking unit can also be switched on only when the remote control unit sends an activation signal. In a very simple embodiment, the marking unit is simply a QR code, which is always visible at the imaging system. However, it should be noted that the process can also be started if a photo of the QR code is simply recorded.

[0052] The marking unit displays the code, in particular as a character string, a barcode or a QR code and / or in the form of a light signal, in particular a light signal on a modulated carrier frequency. It should be noted that the code is displayed clearly and in a sufficiently large size. The light signal can be sent, for example, by means of a simple LED, which is activated, in particular, by a remote control unit.

[0053] In the case of a transformed code or light signal, after the start signal has been triggered in the remote control unit, the start signal can be sent to the imaging system. There, however, the process is not initially triggered, but the display of the marking unit is started (e.g., the light signal or the transformed code is emitted). The remote control unit now also sends information about the code to the imaging system (possibly also an image with the code). Based on the information from the remote control unit, a comparison is preferably now made between the start time (possibly the start signal arriving at the imaging system) and the recording time (e.g., derived from the code) and only then a decision is made whether the process should be started.

[0054] In order to verify that the optical information comes from the inspection area, the data of the marking unit is preferably searched in the optical information. When the data is found, the time of recording is then regarded as the recording time.

[0055] Preferably, the marking unit is designed to display data in the form of a continuously changing code. According to a preferred control method, the marking unit thus displays data in the form of a continuously changing code. It is preferred that the code is designed so that the recording time can be derived from it. This can be done, for example, in the following way, that is, the time is simply displayed, for example as a string or a QR code. However, it is also possible to start the counter with the start time, because it depends only on the time period between the start time and the recording time. The comparison of the time period is then based on the code.

[0056] Preferably, the code changes at a frequency greater than 1 Hz, in particular greater than 10 Hz, ie in a time period less than 100 ms. This has the advantage that it can be ensured that a visual connection between the remote control unit and the imaging system is also established at the moment the start signal is triggered.

[0057] As mentioned above, it can be advantageous to send an activation signal as initial contact by means of the remote control unit, by means of which the marking unit is activated, and only then send a start signal by the remote control unit. However, the start signal can also be understood as an activation signal.

[0058] According to a preferred control method, the optical information of the examination area is an image recorded by means of a camera at the remote control unit, at the imaging system or in the examination volume of the imaging system. Verification that the image comes from the examination area is then preferably carried out by determining whether one of the images shows data of the marking unit or the marking unit.

[0059] A preferred control system or its recording system therefore comprises a camera. The camera is preferably arranged at the imaging system, or in the examination space in which the imaging system is located, or in or at a remote control unit.

[0060] In the preferred case where the camera is to be arranged in a remote control unit, a smartphone can be used as the remote control unit, for example. The smartphone must in principle only be in data contact with the control unit of the imaging system and have an application by means of which a start signal can be sent, images can be recorded and evaluated, or the images can be sent to the control unit (for example together with a start signal).

[0061] In the preferred case where the camera is arranged outside the remote control unit, for example at the imaging system or in the examination area, the camera should be oriented and designed in such a way that it transmits an image of the examination area to the remote control unit. Preferably, the camera at the imaging system or in the examination area is therefore set in such a way that it records the examination area of ​​the imaging system. The verification system is then designed to transmit the camera's recording to the remote control unit, wherein the remote control unit is designed to receive the transmitted recording and display it to the user.

[0062] A camera in the examination space or at the imaging system sends its image to the remote control device. A "visual connection" is established by showing the image in the remote control unit (for example on the screen of a smartphone). However, there is the risk that the remote control unit shows an outdated image (lack of data connection, frozen image), based on which the user makes an incorrect decision. In order to avoid this, a timestamp or another code is preferably sent with the image (in particular with the aid of a marking unit with a transformed code). If the user activates a start signal, the code of the image just shown on the remote control unit is sent back to the imaging system with the start signal. The imaging system then checks with the aid of the code whether the image on the remote control unit is current. If not, the requested recording is rejected. The data of the marking unit are preferably sent by the remote control unit to the imaging system for the verification step or are processed in the remote control unit.

[0063] According to a preferred control method, the recording time is derived from a synchronized clock or from data of the marking unit.

[0064] According to a preferred control method, the start time is derived from a clock in the remote control unit and specifies when the start signal is triggered in the remote control unit. Alternatively, the start time is derived from a clock in the imaging system and specifies when the start signal is received by the imaging system.

[0065] When sending images from the imaging system to the remote control unit, it is preferred that the images are sent to the remote control unit together with information about the respective recording time and that at least one piece of information about such a recording time is sent from the remote control unit to the imaging system together with a start signal.

[0066] According to a preferred control method, a comparison of the time period between the recording moment and the start moment with a preset comparison time period is performed in the remote control unit. In the case where the time period is longer than the comparison time period, the transmission of the start signal from the remote control unit to the imaging system is blocked. Alternatively or additionally, information can be sent to the imaging system that the process of the imaging system should not be started. This can be used to block the process or for recording.

[0067] According to a preferred control method, a comparison of the time period between the recording moment and the start moment with a preset comparison time period is performed by the imaging system. In the event that the time period is longer than the comparison time period, the process of the imaging system is not started despite the presence of a start signal, at least until a new start signal is received together with a new comparison.

[0068] According to a preferred control method, the process lasts for a process time period. This is the case, for example, when the examination bed is to be moved or when a series of different recordings is to be performed. During the process time period, at least steps b) and c) (recording of information and verification) are then carried out a number of times. To start the process, the method, as explained above, should however ensure that there is visual contact with the examination area during the entire process time period. The process is therefore stopped when it can no longer be verified that the optical information comes from the examination area and has reached the remote control unit.

[0069] In principle, two scenarios are possible here: the start signal starts the process only once (until it is completed or until it is stopped) or the start signal is sent continuously or multiple times in order to continue the process.

[0070] Preferably, steps a) to e) are repeated multiple times, and the process is stopped when the corresponding time period is outside the comparison time period during the comparison. Preferably, before stopping the process, an alarm is output to the user, in particular by a remote control unit, and the process is stopped only after a preset time period after the alarm, and at least steps b) and c) are repeated before stopping. This provides the user with time to quickly reestablish visual contact.

[0071] According to a preferred control method, the start signal is a recording start signal. Here, image recording by the imaging system is started by the recording start signal only when the time period for detecting the start signal is shorter than a preset comparison value.

[0072] According to a preferred control method, the start signal is an injection signal. Here, the contrast agent is automatically injected through the imaging system only when the time period for detecting the start signal is shorter than a preset comparison value.

[0073] According to a preferred control method, the start signal is a signal for moving the examination bed. Here, the examination bed is started by the start signal only when the time period for detecting the start signal is shorter than a preset comparison value.

[0074] According to a preferred control method, the remote control unit sends a code (marking unit) recorded by means of a camera in conjunction with a start signal. The time period is then determined from the code sent with the start signal and the start time. Preferably, the code is a QR code, which is preferably changed at a frequency of more than 10 Hz and the QR code recorded by means of a camera is sent together with the start signal. Alternatively, the imaging system comprises a light source, in particular a monochromatic light source, which is designed to send time data by means of modulation of a light signal, in particular at regular intervals.

[0075] The invention has the advantage that, for example, the recording of X-ray images can be performed by means of a wireless switch so that cables that are usually in the path or that may be damaged can be discarded. Nevertheless, the invention ensures that the patient is not irradiated unnecessarily, because the radiologist can visually check the patient's positioning at the beginning of the X-ray recording. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0076] The present invention is explained in detail again below based on an embodiment with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this case, the same components are provided with the same reference numerals in different figures. The accompanying drawings are generally not to scale. The accompanying drawings show:

[0077] Figure 1 A rough schematic diagram of a CT system with an exemplary embodiment of a control system according to the invention for carrying out a method is shown,

[0078] Figure 2 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the invention,

[0079] Figure 3 A sketch for the method flow is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0080] Figure 1 As an example of an imaging system, a CT system 1 (computed tomography system) is shown, which has a gantry 2 with a rotating part 3. The rotating part 3 includes an X-ray source 5 as a radiation source 5 and a radiation detector 4, which is designed to detect the X-ray radiation of the X-ray source. The CT system is only one of a plurality of possible systems in which the present invention can be advantageously used. For example, it can also be used in a mobile or static radiography system.

[0081] The rotating part 3 can rotate about an axis of rotation 8. The patient 6 is supported on an examination bed 7 and can be moved along the axis of rotation 8 through the gantry 2. A computing unit 9 is provided for controlling the CT system 1 and for generating image data sets based on the signals detected by the radiation detector 4. Exactly how the images are recorded and reconstructed is known to a person skilled in the art and does not need to be explained in detail here.

[0082] The computer unit 9 serves here as a control device 9 for controlling the CT system 1. An input device 10 and an output device 11 are connected to the computer unit 9. The input device 10 and the output device 11 enable, for example, interaction by a user or display of generated image data sets.

[0083] To start the recording, a check should be performed on the examination region U, in particular whether the patient is positioned correctly and there is no risk of excessive radiation exposure. This check must also be ensured during remote control of the system.

[0084] The control device 9 therefore also comprises here a device according to the invention for controlling the Figure 2 The method depicted in FIG. 1 is to remotely control components of a control system of a medical imaging system 1 , namely the authentication system 13 and the time stamping system 14 .

[0085] The control system as a whole comprises a remote control unit 12 , here in the form of a smartphone 12 , a recording system K, here formed by a camera K of the smartphone 12 , and the verification system 13 and the time stamping system 14 .

[0086] The remote control unit 12 is designed here to wirelessly transmit a start signal S for starting a process, such as image acquisition, of the imaging system 1. For this purpose, the start signal S can be sent from the smartphone 12 to the imaging system 1 via Bluetooth, WLAN or a mobile radio network and the process can be started there if the imaging system is not blocked.

[0087] In the example described, the camera K of a smartphone T is used as the optical recording system K. The dashed line indicates the area which the camera K records as optical information B in the form of an image B. The image B can serve as proof that a visual connection exists or also as the visual connection itself, as will be described in more detail further below.

[0088] A marking unit M is visible on the examination bed 7, which is part of the recorded image B. A QR code is shown here as a marking unit. The QR code does not necessarily have to be static here. It is even advantageous if the QR code changes (rapidly) and the change is interpreted as time information. Instead of a QR code, the light source can definitely also emit a light signal in the form of information modulated to a carrier frequency, which is then recorded in the video stream of the camera (or by a simple light sensor) and can be interpreted or decoded from the video stream.

[0089] The verification system 13 then verifies whether the optical information comes from the inspection area. In the example described, the verification system 13 runs as a software module in the computing unit 9. The image B recorded by the camera K is thus sent to the computing unit, in particular together with the start signal S. For verification, it can then be checked, for example, whether the marking unit M is visible in the transmitted image. Since the image comes from the remote control unit 12, it is also clear that the optical information B has reached the remote control unit. Therefore, it can be assumed in the illustrated case that the verification is positive.

[0090] Now, the recording time Ta of the image B is determined. This can be done by the clock of the smartphone 12. However, it should also be noted that in theory a photo of the (static) QR code held in front of the camera could have been recorded, or the clock of the smartphone 12 could be wrong. In order to exclude this, a dynamic QR code is advantageous, which, for example, sends time information accurate to the second. Since only the time period is important here, and the start time can also be seen from the arrival of the start signal S at the imaging system 1, the time information can be time information about any timer of the imaging system 1.

[0091] If the user selects a start signal S in the smartphone 12 , an image B is also recorded by means of a camera K, which should be directed toward the inspection area U (for verification). This image B can then be sent together with the start signal S to the control device 9 .

[0092] If the start signal S reaches the control device 9, the start time Ts is determined there by the time stamp system 14 based on a timer. The recording time Ta is then determined from the transmitted image (in particular the QR code). This should approximately coincide with the start time, since the start signal S and the image recording take place almost simultaneously. Therefore, the time period between the recording time Ta and the start time Ts can now be simply compared with a predefined comparison time period, for example 1 s.

[0093] If the time period is shorter, the desired process of the imaging system 1 is started by the start signal S, and if the time period is longer, it is not started.

[0094] exist Figure 21 and 12. The method for remotely controlling a medical imaging system 1 according to the invention by means of a start signal S of a remote control unit 12 (see, for example, Figure 1 ) control method.

[0095] In step I, in the example described, a start signal S is triggered in the remote control unit 12, here again a smartphone 12. The start signal S is used as described above to start a process, such as image recording, of the imaging system 1. Simultaneously with the triggering of the start signal S, a start time Ts is determined, here based on an internal clock of the smartphone 12.

[0096] In step II, an image B is then recorded by means of a recording system K of the smartphone 12, for example a camera K. This can take place automatically by triggering a start signal S. As can be seen, the camera K is already aligned with the examination area U and shows an image B, on which the patient P and the marking unit M are visible. It is important in the example described that the camera K is also intentionally aligned with the examination area U in order to show that there is a visual connection. In theory, instead of the image B, a light signal could also be recorded. It is also possible that the image B is recorded by the camera K in the examination area U, such as in Figure 3 It is important that the inspection region U can be seen in any way by the operator of the remote control unit 12 and that this is also evidenced by the recording (optical information B).

[0097] It is then verified in step III that the image B (or the optical information B) comes from the inspection area U and has reached the remote control unit 12. This can be done here as described above by reading the QR code by the verification system 13. Then, the recording time Ta of the image B is determined. This can be done, for example, in that the smartphone 12 also sends the recording time. However, it is more reliable if the recording time Ta is derived from the changed QR code of the marking unit M as already described above.

[0098] In step IV, the time period between the recording time Ta and the start time Ts is compared with a preset comparison time period Tv. This ensures that not too much time has passed between the determined visual contact and the triggering of the start signal S, i.e., in principle, the visual contact already existed during the triggering of the start signal S.

[0099] In step V, the process of the imaging system is started by a start signal S when the time period is within the comparison time period, and the process of the imaging system is not started by a start signal S when the time period is not within the comparison time period.

[0100] The process can theoretically also be carried out in the remote control unit 12, wherein in the final step, when the time period is within the comparison time period, the start signal S is sent to the imaging system, and when the time period is not within the comparison time period, the start signal S is not sent to the imaging system.

[0101] exist Figure 3 , shows the situation where there is no direct line of sight between the remote control unit 12 and the examination area U, for example because the examination space is too small or the operator must be in front of a closed door for radiation protection reasons. In this case, a camera K in the examination space records the examination area U and sends the recorded image B to the remote control unit 12. The recorded image B is then displayed on the display of the remote control unit 12 and the visual connection is shown in the form described. Figure 2 The method can also be carried out in the manner described and verified as positive by means of the visual connection.

[0102] Finally, it should be noted again that the drawings described in detail above are only examples, which can be modified by a person skilled in the art in completely different ways without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, the use of the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude that the relevant features can also be present multiple times. Similarly, the terms "unit" and "device" do not exclude that the relevant components can be composed of a plurality of co-acting subcomponents, which can also be spatially distributed if necessary. The expression "plurality" can be understood as "at least one". Regardless of the grammatical gender of the specific term, people with male or female gender identity are included.

Claims

1. A control method for remotely controlling a medical imaging system (1) by means of a start signal of a remote control unit (12), the control method comprising the following steps: a) triggering a start signal in the remote control unit (12) to start a process of the imaging system (1), b) recording a plurality of optical information (B) in the form of images (B) and / or light signals, c) verifying that the optical information (B) comes from the inspection area (U) and has reached the remote control unit (12), and in the affirmative: determining the moment (Ta) of recording of the optical information (B), d) determining a start time (Ts), triggering the start signal at the start time (Ts) or sending the start signal to the imaging system (1), e) comparing the time period between the recording time (Ta) and the start time (Ts) with a preset comparison time period (Tv), The process of the imaging system (1) is started by the start signal (S) only when the time period is within the comparison time period (Tv).

2. The control method according to claim 1, The imaging system (1) comprises a marking unit (M) in or at the inspection area (U), the marking unit (M) showing data in the form of a visually detectable code, in particular as a character string, a barcode or a QR code, and / or in the form of a light signal, in particular a light signal on a modulated carrier frequency, wherein in order to verify that the optical information (B) comes from the inspection area (U), the data of the marking unit (M) is searched for in the optical information (B), and when the data is found, the moment of recording is designated as the recording moment (Ta).

3. The control method according to claim 2, wherein the marking unit (M) displays data in the form of a continuously changing code from which the recording time (Ta) can be derived and the comparison of the time periods is carried out on the basis of the code, preferably wherein the code changes at a frequency of more than 1 Hz, in particular more than 10 Hz, Preferably, An activation signal is sent as a first contact by means of the remote control unit (12), by means of which the marking unit (M) is activated, and only subsequently the start signal (S) is sent by the remote control unit (12).

4. A control method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the optical information (B) of the examination area (U) is an image (B), the image (B) being recorded by means of a camera (K) at the remote control unit (12), at the imaging system (1) or in the examination space of the imaging system (1), and verifying that the image (B) comes from the examination area (U) is achieved by determining whether one of a plurality of images (B) shows data of a marking unit (M) or the marking unit (M), preferably wherein the camera (K) - provided in the remote control unit (12), - is arranged outside the remote control unit (12) and transmits the image (B) of the examination area (U) to the remote control unit (12), And the data of the marking unit (M) is sent from the remote control unit (12) to the imaging system (1) for the verification step or is processed in the remote control unit (12).

5. A control method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the recording time (Ta) is derived from a synchronized clock or from data of the marking unit (M), and / or wherein the start time (Ts) is derived from a clock in the remote control unit (12) and indicates when the control signal (S) is triggered in the remote control unit (12), and / or is derived from a clock in the imaging system (1) and indicates when the start signal is received by the imaging system (1), Preferably, in the case where an image (B) is sent from the imaging system (1) to the remote control unit (12), the image (B) is sent to the remote control unit (12) together with information about a corresponding recording moment (Ta), and at least one information about such a recording moment (Ta) is sent from the remote control unit (12) to the imaging system (1) together with the start signal (S).

6. A control method according to any one of the preceding claims, The comparison between the time period between the recording time (Ta) and the start time (Ts) and the preset comparison time period (Tv) is - being executed in the remote control unit (12), and in the case where the time period is longer than the comparison time period (Tv), blocking the transmission of the start signal (S) from the remote control unit (12) to the imaging system (1), and / or sending information to the imaging system (1) that the process of the imaging system (1) should not be started, or - is executed by the imaging system (1) and, in the event that the time period is longer than the comparison time period (Tv), despite the presence of a start signal (S), the process of the imaging system (1) is not started, at least until a new start signal (S) is received together with a new comparison.

7. A control method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the process lasts for a process time period and during said process time period at least steps b) and c) are repeated a plurality of times, and the process is stopped when it can no longer be verified that said optical information (B) comes from said inspection area (U) and has reached said remote control unit (12), preferably wherein - the start signal (S) starts the process only once, - sending the start signal (S) continuously or multiple times in order to continue the process, preferably wherein steps a) to e) are repeated multiple times and the process is stopped when the corresponding time period in the comparison is outside the comparison time period (Tv), Preferably, Before stopping the process, a warning is issued to the user, in particular via the remote control unit (12), and the process is stopped only after a preset period of time after the warning, and at least steps b) and c) are repeated before stopping.

8. A control method according to any one of the preceding claims, The start signal (S) - is a recording start signal, and image recording by the imaging system (1) is started by the recording start signal only when the time period for detecting the start signal is shorter than a preset comparison value, and / or - is an injection start signal, and only when the time period for detecting the start signal is shorter than a preset comparison value, the contrast agent is automatically injected through the imaging system (1) by the injection start signal.

9. A control method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the remote control unit (12) sends a code recorded by means of the camera (K) together with the start signal (S), and determines a time period from the code sent with the start signal (S) and the start time (Ts), preferably wherein: the code is a QR code, which preferably changes at a frequency greater than 10 Hz and which is recorded by means of the camera (K) and sent together with the start signal (S), or The imaging system (1) comprises a light source, in particular a monochromatic light source, which is designed to transmit time data by means of modulation of a light signal, in particular at regular intervals.

10. A control system for remotely controlling a medical imaging system (1) by means of a method according to any one of the preceding claims, the control system comprising: a remote control unit (12) designed to wirelessly transmit a start signal (S) for starting a process of the imaging system (1), an optical recording system (K) designed to record a plurality of optical information (B) in the form of images (B) and / or light signals, a verification system (13) designed to verify that the optical information (B) comes from the inspection area (U) and has reached the remote control unit (12), and in the affirmative case: to determine the moment of recording (Ta) of the optical information (B), - a time stamping system (14), the time stamping system (14) being designed to a) determining a start time (Ts), triggering a start signal (S) at the start time (Ts) or sending a start signal (S) to the imaging system (1), and b) determining a recording time (Ta) of said optical information (B), and c) comparing the time period between the recording time (Ta) and the start time (Ts) with a preset comparison time period (Tv), The control system is designed to start the process of the imaging system (1) through the start signal (S) only when the time period is within the comparison time period (Tv).

11. The control system according to claim 10, The recording system (K) comprises a camera (K), which is arranged at the imaging system (1), or arranged in the examination space where the imaging system (1) is located, or arranged at the remote control unit (12). Preferably, the camera (K) at the imaging system (1) or in the inspection space is set so that it records the inspection area (U) of the imaging system (1), and the verification system (13) is designed to send the recording of the camera (K) to the remote control unit (12), and the remote control unit (12) is designed to receive the sent recording and show it to the user.

12. The control system according to claim 10 or 11, The verification system (13) comprises a marking unit (M), in particular an LCD unit, an LED unit or an electronic paper unit, which is arranged at the imaging system (1), in particular in the inspection area (U), and is designed to be recorded by the camera (K), preferably, wherein the marking unit (M) is designed to display data in the form of a continuously changing code.

13. A medical imaging system (1) comprising a control system according to any one of claims 10 to 12 and / or designed to perform a method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

14. A computer program product comprising instructions which, when the program is run by a computer, cause the computer to perform the following steps: - registering a start signal (S) in the remote control unit (12) to start the process of the imaging system (1), - outputting control instructions for recording a plurality of optical information (B) in the form of images (B) and / or light signals, - verifying that the optical information (B) comes from the inspection area (U) and has reached the remote control unit (12), and in the affirmative: determining the moment of recording (Ta) of the optical information (B), - determining a start time (Ts), triggering the start signal (S) at the start time (Ts) or sending the start signal (S) to the imaging system (1), - comparing the time period between the recording time (Ta) and the start time (Ts) with a preset comparison time period (Tv), - when the time period is within the comparison time period (Tv), outputting a control instruction for starting a process of the imaging system (1) based on the start signal (S).

15. A computer-readable storage medium, the computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions, the instructions when executed by a computer prompting the computer to perform the following steps: - registering a start signal (S) in the remote control unit (12) to start the process of the imaging system (1), - outputting control instructions for recording a plurality of optical information (B) in the form of images (B) and / or light signals, - verifying that the optical information (B) comes from the inspection area (U) and has reached the remote control unit (12), and in the affirmative: determining the moment of recording (Ta) of the optical information (B), - determining a start time (Ts), triggering the start signal (S) at the start time (Ts) or sending the start signal (S) to the imaging system (1), - comparing the time period between the recording time (Ta) and the start time (Ts) with a preset comparison time period (Tv), - when the time period is within the comparison time period (Tv), outputting a control instruction for starting a process of the imaging system (1) based on the start signal (S).

Images