X-ray CT system

Abstract

According to the X-ray CT system provided by the invention, in the CT shooting process, the guide picture in the guide device can be continuously and clearly observed by the detected body. This X-ray CT system is provided with: a bed that movably supports a top plate on which a subject is placed; a gantry that performs CT imaging by X-rays, and that has a detection path that passes through the gantry in the direction of movement of the gantry and is capable of accommodating the gantry on which the subject is placed; and the guide device is arranged on the stand and reciprocates from the front side and / or the rear side of the stand along the outline, facing the detection channel side, of the stand according to the position information of the top plate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an X-ray CT system. Background Art

[0002] There is known an X-ray CT (Computed Tomography) system, in which a pair of X-ray tubes and an X-ray detector are rotated at high speed around a subject to perform X-ray-based CT imaging, and at the same time, the captured data are reconstructed to generate a tomographic image of the subject. In the X-ray CT system, a pair of X-ray tubes and an X-ray detector are fixed in a gantry, and the gantry is roughly cylindrical, and an opening is formed in the center of the gantry that passes through along the axial direction of the gantry. When performing X-ray-based CT imaging, the subject is placed on the top plate of the diagnostic bed, and in order to move the subject to the imaging space surrounded by the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector, the diagnostic bed moves the top plate on which the subject is placed into the opening of the gantry. The penetration direction of the opening of the gantry is consistent with the moving direction of the top plate on which the subject is placed, and when performing X-ray-based CT imaging, the opening of the cylindrical gantry serves as a detection channel to accommodate the top plate on which the subject is placed.

[0003] In the existing X-ray CT system, a guidance device is provided on the gantry. The guidance device is used to display, for example, information of the subject, the ECG waveform of the subject, the subject's movements, breath-holding guidance, etc., so as to guide the subject on the information that needs to be confirmed or the movements that need to be completed during the CT scanning process.

[0004] However, in the existing X-ray CT system, the display screen of the guiding device is arranged at the front side of the gantry. Specifically, the flat display screen is arranged roughly vertically at the front side of the gantry, and its screen faces the direction of the diagnosis bed. During the CT shooting process, the subject always lies on his back on the top plate, and the direction of the display screen of the guiding device is always parallel to the supine direction of the subject. In other words, at this time, the line of sight of the subject is generally upward, which intersects or is perpendicular to the direction of the display screen, that is, the visible direction of the display screen, which will cause the subject to be unable to clearly observe the image on the display screen.

[0005] In addition, in the existing X-ray CT system, the display screen of the guiding device is arranged on the front side of the gantry and faces the outside of the gantry. During the CT imaging process, the subject is placed on the top plate of the diagnostic bed and moved into the detection channel formed by the cylindrical gantry. At this time, the subject's view of the display screen of the guiding device is blocked by the gantry, which also causes the subject to be unable to continuously and clearly observe the image on the display screen during the CT imaging process.

[0006] In the existing X-ray CT system, since the display screen of the guiding device is arranged on the front side of the gantry and faces outward, the visible direction of the display screen intersects or is perpendicular to the line of sight of the subject, and the line of sight of the subject to observe the display screen is blocked by the gantry, resulting in the subject being unable to continuously and clearly observe the image on the display screen during the CT shooting process. Therefore, when it is necessary to guide the subject to the subject's information, the subject's ECG waveform state, the subject's movements, breath-holding guidance and other information, the operator of the X-ray CT system can only communicate with the subject through sound. At this time, due to the subject's tension, anxiety or language differences during the CT shooting process, the subject may not be able to accurately confirm the information or complete the action, which reduces the efficiency of CT shooting and may cause multiple bursts of the subject. Summary of the invention

[0007] The present invention is completed in view of the above problems, and its purpose is to provide an X-ray CT system, which can improve the efficiency of CT shooting, reduce the possibility of the subject being irradiated multiple times, and improve the safety of CT shooting, while allowing the subject to continuously and clearly observe the guidance screen in the guidance device during CT shooting.

[0008] The X-ray CT system according to the present invention is characterized in that it comprises: a diagnostic bed that movably supports a top plate for carrying a subject; a gantry that performs X-ray-based CT imaging and has a detection channel that passes through the top plate along the moving direction of the top plate and can accommodate the top plate carrying the subject; and a guiding device that is arranged on the gantry and reciprocates along the outer contour of the gantry toward the detection channel side from the front side and / or the rear side of the gantry according to the position information of the top plate.

[0009] Thus, by making the guiding device reciprocate from the front side and / or the rear side of the gantry along the outer contour of the gantry toward the detection channel side, during the CT imaging process, it is always possible to ensure that the visual range of the guiding device is consistent with the visual range of the subject, and it is possible to ensure that the guiding device and the subject are not blocked by the gantry and other components. Therefore, during the CT imaging process, the subject can continuously and clearly observe the guiding screen in the guiding device, and the efficiency of CT imaging can be improved.

[0010] The X-ray CT system according to the present invention is characterized in that the guiding device reciprocates along an arc trajectory in at least one of a journey between the front side of the gantry and the detection channel, between the rear side of the gantry and the detection channel, and from the front side to the rear side of the gantry through the detection channel.

[0011] Thus, since the guide device installed on the gantry always follows the outer contour of the gantry during movement, even if the guide device is installed on the gantry and moved, the outer contour of the gantry will not be changed. Therefore, in the limited space of the CT examination room where CT imaging is performed, there will be no interference between the gantry and other equipment or the subject, and the safety of CT imaging can be improved.

[0012] In addition, the guiding device reciprocates in at least one of the following strokes: between the front side of the gantry and the detection channel, between the rear side of the gantry and the detection channel, and from the front side to the rear side of the gantry through the detection channel. Therefore, during the CT imaging process, it is always possible to ensure that the visual range of the guiding device is consistent with the visual range of the subject, and it is possible to ensure that the guiding device and the subject are not blocked by components such as the gantry. Therefore, during the CT imaging process, the subject can continuously and clearly observe the guiding screen in the guiding device, and the efficiency of CT imaging can be improved.

[0013] The X-ray CT system according to the present invention is characterized in that the guiding device comprises: one or more guiding screens, which reciprocate along the outer contour from the front side and / or the rear side of the gantry according to the position information of the top plate, and the guiding screen rotates relative to the gantry in a manner of moving away from or approaching the gantry; a guiding driving unit, which is arranged in the gantry and drives the movement and rotation of the guiding screen; and a controlling unit, which is arranged in the gantry and obtains the position information of the top plate and controls the guiding driving unit to drive the movement and rotation of the guiding screen according to the position information of the top plate.

[0014] Thus, the guiding device is provided with more than one guiding screen, each guiding screen can reciprocate from the front side and / or the rear side of the gantry along the outer contour of the gantry toward the detection channel, and each guiding screen can also rotate relative to the gantry. Therefore, during the CT imaging process, it can always be ensured that the visual range of the guiding device is consistent with the visual range of the subject, and it can be ensured that the guiding device and the subject are not blocked by components such as the gantry. Therefore, during the CT imaging process, the subject can continuously and clearly observe the guiding screen in the guiding device, and the efficiency of CT imaging can be improved.

[0015] According to the X-ray CT system of the present invention, it is characterized in that the guiding device includes a plurality of guiding screens, one of the plurality of guiding screens reciprocates along the outer contour from the front side of the gantry, on a stroke between the front side of the gantry and the detection channel, and the other of the plurality of guiding screens reciprocates along the outer contour from the rear side of the gantry, on a stroke between the rear side of the gantry and the detection channel, and the plurality of guiding screens respectively include: a lower guiding screen fixed to the guiding device; and an upper guiding screen rotatably connected to the lower guiding screen via a connecting part; the upper guiding screen rotates using the connecting part as a rotating axis, and the control part controls the guiding driving part to drive the movement of the plurality of guiding screens and the rotation of the upper guiding screen according to the position information of the top plate, so that the line of sight of the subject always remains on the guiding screen.

[0016] According to the X-ray CT system of the present invention, it is characterized in that the guiding device includes a plurality of the guiding screens, one of the plurality of guiding screens reciprocates along the outer contour from the front side of the gantry on the stroke between the front side of the gantry and the detection channel, and the other of the plurality of guiding screens reciprocates along the outer contour from the rear side of the gantry on the stroke between the rear side of the gantry and the detection channel, the guiding screen rotates with the lower end of the guiding screen as the rotation axis in such a manner that the upper end moves away from and approaches the gantry, and the control unit controls the guiding driving unit to drive the movement of the plurality of guiding screens and the rotation of the upper end according to the position information of the top plate, so that the line of sight of the subject always remains on the guiding screen.

[0017] The X-ray CT system according to the present invention is characterized in that the guide screen reciprocates along the outer contour from the front side or the rear side of the gantry on the journey from the front side to the rear side of the gantry through the detection channel, and the guide screen rotates with the midpoints of the two ends of the guide screen as the rotation axis in a manner such that the upper end moves away from or approaches the gantry and the lower end moves away from or approaches the gantry, and the upper end and the lower end of the guide screen rotate independently of each other, and the control unit controls the guide drive unit to drive the movement and rotation of the guide screen according to the position information of the top plate, so that the subject's line of sight always remains on the guide screen.

[0018] The X-ray CT system according to the present invention is characterized in that the guide screen reciprocates along the outer contour from the front side or the rear side of the gantry on the journey from the front side to the rear side of the gantry through the detection channel, and the guide screen includes an upper guide screen and a lower guide screen, and the upper guide screen and the lower guide screen are rotatably connected to each other through a connecting part, and the upper guide screen and the lower guide screen respectively rotate using the connecting part as a rotation axis, and the control part controls the guide drive part to drive the movement of the guide screen and the rotation of the upper guide screen according to the position information of the top plate, so that the line of sight of the subject always remains on the guide screen.

[0019] Thus, the guiding device has more than one guiding screen, each guiding screen can reciprocate from the front side and / or the rear side of the gantry along the outer contour of the gantry toward the detection channel, and each guiding screen can also rotate in different ways relative to the gantry. Therefore, during the CT scanning process, it can always be ensured that the visual range of the guiding device is consistent with the visual range of the subject, and it can be ensured that the guiding device and the subject are not blocked by the gantry and other components. Therefore, during the CT scanning process, the subject can continuously and clearly observe the guiding screen in the guiding device, and the efficiency of CT scanning can be improved.

[0020] The X-ray CT system according to the present invention is characterized in that the control unit, when performing X-ray-based CT imaging, also obtains the moving speed of the top plate on which the subject is placed, and controls the guide drive unit to drive the guide device according to the moving speed of the top plate, so that the guide device rotates or moves in coordination with the top plate, so that the subject's line of sight always remains on the guide screen.

[0021] Thus, according to the moving speed of the top plate, the guiding device is moved or rotated in coordination with the moving speed of the top plate, so that the moving speed of the guiding device within the visual range is consistent with the moving speed of the subject, or the moving speed of the guiding device in the moving direction of the subject is consistent with the moving direction of the subject, that is, the relative moving speed of the guiding device or between the guiding device and the subject is zero, thereby enabling the subject's line of sight to always remain on the guiding device.

[0022] The X-ray CT system according to the present invention is characterized in that the plurality of guide screens include: a first guide screen disposed on the front side of the gantry; and a second guide screen disposed on the rear side opposite to the front side of the gantry.

[0023] The X-ray CT system according to the present invention is characterized in that the guiding device further comprises: a shielding plate, one end of which is fixed to the gantry and the other end is connected to the guiding screen, and follows the movement of the guiding screen to shield the inside of the gantry.

[0024] Thus, when the moving device reciprocates, the shielding plate can shield the hole where it leaves, thereby preventing the space and components inside the gantry from being exposed to the outside, thereby improving the safety of the X-ray CT system.

[0025] The X-ray CT system according to the present invention is characterized in that it also comprises: an imaging device for obtaining position information of the head of the subject or position information of the headrest on the diagnostic bed, and the control unit controls the guide drive unit to drive the guide device based on the position information of the head or the position information of the headrest obtained by the imaging device, so that the line of sight of the subject always remains on the guide screen.

[0026] Thus, the camera device can obtain the position information of the subject's head or the position information of the headrest on the top plate in real time, so that the guiding device can always move toward the subject's head. Therefore, during the CT imaging process, the subject can continuously and clearly observe the guiding screen in the guiding device.

[0027] Effects of the Invention

[0028] According to the present invention, during the CT imaging process, the subject can continuously and clearly observe the guidance picture in the guidance device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of an X-ray CT system according to the first embodiment.

[0030] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram showing the guidance device of the X-ray CT system according to the first embodiment.

[0031] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram showing the guidance device of the X-ray CT system according to the first embodiment.

[0032] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram showing the guidance device of the X-ray CT system according to the first embodiment.

[0033] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram showing the guidance device of the X-ray CT system according to the first embodiment.

[0034] Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram showing a shielding plate of the guide device according to the first embodiment.

[0035] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram showing the imaging device of the guidance device according to the first embodiment.

[0036] Figure 8 This is a flowchart showing the processing of the guidance device according to the first embodiment.

[0037] Fig. 9 This is a flowchart showing a guidance screen of the guidance device according to the first embodiment.

[0038] Fig.10 It is a schematic diagram showing a guidance device of an X-ray CT system according to a second embodiment.

[0039] Fig.11 It is a schematic diagram showing a guidance device of an X-ray CT system according to a third embodiment.

[0040] Fig.12 It is a schematic diagram showing a guidance device of an X-ray CT system according to a fourth embodiment.

[0041] Fig.13 It is a schematic diagram showing a guidance device of an X-ray CT system according to a fourth embodiment.

[0042] Fig.14 It is a schematic diagram showing a guidance device of an X-ray CT system according to a fifth embodiment.

[0043] Fig.15 It is a schematic diagram showing a guidance device of an X-ray CT system according to a fifth embodiment.

[0044] Fig.16 It is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a guidance device of a conventional X-ray CT system.

[0045] Fig.17 It is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a guidance device of a conventional X-ray CT system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] Hereinafter, the X-ray CT system of each embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the same reference numerals are used to represent components having the same or substantially the same functions, and repeated descriptions are made only when necessary. In addition, there is a possibility that different sizes or ratios are used to represent the same components in the drawings of the specification. In addition, for example, in order to ensure the visibility of the drawings of the specification, in the description of each of the drawings of the specification, sometimes only the main components are marked with reference numerals, and the components having the same or substantially the same functions are not marked with reference numerals.

[0047] For example, there are various types of X-ray CT systems, such as third-generation CT and fourth-generation CT, and the X-ray CT system and method in each embodiment of the present invention can be applied to any type of X-ray CT system. Here, the third-generation CT is a rotating / rotating type, in which the X-ray tube and the X-ray detector rotate around the object as a whole. The fourth-generation CT is a fixed / rotating type, in which a large number of X-ray detectors are arranged in a ring and fixed, and only the X-ray tube rotates around the object.

[0048] In addition, each functional unit in the X-ray CT system and method of each embodiment of the present invention can be implemented by an independent computer having a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a memory such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or a RAM (Random Access Memory) as hardware resources. In this case, the processor loaded in the computer can implement various functions according to each embodiment by executing a program read from the ROM and loaded into the RAM. In addition, the computer can be implemented by a workstation set outside the X-ray CT system, a PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) viewer, or a combination thereof.

[0049] (First Embodiment)

[0050] use Figure 1 A configuration example of the X-ray CT system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an X-ray CT system 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 1 In the figure, for the convenience of explanation, only some of the constituent elements are shown, and other constituent elements are omitted.

[0051] The X-ray CT system 1 irradiates X-rays from an X-ray tube 11 to a subject P, and detects the irradiated X-rays with an X-ray detector 12 . The X-ray CT system 1 generates a CT image of the subject P based on the output of the X-ray detector 12 .

[0052] like Figure 1As shown, the X-ray CT system 1 has a gantry 10, a diagnostic bed 30 and a control console 40. In addition, for the convenience of explanation, the gantry 10 and the diagnostic bed 30 are shown from different angles. The gantry 10 is a scanning device for performing X-ray-based CT imaging of a subject P, and includes an X-ray tube 11, an X-ray detector 12 and a rotating frame 13. The diagnostic bed 30 is a transport device for carrying the subject P to be imaged by CT and for positioning the subject P. The control console 40 is a computer for controlling the gantry 10. For example, the gantry 10 and the diagnostic bed 30 are installed in a CT detection room, and the control console 40 is installed in a control room adjacent to the CT detection room. The gantry 10, the diagnostic bed 30 and the control console 40 are connected by wire or wireless means and can communicate with each other.

[0053] In addition, the console 40 does not necessarily have to be installed in the control room. For example, the console 40 can be installed in the same room together with the gantry 10 and the diagnostic bed 30. In addition, the console 40 can also be assembled into the gantry 10.

[0054] In this embodiment, the length direction of the rotation axis of the rotating frame 13 in the vertical state is set as the Z-axis direction, the length direction of the top plate 33 of the diagnostic bed 30 extends along the Z-axis direction, the direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and parallel to the ground is set as the X-axis direction, and the direction perpendicular to the Z-axis direction and perpendicular to the ground is set as the Y-axis direction.

[0055] (Stand 10)

[0056] like Figure 1 As shown, the gantry 10 includes an X-ray tube 11, an X-ray detector 12, a rotating frame 13, an X-ray high voltage device 14, a control device 15, a wedge filter 16, a collimator 17 and a data acquisition system (DAS) 18. The gantry 10 performs CT imaging based on X-rays.

[0057] The X-ray tube 11 is a vacuum tube having a cathode that generates thermal electrons and an anode that generates X-rays when the thermal electrons collide with the cathode. The X-ray tube 11 irradiates the object P with X-rays by irradiating thermal electrons from the cathode to the anode using a high voltage supplied from an X-ray high voltage device 14.

[0058] The X-ray detector 12 detects X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 11 and passing through the subject P, and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the dose of the detected X-rays to the DAS 18. The X-ray detector 12 includes, for example, a plurality of X-ray detection element arrays arranged along an arc centered on the focus of the X-ray tube 11. The X-ray detector 12 is, for example, an indirect conversion type detector including a grid, a scintillator array, and a photoelectric sensor array.

[0059] The rotating frame 13 is an annular frame that supports the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 in a manner that they are opposite to each other, and the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 are rotated by the control device 15. An image field of view (FOV) is provided in the detection channel C of the rotating frame 13. For example, the rotating frame 13 is an aluminum casting. In addition to the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12, the rotating frame 13 can also support an X-ray high-voltage device 14, a wedge filter 16, a collimator 17, a DAS 18, a guide device 20 described later, and other components not shown in the figure.

[0060] The gantry 10 supports the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 via the rotating frame 13. When performing CT imaging based on X-rays, the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 rotate around the rotation axis of the rotating frame 13 in a manner relative to each other. An opening that passes through along the rotation axis direction is formed in the center of the gantry 10, and when performing CT imaging based on X-rays, the X-ray tube 11 and the X-ray detector 12 rotate around the opening of the gantry 10. At this time, the opening of the gantry 10 forms a detection channel C described later, through which the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed passes, and can accommodate the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed. That is, the gantry 10 has a detection channel C that passes through along the moving direction of the top plate 33 and can accommodate the opening of the top plate 33.

[0061] The X-ray high voltage device 14 has a high voltage generator and an X-ray controller. The high voltage generator has a circuit such as a transformer and a rectifier, and generates a high voltage applied to the X-ray tube 11 and a filament current supplied to the X-ray tube 11. The X-ray control device 15 controls the output voltage according to the X-ray emitted by the X-ray tube 11. The high voltage generator may be a transformer type or an inverter type.

[0062] The control device 15 includes a drive mechanism such as a motor and an actuator, and a processing circuit 44 having a processor and a memory for controlling the drive mechanism. The control device 15 receives input signals from the input interface 43 and the like, and controls the operation of the gantry 10 and the diagnostic bed 30. The operation control of the control device 15 includes, for example, control of rotating the rotating frame 13, control of tilting the gantry 10, and control of operating the diagnostic bed 30. In addition, the control device 15 controls the tilt of the gantry 10 by rotating the rotating frame 13 around an axis parallel to the X-axis direction based on the tilt angle information input from the input interface 43 of the gantry 10. The control device 15 is an example of a control unit.

[0063] The wedge filter 16 is a filter for adjusting the dose of X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 11. Specifically, the wedge filter 16 transmits and attenuates X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 11 so that X-rays emitted from the X-ray tube 11 toward the subject P have a predetermined distribution.

[0064] The collimator 17 limits the irradiation range of the X-rays transmitted through the wedge filter 16. The collimator 17 slidably supports a plurality of lead plates for shielding the X-rays, and adjusts the shape of the slits formed by the plurality of lead plates.

[0065] DAS18 reads an electrical signal corresponding to the X-ray dose detected by the X-ray detector 12 from the X-ray detector 12. DAS18 amplifies the read electrical signal and integrates (sums) the electrical signal within the observation period to collect detection data having a digital value corresponding to the X-ray dose within the observation period. The detected data is called projection data. DAS18 is implemented, for example, by an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) equipped with circuit elements capable of generating projection data.

[0066] (Examination bed 30)

[0067] The bed 30 is a device for placing and moving the scanned subject P. The bed 30 includes a base 31, a bed driving device 32, and a top plate 33. The base 31 is a shell supporting the top plate 33. The bed driving device 32 is a driving mechanism for moving the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed along the length direction of the top plate 33. The bed driving device 32 includes a motor, an actuator, etc. The top plate 33 is a plate on which the subject P is placed. The bed 30 supports the top plate 33 for placing the subject P in a movable manner. The top plate 33 is set on the base 31. The top plate 33 can move from the bed 30 to the gantry 10 side, so that the gantry 10 can take pictures of the whole body of the subject P. The top plate 33 is made of, for example, carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) having good X-ray transmittance and physical properties such as rigidity and strength. The bed driving device 32 is an example of a bed driving unit.

[0068] (Console 40)

[0069] The console 40 has a memory 41, a display screen 42, an input interface 43, and a processing circuit 44. Data communication between the memory 41, the display screen 42, the input interface 43, and the processing circuit 44 is performed via a bus. Although the console 40 may be separated from the stand 10, the stand 10 may include the console 40 or a part of various components of the console 40.

[0070] The memory 41 is implemented by, for example, a semiconductor storage device such as ROM, RAM, flash memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, etc. In addition, for example, the memory 41 stores various programs. In addition, the storage area of ​​the memory 41 may be located in the X-ray CT system 1 or in an external storage device connected via a network.

[0071] The display screen 42 displays various information. For example, the display screen 42 displays medical images generated by the processing circuit 44, a GUI for receiving various operations from the operator, etc. The information displayed on the display screen 42 is information for the operator to operate the X-ray CT system 1, or information for the operator to confirm during the operation of the X-ray CT system 1. The display screen 42 can use any of various display screens. For example, the display screen 42 can be a liquid crystal display (LCD), a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, an organic electroluminescence display (OELD), or a plasma display.

[0072] Here, the display screen 42 is arranged anywhere in the control room. In addition, the display screen 42 can be a desktop display screen, or can be composed of a tablet terminal that can wirelessly communicate with the main body of the console 40, or one or more projectors can be used as the display screen 42.

[0073] The input interface 43 receives various input operations from the operator, converts the received input operations into electrical signals, and outputs the electrical signals to the processing circuit 44. The input interface 43 can be, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a trackball, a switch, a button, a joystick, a touchpad, a touch panel display, etc. In addition, the input interface 43 is not limited to having these physical operating components. In addition, the input interface 43 can also be set on the gantry 10 and / or the diagnostic bed 30. In addition, the input interface 43 can also be composed of a tablet terminal that can wirelessly communicate with the main body of the console 40.

[0074] The processing circuit 44 controls the overall operation of the X-ray CT system 1 . The processing circuit 44 has a processor and memory such as ROM and RAM as hardware resources. The processing circuit 44 executes various functions of the X-ray CT system 1 described below by the processor executing a program loaded in the memory 41 .

[0075] (Guiding device 120 in the prior art)

[0076] use Fig.16 , 17 A configuration example of the guidance device 120 of the conventional X-ray CT system 100 will be described. Fig.16 , 17 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the guidance device 120 of the X-ray CT system 100. Fig.16 In FIG. 1 , the top plate 133 on which the subject P is placed is located outside the gantry 110. Fig.17In FIG. 1 , the top plate 133 on which the subject P is placed is located in the detection channel C of the gantry 110. Fig.16 , 17 In the figure, for the convenience of explanation, only some of the constituent elements are shown, and other constituent elements are omitted.

[0077] like Fig.16 , 17 As described above, during the CT imaging process, the diagnostic bed 130 drives the top plate 133 on which the subject P is placed to move, so that the top plate 133 on which the subject P is placed moves into the detection channel C formed by the gantry 110 .

[0078] The guide device 120 is disposed on the surface of the outside (X-axis direction side) of the gantry 110. The guide device 120 can use any display screen. For example, the guide device 120 can be a liquid crystal display (LCD), a cathode ray tube (CRT) display screen, an organic electroluminescence display (OELD) or a plasma display screen. The guide device 120 faces the outside of the gantry 110, that is, toward the side of the diagnostic bed 130.

[0079] The guidance device 120 displays information that needs to be visually confirmed by the subject P during the CT scanning process as a guidance screen. For example, the guidance device 120 displays screens such as the information of the subject P, the ECG waveform status of the subject P, the movements of the subject P, and the breath-holding guidance image. During the CT scanning process, the subject P needs to visually confirm the information in the screen displayed by the guidance device 120 throughout the process. For example, when the screen displayed by the guidance device 120 is the information of the subject P, the subject P needs to confirm whether the information is correct. When the screen displayed by the guidance device 120 is the movement of the subject P, the subject P needs to follow and maintain the displayed movement during the CT scanning process. When the screen displayed by the guidance device 120 is the breath-holding guidance image, the subject P needs to inhale, exhale, hold the breath, etc. according to the breath-holding guidance image.

[0080] like Fig.16 As shown, the guide device 120 is disposed outside the gantry 110 and faces one side of the diagnostic bed 130. Therefore, the visible range of the guide device 120 as the display screen 42 is, for example, Fig.16 During CT scanning, the subject P is placed on the top plate 133 in a supine position. The field of vision of the subject P is as shown in FIG. Fig.16 As shown in the dotted line range S2.

[0081] During CT imaging, the visible range S1 of the guiding device 120 and the visual range S2 of the subject P are approximately intersecting or perpendicular to each other, so the subject P cannot continuously and clearly observe the image displayed in the guiding device 120 .

[0082] At the same time, if Fig.17 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the bed 130 moves the top plate 133 on which the subject P is placed to the detection channel C of the gantry 110, the visual range of the subject P is, for example, as shown in FIG. Fig.17 During the CT scanning process, the visual range S2 ′ of the subject P is blocked by the gantry 110 , so the subject P cannot continuously and clearly observe the image displayed in the guiding device 120 .

[0083] (Guiding device 20)

[0084] Reference Figures 2 to 5 The guidance device 20 according to the first embodiment will be described. Figures 2 to 5 FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the guidance device 20 of the X-ray CT system 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 In FIG. 1 , a top plate 33 on which a subject P is placed is located in front of the gantry 10. Figure 3 In FIG. 1 , the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed is located in the detection channel C of the gantry 10. Figure 4 In the process, the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed moves further, and the body of the subject P is located in the detection channel C of the gantry 10, and the head is located at the rear side of the gantry 10. Figures 2 to 5 In the figure, for the convenience of explanation, only some of the constituent elements are shown, and other constituent elements are omitted.

[0085] As described above, the bed 30 movably supports the top plate 33 for placing the subject P. The gantry 10 has a detection channel C that penetrates along the moving direction (Z-axis direction) of the top plate 33 and can accommodate the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed. The guide device 20 is provided on the gantry 10 .

[0086] In the first embodiment, the guide device 20 includes a first guide screen 21 and a second guide screen 22. The first guide screen 21 is provided on the front side of the gantry 10 (on the side facing the diagnostic bed 30). The second guide screen 22 is provided on the rear side of the gantry 10 (on the side opposite to the diagnostic bed 30).

[0087] like Figures 2 to 5As shown, the first guide screen 21 reciprocates from the front side of the platform 10 along the outer contour of the platform 10 toward the detection channel C, and the second guide screen 22 reciprocates from the rear side of the platform 10 along the outer contour of the platform 10 toward the detection channel C. In addition, the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 reciprocate on at least one of the strokes between the front side of the platform 10 and the detection channel C and between the rear side of the platform 10 and the detection channel C.

[0088] Specifically, if Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the first guide screen 21 is arranged along the outer contour of the platform 10 toward the detection channel C, from the front side of the platform 10 to the detection channel C (such as Figures 2 to 4 The second guide screen 22 moves back and forth along the outer contour of the platform 10 toward the detection channel C, from the rear side of the platform 10 to the detection channel C (as shown in the dashed box in the middle). Figures 2 to 4 The machine moves back and forth along the stroke (shown in the dotted box).

[0089] Here, in Figure 2 In the embodiment, the first guide screen 21 is located at the front side of the stand 10. Figure 3 In the process, the first guide screen 21 moves to the detection channel C. Figure 4 The first guide screen 21 remains in the detection channel.

[0090] Likewise, in Figure 2 In the embodiment, the second guide screen 22 is located at the rear side of the stand 10. Figure 3 In the process, the second guide screen 22 moves to the detection channel C. Figure 4 In the embodiment, the second guide screen 22 is moved to the rear side of the stand 10 again. Figure 5 As shown, the first guide screen 21 moves to the front side of the stand 10 again, and the second guide screen 22 remains in the detection channel C.

[0091] In addition, the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 reciprocate along the outer contour of the platform 10 .

[0092] Specifically, in the first embodiment, the stand 10 is cut along a plane including the YZ axis in the drawings of the specification, and the outer contour of the stand 10 after cutting toward the detection channel C is, for example, an arc shape. Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 reciprocate along an arc track.

[0093] In addition, the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 of the guide device 20 reciprocate according to the position information of the top plate 33 .

[0094] Specifically, before CT scanning, the diagnostic bed 30 keeps the top plate 33 away from the gantry 10, and the subject P lies on his back on the top plate 33. During CT scanning, in order to locate the part to be detected of the subject P in the detection channel, the diagnostic bed 30 moves the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed to a predetermined position. Thus, when CT scanning is performed for different parts to be detected, the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed is located at different positions.

[0095] The control device 15 obtains the position information of the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed. For example, the control device 15 may obtain the position information of the top plate 33 in real time using a position sensor, or may obtain the position information of the top plate 33 in advance according to the X-ray imaging program executed by the X-ray CT system 1 .

[0096] The guide device 20 further includes a guide drive device 23 (not shown). The guide drive device 23 is provided in the gantry 10, and drives the first guide panel 21 and the second guide panel 22 of the guide device 20 to move and rotate.

[0097] The control device 15 controls the guide drive device 23 to drive the movement of the guide device 20 based on the acquired position information of the top plate 33 .

[0098] For example, Figure 2 As shown, when the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed is located outside the gantry 10, the control device 15 obtains the position information that the top plate 33 is located outside the gantry 10, controls the guide drive device 23, drives the movement of the first guide screen 21 of the guide device 20, and moves the first guide screen 21 to the front side of the gantry 10. Figure 3 As shown, when the top plate 33 carrying the subject P moves to the inside of the detection channel C of the gantry 10, the control device 15 obtains the position information of the top plate 33 in the detection channel C of the gantry 10, controls the guide drive device 23, drives the movement of the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 of the guide device 20, so that the first guide screen 21 moves from the front side of the gantry 10 to the inside of the detection channel C, and the second guide screen 22 moves from the back side of the gantry 10 to the inside of the detection channel C. Figure 4 As shown, when the top plate 33 carrying the subject P continues to move toward the rear side of the gantry 10, and the head of the subject P is located at the rear side of the gantry 10 and the other parts are located inside the detection channel C, the control device 15 obtains the position information of the top plate 33, controls the guide drive device 23, drives the movement of the second guide screen 22 of the guide device 20, and moves the second guide screen 22 from the inside of the detection channel C to the rear side of the gantry 10.

[0099] During CT imaging, the subject P placed on the top board 33 may be located at different positions due to different CT imaging procedures and imaging sites. According to the X-ray CT system 1 of the first embodiment, no matter whether the head of the subject P lying on the top board 33 is located at the front side, outside the gantry 10, or inside the detection channel C, the subject P can be guided by the guidance screen displayed on the first guidance screen 21 and / or the second guidance screen 22 of the guidance device 20. At this time, no matter where the subject P is located, it can be ensured that the visual range of at least one of the first guidance screen 21 and the second guidance screen 22 is consistent with the visual range of the subject P, and it can be ensured that the at least one guidance screen and the subject P are not blocked by the gantry 10 and other components. Therefore, during CT imaging, the subject P can continuously and clearly observe the guidance screen in the guidance device 20 of the X-ray CT system 1 of the first embodiment, and the efficiency of CT imaging can be improved.

[0100] Furthermore, according to the X-ray CT system 1 of the first embodiment, the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 of the guide device 20 reciprocate along the outer contour of the gantry 10 facing the detection channel C side. Specifically, in the first embodiment, the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 of the guide device 20 reciprocate along an arc trajectory. Therefore, even if the guide device 20 is set on the gantry 10 and is moved during CT imaging, since it always follows the outer contour of the gantry 10 facing the detection channel C side, the outer shape of the gantry 10 will not be changed, and the gantry 10 will not have obvious protrusions or projections on the outer contour of the smooth curve. Therefore, in the limited space of the CT detection room where CT imaging is performed, there will be no interference between the gantry 10 and other equipment, and there will be no interference between the gantry 10 and the subject P, which can improve the safety of CT imaging.

[0101] In addition, the guide device 20 may further include a shielding plate 24. The shielding plate 24 is, for example, a louver-type shielding plate that can be contracted to a shorter state and extended to a longer state.

[0102] Reference Figure 6 The shielding plate 24 of the guide device 20 according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 6 Schematic diagram showing the shielding plate 24 of the guide device 20 according to the first embodiment. Figure 6 In the process, the first guide screen 21 of the guide device 20 moves to the detection channel C of the stand 10. Figure 6 In the figure, for the convenience of explanation, only some of the constituent elements are shown, and other constituent elements are omitted.

[0103] The shielding plate 24 includes, for example, a first shielding plate 241 located at the front side of the stand 10 and a second shielding plate 242 (not shown) located at the rear side of the stand 10.

[0104] like Figure 6 As shown, for example, on the front side of the platform 10, one end of the first shielding plate 241 is fixed to the platform 10, and the other end is connected to the first guide screen 21. When the first guide screen 21 moves back and forth, the first shielding plate 241 follows the movement of the first guide screen 21 to shield the interior of the platform 10.

[0105] Similarly, on the rear side of the platform 10, one end of the second baffle plate 242 is fixed to the platform 10, and the other end is connected to the second guide screen 22. When the second guide screen 22 moves back and forth, the second baffle plate 242 follows the movement of the second guide screen 22 to shield the interior of the platform 10.

[0106] Thus, according to the X-ray CT system 1 of the first embodiment, when the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 of the guiding device 20 reciprocates, a hole is generated at the position where it leaves, resulting in the space and components inside the gantry 10 being exposed to the outside. By providing the shielding plate 24, when the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 reciprocates, the hole at the position where it leaves can be shielded, thereby preventing the space and components inside the gantry 10 from being exposed to the outside, thereby improving the safety of the X-ray CT system 1.

[0107] In addition, the guidance device 20 may further include an imaging device 25. The imaging device 25 is, for example, a camera that can capture and recognize position information of the head of the subject P or position information of a headrest on the bed 30.

[0108] Reference Figure 7 The imaging device 25 of the guidance device 20 according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 7 2 is a schematic diagram showing the imaging device 25 of the guidance device 20 according to the first embodiment. Figure 7 In the figure, for the convenience of explanation, only some of the constituent elements are shown, and other constituent elements are omitted.

[0109] like Figure 7 As shown, the imaging device 25 is provided, for example, on the front side of the gantry 10. The imaging device 25 captures and recognizes position information of the head of the subject P placed on the top board 33 or position information of the headrest on the top board 33.

[0110] The control device 15 controls the guide drive device 23 to drive the guide device 20 according to the position information of the head of the subject P obtained by the camera device 25 or the position information of the headrest on the top plate 33. Specifically, for example, the camera device 25 obtains the position information of the head of the subject P in real time, and according to the position information of the head, the guide drive device 23 moves the first guide screen 21 of the guide device 20 so that the first guide screen 21 is always facing the head of the subject P, thereby keeping the line of sight of the subject P on the guide device 20 at all times.

[0111] Therefore, according to the X-ray CT system 1 of the first embodiment, the position information of the head of the subject P or the position information of the headrest on the top plate 33 is obtained in real time through the camera device 25, and the guiding device 20 is moved in a manner that the guiding device 20 is always directed toward the head of the subject P. Therefore, during the CT shooting process, the subject P can continuously and clearly observe the guiding screen in the guiding device 20.

[0112] In addition, in the X-ray CT system 1 of the first embodiment, the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 reciprocate in at least one of the strokes between the front side of the gantry 10 and the detection channel C and between the rear side of the gantry 10 and the detection channel C, respectively. However, the starting point, end point, and stroke range of the reciprocating movement of the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 are not limited, as long as the position and range enable the subject P to continuously and clearly observe the guide screen in the guide device 20.

[0113] In the X-ray CT system 1 of the first embodiment, the guidance device 20 includes two guidance screens, namely the first guidance screen 21 and the second guidance screen 22 . However, the guidance device 20 may include one or three or more guidance screens.

[0114] When the guiding device 20 has one guiding screen, the guiding screen can reciprocate between the front side and the rear side of the gantry 10 through the detection channel C. That is, the number of guiding screens provided in the guiding device 20 is not limited, as long as the number allows the subject P to continuously and clearly observe the guiding screen in the guiding device 20.

[0115] In addition, in the X-ray CT system 1 of the first embodiment, any display screen can be used as the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 of the guide device 20. Moreover, although a part of the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 are represented by rectangles in the attached drawings, they are only schematic diagrams, and the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 can be, for example, flexible and bendable flexible screens, curved screens that can be bent into an arc, or other flexible or bendable liquid crystal display (LCD), cathode ray tube (CRT) display screens, organic electro luminescence display screens (OELD) or plasma display screens.

[0116] By using a flexible screen or a curved screen as the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22, the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 can be moved without tilting along the outer contour of the stand 10 toward the detection channel C side. Therefore, even if the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 are set and moved, the outer shape of the stand 10 will not be changed.

[0117] In the X-ray CT system 1 of the first embodiment, one imaging device 25 is provided on the front side of the gantry 10. However, one imaging device 25 may be provided on each of the front side and the rear side of the gantry 10, or one imaging device 25 may be provided on the rear side of the gantry 10. That is, the number and position of the imaging devices 25 are not limited, as long as the position information of the head of the subject P or the position information of the headrest on the top plate 33 can be captured in real time. When the imaging device 25 is provided on the rear side of the gantry 10, for example, based on the position information obtained by the imaging device 25 provided on the rear side of the gantry 10, the guide drive device 23 moves the second guide screen 22 of the guide device 20 so that the first guide screen 22 is always directed toward the head of the subject P, thereby keeping the line of sight of the subject P on the guide device 20 at all times.

[0118] In addition, in the present invention, "during CT imaging" includes a preparation phase before CT imaging, an imaging phase during CT imaging, and a guidance and notification phase after CT imaging is completed.

[0119] Reference Figure 8 The flow of processing by the guidance device 20 according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 8 This is a flowchart showing the processing of the guidance device 20 according to the first embodiment.

[0120] In step S101 , the operator inputs information of the subject P in the hospital's medical consultation system. The information of the subject P includes, for example, the name, gender, and diagnosis information of the subject P. Next, the process proceeds to step S102 .

[0121] In step S102 , the operator confirms in the console 40 whether the input information of the subject P is correct. Next, the process proceeds to step S103 .

[0122] In step S103, the console 40 matches the corresponding guidance screen according to the input information of the subject P. The guidance screen includes, for example, information of the subject P, the ECG waveform state of the subject P, the movements of the subject P, and a breath-holding guidance image. The details of the guidance screen will be described later. Then, the process proceeds to step S104.

[0123] In step S104, the operator confirms the matching of the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 of the guide device 20 with the head position of the subject. Specifically, the operator confirms whether the orientation (visual range) of the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 matches the visual range of the subject based on the head position. If the two do not match, for example, by manual operation, the position and orientation of the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 are adjusted in the console 40, or the subject P is informed to move his head position. If the two match, proceed to step S105.

[0124] In step S105 , the operator sets an imaging plan for CT imaging using X-rays in the console 40 , and causes the X-ray CT system 1 to execute the imaging plan. Next, the process proceeds to step S106 .

[0125] In step S106, the guidance pictures matched in step S103 are played on the first guidance screen 21 and the second guidance screen 22 of the guidance device 20. Then, the process proceeds to step S107.

[0126] In step S107, the X-ray CT system 1 is caused to execute the imaging plan set in step S105. Next, the process proceeds to step S108.

[0127] In step S108 , the CT imaging using X-rays is terminated.

[0128] The flow of the process of the guidance device 20 according to the first embodiment ends.

[0129] Reference Fig. 9 The flow of the guidance screen of the guidance device 20 according to the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 9 This is a flowchart showing the guidance screen of the guidance device 20 according to the first embodiment.

[0130] In step S201, the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 of the guide device 20 are respectively located at the initial positions, and, for example, Fig. 9 As shown in (A), the waiting screen of the guidance screen is displayed respectively. The guidance screen displayed by the guidance device 20 automatically switches the language corresponding to the nationality (including special languages ​​such as sign language) and the screen corresponding to the age according to information such as the nationality and age of the subject P. For example, when the subject P is a 4-year-old British child, the guidance screen automatically switches to an English cartoon-style screen. Then, enter step S202.

[0131] In step S202, the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 is moved to a position where the subject P can visually observe according to the current position information of the subject P. At this time, for example, Fig. 9 As shown in (B), a guidance screen before CT imaging is displayed. The guidance screen before CT imaging includes, for example, information of the subject P, the ECG waveform state of the subject P, and a screen for relieving the tension of the subject P. Next, the process proceeds to step S203.

[0132] In step S203, the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 is moved to a position where the subject P can visually observe the position during CT imaging. Fig. 9 (C) shows the guidance screen during CT imaging. The guidance screen during CT imaging includes, for example, an action guidance image for guiding the subject P to perform actions, a breath-holding guidance image for guiding the subject P to inhale, exhale, hold his breath, etc. Next, the process proceeds to step S204.

[0133] In step S204, the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 is moved to a position where the subject P can visually observe after the CT imaging is completed. Fig. 9 As shown in (D), a guidance screen after CT imaging is displayed. The guidance screen after CT imaging includes, for example, a guidance screen that prompts the acquisition location, acquisition method, and acquisition time of the imaging results.

[0134] The flow of the guidance screen of the guidance device 20 according to the first embodiment ends.

[0135] According to the X-ray CT system 1 of the first embodiment, the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 of the guide device 20 are reciprocated on at least one of the strokes between the front side of the gantry 10 and the detection channel C and between the rear side of the gantry 10 and the detection channel C according to the position information of the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed, so that during the CT imaging process, the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 can always be directed toward the head of the subject P, so that the visual range of the subject P is always consistent with the visual range of the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22, and the gantry 10 and other components are prevented from blocking the subject P and the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22. Therefore, the subject P can continuously and clearly observe the guide screen in the guide device 20.

[0136] In addition, the first guide screen 21 and the second guide screen 22 of the guide device 20 are reciprocated along the outer contour of the gantry 10 toward the detection channel C side, so even if the guide device 20 is installed on the gantry 10 and moved, the outer shape of the gantry 10 will not be changed. Therefore, in the limited space of the CT detection room, there will be no interference between the gantry 10 and other equipment or the subject P, and the safety of CT imaging can be improved.

[0137] (Second Embodiment)

[0138] Reference Fig.10 The guiding device 220 according to the second embodiment will be described. Fig.10 FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a guide device 220 of the X-ray CT system 1 according to the second embodiment. Fig.10 In order to facilitate the description, only a part of the components are shown, and other components are omitted. Hereinafter, only the differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be described, and the description of the same contents will be omitted.

[0139] like Fig.10 As shown, the first guide screen 221 of the guide device 220 of the second embodiment includes an upper first guide screen 221A and a lower first guide screen 221B. The lower first guide screen 221B is fixed to the guide device 220, and the upper first guide screen 221A is rotatably connected to the lower first guide screen 221B via a connecting device 221C (not shown). Similarly, the second guide screen 222 includes an upper second guide screen 222A and a lower second guide screen 222B. The lower second guide screen 222B is fixed to the guide device 220, and the upper second guide screen 222A is rotatably connected to the lower second guide screen 222B via a connecting device 222C (not shown).

[0140] Taking the first guide screen 221 as an example, in the first guide screen 221, the upper first guide screen 221A rotates with the connecting device 221C as the rotation axis. Furthermore, the control device 15 controls the guide drive device 23 to drive the rotation of the upper first guide screen 221A according to the position information of the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed, so that the visual range of the upper first guide screen 221A is always consistent with the visual range of the subject P, so that the line of sight of the subject P can always be kept on the first guide screen 221.

[0141] Likewise, in the second guide screen 222, the upper second guide screen 222A rotates with the connecting device 222C as a rotation axis.

[0142] According to the guidance device 220 of the X-ray CT system 1 of the second embodiment, in addition to moving the first guidance screen 221 and the second guidance screen 222, it is also possible to control the rotation of the upper first guidance screen 221A of the first guidance screen 221 and the upper second guidance screen 222A of the second guidance screen 222 according to the position information of the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed. As a result, the visual range of the subject P is always consistent with the visible range of the first guidance screen 221 or the second guidance screen 222, so that the subject P can continuously and clearly observe the guidance screen in the guidance device 220.

[0143] (Third Embodiment)

[0144] Reference Fig.11 A guidance device 320 according to the third embodiment will be described. Fig.11 FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a guidance device 320 of the X-ray CT system 1 according to the third embodiment. Fig.11 In order to facilitate the description, only a part of the components are shown, and other components are omitted. Hereinafter, only the differences between the third embodiment and the first embodiment will be described, and the description of the same contents will be omitted.

[0145] like Fig.11 As shown, the first guide screen 321 and the second guide screen 322 of the guide device 320 of the third embodiment rotate with the lower end of the guide device 320 as the rotation axis in a manner that the upper end moves away from and approaches the gantry 10. In addition, the control device 15 controls the guide drive device 23 to drive the movement and rotation of the first guide screen 321 and the second guide screen 322 according to the position information of the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed, so that the visual range of the first guide screen 321 or the second guide screen 322 is always consistent with the visual range of the subject P, so that the line of sight of the subject P can always be kept on the first guide screen 321 or the second guide screen 322.

[0146] According to the guidance device 320 of the X-ray CT system 1 of the third embodiment, in addition to moving the first guide screen 321 and the second guide screen 322, it is also possible to control the rotation of the first guide screen 321 and the second guide screen 322 according to the position information of the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed, thereby making the line of sight of the subject P always consistent with the visible range of the first guide screen 321 or the second guide screen 322, so that the subject P can continuously and clearly observe the guidance screen in the guidance device 320.

[0147] (Fourth Embodiment)

[0148] Reference Fig.12 , 13 A guide device 420 according to the fourth embodiment will be described. Fig.12 , 13 FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a guide device 420 of the X-ray CT system 1 according to the fourth embodiment. Fig.12 , 13 In order to facilitate the description, only a part of the components are shown, and other components are omitted. Hereinafter, only the differences between the fourth embodiment and other embodiments are described, and the description of the same contents is omitted.

[0149] like Fig.12 , 13 As shown, the guiding device 420 of the fourth embodiment includes a guiding screen 421, which reciprocates on a journey from the front side to the rear side of the stand 10 through the detection channel C, and rotates with the midpoints of the two ends of the guiding screen as the rotation axis in such a way that the two ends of the guiding screen 421 move away from and approach the stand 10 respectively.

[0150] For example, in Fig.12 In the figure, the top plate 33 carrying the subject P is located in front of the stand 10 as shown in the figure. At this time, the guide screen 421 is moved above the subject P, and the end of the guide screen away from the subject P is rotated with the midpoints of the two ends of the guide screen as the rotation axis, so that its visible range is consistent with the line of sight of the subject P.

[0151] Likewise, in Fig.13 In the embodiment, the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed is located at the rear side of the gantry 10 as shown in the figure. At this time, the guide screen 421 is moved above the subject P, and the other end of the guide screen away from the subject P ( Fig.12 The guide screen 421 is rotated with the midpoints of the two ends of the guide screen as the rotation axis so that its visible range is consistent with the line of sight of the subject P, thereby allowing the line of sight of the subject P to always remain on the guide screen 421.

[0152] According to the fourth embodiment, the guiding device 420 of the X-ray CT system 1 can, in addition to moving the guiding screen 421, also control the rotation of the guiding screen 421 according to the position information of the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed, thereby making the visual range of the subject P always consistent with the visible range of the guiding screen 421, so that the subject P can continuously and clearly observe the guiding screen in the guiding device 420.

[0153] (Fifth Embodiment)

[0154] Reference Fig.14 , 15 A guidance device 520 according to the fifth embodiment will be described. Fig.14 , 15 FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a guidance device 520 of the X-ray CT system 1 according to the fifth embodiment. Fig.14 , 15 In order to facilitate the description, only a part of the components are shown, and other components are omitted. Hereinafter, only the differences between the fifth embodiment and other embodiments will be described, and the description of the same contents will be omitted.

[0155] like Fig.14 , 15 As shown, the guide device 520 of the fifth embodiment includes a guide screen 521, and the guide screen 521 reciprocates on a stroke from the front side to the rear side of the frame 10 through the detection channel C. In addition, the guide screen 521 includes an upper guide screen 521A and a lower guide screen 521B. The upper guide screen 521A and the lower guide screen 521B are rotatably connected to each other through a connecting device 521C (not shown). In the guide screen 521, the upper guide screen 521A and the lower guide screen 521B are respectively rotated using the connecting device 521C as a rotation axis.

[0156] For example, in Fig.14 In the figure, the top plate 33 carrying the subject P is located in front of the stand 10 as shown in the figure. At this time, the guide screen 521 moves to the top of the subject P, and the upper guide screen 521A rotates the connecting device 521C as the rotation axis so that its visible range is consistent with the line of sight of the subject P.

[0157] Likewise, in Fig.15 In the figure, the top plate 33 carrying the subject P is located at the rear side of the stand 10 as shown in the figure. At this time, the guide screen 521 moves to the top of the subject P, and the lower guide screen 521B rotates the connecting device 521C as the rotation axis so that its visible range is consistent with the line of sight of the subject P, so that the line of sight of the subject P can always be kept on the guide screen 521.

[0158] According to the fifth embodiment, the guiding device 450 of the X-ray CT system 1 can, in addition to moving the guiding screen 521, control the rotation of the upper guiding screen 521A and the lower guiding screen 521B of the guiding screen 521 according to the position information of the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed, thereby making the visual range of the subject P always consistent with the visible range of the guiding screen 521, so that the subject P can continuously and clearly observe the guiding screen in the guiding device 520.

[0159] In addition, in this embodiment, "upper part" and "lower part" are only used to illustrate and explain the two parts of the guide screen 521, and do not mean that they are always on the upper or lower side in a natural state, nor do they limit the upper and lower relationship.

[0160] In addition, the control device 15 can also obtain the moving speed of the top plate 33 carrying the subject P. The control device 15 controls the guide drive device 23 to drive the guide device 20 according to the position information and moving speed of the top plate 33, so that the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 of the guide device 20 rotates or moves in coordination with the movement of the top plate 33.

[0161] Hereinafter, an example is given of the present embodiment in which the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 rotates or moves in coordination with the movement of the top plate 33 according to the moving speed of the top plate 33 .

[0162] For example, when the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed moves within the range outside the detection channel C on the front side or the rear side of the gantry 10, the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 is rotated in accordance with the moving speed of the top plate 33 so that the moving speed of the visible range of the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 coincides with the moving speed of the top plate 33. When the top plate 33 on which the subject P is placed passes through the detection channel C, since the rotation angle of the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 is limited by the gantry 10, the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 is moved in accordance with the moving speed of the top plate 33 so that the moving speed of the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 along the moving direction (Z direction) of the top plate 33 coincides with the moving speed of the top plate 33. As a result, the moving speed of the visible range of the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 is consistent with the moving speed of the subject P, or the moving speed of the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 in the moving direction of the subject P is consistent with the moving direction of the subject P, thereby enabling the subject P's line of sight to always remain on the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22.

[0163] Alternatively, the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 may be moved at the same speed as the average speed of movement of the top plate 33. That is, the rotation or movement method of the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 is not limited, as long as the subject P's line of sight is always kept on the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22.

[0164] Therefore, according to the X-ray CT system 1 of the present invention, even if the top plate 33 carrying the subject P is in the process of moving, by moving the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 at the same moving speed as the top plate 33, the relative speed between the moving first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 and the moving top plate 33 is made zero, and the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22 always follows the movement of the top plate 33, so that the line of sight of the moving subject P can always be maintained on the first guide screen 21 or the second guide screen 22, and the subject P can continuously and clearly observe the guidance screen in the guidance device 20.

[0165] Furthermore, the above description has been made based on the first embodiment in which the guide device 20 is rotated or moved according to the speed of the top plate 33 , but this can also be applied to the guide devices and guide screens in the second to fifth embodiments.

[0166] According to at least one of the above embodiments, during the CT imaging process, the subject P can continuously and clearly observe the guidance screen in the guidance device.

[0167] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. These new embodiments may be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. These embodiments and their variations are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are included within the scope of the invention described in the claims and their equivalents.

[0168] Description of Reference Numerals

[0169] 1. 100 X-ray CT system

[0170] 10, 110 racks

[0171] 11 X-ray tube

[0172] 12 X-ray detector

[0173] 13 Rotating frame

[0174] 14 X-ray high voltage device

[0175] 15 Control Device

[0176] 16 Wedge filter

[0177] 17 Collimator

[0178] 18 Data Acquisition System (DAS)

[0179] 20, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520 guide device

[0180] 21, 221, 321 First boot screen

[0181] 22, 222, 322 Second boot screen

[0182] 421, 521 boot screen

[0183] 221A Upper first guide screen

[0184] 221B Lower first guide screen

[0185] 222A Upper second guide screen

[0186] 222B Lower second guide screen

[0187] 521A Upper guide screen

[0188] 521B Lower guide screen

[0189] 221C, 222C, 521C Connectors

[0190] 23 Guide drive

[0191] 24 Shield

[0192] 241 First Shield

[0193] 242 Second shield

[0194] 25 Camera

[0195] 30, 130 Diagnostic Bed

[0196] 31 Base

[0197] 32 Diagnostic bed drive device

[0198] 33, 133 Top plate

[0199] 40 Console

[0200] 41 Memory

[0201] 42 Display

[0202] 43 Input Interface

[0203] 44 Processing Circuit

Claims

1. An X-ray CT system, characterized in that: have: A diagnostic bed that movably supports a top plate for placing a subject; A gantry for performing CT imaging based on X-rays, having a detection channel penetrating along the moving direction of the top plate and capable of accommodating the top plate on which the subject is placed; as well as The guiding device is arranged on the platform, and reciprocates from the front side and / or the rear side of the platform along the outer contour of the platform toward the detection channel side according to the position information of the top plate.

2. The X-ray CT system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The guiding device reciprocates along an arc track in at least one of a stroke between the front side of the platform and the detection channel, between the rear side of the platform and the detection channel, and from the front side to the rear side of the platform through the detection channel.

3. The X-ray CT system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The guiding device comprises: One or more guide screens reciprocate along the outer contour from the front side and / or the rear side of the stand according to the position information of the top plate, and the guide screens rotate relative to the stand in a manner of moving away from or approaching the stand; A guide driving unit, disposed in the frame, driving the movement and rotation of the guide screen; as well as The control unit is disposed in the frame, obtains the position information of the top plate, and controls the guide driving unit to drive the movement and rotation of the guide screen according to the position information of the top plate.

4. The X-ray CT system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The guiding device comprises a plurality of guiding screens. One of the plurality of guide screens moves back and forth along the outer contour from the front side of the platform on the travel between the front side of the platform and the detection channel, Another one of the plurality of guide screens reciprocates along the outer contour from the rear side of the platform on the travel between the rear side of the platform and the detection channel, The plurality of guide screens respectively include: a lower guide screen fixed to the guide device; and An upper guide screen is rotatably connected to the lower guide screen via a connecting portion; The upper guide screen rotates with the connection portion as a rotation axis, The control unit controls the guide drive unit to drive the movement of the plurality of guide screens and the rotation of the upper guide screen based on the position information of the top plate, so that the subject's line of sight is always maintained on the guide screen.

5. The X-ray CT system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The guiding device comprises a plurality of guiding screens. One of the plurality of guide screens moves back and forth along the outer contour from the front side of the platform on the travel between the front side of the platform and the detection channel, Another one of the plurality of guide screens reciprocates along the outer contour from the rear side of the platform on the travel between the rear side of the platform and the detection channel, The guide screen rotates with the lower end of the guide screen as a rotation axis in a manner that the upper end of the guide screen moves away from and approaches the stand. The control unit controls the guide driving unit to drive the movement of the plurality of guide screens and the rotation of the upper ends based on the position information of the top plate, so that the line of sight of the subject is always maintained on the guide screens.

6. The X-ray CT system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The guide screen moves back and forth along the outer contour from the front side or the rear side of the platform through the detection channel from the front side to the rear side of the platform. The guide screen is rotated with the midpoints of both ends of the guide screen as the rotation axis in a manner that the upper end of the guide screen is away from or close to the stand and the lower end of the guide screen is away from or close to the stand, and the upper end and the lower end of the guide screen are rotated independently. The control unit controls the guide drive unit to drive the movement and rotation of the guide screen according to the position information of the top plate, so that the line of sight of the subject is always kept on the guide screen.

7. The X-ray CT system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The guide screen moves back and forth along the outer contour from the front side or the rear side of the platform through the detection channel from the front side to the rear side of the platform. The guide screen includes an upper guide screen and a lower guide screen, The upper guide screen and the lower guide screen are connected to each other in a rotatable manner via a connecting portion. The upper guide screen and the lower guide screen respectively rotate with the connection part as a rotation axis. The control unit controls the guide drive unit to drive the movement of the guide screen and the rotation of the upper guide screen according to the position information of the top plate, so that the line of sight of the subject is always kept on the guide screen.

8. The X-ray CT system according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that: The control unit, When performing X-ray-based CT scanning, the moving speed of the top plate on which the subject is placed is also obtained. According to the moving speed of the top plate, the guide drive unit is controlled to drive the guide device so that the guide device rotates or moves in coordination with the top plate, so that the subject's line of sight always remains on the guide screen.

9. The X-ray CT system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that: The plurality of guide screens include: A first guide screen is disposed on the front side of the platform; and The second guide screen is arranged on the rear side opposite to the front side of the platform.

10. The X-ray CT system according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that: The guide screen is disposed on the front side of the stand or on the rear side opposite to the front side of the stand.

11. The X-ray CT system according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that: The guiding device further comprises: A shielding plate, one end of which is fixed to the platform and the other end of which is connected to the guide screen, follows the movement of the guide screen to shield the interior of the platform.

12. The X-ray CT system according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that: Also available: The imaging device obtains the position information of the head of the subject or the position information of the headrest on the diagnostic bed, The control unit controls the guide drive unit to drive the guide device based on the position information of the head or the position information of the headrest acquired by the imaging device so that the line of sight of the subject is always kept on the guide screen.

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