Changing the orientation of the x-ray radiator to change the x-ray radiation

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for generating X-ray radiation having X-ray characteristics, the method comprising the following steps: - providing first examination type information and second examination type information for selection by means of an input means; - receiving the selected examination type information in a control unit; - selecting an X-ray radiator configuration from a plurality of X-ray radiator configurations in dependence on the received examination type information by means of the control unit; - determining a control signal in dependence on the selected X-ray radiator configuration; - automatically setting a mechanical adjustment unit of the X-ray radiator in accordance with the determined control signal for changing the orientation of the X-ray radiator with respect to a recording region; - generating X-ray radiation having X-ray characteristics by means of the X-ray radiator set for the transmission of an examination object in the recording region.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The invention relates to a method for generating X-ray radiation having X-ray characteristics, a computer program product therefor, an X-ray radiator device and a C-arm X-ray facility. BACKGROUND

[0002] Conventional C-arm X-ray facilities are typically dedicated to different applications. The applications usually require significantly different X-ray characteristics which cannot be generated by means of the same C-arm X-ray facility. Therefore, different C-arm X-ray facilities are usually used depending on the application. The difference of the C-arm X-ray facilities usually relates to the anode disc angle of the anode of the X-ray radiator.

[0003] Applications typically having significantly different X-ray characteristics are interventional radiography and angiography, in particular. In angiography, blood vessels, in particular the heart, are traditionally shown intensively by means of contrast agents. Interventional radiography combines diagnostic imaging with a simultaneously performed typically minimally invasive therapeutic intervention, in particular. The X-ray characteristics of these two applications differ, in particular, in the maximum X-ray dose and / or the maximum X-ray cross section. The X-ray characteristics of neuroradiology are similar to interventional radiography.

[0004] In order to improve the image resolution, EP 1 623 672 Al discloses that an X-ray device has an X-ray tube for generating X-rays originating from a focal spot of a rotating anode rotatable about a rotation axis and a slit-like diaphragm for generating a fan-shaped beam scannable in an instrument-like manner over an examination region which can be made visible from the X-rays, it being proposed in the X-ray device that the fan-shaped beam can be moved over the examination region essentially in the direction of the rotation axis of the rotating anode and that the X-ray tube can be tilted about the focal spot such that the fan-shaped X-ray beam is in a region of highest image resolution or highest image sharpness when moved over the examination region.

[0005] From DE 10 2006 008 255 Al it is known in an X-ray device that a gantry of an X-ray source having a rotating anode rotatable about an anode axis is arranged at a rotor rotatable about a Z-axis, wherein the anode axis can be adjusted relative to the Z-axis by means of a tilting device, and wherein in order to compensate for an undesired change in the azimuth of the focal spot in the Z-direction, a movement device for moving the anode in a direction parallel to the Z-axis is provided.

[0006] In DE 196 39 918 A1 an X-ray device is described, which has a zoom X-ray tube, a vacuumed housing in which a cathode emitting electrons and an anode disk onto which an electron beam accelerated by means of an electric field impinges are arranged in fixed connection with the vacuumed housing, and an electromagnetic system for deflecting and focusing the electron beam, which electromagnetic system has a plurality of current- through coil elements, and a lateral X-ray exit window in the housing for X-ray radiation exiting at right angles with respect to a longitudinal center axis and being recorded by an image receiver behind an object table, wherein at least the anode disk can be tilted with respect to the image receiver about a connection axis, and wherein the electromagnetic system of a neck section at least partially surrounding the cathode side of the housing generates a quadrupole field to change the electron beam cross section depending on the tilt angle. SUMMARY

[0007] The object on which the invention is based is to propose a method for generating X-ray radiation having X-ray characteristics, a computer program product therefor, an X-ray radiator device and a C-arm X-ray facility, which have an extended field of application.

[0008] The object is achieved by a method for generating X-ray radiation having X-ray characteristics, a computer program product therefor, an X-ray radiator device and a C-arm X-ray facility. Advantageous design solutions are described in the following description.

[0009] Regardless of the grammatical gender of the specific terms, both men and women with a male or female gender identity are included.

[0010] The method for generating X-ray radiation having X-ray characteristics by means of an X-ray radiator for transmitting X-ray radiation through an examination object in a recording region according to the invention comprises the following steps:

[0011] - providing first examination type information and second examination type information for selection by means of an input mechanism,

[0012] - receiving the selected examination type information in a control unit,

[0013] - selecting an X-ray radiator configuration from a plurality of X-ray radiator configurations in dependence on the received examination type information by means of the control unit,

[0014] - determining a control signal in dependence on the selected X-ray radiator configuration,

[0015] - automatically setting a mechanical adjustment unit of the X-ray radiator for changing an orientation of the X-ray radiator with respect to the recording region in accordance with the determined control signal,

[0016] - generating, by means of a setting of an X-ray radiator for transmitting X-ray radiation on an examination object in a recording region, X-ray radiation having X-ray characteristics.

[0017] The X-ray radiator device for generating X-ray radiation having X-ray characteristics according to the application has:

[0018] - a control unit,

[0019] - a memory unit, and

[0020] - an X-ray radiator,

[0021] - wherein the X-ray radiator has an interface, a mechanical adjustment unit, a vacuumed X-ray tube, a cathode, an anode and a collimator,

[0022] - wherein in the vacuumed X-ray tube the anode is arranged rotatably about an anode axis and the cathode is arranged above the anode in a manner offset from the center with respect to the anode axis, and

[0023] - wherein the control unit can be connected with the interface for transmitting control signals.

[0024] The C-arm X-ray facility according to the application has:

[0025] - the X-ray radiator device according to the application,

[0026] - an X-ray detector,

[0027] - a holding device, and

[0028] - a C-arm,

[0029] - wherein the C-arm encloses a recording region,

[0030] - wherein the X-ray radiator is arranged at a first end portion of the C-arm,

[0031] - wherein the X-ray detector is arranged at a second end portion of the C-arm opposite the X-ray radiator,

[0032] - wherein the C-arm is arranged at the holding device and is arranged pivotably about the recording region,

[0033] - wherein an inclination axis of the mechanical adjustment unit is perpendicular to a C-arm plane and / or a linear axis of the mechanical adjustment unit runs parallel to the C-arm plane.

[0034] An advantage of the application is that the automatic setting of the mechanical adjustment unit in accordance with the transmitted control signal makes it possible to realize different X-ray properties of the same X-ray emitter of the X-ray emitter device. Thus, a plurality of applications requiring different X-ray properties can be performed with the aid of the same X-ray emitter device, in particular with the aid of the same C-arm X-ray facility. The plurality of applications typically comprises the examination of an examination object in a recording region.

[0035] The examination object can in particular be a patient. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the examination object is an object and / or a device. The application for which the X-ray radiation is generated is in particular a medical application, preferably a diagnostic and / or therapeutic application. The X-rays of the application typically have a maximum energy of less than 200 keV, in particular between 20 keV and 150 keV.

[0036] The X-ray properties in particular define a measurable parameter of the generated X-ray radiation. The X-ray properties in particular define a maximum X-ray dose and / or a maximum X-ray cross section. The X-ray properties, in particular the maximum X-ray dose and the maximum X-ray cross section, are in particular related to an orientation of the X-ray emitter with respect to the recording region.

[0037] The maximum X-ray dose in particular defines a maximum number of X-ray quanta per unit area having a maximum photon energy in the recording region. The maximum X-ray dose is in particular related to a tube current. The tube current in particular prescribes an amount of electrons that can be generated with the aid of an electron emitter at a cathode of the X-ray emitter. The electron emitter can be, for example, a hot or a cold emitter. In the case of a hot electron emitter, in particular, the heat generation of the emitter limits the maximum tube current. In the case of a cold emitter, in particular, an emitter needle having a diameter in the nanometer range limits the maximum tube current, since the generated electrons flow through the emitter needle and must be prevented from heating the emitter needle by the electron flow.

[0038] The maximum X-ray dose is also in particular related to a cooling performance of the X-ray emitter, in particular a cooling performance for heat dissipation of an anode. The electrons emitted at the cathode typically impinge on the anode in a focal spot, wherein X-rays are generated when the electrons interact with the anode material. Typically, only 1% of the electron energy incident on the anode can be converted into X-ray quanta, and the remainder is converted into heat. In particular, the cooling performance of the X-ray emitter counteracts damage or destruction of the anode.

[0039] The anode can be a stationary anode or a rotating anode. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the anode is rotatably supported about a rotation axis together with the evacuated X-ray tube.

[0040] The maximum photon energy is inter alia related to an acceleration voltage between the cathode and the anode. The acceleration voltage is inter alia composed of an electrical potential of the cathode and an electrical potential of the anode. The cathode and / or the anode can be at a high voltage potential. If the cathode or the anode is at a ground potential, the X-ray radiator is inter alia a monopolar X-ray radiator. If the cathode and the anode are at a high voltage potential, the X-ray radiator is inter alia a bipolar X-ray radiator.

[0041] The maximum X-ray cross section inter alia specifies a plane in which the generated X-ray quanta are distributed. The maximum X-ray cross section can be defined such that only those plane elements having a certain number of X-ray quanta are part of the X-ray cross section. In other words, inter alia, the edge region of the scattered radiation and / or the X-ray radiation is not part of the maximum X-ray cross section. The maximum X-ray cross section is inter alia related to a distance from the focal spot. Thus, the maximum X-ray cross section is typically set by setting the focal spot size. The focal spot size is inter alia related to a spacing between the cathode and the anode, an emission area of the emitter for emitting electrons, a selection of one or more electron emitters and / or a deflection unit for focusing or defocusing of the emitted electrons. Typically, the larger the maximum X-ray cross section, the lower the heat input of the emitted electrons in the focal spot of the anode.

[0042] The X-ray characteristic is inter alia related to an X-ray radiator configuration. The X-ray radiator configuration inter alia defines operating parameters of the X-ray radiator according to which X-rays can be generated by means of the X-ray radiator. The operating parameters of the X-ray radiator can inter alia be divided into electrical operating parameters and mechanical operating parameters. The electrical operating parameters are inter alia a set tube current and / or a focal spot size and / or an operating parameter for focusing or defocusing by means of a deflection unit. The mechanical operating parameters inter alia set an orientation of the X-ray radiator, inter alia the anode, relative to the recording region. The orientation can inter alia involve an angle of inclination and / or a movement of the X-ray radiator relative to the recording region.

[0043] Providing the first examination type information and the second examination type information can comprise displaying the first examination type information and the second examination type information for a user of the X-ray radiator on a display unit. The display unit can have a graphical user interface for selecting the first examination type information and the second examination type information.

[0044] The user can inter alia be a physician and / or a radiology medical assistant. For example, the user can select the provided first examination type information or the provided second examination type information by means of an input mechanism.

[0045] Upon selection by means of the input mechanism, inter alia, either the first examination type information is exclusively selected or the second examination type information is exclusively selected. The selection inter alia comprises specifying the first examination type information or the second examination type information as the selected examination type information.

[0046] The input means can comprise a display unit and / or a keyboard and / or a mouse and / or a gesture input unit and / or a voice input unit. The input means can in particular be connected wirelessly or wired to the control unit to transmit the selected examination type information. The selected examination type information can be transmitted as an examination type information signal.

[0047] The control unit can comprise an interface for receiving the selected examination type information and / or the examination type information signal. The control unit can comprise a memory unit and / or be connected to an external memory unit, in which the control unit can store the selected examination type information and / or the examination type information signal.

[0048] Each X-ray radiator configuration can be present in an X-ray radiator configuration file. The X-ray radiator configuration and / or the X-ray radiator configuration file can be stored in a memory unit. The memory unit can be a memory unit of the control unit or an external memory unit.

[0049] Selecting the X-ray radiator configuration can comprise calling a plurality of X-ray radiator configurations or X-ray radiator configuration files from the memory unit. The plurality of X-ray radiator configurations can in particular comprise a first X-ray radiator configuration associated with the first examination type information and a second X-ray radiator configuration associated with the second examination type information. The first X-ray radiator configuration and the second X-ray radiator configuration can in particular differ in their X-ray properties and / or in the orientation of the X-ray radiator with respect to the recording region. Calling the plurality of X-ray radiator configurations from the memory unit can comprise querying a database.

[0050] Selecting the X-ray radiator configuration can comprise recognizing the X-ray radiator configuration associated with the first examination type information or the second examination type information. Typically, each examination type information is associated with an X-ray radiator configuration. The association can in particular be a 1 : 1 association. The recognition of the X-ray radiator configuration can take place in the control unit and / or in the memory unit. For example, the memory unit can comprise a database for recognizing the X-ray radiator configuration.

[0051] Selecting the X-ray radiator configuration by means of the control unit can in particular mean that the control unit is configured to convert the selected examination type information and / or the associated examination type information signal into the X-ray radiator configuration, for example by calling the X-ray radiator configuration associated with the selected examination type information. It is in principle conceivable that the control unit is configured to calculate the selected X-ray radiator configuration by means of a program code means, wherein the selected examination type information is an input parameter of the program code means.

[0052] The X-ray radiator configuration can in particular be at least partially variable by means of an input means. In particular, the electrical operating parameters can be at least partially variable. In particular, the mechanical operating parameters can be at least partially unvariable, i.e. fixed. The fixed operating parameters, in particular the fixed mechanical operating parameters, are in particular unvariable during the generation of the X-ray radiation.

[0053] After the selection of the X-ray radiator configuration, in particular a control signal is determined in relation to the selected X-ray radiator configuration. The determination of the control signal can be carried out by means of the control unit and / or the X-ray radiator control unit. For example, the X-ray radiator can comprise an X-ray radiator control unit. The control unit can be configured to transmit the determined control signal from the control unit to the X-ray radiator and / or the X-ray radiator control unit.

[0054] The determination of the control signal can correspond to the selection of the X-ray radiator configuration. For example, in said case, the selected X-ray radiator configuration and / or the X-ray radiator configuration file contains the control signal.

[0055] The determination of the control signal can comprise a comparison of the X-ray radiator configuration and / or the control signal of the X-ray radiator configuration and / or the determined control signal with an actual state of the X-ray radiator. For example, the X-ray radiator can communicate the actual state of the X-ray radiator to the control unit before or at the determination of the control signal. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit can preferably call up the actual state from a memory unit. If the actual state corresponds in particular to the mechanical operating parameters, the control signal can consist of a confirmation of the actual state.

[0056] Alternatively, in particular in the case of a deviation from the actual state, the determination of the control signal can comprise a calculation of at least one adjustment step of the mapped mechanical operating parameters. Preferably, the actual state after the carrying out of the adjustment step results in the X-ray radiator configuration, in particular the mechanical operating parameters. The control signal is in particular a delta or differential control signal which describes a change in delta or difference with respect to the mechanical operating parameters.

[0057] After the determination, the determined control signal can in particular be transmitted from the control unit or from the X-ray radiator control unit to a mechanical adjustment unit of the X-ray radiator. The X-ray radiator and / or the mechanical adjustment unit has in particular an interface for receiving the control signal.

[0058] The automatic setting of the mechanical adjustment unit comprises in particular a mechanical adjustment of the X-ray radiator with respect to the recording region. In particular, at the automatic setting, the relative position of the X-ray radiator with respect to the recording region changes with the orientation. The mechanical adjustment unit has in particular a drive device so that the X-ray radiator can be automatically set in accordance with the control signal.

[0059] It is conceivable that the automatic setting is released by the user. For example, the user can release the automatic setting by means of an input means. The release (Freigeben) corresponds, inter alia, to the activation and / or monitoring of the automatic setting.

[0060] During the automatic setting, inter alia, the X-ray emitter is adjusted relative to the recording area in at least one spatial direction and / or about a spatial axis. The automatic setting can inter alia comprise a movement along at least one spatial direction and / or a tilt about a spatial axis. The mechanical adjustment unit is configured, inter alia, for a movement along at least one spatial direction and / or a tilt about a spatial axis of the X-ray emitter.

[0061] During the automatic setting, inter alia, the evacuated X-ray tube is adjusted relative to the recording area by means of the mechanical adjustment unit in accordance with the control signal. It can be, for example, that a part of the mechanical adjustment unit has the same relative position with respect to the recording area after the automatic setting as before the automatic setting. This part of the mechanical adjustment unit can be a bearing which supports the X-ray emitter relative to the recording area. During the automatic setting, inter alia, the evacuated X-ray tube is adjusted relative to the bearing.

[0062] After the automatic setting, inter alia, X-ray radiation is generated. Advantageously, the X-ray radiation has X-ray properties which are associated with the selected X-ray emitter configuration, and thus with the selected examination type information. During the generation of the X-ray radiation, at least one attenuation profile is detected, typically by means of an X-ray detector, wherein the recording area is arranged between the X-ray detector and the X-ray emitter. The at least one attenuation profile is preferably characteristic for the selected examination type information.

[0063] In principle, it is conceivable that, when generating the X-ray radiation, the X-ray emitter moves about and / or along the examination object. In said case, inter alia, no change is made during the generation of the X-ray radiation by means of the mechanical adjustment unit. In other words, the mechanical adjustment unit is used, inter alia, for the automatic setting of the X-ray emitter prior to the generation of the X-ray radiation. Typically, fixed mechanical operating parameters are not changed during the generation of the X-ray radiation.

[0064] The first examination type information can inter alia describe interventional radiography. The second examination type information can inter alia describe angiography. The description inter alia means that, in accordance with a protocol preset, the user can distinguish and perform said different applications by means of the X-ray emitter. The X-ray properties of the first X-ray emitter configuration can differ from the X-ray properties of the second X-ray emitter configuration in terms of a maximum X-ray dose and / or a maximum X-ray cross section.

[0065] Advantageously, a relatively high maximum X-ray dose, in particular for angiography, can be achieved by means of the X-ray radiator. For interventional radiography, a relatively high maximum X-ray cross section can advantageously be achieved by means of the same X-ray radiator. In particular, the maximum X-ray dose for angiography is higher than the maximum X-ray dose for interventional radiography. The maximum X-ray cross section for interventional radiography is typically larger than the maximum X-ray cross section for angiography. The change of the maximum X-ray dose or the maximum X-ray cross section is in particular performed by setting an angle of the anode surface on which the focal spot is generated with respect to the recording area.

[0066] One embodiment proposes that the control signal has a tilt angle signal related to the selected X-ray radiator configuration, wherein the mechanical adjustment unit has a tilting device for tilting the X-ray radiator with respect to the recording area, and wherein the automatic setting comprises tilting the X-ray radiator according to the tilt angle signal. The tilting device is in particular configured for tilting the X-ray radiator about a tilt axis with respect to the recording area. Advantageously, the tilt axis is perpendicular to an anode axis and / or intersects the anode substantially in a focal spot of the anode. The anode axis is in particular a longitudinal axis of the evacuated X-ray tube and / or a rotation axis of the anode.

[0067] In said embodiment, the tilting of the X-ray radiator is an adjustment step of the control signal. The tilting of the X-ray radiator with respect to the recording area can correspond to a tilting of the evacuated X-ray tube with respect to a bearing of the X-ray radiator. The tilt angle signal in particular describes a tilt with an angle between -10° and 10°. Said embodiment in particular describes an automatic setting about a spatial axis.

[0068] One embodiment proposes that the control signal has a motion length signal, wherein the mechanical adjustment unit has a motion device for moving the X-ray radiator along a linear axis, wherein the linear axis extends parallel to the recording area, and wherein the automatic setting comprises moving the X-ray radiator according to the motion length signal. In said embodiment, the motion of the X-ray radiator is an adjustment step of the control signal. The motion of the X-ray radiator in particular corresponds to a motion of the evacuated X-ray tube with respect to a bearing of the X-ray radiator. The motion length signal in particular describes a motion with a length between -10 mm and 10 mm. Said embodiment in particular describes an automatic setting in a spatial direction.

[0069] One embodiment proposes that position information of the anti-scatter grid is called, wherein the motion length signal is determined in dependence on the position information, and wherein the automatic setting comprises a change in the relative position between the X-ray emitter and the anti-scatter grid. The position information of the anti-scatter grid can be, inter alia, part of the actual state of the X-ray emitter. The position information can be called, inter alia, from a memory unit and / or by the X-ray emitter before or when determining the control signal. Alternatively, the position information can be part of the X-ray emitter configuration. The position information can be, inter alia, the focal spot on the anode of the X-ray emitter. The calling of the position information can be carried out by means of the control unit and / or the X-ray emitter control unit. The anti-scatter grid advantageously has a relatively very high aspect ratio and / or is a so-called "Supergrid". It is particularly advantageous in the described embodiment that the focal point of the anti-scatter grid can be aligned with the focal spot of the anode of the X-ray emitter. That is to say that the focal point can be lost, inter alia, when the X-ray emitter is rotated or moved relative to the recording region. The described embodiment can therefore advantageously enable the use of an anti-scatter grid having a relatively very high aspect ratio.

[0070] One embodiment proposes that the control signal has an emitter selection signal related to the selected X-ray emitter configuration, wherein the cathode of the X-ray emitter has a first electron emitter and a second electron emitter, wherein the first electron emitter is assigned to the electron emission for a first X-ray emitter configuration and the second electron emitter is assigned to the electron emission for a second X-ray emitter configuration, and wherein generating the X-ray radiation comprises an electron emission by means of the first electron emitter or the second electron emitter in accordance with the emitter selection signal. The described embodiment is particularly advantageous because the determination of the control signal is related to the emitter selection signal and thus to the associated electron emitter.

[0071] One embodiment proposes that the control signal has a focal spot length signal related to the selected X-ray emitter configuration, wherein the X-ray emitter has a deflection unit for adjusting the length of the electron beam cross section, and wherein generating the X-ray radiation comprises a deflection of the emitted electrons by means of the deflection unit in accordance with the focal spot length signal. The deflection unit for adjusting the length of the electron beam cross section is, inter alia, a deflection unit for focusing or defocusing the electrons. The adjustment of the length of the electron beam cross section means, inter alia, an adjustment of the extension of the electron beam cross section. By adjusting the length of the electron beam cross section, inter alia, the length of the focal spot and / or the X-ray cross section can be adjusted.

[0072] One embodiment proposes that the control signal has a collimator cross section signal related to the selected X-ray radiator configuration, wherein the automatic setting comprises setting a collimator cross section of a collimator of the X-ray radiator in accordance with the collimator cross section signal. The collimator is in particular configured for delimiting the X-ray cross section. In particular, the X-ray cross section is delimited after setting the X-ray cross section as an X-ray characteristic in the generation of the X-ray radiation. Thus, the collimator acts independently of the generation of the X-ray radiation and / or after the generation of the X-ray radiation.

[0073] The computer program product can be or comprise a computer program. The computer program product has in particular program code means which map the method steps according to the application. Thereby, the method according to the application can be executed in a defined and repeatable manner and the transfer of the method according to the application can be controlled. The computer program product is preferably configured such that the computing unit can execute the method steps according to the application by means of the computer program product. The program code means can in particular be loaded into a memory of the computing unit and typically be executed by means of a processor of the computing unit by accessing the memory. If the computer program product, in particular the program code means, is executed in the computing unit, typically all embodiments according to the application of the described method can be executed. The computer program product is for example stored on a physical, computer-readable medium and / or saved as a data package in digital form in a computer network. The computer program product can be a physical, computer-readable medium and / or a data package in a computer network. The application can thus also be based on a physical, computer-readable medium and / or a data package in a computer network. The physical, computer-readable medium can typically be connected directly to the computing unit, for example by placing the physical, computer-readable medium into a DVD drive or by plugging it into a USB port, whereby the computing unit can in particular access the physical, computer-readable medium in a reading manner. The data package can preferably be called from the computer network. The computer network can have the computing unit or be indirectly connected to the computing unit by means of a wide area network (WAN) or a (wireless) local area network connection (WLAN or LAN). For example, the computer program product can be stored in digital form on a cloud server at a storage location of the computer network, transferred onto the computing unit by means of the WAN via the Internet and / or by means of the WLAN or LAN, in particular by calling a download link which points to the storage location of the computer program product.

[0074] The features, advantages or alternative embodiments mentioned in the description of the device can likewise be transferred to the method and vice versa. In other words, the embodiments for the method can be improved by means of the features of the device and vice versa. In particular, the device according to the application can be used in the method. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0075] In the following, the application is described and elucidated in detail on the basis of embodiments shown in the drawings. In principle, in the following drawing description, basically identical structures and units are designated by the same reference signs as at the first occurrence of the respective structure or unit.

[0076] The drawings show:

[0077] Figure 1 A method according to the application is shown,

[0078] Figure 2 A first embodiment of a method according to the application is shown,

[0079] Figure 3 A second embodiment of a method according to the application is shown,

[0080] Figure 4 An X-ray radiator device is shown, and

[0081] Figure 5 A C-arm X-ray facility is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0082] Figure 1 A method for generating X-ray radiation having X-ray characteristics by means of an X-ray radiator for transmitting an examination object in a recording region is shown in a flowchart having the method steps S100 to S105.

[0083] The method step S100 represents: providing first examination type information and second examination type information for selection by means of an input means.

[0084] The method step S101 represents: receiving the selected examination type information in a control unit.

[0085] The method step S102 represents: selecting an X-ray radiator configuration from a plurality of X-ray radiator configurations in dependence on the received examination type information by means of the control unit.

[0086] The method step S103 represents: determining a control signal in dependence on the selected X-ray radiator configuration.

[0087] The method step S104 represents: automatically setting a mechanical adjustment unit of the X-ray radiator in accordance with the determined control signal for changing an orientation of the X-ray radiator with respect to the recording region.

[0088] The method step S105 represents: generating X-ray radiation having X-ray characteristics by means of the X-ray radiator for transmitting an examination object in a recording region.

[0089] Figure 2A first embodiment of the method according to the application is shown in a flow chart.

[0090] The first examination type information describes an interventional radiography. The second examination type information describes an angiography. The X-ray properties of the first X-ray radiator configuration differ from the X-ray properties of the second X-ray radiator configuration in terms of a maximum X-ray dose and / or a maximum X-ray cross section.

[0091] The control signal has a tilt angle signal related to the selected X-ray radiator configuration. The mechanical adjustment unit has a tilting device for tilting the X-ray radiator with respect to the recording region. The tilt angle signal describes a tilt, in particular, at an angle between -10° and 10°.

[0092] The control signal further has a motion length signal. The mechanical adjustment unit has a motion device for moving the X-ray radiator along a linear axis. The linear axis extends parallel to the recording region. The motion length signal describes a motion, in particular, at a length between -10 mm and 10 mm.

[0093] The method step S107 represents: calling position information of an anti-scatter grid.

[0094] The method step S108 represents: determining a motion length signal in relation to the position information.

[0095] The method step S112 represents: automatically setting includes moving the X-ray radiator in accordance with the motion length signal.

[0096] The method step S106 represents: automatically setting includes tilting the X-ray radiator in accordance with the tilt angle signal.

[0097] The method step S109 represents: automatically setting includes changing a relative position between the X-ray radiator and the anti-scatter grid.

[0098] In particular, the method steps S106, S109, S112 can be carried out at least partially simultaneously, preferably synchronously, or successively.

[0099] Figure 3 A second embodiment of the method according to the application is shown in a flow chart.

[0100] The control signal has an emitter selection signal related to the selected X-ray radiator configuration. The cathode of the X-ray radiator has a first electron emitter and a second electron emitter. The first electron emitter is assigned for electron emission of the first X-ray radiator configuration, and the second electron emitter is assigned for electron emission of the second X-ray radiator configuration.

[0101] The method step S110 represents that generating the X-ray radiation comprises electron emission by means of the first electron emitter or the second electron emitter in accordance with the emitter selection signal.

[0102] The control signal further has a collimator cross section signal related to the selected X-ray radiator configuration. The X-ray radiator has a collimator.

[0103] The method step S111 represents that automatically setting comprises setting a collimator cross section of the collimator in accordance with the collimator cross section signal.

[0104] Figure 4 The X-ray radiator device 10 is shown in a circuit diagram.

[0105] The X-ray radiator device 10 is configured for generating X-ray radiation having X-ray characteristics. The X-ray radiator device 10 has a control unit 11, a memory unit 12 and an X-ray radiator 13. The X-ray radiator 13 has an interface 14, a mechanical adjustment unit 15, an evacuated X-ray tube 16, a cathode 17 and an anode 18. In the evacuated X-ray tube 16, the anode 18 is rotatably arranged about an anode axis R. The cathode 17 is arranged above the anode 18 in a manner that is offset from the center with respect to the anode axis R. The control unit 11 can be connected with the interface 14 for transmitting a control signal.

[0106] The X-ray radiator 13 further has a collimator 19. The mechanical adjustment unit 15 has a tilting device for tilting the evacuated X-ray tube 16 about a tilt axis K with respect to a recording region A. The tilt axis K is perpendicular to the anode axis R and intersects the anode 18 substantially in a focal spot of the anode. Substantially means that the focal spot is preferably arranged at a distance of less than 10 cm, particularly preferably less than 2 cm, from the tilt axis K.

[0107] Figure 5 The C-arm X-ray facility 20 is shown in a circuit diagram. The C-arm X-ray facility 20 has the X-ray radiator device 10, an X-ray detector 21, a holding device 22 and a C-arm 23.

[0108] The C-arm 23 encloses the recording region A. The X-ray radiator 13 is arranged at a first end portion of the C-arm 23. The X-ray detector 21 is arranged at a second end portion of the C-arm 23 opposite the X-ray radiator 13. The C-arm 23 is arranged at the holding device 22 and is pivotably arranged about the recording region A.

[0109] The tilt axis K of the mechanical adjustment unit 15 is perpendicular to the C-arm plane. The C-arm plane corresponds to the image plane of the image of the recording region A. Figure 5 Alternatively or additionally, the linear axis of the mechanical adjustment unit 15 can run in the C-arm plane or laterally parallel offset therefrom.

[0110] The recording region A is shown in Figure 5 Fig. 1 as a plane. The recording region A comprises at least a portion of the volume between the X-ray emitter 13 and the X-ray detector 21, among others.

[0111] Although the details of the application have been described and illustrated by a preferred embodiment, the application is not restricted to the disclosed examples and other variants can be derived therefrom by a person skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the application.

Claims

1. A method for generating X-ray radiation with X-ray characteristics by means of an X-ray radiator for transmission recording of an examination object in a recording region, the method comprising the following steps: - providing first examination type information and second examination type information for selection by means of an input means, - receiving the selected examination type information in a control unit, - selecting an X-ray radiator configuration from a plurality of X-ray radiator configurations in dependence on the received examination type information by means of the control unit, - calling position information of an anti-scatter grid, - determining a control signal in dependence on the selected X-ray radiator configuration, wherein the control signal has a movement length signal and the movement length signal is determined in dependence on the position information, - automatically setting a mechanical adjustment unit of the X-ray radiator in accordance with the determined control signal for changing an orientation of the X-ray radiator with respect to the recording region, - generating X-ray radiation with X-ray characteristics by means of the X-ray radiator set for transmission of the examination object in the recording region, wherein the automatic setting comprises moving the X-ray radiator in accordance with the movement length signal and changing a relative position between the X-ray radiator and the anti-scatter grid.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first examination type information describes interventional radiography and the second examination type information describes angiography.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein X-ray characteristics of a first X-ray radiator configuration differ from X-ray characteristics of a second X-ray radiator configuration in terms of a maximum X-ray dose and / or a maximum X-ray cross section.

4. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control signal has a tilt angle signal in dependence on the selected X-ray radiator configuration, wherein the mechanical adjustment unit has a tilting device for tilting the X-ray radiator with respect to the recording region, and wherein the automatic setting comprises tilting the X-ray radiator in accordance with the tilt angle signal.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the tilt angle signal describes a tilt with an angle between -10° and 10°.

6. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the mechanical adjustment unit has a movement device for moving the X-ray radiator along a linear axis, wherein the linear axis extends parallel to the recording region.

7. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the movement length signal describes a movement with a length between -10 mm and 10 mm.

8. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control signal has an emitter selection signal related to the selected X-ray radiator configuration, wherein the cathode of the X-ray radiator has a first electron emitter and a second electron emitter, wherein the first electron emitter is associated with electron emission for a first X-ray radiator configuration and the second electron emitter is associated with electron emission for a second X-ray radiator configuration, and wherein generating X-ray radiation comprises electron emission by means of the first electron emitter or the second electron emitter in accordance with the emitter selection signal.

9. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control signal has a focal spot length signal related to the selected X- ray radiator configuration, wherein the X-ray radiator has a deflection unit for adjusting the length of the electron beam cross section, and wherein generating X-ray radiation comprises deflecting the emitted electrons by means of the deflection unit in accordance with the focal spot length signal.

10. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control signal has a collimator cross section signal related to the selected X-ray radiator configuration, wherein the X-ray radiator has a collimator, and wherein automatically setting comprises setting a collimator cross section of the collimator in accordance with the collimator cross section signal.

11. An X-ray radiator device (10) for generating X-ray radiation having X-ray characteristics in accordance with any one of claims 1 to 10, the X-ray radiator device (10) having: - a control unit (11), - a memory unit (12), - an X-ray radiator (13), - wherein the X-ray radiator (13) has an interface (14), a mechanical adjustment unit (15), a vacuumed X-ray tube (16), a cathode (17), an anode (18), and a collimator (19), - wherein in the vacuumed X-ray tube (16) the anode (18) is rotatably arranged about an anode axis (R) and the cathode (17) is arranged above the anode (18) in a decentered manner with respect to the anode axis (R), and - wherein the control unit (11) is connectable with the interface (14) for transmitting a control signal.

12. The X-ray radiator device (10) according to claim 11, wherein the mechanical adjustment unit (15) has a tilting device for tilting the vacuumed X-ray tube about a tilting axis (K) with respect to a recording area (A), wherein the tilting axis (K) is perpendicular to the anode axis (R) and intersects the anode (18) in a focal spot of the anode.

13. A C-arm X-ray facility (20) having: - an X-ray radiator device (10) according to claim 11 or 12, - an X-ray detector (21), - a holding device (22), - a C-arm (23), - wherein the C-arm (23) encloses a recording area (A), - wherein the X-ray radiator (13) is arranged at a first end portion of the C-arm (23), - wherein the X-ray detector (21) is arranged at a second end portion of the C-arm (23), - wherein the holding device (22) is arranged between the X-ray radiator (13) and the X-ray detector (21), and - wherein the control unit (11) is connectable with the interface (14) for transmitting a control signal. - wherein the X-ray detector (21) is arranged at a second end of the C-arm (23) opposite the X-ray radiator (13), - wherein the C-arm (23) is arranged at the holding device (22) and pivotably arranged around the recording area (A), - wherein an axis of tilting (K) of the mechanical adjustment unit (15) is perpendicular to a C-arm plane and / or a linear axis of the mechanical adjustment unit (15) extends parallel to the C-arm plane.

14. Computer program product, which can be directly loaded into the memory of a control unit of an X-ray radiator device, having program code means in order to carry out the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10 when the computer program product is executed in the control unit.

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