Vehicle-mounted CT device

Abstract

Provided is a vehicle-mounted CT device. The purpose of the present invention is to suppress the height of a vehicle on which a vertical CT is mounted during travel. An in-vehicle CT device according to an actual embodiment is provided with a first container, a second container, and a change drive unit. The first container accommodates a gantry of an X-ray CT device. The second container accommodates the console of the X-ray CT device. The change drive unit changes the attitude of the first container in accordance with the imaging position of the subject.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-075123, filed on May 7, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The implementation methods described here mainly relate to vehicle-mounted CT devices. Background Technology

[0004] There is a known upright CT device that takes images of a subject in an upright position.

[0005] When mounting a standing CT scanner in a vehicle, the scanner requires a certain height. Furthermore, road traffic laws impose height restrictions on vehicles in motion. Therefore, there are limitations when mounting a standing CT scanner in a vehicle.

[0006] Existing technical documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-080304 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] One problem to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and accompanying drawings is to suppress the height of a vehicle equipped with a standing CT scanner during operation. However, the problem to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and accompanying drawings is not limited to the above-mentioned problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of the various structures shown in the embodiments described below can also be identified as other problems.

[0010] The vehicle-mounted CT unit of this embodiment includes a first container, a second container, and a changeover drive unit. The first container houses the scanning gantry of the X-ray CT unit. The second container houses the operating table of the X-ray CT unit. The changeover drive unit changes the orientation of the first container according to the imaging position of the subject.

[0011] Invention Effects

[0012] The vehicle-mounted CT device with the above structure can suppress the height of the vehicle equipped with a standing CT scanner during driving. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the vehicle-mounted CT device and its surroundings according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the vehicle-mounted CT device and its surroundings according to the first embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of the change drive section of the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of the change drive section of the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 is a diagram for explaining an example of the change drive section of the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of the change drive section of the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the X-ray CT apparatus of the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of the gantry and the surrounding structure of the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of the gantry and the surrounding structure of the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the gantry and the surrounding structure of the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 11 is a diagram for explaining an example of the structure of the change drive section of the modified example of the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 12 is a diagram for explaining an example of the structure of the change drive section of the second embodiment.

[0025] Figure 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of the structure of the change drive section of the second embodiment.

[0026] Figure 14 is a diagram for explaining an example of the structure of the change drive section of the second embodiment.

[0027] Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the X-ray CT apparatus of the modified example of the third embodiment.

[0028] Figure 16 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the X-ray CT apparatus of the third embodiment.

[0029] Figure 17 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the X-ray CT apparatus of the third embodiment.

[0030] Figure 18 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of an X-ray CT apparatus of the third embodiment.

[0031] Figure 19 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of an X-ray CT apparatus of the third embodiment.

[0032] Figure 20 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of an X-ray CT apparatus of the third embodiment.

[0033] Figure 21 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of an X-ray CT apparatus of the third embodiment.

[0034] Figure 22 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of an X-ray CT apparatus of the third embodiment.

[0035] Figure 23 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of an X-ray CT apparatus of the third embodiment.

[0036] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0037] 1…on-vehicle CT apparatus

[0038] 2…vehicle

[0039] 3…carriage

[0040] 3a…rear end portion

[0041] 4…cab

[0042] 6…fixed container

[0043] 7…movable container

[0044] 7a…laid-down attitude

[0045] 7b…upright attitude

[0046] 7bx…carriage upright attitude

[0047] 7by…ground upright attitude

[0048] 8…change drive portion

[0049] 9…X-ray CT apparatus

[0050] 10…scan gantry

[0051] 11…scan gantry main body

[0052] 11a…one side portion

[0053] 11b…other side portion

[0054] 12 opening

[0055] 13 strut

[0056] 131 first strut

[0057] 132 second strut

[0058] 14 strut drive

[0059] 15 vertical tilt drive

[0060] 16 horizontal tilt support

[0061] 17 horizontal tilt drive

[0062] 18 x-ray tube

[0063] 19 x-ray detector

[0064] 21 swivel mount

[0065] 23 swivel drive

[0066] 25 scan mount control circuit

[0067] 29 operation panel

[0068] 31 high voltage generator

[0069] 33 data collection circuit

[0070] 37 protective cover

[0071] 50 ceiling

[0072] 60 column

[0073] 61 ladder

[0074] 62 hanger ring

[0075] 63 camera

[0076] 65 table

[0077] 651 table top surface

[0078] 66 hydraulic cylinder

[0079] 71 first face

[0080] 72 second face

[0081] 73 third face

[0082] 74 fourth face

[0083] 75 fifth face

[0084] 76 … sixth surface

[0085] 81 … raising and lowering stand

[0086] 82 … radius cylinder

[0087] 83 … retainer

[0088] 84 … retaining portion

[0089] 85 … raising and lowering cylinder

[0090] 85a … end portion

[0091] 85b … other end portion

[0092] 100 … operation table

[0093] 101 … processing circuitry

[0094] 103 … display

[0095] 105 … input interface

[0096] 107 … memory

[0097] 111 … pre-processing function

[0098] 113 … reconstruction function

[0099] 115 … image processing function

[0100] 117 … system control function

[0101] A1 … center axis

[0102] A2 … standing pitch axis

[0103] A3 … lying pitch axis

[0104] bus … bus

[0105] D … inclination direction

[0106] dh, dv … distance

[0107] G … ground

[0108] h1 … protruding distance

[0109] h2 … height

[0110] O … inner space of opening

[0111] P … subject

[0112] Px … rotation axis

[0113] R … radial direction

[0114] r1 to r4 … rotation direction

[0115] w… vehicle width direction DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0116] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a vehicle-mounted CT device will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, in the following description, by assigning the same reference numerals to substantially the same portions among different drawings, the description of overlapping portions is omitted. The vehicle-mounted CT device can also be referred to as a vehicle-mounted X-ray CT device.

[0117] (First Embodiment)

[0118] Figure 1 and Figure 2 is a view that shows an example of a structure of a vehicle-mounted CT device 1 and its surroundings according to the first embodiment. The vehicle-mounted CT device 1 is mounted on a platform 3 of a vehicle 2 to be transported to a transport destination, and CT examination is performed at the transport destination. As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 The vehicle 2 is provided with the vehicle-mounted CT device 1, the platform 3, and a cab 4. In addition, the vehicle 2 can also be referred to as a mobile examination vehicle. The vehicle-mounted CT device 1 is provided with a stationary container 6 that serves as an operation room, a movable container 7 that serves as an examination room, a change drive unit 8, and an X-ray CT device 9.

[0119] The cab 4 and the stationary container 6 are provided on the platform 3. The cab 4 is disposed at one side of the two end portions of the vehicle 2. Hereinafter, the one side of the end portions on which the cab 4 is disposed will be referred to as a front end portion, and the front end portion side of the vehicle 2 will be referred to as a front side. In addition, the side of the end portion opposite to the front end portion of the vehicle 2 will be referred to as a rear end portion 3a, and the rear end portion 3a side of the vehicle 2 will be referred to as a rear side. Here, a vertical direction will be referred to as a Z-axis direction, a short side direction of the platform 3 orthogonal to the Z-axis direction will be referred to as a Y-axis direction, and a long side direction of the platform 3 orthogonal to the Z-axis direction and the Y-axis direction will be referred to as an X-axis direction. In addition, the front side of the vehicle 2 will be set as the -X direction, and the rear side of the vehicle 2 will be set as the +X direction. In addition, the inside of the cross section of the vehicle 2 shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 the cross section will be set as the +Y direction, and the front side of the cross section will be set as the -Y direction. In addition, the cab 4 does not necessarily need to be provided on the platform 3, and can be provided as a part of a tractor that pulls the platform 3 as a trailer. As shown in Figure 1 The stationary container 6 is provided on the rear side of the cab 4. The movable container 7 is provided on the rear side of the stationary container 6. The movable container 7 is detachably coupled to the stationary container 6. The change drive unit 8 is provided on the platform 3.

[0120] The fixed container 6 houses the operating table 100 of the X-ray CT device 9. The fixed container 6 is, for example, positioned between the driver's cab 4 and the movable container 7. For instance, when the fixed container 6 and the movable container 7 are connected, the fixed container 6 has a first door (not shown) on its rear side that can be opened and closed to allow operators to move between the fixed container 6 and the movable container 7. Furthermore, the fixed container 6 may also be referred to as a "second container," an "operating container," or an "operator's cab." The fixed container 6 is an example of a second container.

[0121] The movable container 7 houses the scanning gantry 10 of the X-ray CT unit 9. (Example) Figure 1 As shown, the movable container 7 is positioned behind the fixed container 6 in a tilted posture relative to the platform 3. This posture will be referred to hereafter as the tilted posture 7a. When the movable container 7 is in the tilted posture 7a, the horizontal distance dh of the movable container 7 is greater than the vertical distance dv of the movable container 7 (dv < dh). The movable container 7 in the tilted posture 7a is freely connected to the fixed container 6.

[0122] Regarding the movable container 7, the posture of the movable container 7 is changed according to the imaging position of the subject P by changing the drive of the drive unit 8. For example, the movable container 7 is changed from a lying posture 7a to an upright posture relative to the platform 3. Hereinafter, this posture will be referred to as the platform upright posture 7bx. Furthermore, details regarding the platform upright posture will be described later. In addition, the movable container 7 is lowered in a generally vertical direction from the platform upright posture 7bx, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the orientation is changed to an upright position relative to the ground G. This orientation will henceforth be referred to as the ground-standing orientation 7by. When the movable container 7 is in either the platform-standing orientation 7bx or the ground-standing orientation 7by, the vertical (Y-axis) distance dv of the movable container 7 is greater than the horizontal (X-axis) distance dh (dh < dv). Henceforth, the orientation in which the vertical (Y-axis) distance dv of the movable container 7 is greater than the horizontal (X-axis) distance dh of the movable container 7 will be referred to as the upright orientation 7b.

[0123] The movable container 7 is, for example, formed as a cuboid. In this case, the side of the movable container 7 is composed of six planes. When the movable container 7 is in a folded position 7a, a first door is provided on the front side of the movable container 7. Figure 1As shown, the side of the movable container 7 with the first door will be referred to as the first side 71. Additionally, for example, a second door (not shown) is provided on the side of the vehicle 2 opposite to the first side 71, which is located at the rear of the movable container 7, allowing the operator, the subject P, etc., to move between the movable container 7 and its exterior when the movable container 7 is in a folded position 7a. The side of the movable container 7 with the second door will be referred to as the second side 72. Furthermore, in other words, the second side 72 is the side orthogonal to the central axis A1 of the opening 12 on the scanning frame body 11 of the scanning frame 10, and is the side of the vehicle 2 at the rear when in the folded position 7a. The second side 72 may also be referred to as the rear side. Furthermore, a third door (not shown) may also be provided on the side of the movable container 7 opposite to the side (floor surface) of the platform 3 when the movable container 7 is in the folded position 7a. Figure 2 As shown, the third door is a door that can be opened and closed to allow the operator, the subject P, etc., to move between the movable container 7 and its exterior when the movable container 7 is in the upright position 7by. Hereinafter, the side of the movable container 7 with the third door will be referred to as the third side 73. Furthermore, hereafter, the side of the movable container 7 positioned on the platform 3 when the movable container 7 is in the folded position 7a will be referred to as the fourth side 74. In addition, the first and second doors are, for example, sliding doors that can slide along the short side direction (Y-axis direction) of the platform 3 when the movable container 7 is in the folded position 7a. The third door is, for example, a sliding door that can slide along the short side direction (Y-axis direction) of the platform 3 when the movable container 7 is in the upright position 7b. The movable container 7 can also be referred to as the "first container," "inspection container," or "inspection room." The movable container 7 is an example of a first container.

[0124] Figures 3 to 6 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the change drive unit in the first embodiment. Figures 3 to 5 The change drive unit and its surrounding structure are respectively represented when the movable container 7 is in the collapsed posture 7a, the platform upright posture 7bx, and the ground upright posture 7by. Figure 6 This shows the change drive unit and its surrounding structure when viewed from above (positive direction along the Z-axis) of vehicle 2. The change drive unit 8 changes the posture of the movable container 7 according to the imaging position of the subject P. The change drive unit 8 is located on the platform 3. Figures 3 to 6 As shown in any of the figures, the change-drive unit 8 includes an erection / tilting frame 81, a radius cylinder 82, a retainer 83, and an erection / tilting cylinder 85. The change-drive unit 8 generates power for changing the posture of the movable container 7. The change-drive unit 8 raises the erection / tilting frame 81 by extending the erection / tilting cylinder 85, thereby changing the posture of the movable container 7 to an erect posture 7b, and lowers the erection / tilting frame 81 by retracting the erection / tilting cylinder 85, thereby changing the posture of the movable container 7 to a folded posture 7a.

[0125] The raising and lowering frame 81 is provided so as to extend from the rear end portion 3a of the platform 3 on the rear side of the vehicle 2 in the radial direction R orthogonal to the vehicle width direction w (Y-axis direction) of the vehicle 2. The vehicle width direction w corresponds to the short side direction (Y-axis direction) of the platform 3. Specifically, as shown in Figure 3 the case where the movable container 7 is in the laid-down attitude 7a, the radial direction R is a substantially horizontal direction. Therefore, in the case where the movable container 7 is in the laid-down attitude 7a, the raising and lowering frame 81 extends, for example, from the rear end portion 3a in the substantially horizontal direction toward the front side (negative direction of the X-axis direction) of the vehicle 2. In addition, as shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5 the case where the movable container 7 is in the raised attitude 7b, the radial direction R is a substantially vertical direction. Therefore, in the case where the movable container 7 is in the raised attitude 7b, the raising and lowering frame 81 extends, for example, from the rear end portion 3a in the substantially vertical direction toward the upper side (positive direction of the Z-axis direction) of the vehicle 2. Additionally, the radial direction R is a direction that links the rear end portion 3a, which is the center of rotation of the raising and lowering frame 81, and a front end portion on the opposite side of the rear end portion 3a of the raising and lowering frame 81, and is a direction corresponding to the radius when the front end portion moves along the circumferential direction in conjunction with the rotation of the raising and lowering frame 81.

[0126] The raising and lowering frame 81 is provided so as to be able to be raised or laid down with respect to the platform 3 with the vehicle width direction w as the axis of rotation Px at the rear end portion 3a. For example, in the case where the movable container 7 is in the laid-down attitude 7a, the raising and lowering frame 81 is rotated with the vehicle width direction w as the axis of rotation Px by the extension of the raising and lowering cylinder 85. Specifically, as shown in Figure 3 the raising and lowering frame 81 is rotated along the rotation direction r1 with the axis of rotation Px as the center. Thereby, the raising and lowering frame 81 is raised with respect to the platform 3. In addition, in the case where the movable container 7 is in the platform-raised attitude 7bx, the raising and lowering frame 81 is rotated with the vehicle width direction w as the axis of rotation Px by the contraction of the raising and lowering cylinder 85. Specifically, as shown in Figure 4 the raising and lowering frame 81 is rotated along the rotation direction r2 with the axis of rotation Px as the center. Thereby, the raising and lowering frame 81 is laid down with respect to the platform 3.

[0127] As shown in Figure 3 the raising and lowering frame 81 includes a radial cylinder 82 that is able to extend and contract in the radial direction R. The radial cylinder 82 moves the holder 83 in the radial direction R by extending and contracting in the radial direction R. In the case where the movable container 7 is in the raised attitude 7b, the radial cylinder 82 raises or lowers the movable container 7 in the substantially vertical direction by extending and contracting in the radial direction R.

[0128] The radius cylinder 82 extends and contracts in the radial direction R by receiving power from the change driving section 8, thereby moving the holder 83 in the radial direction R. Specifically, for example, as shown in Figure 4 , in a case where the movable container 7 is in the stand-up posture 7bx, the radius cylinder 82 is connected to the holder 83 in a state of being elongated in the substantially vertical direction. The radius cylinder 82 causes the holder 83 to descend in the substantially vertical direction by contracting in the substantially vertical direction from the state of being elongated in the substantially vertical direction. In addition, as shown in Figure 5 , in a case where the movable container 7 is in the ground stand-up posture 7by, the radius cylinder 82 is connected to the holder 83 in a state of being contracted in the substantially vertical direction. The radius cylinder 82 causes the holder 83 to ascend in the substantially vertical direction by elongating in the substantially vertical direction from the state of being contracted in the substantially vertical direction. Furthermore, the posture of the movable container 7 is changed from the stand-up posture 7bx to the lying posture 7a while maintaining the state of the radius cylinder 82 being elongated. Therefore, in a case where the posture of the movable container 7 is the lying posture 7a, the radius cylinder 82 is connected to the holder 83 in a state of being elongated in the substantially horizontal direction.

[0129] The at least one holder 83 is connected to the stand-up and lie-down frame 81 and extends in a manner orthogonal to the vehicle width direction w and the radial direction R. In a case where the movable container 7 is in the lying posture 7a, as shown in Figure 3 , the holder 83 extends, for example, from another end portion of the end portions of the stand-up and lie-down frame 81 other than the rear end portion 3a toward the upper side (positive direction of the Z-axis direction) of the vehicle 2. In addition, in a case where the movable container 7 is in the stand-up posture 7b, as shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the holder 83 extends, for example, from the other end portion toward the rear side (positive direction of the X-axis direction) of the vehicle 2.

[0130] The at least one holder 83 holds the movable container 7. The holder 83 moves in the radial direction R by causing the radius cylinder 82 to extend and contract in the radial direction R. The movable container 7 held by the holder 83 moves in the radial direction R by the movement of the holder 83 in the radial direction R. As shown in Figure 4 , in a case where the movable container 7 is in the stand-up posture 7bx, the holder 83 prevents the movable container 7 from falling by holding the movable container 7. In a case where the movable container 7 is in the stand-up posture 7bx, the holder 83 descends in the substantially vertical direction by causing the radius cylinder 82 to contract in the substantially vertical direction. The movable container 7 held by the holder 83 descends in the substantially vertical direction by the descent of the holder 83 in the substantially vertical direction, until reaching the ground G. That is, the movable container 7 descends in the substantially vertical direction until standing up with respect to the ground G. Thereby, the posture of the movable container 7 is changed from the stand-up posture 7bx to the ground stand-up posture 7by. In addition, as shown in Figure 5As shown, when the movable container 7 is in a ground-standing posture 7by, the retainer 83 rises in a roughly vertical direction by extending the radius cylinder 82 in a roughly vertical direction. By raising the retainer 83 in a roughly vertical direction, the movable container 7 held in the retainer 83 rises in a roughly vertical direction. Thus, the posture of the movable container 7 changes from the ground-standing posture 7by to the platform-standing posture 7bx.

[0131] The retainer 83 includes a retaining part 84 for retaining the movable container 7. The retaining part 84 is, for example, a hook (not shown), which engages with a locking pin (not shown) provided on the first surface 71 of the movable container 7. Thus, when the movable container 7 is in an upright position 7b, the retainer 83 retains the movable container 7 by means of the hook and the locking pin. Furthermore, it is not limited to this and can be any structure, as long as the retainer 83 retains the movable container 7 in the upright position 7b and the movable container 7 can be moved in a generally vertical direction by moving the retainer 83 in a generally vertical direction.

[0132] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, each of the two retainers 83 is provided at each of the two ends of the first face 71 of the movable container 7. The two retainers 83 have a columnar shape such as a prism. The fixed container 6 is formed at each of the two ends on the rear side of the fixed container 6 to be the volume of the recessed retainer 83. Each of the two ends of the fixed container 6 is in close contact with each of the two retainers 83. The fixed container 6 is connected to the movable container 7 in the folded posture 7a at the central portion between the two ends. The first door provided by the first face 71 is provided, for example, at the central portion. Furthermore, it is not limited to this, the fixed container 6 can be any structure, as long as it can be connected to the movable container 7 in the folded posture 7a. In addition, the connection between the fixed container 6 and the movable container 7 in the folded posture 7a is an arbitrary additional item and can be omitted. That is, the fixed container 6 and the movable container 7 in the folded posture 7a can also be a structure that can be connected freely without disassembly.

[0133] The tilting cylinder 85 is flexibly connected between the platform 3 and the tilting frame 81. The tilting cylinder 85 extends and retracts by changing the drive of the drive unit 8. Specifically, for example, when the movable container 7 is in a tilted position 7a and the tilting frame 81 extends in a generally horizontal direction, the tilting cylinder 85 is rotatably connected to the platform 3 at its end 85a. Furthermore, the tilting cylinder 85 is connected to the tilting frame 81 at its other end 85b. The tilting cylinder 85 is connected between the platform 3 and the tilting frame 81 in a retracted state in a generally horizontal direction. Here, the tilting cylinder 85 extends from the retracted state, such as... Figure 4As shown, the stand-up / fold-down frame 81 is raised with respect to the table 3 with the vehicle width direction w as the rotation axis Px. At this time, the stand-up / fold-down cylinder 85 rotates with the end portion 85a as the rotation axis from the state of extending in the substantially horizontal direction, to the state of extending in the inclined direction D, in conjunction with the raising of the stand-up / fold-down frame 81. In addition, the stand-up / fold-down cylinder 85 changes from the extended state to the contracted state, and the stand-up / fold-down frame 81 is folded down with respect to the table 3 with the vehicle width direction w as the rotation axis Px. At this time, the stand-up / fold-down cylinder 85 rotates with the end portion 85a as the rotation axis from the state of extending in the inclined direction D, to the state of extending in the substantially horizontal direction, in conjunction with the folding down of the stand-up / fold-down frame 81. Figure 3 As shown, the stand-up / fold-down frame 81 is raised with respect to the table 3 with the vehicle width direction w as the rotation axis Px. At this time, the stand-up / fold-down cylinder 85 rotates with the end portion 85a as the rotation axis from the state of extending in the substantially horizontal direction, to the state of extending in the inclined direction D, in conjunction with the raising of the stand-up / fold-down frame 81. In addition, the stand-up / fold-down cylinder 85 changes from the extended state to the contracted state, and the stand-up / fold-down frame 81 is folded down with respect to the table 3 with the vehicle width direction w as the rotation axis Px. At this time, the stand-up / fold-down cylinder 85 rotates with the end portion 85a as the rotation axis from the state of extending in the inclined direction D, to the state of extending in the substantially horizontal direction, in conjunction with the folding down of the stand-up / fold-down frame 81.

[0134] As shown, the stand-up / fold-down frame 81 is raised with respect to the table 3 with the vehicle width direction w as the rotation axis Px. At this time, the stand-up / fold-down cylinder 85 rotates with the end portion 85a as the rotation axis from the state of extending in the substantially horizontal direction, to the state of extending in the inclined direction D, in conjunction with the raising of the stand-up / fold-down frame 81. In addition, the stand-up / fold-down cylinder 85 changes from the extended state to the contracted state, and the stand-up / fold-down frame 81 is folded down with respect to the table 3 with the vehicle width direction w as the rotation axis Px. At this time, the stand-up / fold-down cylinder 85 rotates with the end portion 85a as the rotation axis from the state of extending in the inclined direction D, to the state of extending in the substantially horizontal direction, in conjunction with the folding down of the stand-up / fold-down frame 81. Figure 7 As shown, the X-ray CT device 9 is housed inside the fixed container 6 and the movable container 7. The X-ray CT device 9 is a structure including a scan frame 10, a ceiling 50, and an operation table 100. The scan frame 10 and the operation table 100 are connected by wire or wirelessly in a manner that enables communication with each other.

[0135] The scan frame 10 is housed in the movable container 7. The scan frame 10 is a scanning device having a structure for performing X-ray CT imaging of a subject P in a standing position or a sitting position when the movable container 7 is in the raised attitude 7b. When the movable container 7 is in the raised attitude 7b, the X-ray CT device 9 corresponds to a standing CT device. Further, typically, when the attitude of the movable container 7 is the ground-raised attitude 7by, X-ray CT imaging is performed on a subject P in a standing position or a sitting position. In addition, as shown, Figure 9 As shown, the scan frame 10 is a scanning device having a structure for performing X-ray CT imaging of a subject P in a lying position when the movable container 7 is in the folded-down attitude 7a. As shown, Figures 7 to 10 As shown, the scan frame 10 includes a scan frame body 11, an opening 12, at least one support column 13, a support column drive device 14, a standing pitch drive device 15, a lying pitch support portion 16, and a lying pitch drive device 17. In addition, the scan frame 10 includes an X-ray tube 18, an X-ray detector 19, a rotation drive device 23, a scan frame control circuit 25, an operation panel 29, a high-voltage generator 31, a data collection circuit 33, and a protective cover 37.

[0136] As shown, the scan frame body 11 is a substantially cylindrical structure body formed with the opening 12 constituting a subject P imaging space. As shown, Figure 7 As shown, the scan frame body 11 houses the X-ray tube 18 and the X-ray detector 19 arranged in opposition across the opening 12. Figure 7

[0137] ​More specifically, the scanning gantry body 11 also includes a main frame (not shown) made of a metal such as aluminum and a rotating frame 21 supported by the main frame via bearings or the like in a manner that allows it to rotate about the central axis A1 of the opening 12. Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the direction of the central axis A1 is approximately parallel to the radial direction R. An annular electrode (not shown) is provided at the contact portion of the main frame that contacts the rotating frame 21. A conductive sliding element (not shown) is installed at this contact portion of the main frame in a sliding contact with the annular electrode. The rotating frame 21 is a metal frame formed into a ring shape from a metal such as aluminum, and for example, it houses an X-ray tube 18 and an X-ray detector 19.

[0138] The scanning frame body 11 moves along the radial direction R. Specifically, when the movable container 7 is in an upright position 7b, the scanning frame body 11 moves in a generally vertical direction. In addition, when the movable container 7 is in a folded position 7a, the scanning frame body 11 moves in a generally horizontal direction.

[0139] The size of opening 12 needs to be such that a subject P of average build can be retracted into opening 12 when the scanning frame body 11 is moved in the radial direction R. Furthermore, the size of opening 12 needs to be such that, with the movable container 7 in an upright position 7b, the wheelchair of the subject P in a seated position can be retracted into opening 12 when the scanning frame body 11 is moved in a substantially vertical direction. Later, as... Figure 8 As shown, the area through which the opening 12 passes when the scanning frame body 11 moves along the radial direction R is called the space inside the opening O.

[0140] At least one support column 13 supports the scanning frame body 11 at its side 11a, where the direction of the central axis A1 of the opening 12 is approximately parallel to the radial direction R, enabling it to move in the radial direction R. Typically, two support columns 13 extend from the second surface 72 in the radial direction R, supporting both sides 11a of the scanning frame body 11 so that they can move in the radial direction R. When the movable container 7 is in an upright position 7b, the two support columns 13 support the scanning frame body 11, where the central axis A1 is approximately vertical, so that it can move in the approximately vertical direction. Furthermore, when the movable container 7 is in a folded position 7a, as... Figure 9 As shown, two support pillars 13 support the scanning frame body 11, with its central axis A1 in a generally horizontal direction, enabling it to move in a generally horizontal manner. Figure 8As shown, the first pillar 131 of one of the two pillars 13 is disposed close to the fourth surface 74, for example. The second pillar 132 of the other pillar is disposed close to the third surface 73, for example. The first pillar 131 and the second pillar 132 are disposed on a straight line that is approximately parallel to the long side direction (X-axis direction) of the movable container 7. The two pillars 13 have columnar shapes, such as prisms. The pillars 13 are formed of any material, such as plastic or metal. Furthermore, although the pillars 13 have columnar shapes, this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the pillars 13 may also have any shape, such as a U-shape, as long as they can support the side 11a of the scanning frame body 11.

[0141] A support drive device 14 for moving the gantry body 11 in the radial direction R is housed in the support column 13. The support drive device 14 generates power to move the gantry body 11 in the radial direction R according to control from the gantry control circuit 25. Specifically, the support drive device 14 generates power by driving at a rotational speed corresponding to the duty cycle of the drive signal from the gantry control circuit 25. The support column 13 receives power from the support drive device 14, causing the gantry body 11 to move relative to the support column 13 in the radial direction R. The support drive device 14 is implemented, for example, by a motor such as a servo motor.

[0142] In addition, such as Figure 8 As shown, when the movable container 7 is in the upright position 7b, the support column 13 does not need to fix the scanning frame body 11 with the central axis A1 as the approximately vertical direction. That is, when the movable container 7 is in the upright position 7b, the support column 13 supports the scanning frame body 11 so that it can rotate with the rotation axis A2, which is orthogonal to the central axis A1 of the opening and passes through the side 11a. Hereinafter, this rotation axis A2 will be referred to as the upright pitch axis A2. For example, from the state where the scanning frame body 11 is fixed with the central axis A1 as the approximately vertical direction, the scanning frame body 11 rotates in the rotation direction r3 with the upright pitch axis A2 as the center. The scanning frame body 11 and the support column 13 can be connected via bearings or the like so that the scanning frame body 11 can rotate about the upright pitch axis A2.

[0143] The support column 13 houses a tilt drive 15 for rotating the scanner body 11 about the tilt axis A2. The tilt drive 15 generates power for the support column 13 to rotate the scanner body 11 about the tilt axis A2, under control from the scanner control circuit 25. The support column 13 receives power from the tilt drive 15, causing the scanner body 11 to rotate about the tilt axis A2. The tilt drive 15 is implemented, for example, by a motor such as a servo motor. Alternatively, the structure including the support column 13 and the tilt drive 15 can be referred to as a tilt drive unit. This structure is an example of a tilt drive unit.

[0144] Furthermore, when the movable container 7 is in an upright position 7b, the first support column 131 and the second support column 132 are arranged on a straight line approximately parallel to the long side direction (X-axis direction) of the platform 3. In this state, if the posture of the movable container 7 is changed from the upright position 7b to the folded position 7a, then as follows... Figure 9 As shown, the first support column 131 and the second support column 132 extend horizontally above or below the movable container 7, supporting the scanning frame body 11 so that it can move. Specifically, the first support column 131 is disposed in close contact with the fourth side 74 of the movable container 7. The second support column 132 is disposed in close contact with the third side 73 of the movable container 7.

[0145] In addition, such as Figure 9 As shown, when the movable container 7 is in a folded position 7a, it is not necessary to fix the scanning frame body 11 with the central axis A1 approximately horizontal. That is, the scanning frame 10 has a horizontal tilt support 16, which supports the scanning frame body 11 in a direction orthogonal to the central axis A1 and the direction through the side portion 11a when the movable container 7 is in a folded position 7a, allowing it to rotate about a rotation axis A3. Hereinafter, this rotation axis A3 will be referred to as the horizontal tilt axis A3. For example, the scanning frame body 11 rotates about the horizontal tilt axis A3 along the rotation direction r4 from a state where it is fixed with the central axis A1 approximately horizontal. The scanning frame body 11 and the horizontal tilt support 16 can be connected via bearings or the like so that the scanning frame body 11 can rotate about the horizontal tilt axis A3.

[0146] Here, Figure 10 This indicates the configuration of the movable container 7 when viewed from above (the third side, in the positive direction of the Z-axis) in its collapsed posture 7a. For example, as... Figure 10 As shown, the horizontal tilt support 16 supports the scanning frame body 11 for rotation on a side 11b different from the side 11a supported by the support column 13. Two horizontal tilt supports 16 are arranged opposite each other on the other two side 11b, separated by the scanning frame body 11, supporting the scanning frame body 11 for rotation. For example, at least one horizontal tilt support 16 is provided on a side parallel to the XZ plane among the six faces of the movable container 7, which is formed as a cuboid. Hereinafter, the side facing the positive direction of the Y-axis will be referred to as the fifth face 75, and the side facing the negative direction of the Y-axis will be referred to as the sixth face 76. Furthermore, the horizontal tilt support 16 can also be configured to move in conjunction with the scanning frame body 11 in a generally horizontal direction when the movable container 7 is in an upright position 7b and the scanning frame body 11 moves in a generally vertical direction. Furthermore, not limited to this, the supine tilt support portion 16 may also extend from the fourth surface 74 in a generally vertical direction to the other two side portions 11b mentioned above.

[0147] like Figure 10 As shown, the horizontal tilt support 16, for example, houses a horizontal tilt drive 17 for rotating the gantry body 11 about the horizontal tilt axis A3. The horizontal tilt drive 17 generates power for rotating the gantry body 11 about the horizontal tilt axis A3, according to control from the gantry control circuit 25. The horizontal tilt support 16 receives power from the horizontal tilt drive 17, causing the gantry body 11 to rotate about the horizontal tilt axis A3. The horizontal tilt drive 17 is implemented, for example, by a motor such as a servo motor. Alternatively, the structure including the horizontal tilt support 16 and the horizontal tilt drive 17 can be referred to as a horizontal tilt drive unit. This structure is an example of a horizontal tilt drive unit.

[0148] like Figure 7 As shown, the X-ray tube 18 generates X-rays by receiving a high voltage from a high-voltage generator 31. The high-voltage generator 31 is mounted, for example, on the rotating frame 21. The high-voltage generator 31 generates the high voltage applied to the X-ray tube 18 by power supplied from a power supply device (not shown) of the scanning frame body 11 via a ring electrode, under the control of the scanning frame control circuit 25. The high-voltage generator 31 is connected to the X-ray tube 18 via a high-voltage cable (not shown). The high voltage generated by the high-voltage generator 31 is applied to the X-ray tube 18 via the high-voltage cable.

[0149] X-ray detector 19 detects X-rays generated from X-ray tube 18 that have passed through the subject P. X-ray detector 19 is equipped with a plurality of X-ray detection elements (not shown) arranged in a two-dimensional curved surface. Each X-ray detection element detects the X-rays from X-ray tube 18 and converts them into an electrical signal having a peak value corresponding to the intensity of the detected X-rays. Each X-ray detection element includes, for example, a scintillator and a photoelectric conversion element. The scintillator receives X-rays and generates fluorescence. The photoelectric conversion element converts the generated fluorescence into a charge pulse. The charge pulse has a peak value corresponding to the intensity of the X-rays. Specifically, the photoelectric conversion element uses circuit elements that convert photons into electrical signals, such as photomultiplier tubes and photodiodes. Furthermore, the X-ray detector 19 of this embodiment is not limited to an indirect detection type detector that temporarily converts X-rays into fluorescence and then into an electrical signal; it can also be a direct detection type detector that directly converts X-rays into an electrical signal.

[0150] The rotating frame 21 receives power from the rotating drive device 23 and rotates around the central axis A1 at a certain angular velocity.

[0151] The rotation drive device 23 generates power for rotating the rotation stand 21 in accordance with control from the gantry control circuit 25. The rotation drive device 23 generates the power by being driven at a rotation speed corresponding to a duty ratio and the like of a drive signal from the gantry control circuit 25. The rotation drive device 23 is realized by, for example, a motor such as a direct drive motor or a servo motor. The rotation drive device 23 is housed in the gantry main body 11, for example.

[0152] The gantry control circuit 25 controls the column drive device 14, the upright tilt drive device 15, the recumbent tilt drive device 17, the rotation drive device 23, the high voltage generator 31, and the data collection circuit 33, the protective cover 37 in accordance with an instruction from the operation console 100. The gantry control circuit 25 has a processing device (processor) such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit) and a storage device (memory) such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or a RAM (Random Access Memory) as hardware resources. In addition, the gantry control circuit 25 can also be realized by an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), another CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device), or an SPLD (Simple Programmable Logic Device). The processing device realizes the above-described functions by reading out and implementing a program saved in the storage device. Alternatively, instead of saving the program in the storage device, the processing device can be configured to have the program directly incorporated in a circuit thereof. In this case, the processing device realizes the above-described functions by reading out and executing the program incorporated in the circuit.

[0153] The operation panel 29 is realized by a switch button, a touch panel that performs an input operation by a touch operation on a surface, a touch panel display that integrates a display screen and the touch panel, and the like. The operation panel 29 converts an input operation accepted from an operator into an electric signal and outputs it to the gantry control circuit 25. The operation panel 29 accepts, for example, a selection operation of selecting a sitting photographing mode of the subject P in a sitting position state or a standing photographing mode of the subject P in a standing position mode.

[0154] Data collection circuit 33 collects digital data representing the intensity of X-rays attenuated by the subject P for each view. Data collection circuit 33 is implemented, for example, by a semiconductor integrated circuit in which integrating circuits and A / D converters, respectively configured for multiple X-ray detection elements, are mounted in parallel. Data collection circuit 33 is connected to X-ray detector 19 within the gantry body 11. The integrating circuit integrates the electrical signal from the X-ray detection element during a specified view period, generating an integrated signal. The A / D converter performs A / D conversion on the generated integrated signal, generating digital data having a data value corresponding to the peak value of the integrated signal. The converted digital data is called raw data. Raw data is a set of digital values ​​of X-ray intensity identified by the channel number, column number, and view number representing the collected views of the X-ray detection element of the generating source. Raw data is supplied to the operating table 100, for example, via a non-contact data transmission device (not shown) housed in the gantry body 11.

[0155] The protective cover 37 prevents the subject P from contacting the scanning frame body 11. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the protective cover 37 is formed on the second surface 72 so as to be housed within the opening space O. The protective cover 37 has a wall member (not shown) and an opening / closing door (not shown) that allows the subject P to move between the outside and inside of the protective cover 37. The protective cover 37 is transparent so that the opening space O can be visually confirmed from the outside. For example, the wall member and the opening / closing door of the protective cover 37 are made of acrylic material or the like. The opening / closing door is opened and closed according to the control from the scanner control circuit 25. The opening / closing door is closed when taking pictures in an upright position. This prevents the subject P from being exposed from the opening space O and trapped between the scanner body 11 and the second surface. The protective cover 37 is detachably mounted and dismounted at the second surface 72, making it a removable structure.

[0156] A top plate 50 extends radially R from one part of the movable container 7 through opening 12 to another part of the movable container 7, supporting the object under inspection P. Specifically, as follows: Figure 9 As shown, the top plate 50 extends radially R from the first surface 71 through the opening 12 to the second surface 72 and supports the subject P. When the movable container 7 is in a collapsed position 7a, the top plate 50 extends horizontally and places the subject P, who is in a supine position, on the camera. Figure 9As shown, no structure such as a base or the like for supporting the top plate 50 is provided between the top plate 50 and the fourth face 74. Thus, when the movable container 7 is in the crouched attitude 7a, the gantry main body 11 can move in the substantially horizontal direction between the vicinity of the first face 71 and the vicinity of the second face 72 without being obstructed by the structure. Further, the movable container 7 can also be structured such that the top plate 50 is supported at the first face 71 and the second face 72 so as to be movable in the vertical direction to adjust the height of the top plate 50. Further, the first door is provided, for example, at the first face 71 at a position different from the position at which the first face 71 supports the top plate 50 so as to be movable in the vertical direction. In addition, the second door is provided, for example, at the second face 72 at a position different from the position at which the second face 72 supports the top plate 50 so as to be movable in the vertical direction. The structure in which the top plate 50 is supported so as to be movable in the vertical direction is not limited to this, and can be any structure as long as it is a structure that does not obstruct the opening and closing of the first door and the second door. Further, when the movable container 7 is in the standing attitude 7b, the top plate 50 is provided so as to extend in the substantially vertical direction, and supports the subject P in the standing state. As with when the movable container 7 is in the crouched attitude 7a, no structure is provided between the fourth face 74 and the top plate 50. Thus, the gantry main body 11 can move in the substantially vertical direction between the vicinity of the first face 71 and the vicinity of the second face 72 without being obstructed by the structure.

[0157] The console 100 is a computer that controls the gantry 10. As shown, the console 100 is housed in the stationary container 6. The console 100 has a processing circuit 101, a display 103, an input interface 105, and a storage 107. Data communication between the processing circuit 101, the display 103, the input interface 105, and the storage 107 is performed via a bus. Further, the console 100 can also be referred to as a CT console. Figure 7

[0158] The processing circuit 101 has a processor such as a CPU, an MPU, a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and a memory such as a ROM and a RAM as hardware resources. The processing circuit 101 realizes a preprocessing function 111, a reconstruction function 113, an image processing function 115, and a system control function 117 by executing various programs.

[0159] In the preprocessing function 111, the processing circuit 101 performs preprocessing such as log conversion on the raw data transmitted from the gantry 10. The raw data after the preprocessing is referred to as projection data.

[0160] ​In the reconstruction function 113, the processing circuit 101 generates a CT image that represents a spatial distribution of CT values associated with the subject P, based on the projection data generated by the pre-processing function 111. As an image reconstruction algorithm, a conventional image reconstruction algorithm such as an FBP (filtered back projection) method, an iterative reconstruction method, or the like can be used.

[0161] In the image processing function 115, the processing circuit 101 performs various image processing on the CT image reconstructed by the reconstruction function 113. For example, the processing circuit 101 generates a display image by performing three-dimensional image processing such as volume rendering, surface volume rendering, image value projection processing, MPR (Multi-Planer Reconstruction) processing, CPR (Curved MPR) processing, or the like on the CT image.

[0162] In the system control function 117, the processing circuit 101 controls the X-ray CT apparatus 9 of the present embodiment as a whole. Specifically, the processing circuit 101 reads out a control program stored in the storage 107, and controls each section of the X-ray CT apparatus 9 in accordance with the read-out control program.

[0163] Further, the pre-processing function 111, the reconstruction function 113, the image processing function 115, and the system control function 117 can be installed by the processing circuit 101 of one substrate, or can be installed by the processing circuits 101 of a plurality of substrates.

[0164] The display 103 displays various data such as a two-dimensional CT image, a display image, or the like. Specifically, the display 103 has a display interface circuit and a display device. The display interface circuit converts data representing a display object into a video signal. The video signal is supplied to the display device. The display device displays the video signal representing the display object. As the display device, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, an LED display, a plasma display, or any other display known in the technical field can be appropriately used.

[0165] The input interface 105 inputs various instructions from an operator. Specifically, the input interface 105 has an input device and an input interface circuit. The input device accepts various instructions from a user. As the input device, a keyboard, a mouse, various switches, or the like can be used. The input interface circuit supplies an output signal from the input device to the processing circuit 101 via a bus. The input interface 105, for example, accepts a selection operation that selects a seated position imaging mode of the subject P or a standing position imaging mode of the subject P in a standing position imaging mode of a subject P in a seated position state.

[0166] The memory 107 is a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), an integrated circuit storage device, or the like that stores various information. In addition, the memory 107 can also be a drive device or the like that reads and writes various information with a CD-ROM drive, a DVD drive, a flash memory, or the like. For example, the memory 107 stores data of a CT image, a display image. In addition, the memory 107 stores a control program or the like of the present embodiment.

[0167] Next, an example of the operation of the vehicle-mounted CT device 1 configured as described above will be described.

[0168] Initially, the fixed container 6 and the movable container 7 are disposed on the table 3. At this time, the posture of the movable container 7 is a lying posture 7a. The movable container 7 in the lying posture 7a is linked with the fixed container 6. The erecting and lowering frame 81 extends in a substantially horizontal direction. The radius cylinder 82 is linked with the holding frame 83 in a state of being elongated in a substantially horizontal direction. The erecting and lowering cylinder 85 is linked with the table 3 and the erecting and lowering frame 81 in a state of being contracted in a substantially horizontal direction. Here, the vehicle-mounted CT device 1 is mounted on the vehicle 2, and is transported to a transport destination by the travel of the vehicle 2. After the vehicle 2 reaches the transport destination, in a case where X-ray CT imaging of the subject P in a lying position state is performed, the X-ray CT imaging is performed while maintaining the lying posture 7a.

[0169] Next, the linkage of the fixed container 6 and the movable container 7 is released. Then, the drive section 8 generates a power for changing the posture of the movable container 7 from the lying posture 7a to a table erecting posture 7bx. The erecting and lowering cylinder 85 is elongated from the contracted state by the power. The erecting and lowering frame 81 is rotated with the table width direction w as the rotation axis Px from the state of extending in a substantially horizontal direction by being pressed by the elongated erecting and lowering cylinder 85, and is erected with respect to the table 3. At this time, the erecting and lowering frame 81 extends in a substantially vertical direction. In addition, the erecting and lowering cylinder 85 extends in the inclination direction D in the elongated state. By erecting the erecting and lowering frame 81, the posture of the movable container 7 is changed from the lying posture 7a to the table erecting posture 7bx. The holding frame 83 prevents the fall of the movable container 7 by holding the movable container 7 when the movable container 7 is in the table erecting posture 7bx.

[0170] After the posture of the movable container 7 is changed to the table upright posture 7bx, the change drive section 8 generates a power for changing the posture of the movable container 7 from the table upright posture 7bx to the ground upright posture 7by. The radius cylinder 82 receives the power from the change drive section 8, and contracts from the extended state. By causing the radius cylinder 82 to contract in the substantially vertical direction, the holder 83 descends in the substantially vertical direction. By the descent of the holder 83 in the substantially vertical direction, the movable container 7 held by the holder 83 descends in the substantially vertical direction. The movable container 7 descends in the substantially vertical direction until it stands with respect to the ground G. Thus, the posture of the movable container 7 is changed from the table upright posture 7bx to the ground upright posture 7by. Then, the X-ray CT device 9 performs X-ray CT imaging of the subject P in the standing position state.

[0171] After the X-ray CT imaging of the subject P in the standing position state is completed, the change drive section 8 generates a power for changing the posture of the movable container 7 from the ground upright posture 7by to the table upright posture 7bx. The radius cylinder 82 receives the power from the change drive section 8, and extends from the contracted state. By causing the radius cylinder 82 to extend in the substantially vertical direction, the holder 83 ascends in the substantially vertical direction. By the ascent of the holder 83 in the substantially vertical direction, the movable container 7 held by the holder 83 ascends in the substantially vertical direction. The movable container 7 ascends in the substantially vertical direction to the table upright posture 7bx in which it stands with respect to the table 3. Thus, the posture of the movable container 7 is changed from the ground upright posture 7by to the table upright posture 7bx.

[0172] After the posture of the movable container 7 is changed to the table upright posture 7bx, the change drive section 8 generates a power for changing the posture of the movable container 7 from the table upright posture 7bx to the ground upright posture 7by. The radius cylinder 82 receives the power from the change drive section 8, and contracts from the extended state. By causing the radius cylinder 82 to contract in the substantially vertical direction, the holder 83 descends in the substantially vertical direction. By the descent of the holder 83 in the substantially vertical direction, the movable container 7 held by the holder 83 descends in the substantially vertical direction. The movable container 7 descends in the substantially vertical direction until it stands with respect to the ground G. Thus, the posture of the movable container 7 is changed from the table upright posture 7bx to the ground upright posture 7by. Then, the X-ray CT device 9 performs X-ray CT imaging of the subject P in the standing position state.

[0173] As described above, according to the first embodiment, the vehicle-mounted CT apparatus 1 is provided with the movable container 7 (first container), the fixed container 6 (second container), and the change driving section 8. The movable container 7 accommodates the gantry 10 of the X-ray CT apparatus 9. The fixed container 6 accommodates the operation table 100 of the X-ray CT apparatus 9. The change driving section 8 changes the posture of the movable container 7 according to the photographing position of the subject P. In such a configuration, when the vehicle 2 travels to carry the vehicle-mounted CT apparatus 1 to a carrying destination, the movable container 7 is disposed on the platform 3 in a posture in which the distance in the vertical direction of the movable container 7 is smaller. The height of the vehicle 2 is the sum of the distance in the vertical direction from the ground G to the platform 3 and the distance in the vertical direction of the movable container 7. Since the distance in the vertical direction from the ground G to the platform 3 is constant, by disposing the movable container 7 on the platform 3 in this posture, the height of the vehicle 2 at the time of the above-described traveling can be suppressed. Further, at the carrying destination, the posture of the movable container 7 is changed from this posture to a posture in which X-ray CT photographing of the subject P in a standing position is possible. Thus, the height of the vehicle 2 carrying the standing CT during traveling can be suppressed.

[0174] As a supplement, in the case of a standing CT apparatus, since the subject P does not need to be brought to a lying position but starts X-ray CT photographing in a standing position, time is not spent on adjustment of the subject P, and mass screening is possible. In this way, the time until adjustment of the subject P is completed can be shortened, and thus, compared with an X-ray CT apparatus in which the subject P is brought to a lying position on a diagnosis bed and then X-ray CT photographing is started, it is possible to seek an increase in the examination throughput in mass screening. Further, the vehicle-mounted CT apparatus 1 is used not only in the case of mass screening but also in the case of performing examination in a disaster area due to an earthquake, in the case of a system failure of a hospital, and the like. In such a case, too, it is possible to seek an increase in the examination throughput.

[0175] Further, since a standing CT apparatus needs a height in terms of configuration, when the movable container 7 accommodates the standing CT apparatus, the posture of the movable container 7 becomes a posture in which the distance in the vertical direction of the movable container 7 is larger than the distance in the horizontal direction (Y-axis direction) of the movable container 7. Thus, if the movable container 7 in this posture is mounted on the vehicle 2 and travels, there is a concern that the height of the vehicle 2 during traveling will conflict with the height limit of the Road Traffic Act. In contrast, the vehicle-mounted CT apparatus 1 of the first embodiment is provided with a structure capable of changing the posture of the movable container 7 from this posture and suppressing the height of the vehicle 2 at the time of the above-described traveling, and thus it is possible to avoid conflict with the height limit of the Road Traffic Act.

[0176] In addition, if the movable container 7 is carried on the vehicle 2 in a state in which the distance in the vertical direction of the movable container 7 is greater than the distance in the horizontal direction (Y-axis direction) of the movable container 7, there is a concern that the weight balance of the vehicle 2 will deteriorate. In contrast, the vehicle-mounted CT device 1 of the first embodiment is capable of suppressing deterioration of the weight balance of the vehicle 2 by carrying the movable container 7 on the vehicle 2 in a state in which the distance in the vertical direction of the movable container 7 is smaller than the distance in the horizontal direction (Y-axis direction) of the movable container 7 by changing the posture.

[0177] In addition, according to the first embodiment, the change drive section 8 is provided to the platform 3 of the vehicle 2 on which the movable container 7 is arranged. The change drive section 8 includes an erecting and lowering frame 81, at least one holding frame 83, and an erecting and lowering cylinder 85. The erecting and lowering frame 81 extends from the rear end portion 3a of the platform 3 on the rear side of the vehicle 2 in the radial direction R orthogonal to the vehicle width direction w of the vehicle 2, and is provided so as to be able to be erected or laid down with respect to the platform 3 with the vehicle width direction w as the axis of rotation Px. The at least one holding frame 83 is connected to the erecting and lowering frame 81 so as to extend in a manner orthogonal to the vehicle width direction w and the radial direction R, and holds the movable container 7. The erecting and lowering cylinder 85 is connected so as to be able to extend and contract between the platform 3 and the erecting and lowering frame 81. The posture of the movable container 7 includes an erected posture 7b in which the movable container 7 is erected with respect to the platform 3, and a laid-down posture 7a in which the movable container 7 is laid down with respect to the platform 3. The change drive section 8 changes the posture of the movable container 7 to the erected posture 7b by causing the erecting and lowering cylinder 85 to extend and thereby causing the erecting and lowering frame 81 to be erected, and changes the posture of the movable container 7 to the laid-down posture 7a by causing the erecting and lowering cylinder 85 to contract and thereby causing the erecting and lowering frame 81 to be laid down. In this way, a structure is achieved in which the movable container 7 is caused to rotate by driving of the change drive section 8. Thus, in addition to the aforementioned effects, it is also possible to change the posture of the movable container 7 to the erected posture 7b or the laid-down posture 7a.

[0178] In addition, according to the first embodiment, the erecting and lowering frame 81 includes a radial cylinder 82 that is able to extend and contract in the radial direction R. The radial cylinder 82 moves the holding frame 83 in the radial direction R by extending and contracting in the radial direction R. Thus, in addition to the aforementioned effects, it is also possible to move the movable container 7 in the radial direction R.

[0179] In addition, according to the first embodiment, in a case in which the movable container 7 is in the erected posture 7b, the radial cylinder 82 causes the movable container 7 to rise or fall in the substantially vertical direction by extending and contracting in the radial direction R. The movable container 7 is caused to fall in the substantially vertical direction until it is erected with respect to the ground G. Thus, in addition to the aforementioned effects, it is also possible to change the posture of the movable container 7 to a posture in which the movable container 7 is erected with respect to the ground G.

[0180] Here, the movable container of the comparative example is described. For example, the movable container of the comparative example is arranged on a platform, and an X-ray CT apparatus that performs X-ray CT imaging of an object placed on a top plate is housed therein. When X-ray CT imaging is performed, the object needs to be moved from the ground to the movable container on the platform by a ramp, a step, or the like. Thus, the movable container of the comparative example is not arranged in an erected attitude on the ground, and thus time for the movement is required, and improvement of the examination throughput cannot be sought. In addition, when the movement is performed, the object needs to go up and down the ramp, the step, or the like, and thus the burden on the object is increased.

[0181] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 1, the movable container 7 of the first embodiment is arranged in an erected attitude on the ground G. Thus, time for the movement is not required, and improvement of the examination throughput can be sought. In addition, when the movement is performed, the object P does not need to go up and down the ramp, the step, or the like, and thus the burden on the object P can be reduced. Figure 5 In addition, according to the first embodiment, the movable container 7 in the fallen attitude 7a is detachably coupled to the fixed container 6. Thus, in addition to the aforementioned effects, by coupling the fixed container 6 and the movable container 7, an operator or the like can go and come between the fixed container 6 and the movable container 7 via the first door provided to the first surface 71. In addition, by decoupling the fixed container 6 and the movable container 7 in the fallen attitude 7a, even if the attitude of the movable container 7 is changed, the attitude of the fixed container 6 can be maintained, and thus the operator inside the fixed container 6 can continuously operate the console 100.

[0182] In addition, according to the first embodiment, the gantry 10 is provided with a gantry main body 11, at least one support column 13, and a support column drive device 14. The opening 12 that constitutes an imaging space of the object P is formed in the gantry main body 11. The at least one support column 13 supports the gantry main body 11 in a direction in which the center axis Al of the opening 12 is substantially parallel to the radial direction R at the side portion 11a of the gantry main body 11 so as to be movable in the radial direction R. The support column drive device 14 generates a driving force for moving the gantry main body 11 in the radial direction R. Thus, a structure in which the gantry main body 11 is movable in the radial direction R is obtained. According to this structure, in a case where the movable container 7 is in the erected attitude 7b, the gantry main body 11 is movable in a substantially vertical direction, and thus X-ray CT imaging of the object P in a standing state of an imaging position can be performed. In addition, in a case where the movable container 7 is in the fallen attitude 7a, the gantry main body 11 is movable in a substantially horizontal direction, and thus X-ray CT imaging of the object P in a lying state of the imaging position can be performed. Thus, in addition to the aforementioned effects, X-ray CT imaging of the object P can be performed in accordance with the imaging position.

[0183] In addition, according to the first embodiment, the gantry 10 is provided with a gantry main body 11, at least one support column 13, and a support column drive device 14. The opening 12 that constitutes an imaging space of the object P is formed in the gantry main body 11. The at least one support column 13 supports the gantry main body 11 in a direction in which the center axis Al of the opening 12 is substantially parallel to the radial direction R at the side portion 11a of the gantry main body 11 so as to be movable in the radial direction R. The support column drive device 14 generates a driving force for moving the gantry main body 11 in the radial direction R. Thus, a structure in which the gantry main body 11 is movable in the radial direction R is obtained. According to this structure, in a case where the movable container 7 is in the erected attitude 7b, the gantry main body 11 is movable in a substantially vertical direction, and thus X-ray CT imaging of the object P in a standing state of an imaging position can be performed. In addition, in a case where the movable container 7 is in the fallen attitude 7a, the gantry main body 11 is movable in a substantially horizontal direction, and thus X-ray CT imaging of the object P in a lying state of the imaging position can be performed. Thus, in addition to the aforementioned effects, X-ray CT imaging of the object P can be performed in accordance with the imaging position.

[0184] Further, according to the first embodiment, the gantry 10 is further provided with a supine-pitch driving section that, when the movable container 7 is in the lying-down attitude 7a, causes the gantry main body 11 to rotate with a direction orthogonal to the central axis Al and a direction passing through the side portion 11a of the gantry main body 11 as a rotation axis Px. Thus, in addition to the aforementioned effects, when performing X-ray CT imaging of the subject P in a supine position, the gantry main body 11 can be pitched.

[0185] Further, according to the first embodiment, the gantry 10 is further provided with a standing-pitch driving section that, when the movable container 7 is in the standing-up attitude 7b, causes the gantry main body 11 to rotate with a direction orthogonal to the central axis Al of the opening 12 and a direction passing through the side portion 11a of the gantry main body 11 as a rotation axis Px. Thus, in addition to the aforementioned effects, when performing X-ray CT imaging of the subject P in a standing position, the gantry main body 11 can be pitched.

[0186] Further, according to the first embodiment, the gantry 10 is further provided with a standing-pitch driving section that, when the movable container 7 is in the standing-up attitude 7b, causes the gantry main body 11 to rotate with a direction orthogonal to the central axis Al of the opening 12 and a direction passing through the side portion 11a of the gantry main body 11 as a rotation axis Px. Thus, in addition to the aforementioned effects, when performing X-ray CT imaging of the subject P in a standing position, the gantry main body 11 can be pitched.

[0187] Further, according to the first embodiment, the gantry 10 is further provided with a standing-pitch driving section that, when the movable container 7 is in the standing-up attitude 7b, causes the gantry main body 11 to rotate with a direction orthogonal to the central axis Al of the opening 12 and a direction passing through the side portion 11a of the gantry main body 11 as a rotation axis Px. Thus, in addition to the aforementioned effects, when performing X-ray CT imaging of the subject P in a standing position, the gantry main body 11 can be pitched.

[0188] The first embodiment can also be modified as follows. Further, each modification example can be combined with each other, or with the following embodiments.

[0189] (Modification of the first embodiment)

[0190] According to the first embodiment, the movable container 7 is lowered in the substantially vertical direction by extending and contracting the radius cylinder 82 after the attitude of the movable container 7 is changed to the stand-up attitude 7bx by making the stand-up and down frame 81 stand up, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the movable container 7 in the laid-down attitude 7a can be moved in the substantially horizontal direction to the rear side of the vehicle 2 after the radius cylinder 82 is extended and contracted, and the attitude of the movable container 7 is changed to the stand-up attitude 7b by making the stand-up and down frame 81 stand up.

[0191] Hereinafter, the case where the movable container 7 is moved to the rear side of the vehicle 2 will be described. Figure 11 An example of the operation of the vehicle-mounted CT device 1 in this case will be described.

[0192] First, as with the foregoing, the connection of the fixed container 6 and the movable container 7 in the laid-down attitude 7a is released. Then, the change drive section 8 generates a power for moving the movable container 7 from the laid-down attitude 7a to the rear side of the vehicle 2. The radius cylinder 82 receives this power from the change drive section 8 and contracts from the extended state. By contracting the radius cylinder 82 in the substantially horizontal direction, the holding frame 83 moves in the substantially horizontal direction to the rear side of the vehicle 2. By the substantially horizontal movement of the holding frame 83, the movable container 7 held to the holding frame 83 moves in the substantially horizontal direction to the rear side of the vehicle 2. At this time, the movable container 7 protrudes from the rear end portion 3a of the stand 3. In this protruded state, the change drive section 8 generates a power for changing the attitude of the movable container 7 from the attitude after the movement in the substantially horizontal direction to the stand-up attitude 7b, as with the foregoing. Thereby, the stand-up and down frame 81 stands up and extends in the substantially vertical direction. At this time, in the case where the movable container 7 has not stood up with respect to the ground G, the change drive section 8 generates a power for lowering the movable container 7 in the substantially vertical direction. The radius cylinder 82 receives this power from the change drive section 8 and contracts from the extended state, as with the foregoing. Thereby, the attitude of the movable container 7 is changed to the ground stand-up attitude 7by, and the subject P in the standing state is subjected to X-ray CT imaging.

[0193] Alternatively, the movable container 7 in its collapsed position 7a can be moved approximately horizontally towards the rear of the vehicle 2, so that the protrusion distance h1 between the second surface 72 and the rear end 3a of the platform 3 and the distance h2 between the ground G and the platform 3 (the height of the platform 3) become approximately the same. By raising the erecting and lowering frame 81 in this state, the movable container 7 is in an upright position relative to the ground G, thus the process of lowering the movable container 7 in an approximately vertical direction is omitted after it is raised. Furthermore, if the erecting and lowering frame 81 is raised with a protrusion distance h1 greater than the height h2 of the platform 3, the movable container 7 collides with the ground G before it reaches the ground-standing upright position 7by, making it impossible to change the movable container 7 to the ground-standing upright position 7by. Therefore, the erecting and lowering frame 81 needs to be raised when the protrusion distance h1 is less than or equal to the height h2 of the platform 3.

[0194] According to this modified example, the movable container 7 is moved to the rear side of the vehicle 2 before the erecting and folding frame 81 is erected. Therefore, by moving the movable container 7 to the rear side of the vehicle 2, the distance between the center of gravity of the movable container 7 and the rotation axis Px can be reduced, thereby improving the stability of the movable container 7 when its posture changes.

[0195] (Second Implementation)

[0196] The second embodiment is a variation of the first embodiment, and is related to changing the structure of the drive unit 8.

[0197] like Figures 12 to 14 As shown, the change-drive unit 8 of the vehicle-mounted CT device 1 in the second embodiment includes an erect-and-tildown frame 81 and an erect-and-tildown cylinder 85. The change-drive unit 8 is similarly provided on the platform 3 of the vehicle 2 as described above. Furthermore, the change-drive unit 8 may also have a structure including a radius cylinder 82 and a retainer 83. As described above, the change-drive unit 8 erects the erect-and-tildown frame 81 by extending the erect-and-tildown cylinder 85, thereby changing the posture of the movable container 7 to an erect posture 7b. Additionally, the change-drive unit 8 lowers the erect-and-tildown frame 81 by retracting the erect-and-tildown cylinder 85, thereby changing the posture of the movable container 7 to a folded posture 7a.

[0198] In addition to the aforementioned structure, the erecting and folding frame 81 also supports the movable container 7 so that it can slide along the radial direction R. For example... Figure 13As shown, in a case where the movable container 7 is in the standing-up posture 7b, the standing-up and laying-down frame 81 supports the movable container 7 so as to be slidable in the substantially vertical direction. The standing-up and laying-down frame 81 is raised or lowered in the substantially vertical direction by this sliding. Specifically, in a case where the posture of the movable container 7 is the table standing-up posture 7bx with respect to the table 3, the standing-up and laying-down frame 81 lowers the movable container 7 in the substantially vertical direction until the posture of the movable container 7 becomes the ground standing-up posture 7by with respect to the ground G. In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, in a case where the posture of the movable container 7 is the ground standing-up posture 7by, the standing-up and laying-down frame 81 raises the movable container 7 in the substantially vertical direction until the posture of the movable container 7 becomes the table standing-up posture 7bx. Figure 14 As shown, in a case where the posture of the movable container 7 is the ground standing-up posture 7by, the standing-up and laying-down frame 81 raises the movable container 7 in the substantially vertical direction until the posture of the movable container 7 becomes the table standing-up posture 7bx.

[0199] As shown, in a case where the posture of the movable container 7 is the ground standing-up posture 7by, the standing-up and laying-down frame 81 raises the movable container 7 in the substantially vertical direction until the posture of the movable container 7 becomes the table standing-up posture 7bx. Figure 14 As shown, in a case where the posture of the movable container 7 is the ground standing-up posture 7by, the standing-up and laying-down frame 81 raises the movable container 7 in the substantially vertical direction until the posture of the movable container 7 becomes the table standing-up posture 7bx.

[0200] The other structures are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0201] Next, an example of the operation of the vehicle-mounted CT device 1 configured as described above will be described.

[0202] Initially, the standing-up and laying-down frame 81 supports the movable container 7 in the fallen posture 7a. In this state, as with the foregoing, by causing the standing-up and laying-down frame 81 to stand up, the posture of the movable container 7 is changed from the fallen posture 7a to the table standing-up posture 7bx. After the posture of the movable container 7 is changed to the table standing-up posture 7bx, the change drive section 8 generates a power for causing the movable container 7 to slide in the substantially vertical direction and to be lowered. The standing-up and laying-down frame 81 receives this power from the change drive section 8, and lowers the movable container 7 in the substantially vertical direction until the posture of the movable container 7 is changed from the table standing-up posture 7bx to the ground standing-up posture 7by. The movable container 7 is lowered in the substantially vertical direction until it stands up with respect to the ground G. Thus, the movable container 7 is set up on the ground G. Then, the X-ray CT device 9 performs X-ray CT imaging of the subject P in a standing position.

[0203] After the X-ray CT imaging of the subject P in the standing state is completed, the change driving section 8 generates a power for sliding the movable container 7 in the substantially vertical direction to be raised. The standing and falling frame 81 receives the power from the change driving section 8, raises the movable container 7 in the substantially vertical direction until the posture of the movable container 7 is changed from the ground standing posture 7by to the table standing posture 7bx. The movable container 7 is raised in the substantially vertical direction until it becomes the table standing posture 7bx. After the posture of the movable container 7 is changed to the table standing posture 7bx, as described above, by causing the standing and falling frame 81 to fall, the posture of the movable container 7 is changed from the table standing posture 7bx to the fallen posture 7a.

[0204] As described above, according to the second embodiment, the change driving section 8 includes the standing and falling frame 81 and the standing and falling cylinder 85. The standing and falling frame 81 extends from the rear end portion 3a of the table 3 on the rear side of the vehicle 2 in the radial direction R orthogonal to the vehicle width direction w. The standing and falling frame 81 supports the movable container 7 (the first container) so as to be slidable in the radial direction R, and is provided at the rear end portion 3a so as to be able to be raised or fallen with respect to the table 3 with the vehicle width direction w as the rotation axis Px. The standing and falling cylinder 85 is linked between the table 3 and the standing and falling frame 81 so as to be able to be extended or contracted. The posture of the movable container 7 includes the standing posture 7b in which the movable container 7 is raised with respect to the table 3 and the fallen posture 7a in which the movable container 7 is fallen with respect to the table 3. The change driving section 8 changes the posture of the movable container 7 to the standing posture 7b by causing the standing and falling cylinder 85 to be extended so as to raise the standing and falling frame 81, and changes the posture of the movable container 7 to the fallen posture 7a by causing the standing and falling cylinder 85 to be contracted so as to fall the standing and falling frame 81. In such a configuration, the posture of the movable container 7 can be changed to the standing posture 7b or the fallen posture 7a as in the first embodiment.

[0205] In addition, according to the second embodiment, in a case where the movable container 7 is in the standing posture 7b, the standing and falling frame 81 is raised or lowered in the substantially vertical direction by causing the movable container 7 to slide in the radial direction R. The movable container 7 is lowered to be raised with respect to the ground G. In such a configuration, the posture of the movable container 7 can be changed to a posture in which the movable container 7 is raised with respect to the ground G as in the first embodiment.

[0206] (Modified example of the second embodiment)

[0207] The second embodiment can be modified as follows. In addition, each modified example can be combined with each other, and can be combined with each of the following embodiments.

[0208] According to the second embodiment, the movable container 7 is configured to be raised in the substantially vertical direction after the raising and lowering frame 81 is raised, but is not limited thereto. For example, the movable container 7 can be configured to be raised with respect to the ground G after being slid to the rear side of the vehicle 2 by the raising and lowering frame 81 while being in the fallen posture 7a.

[0209] Next, an example of the operation of the vehicle-mounted CT device 1 in this case will be described.

[0210] Initially, the raising and lowering frame 81 supports the movable container 7 in the fallen posture 7a, as in the foregoing. In this state, the change driving unit 8 generates a driving force for sliding the movable container 7 to the rear side of the vehicle 2. The raising and lowering frame 81 receives the driving force from the change driving unit 8 and slides the movable container 7 in the fallen posture 7a to the rear side of the vehicle 2 in the substantially horizontal direction. At this time, as in the modification example of the first embodiment, the movable container 7 protrudes from the rear end portion 3a of the platform 3. In this protruding state, the change driving unit 8 generates a driving force for extending the raising and lowering cylinder 85. Thus, as in the modification example of the first embodiment, the raising and lowering frame 81 is raised and extends in the substantially vertical direction. At this time, in the case where the movable container 7 has not been raised with respect to the ground G, the change driving unit 8 generates a driving force for lowering the movable container 7 in the substantially vertical direction. The raising and lowering frame 81 receives the driving force from the change driving unit 8 and lowers the movable container 7 in the substantially vertical direction until it is raised with respect to the ground G. The posture of the movable container 7 is changed to the ground-raised posture 7by, and the subject P in the standing state is subjected to X-ray CT imaging.

[0211] Further, as in the modification example of the first embodiment, the movable container 7 in the fallen posture 7a can be slid to the rear side of the vehicle 2 in the substantially horizontal direction so that the protruding distance h1 of the second face 72 from the rear end portion 3a of the platform 3 and the height h2 of the platform 3 become substantially the same distance. In this modification example, it is also necessary to raise the raising and lowering frame 81 in a state where the protruding distance h1 is smaller than the height h2 of the platform 3.

[0212] In such a modification example, as in the modification example of the first embodiment, it is also possible to reduce the distance between the center of gravity of the movable container 7 and the rotation axis Px, and thus it is possible to seek an improvement in stability at the time of changing the posture of the movable container 7.

[0213] (Third Embodiment)

[0214] The third embodiment is a specific example of the first and second embodiments, and will be described as follows. Figures 15 to 18As shown, the third embodiment relates to the various peripheral structures of the scanning frame 10 inside the movable container 7 in the upright position 7b. Furthermore, Figure 15 This represents the basic surrounding structure. Figures 16 to 18 These represent variations of the surrounding structure.

[0215] The vehicle-mounted CT device 1 in the third embodiment, in addition to Figure 7 In addition to the structure shown, such as Figures 16 to 18 As shown in any one of them, it also includes a column 60, a platform 65, and a camera 63.

[0216] In addition to the aforementioned structure, the top plate 50 is also designed for easy assembly and disassembly. For example... Figure 15 As shown, by removing the top plate 50, the space O inside the opening is left unconstructed.

[0217] Column 60 extends from a portion of movable container 7 through opening 12 along the radial direction R ( Figure 16 The column 60 is detachably mounted and extends (in the Z direction) to assist the subject P in an upright position during imaging. Specifically, for example, when the movable container 7 is in an upright position 7b, the column 60 is a generally cylindrical rod-shaped member extending from the second surface 72 to the first surface 71 in a generally vertical direction within the opening space O. However, it is not limited to this; the column 60 may extend from the second surface 72 to a height that allows the subject P to grasp it. Furthermore, the column 60 may also be referred to as an auxiliary part. The column 60 is an example of an auxiliary part.

[0218] For example, such as Figure 16 As shown, the two columns 60 are positioned within the space O of the opening, closer to the fifth surface 75 than the center of the opening 12. Each column is held by the right or left hand of the subject P, who is in an upright position. In this way, the columns 60 assist the upright subject P. Furthermore, this is not a limitation; the columns 60 can be placed at any position and in any number, depending on the location of the X-ray CT scan, as long as they are within the area through which the opening 12 passes.

[0219] Typically, the column 60 is set by the operator with the top plate 50 removed. In this case, the column 60 is secured, for example, by inserting it into a recess (not shown) for securing the column 60. The recess is formed, for example, on the second surface 72 of the movable container 7 in a generally cylindrical shape with a radius approximately the same as that of the column 60. Furthermore, not limited to this, for example, a threaded hole may be provided on the second surface 72, by which the column 60 is secured.

[0220] Column 60 may be formed of, for example, carbon material. However, it is not limited to this; the material of column 60 may be any material that allows X-rays to pass through without producing adverse effects such as metal artifacts.

[0221] The camera 63 is provided inside the movable container 7 to take an image of the subject P located at the opening 12. For example, as shown in Figure 17 FIG. 6, the camera 63 is disposed between the scan gantry main body 11 and the first face 71. Further, the camera 63 can be disposed inside the scan gantry main body 11, not limited to this. The camera 63 can be disposed at any position where the subject P located at the opening 12 can be taken without interfering with the progress of the examination. In any case, the camera 63 outputs a camera image of the subject P to the console 100 based on the taken image. The console 100 displays the camera image of the subject P on the display 103 based on the taken image. The operator gives a guide instruction for moving the subject P located at the opening 12 to a predetermined X-ray CT imaging position when the movable container 7 is in the standing-up attitude 7b based on the displayed camera image. The guide instruction is given by voice to a microphone (not shown) provided inside the fixed container 6. The microphone collects the voice and transmits a voice signal representing the guide instruction to a speaker (not shown) provided inside the movable container 7. The speaker outputs the transmitted voice signal as a voice representing the guide instruction to the inside of the movable container 7. The subject P located inside the movable container 7 moves to the predetermined X-ray CT imaging position based on the voice representing the guide instruction output from the speaker.

[0222] The placement table 65 is provided inside the area through which the opening 12 passes when the scan gantry main body 11 is moved in the radial direction R and extends in the radial direction R from the second face 72 when the movable container 7 is in the standing-up attitude 7b to load the subject P. Specifically, for example, as shown in Figure 18 FIG. 7, the placement table 65 extends in the substantially vertical direction from the second face 72 in the opening inner space O when the movable container 7 is in the standing-up attitude 7b to load the subject P in the standing position.

[0223] The placement table 65 is provided inside the protection cover 37 having a substantially cylindrical shape, for example, as shown in Figure 18 FIG. 8. The placement table 65 has a substantially cylindrical shape to be accommodated inside the protection cover 37. When the movable container 7 is in the standing-up attitude 7b, the placement table 65 is configured to be able to pass through the column 60 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the bottom face of the placement table 65 when the column 60 and the placement table 65 are configured to be provided at the same time. Further, not limited to this, the placement table 65 can be provided in a state where the top plate 50 and the protection cover 37 are detached, for example.

[0224] The placement table 65 is provided in a detachable manner. As shown in Figure 15As shown, by detaching the ceiling 50 and the placement table 65, the state where there is no structure in the opening inner space O is made. On the placement table 65, for example, a fixing member that extends from the bottom surface of the second surface 72 side of the placement table 65 to a direction substantially perpendicular to the bottom surface and is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape having a radius substantially the same as the radius of the column 60 can be connected. By inserting this fixing member into the recess, the placement table 65 is fixed to the second surface 72.

[0225] Even in the case where the movable container 7 is in the fallen posture 7a, the placement table 65 can be fixed to the second surface 72. In this case, the placement table 65 can be, for example, a mechanism that supports the ceiling 50. Further, in the case where the movable container 7 is in the fallen posture 7a, the placement table 65 can be detached. In addition, the placement table 65 can be referred to as a footboard.

[0226] The other structures are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0227] As described above, according to the third embodiment, the ceiling 50 is detachably provided. According to such a structure, by detaching the ceiling 50 from the opening inner space O, the opening inner space O becomes a state where no structure is provided. Thus, in this state, the wheelchair can be moved to the opening inner space O, and thus, in addition to the effects of the first and second embodiments, X-ray CT imaging of the subject P who is seated on the wheelchair in a seated posture can be performed.

[0228] In addition, according to the third embodiment, an assisting portion that extends in the radial direction R from a portion of the movable container 7 (the first container) through the opening 12 and is detachably provided to assist the subject P in a standing posture is further provided. In this way, the assisting portion that can be held by the subject P in a standing posture to assist the subject P when the posture of the movable container 7 is the upright posture 7b is further provided, and by this structure, in addition to the aforementioned effects, the imaging posture for appropriately performing X-ray CT imaging can be maintained.

[0229] Further, in the case where the posture of the movable container 7 is the upright posture 7b and the ceiling 50 that supports the subject P is provided in order to maintain the imaging posture for appropriately performing X-ray CT imaging, the subject P leans against the ceiling 50. In this case, due to the body pressure of the subject P on the ceiling 50, the position of the ceiling 50 is worried to be shifted, and the imaging posture cannot be maintained. In contrast to this, according to the third embodiment, the ceiling 50 is detachable, and by providing the structure of the column 60 that is held by the subject P instead of the ceiling 50, the imaging posture for more appropriately performing X-ray CT imaging can be maintained. In addition, even in the structure where the column 60 is provided, the burden on the subject P can be reduced.

[0230] Further, according to the third embodiment, the vehicle-mounted CT device 1 further includes a camera 63 provided inside the movable container 7 to take an image of the subject P located at the opening 12. Thus, even if the movable container 7 is erected and away from the fixed container 6, it is possible to deliver a guide instruction for moving the subject P to a prescribed X-ray CT imaging position to the subject P, and thus it is possible to further improve the examination throughput in addition to the aforementioned effects.

[0231] Further, according to the third embodiment, the side surface of the movable container 7 is a second surface 72 (rear surface) located at the rear side of the vehicle 2 in the crouched attitude 7a, which is orthogonal to the central axis Al of the opening 12. The vehicle-mounted CT device 1 further includes a table 65 that is provided to extend from the second surface 72 in the radial direction R inside the area through which the opening 12 passes when the gantry main body 11 is moved in the radial direction R, and on which the subject P is placed in the case where the movable container 7 is in the erected attitude 7b. For example, in the case where the subject P is erected on the second surface 72 and maintained in a standing state, the feet of the subject P are located on the second surface 72. In contrast, in the case where the subject P is maintained in a standing state on the table 65, the feet of the subject P are located on the table 65, and thus are located at a higher place than the second surface 72. Thus, by the configuration including the table 65, even in the case where the subject P in a standing state is subjected to X-ray CT imaging, it is possible to perform the X-ray CT imaging to the tips of the feet of the subject P.

[0232] As a supplement, the X-ray tube 18 and the X-ray detector 19 are disposed inside the gantry main body 11. Here, the X-ray tube 18 and the X-ray detector 19 are not necessarily disposed on the second surface 72 side. Depending on the position at which the X-ray tube 18 and the X-ray detector 19 are disposed, when the gantry main body 11 is lowered to the limit near the second surface while the movable container 7 is in the erected attitude 7b, it sometimes floats from the second surface in the height direction. Thus, even if this lowering is performed, that is, it is possible to take an image of the subject P up to the knees, it is sometimes not possible to perform the X-ray CT imaging to the tips of the feet of the subject P. In contrast, according to the third embodiment, by placing the subject P on the table 65, it is possible to set the positional relationship such that the position of the tips of the feet of the subject P becomes a position higher than the position at which the X-ray tube 18 and the X-ray detector 19 are disposed when this lowering is performed. Thus, it is possible to perform the X-ray CT imaging of the subject P to the tips of the feet of the subject P.

[0233] Furthermore, according to the third embodiment, the stage 65 is detachably mounted and dismounted. Therefore, in addition to the aforementioned effects, it is possible to select whether to mount the stage 65 on the second surface 72 based on the imaging location, the size of the subject P, etc. As a supplement, multiple stages 65 of different heights are prepared in advance during the examination. Thus, it is possible to select a stage 65 of appropriate height from among the multiple stages 65 of different heights based on the imaging location of the X-ray CT scan, the size of the subject P, etc.

[0234] (A variation of the third embodiment)

[0235] The third embodiment can also be modified as follows. In addition, the various modifications can be combined with each other or with the embodiments described below.

[0236] According to the third embodiment, the two posts 60 are configured to be held by the subject P, thereby assisting the subject P in a standing position during the imaging process, but are not limited to this. For example, the posts 60 can also assist the subject P in a standing position by supporting the front (chest) or back (back) of the subject P. Specifically, for example, as Figure 19 As shown, the two columns 60 can also extend from the second surface 72 in a generally vertical direction to assist the subject P. This allows X-ray CT imaging to be performed with the subject P resting against the columns 60, thus maintaining the correct imaging position even in this modified example. Furthermore, even with the structure using columns 60 to support the subject P, the burden on the subject P can be reduced.

[0237] Furthermore, according to the third embodiment, the two columns 60 assist the subject P in an upright position during imaging when the movable container 7 is in an upright posture 7b, but are not limited to this. For example, the two columns 60 can also support the top plate 50 on which the subject P is placed when the movable container 7 is in a folded posture 7a. Specifically, when the movable container 7 is in an upright posture 7b, the two columns 60 extend from the second surface 72 toward the first surface 71 in a generally vertical direction. In this state, if the posture of the movable container 7 is changed from the upright posture 7b to the folded posture 7a, the two columns 60 extend from the second surface 72 toward the first surface 71 in a generally horizontal direction. At this time, as Figure 20 As shown, two columns 60 support the top plate 50. Therefore, according to this modified example, the top plate 50 can be installed in the opening space O without fixing it to the side of the movable container 7.

[0238] In addition, according to the third embodiment, the vehicle-mounted CT device 1 is configured to include an auxiliary unit that extends from a part of the movable container 7 through the opening 12 in the radial direction R and is detachably provided, and assists the subject P in a standing position, but is not limited thereto. For example, the vehicle-mounted CT device 1 may also be configured to further include a ladder (Japanese: 雲梯) 61 (holding portion) provided inside the area through which the opening 12 passes when the gantry main body 11 moves in the radial direction R and at a position where it can be held by the subject P in a standing position at the opening 12. Specifically, for example, the ladder 61 is fixed to the first surface 71 and is held by the subject P in a standing position as shown in Figure 21 . The ladder 61 is formed of, for example, two support portions and a holding portion and is formed in a substantially U shape. The two support portions are fixed by connecting their base ends to the first surface 71 and extend downward from the base ends in a substantially vertical direction. The holding portion is connected to the front ends of the two support portions and is formed in a substantially horizontal direction. Thus, in this case, the imaging position for appropriately performing X-ray CT imaging can also be maintained. In this way, even in a structure having the ladder 61 instead of the column 60, the burden on the subject P can be reduced. In addition, the ladder 61 may also be referred to as a holding portion. The ladder 61 is an example of a holding portion.

[0239] In addition, the holding portion is not limited to the ladder 61 and may be two rings 62. Specifically, for example, the two rings 62 are fixed to the first surface 71 via a rod-shaped member not shown and are held by the subject P in a standing position as shown in Figure 22 . In addition, it is not limited thereto. For example, the two rings 62 may also be formed in a substantially U shape similar to the ladder 61. In short, according to the structure having the rings 62, the imaging position for appropriately performing X-ray CT imaging can be maintained. In addition, in this way, even in a structure having the two rings 62 instead of the ladder 61, the burden on the subject P can be reduced.

[0240] In addition, according to the third embodiment, a mounting table 65 is configured to extend from the second surface 72 in the radial direction R and mount the subject P when the movable container 7 is in the upright posture 7b, but is not limited thereto. For example, the mounting table 65 may also be a structure that further includes a mounting table drive unit that moves the mounting table 65 in the radial direction R. For example, as shown in Figure 23As shown, the table driving section includes a table driving device (not shown), a hydraulic cylinder 66, and a housing section (not shown). The table driving device generates a power for moving the table 65 in the radial direction R. The hydraulic cylinder 66 supports the table 65 so as to be movable in the radial direction, by receiving the power. The housing section is formed so as to house the table 65 and the hydraulic cylinder 66 at the second face 72. The hydraulic cylinder 66 is flexibly connected between a bottom face of the housing section and a bottom face of the second face 72 side of the table 65. The hydraulic cylinder 66 moves the table 65 in the substantially vertical direction by elongation, in a case where the movable container 7 is in the standing attitude 7b. The table 65 is raised in the substantially vertical direction by the elongation of the hydraulic cylinder 66. In addition, the hydraulic cylinder 66 lowers the table 65 in the substantially vertical direction by contraction. The table 65 is lowered by the contraction of the hydraulic cylinder 66, until the table upper face 651 of the table 65, which is a side of the first face 71 side of the table 65, and the second face 72 are on substantially the same plane. At this time, the table 65, the table driving device, and the hydraulic cylinder 66 are housed in the housing section. Typically, the table 65 is housed in this way in a case where the table 65 is in the fallen attitude 7a. In this way, in a case where the X-ray CT imaging of the subject P in the standing state is performed, by the structure in which the table 65 is raised and lowered in the substantially vertical direction by the table driving section, the height of the table 65 can be adjusted according to the imaging site of the X-ray CT imaging, the body size of the subject P, and the like. In addition, by the structure in which the table 65 is raised in the substantially vertical direction from the position where the table upper face 651 and the second face 72 are on substantially the same plane, and the table 65 is lowered in the substantially vertical direction to this position, the subject P does not need to be raised and lowered with respect to the table 65, and the burden on the subject P can be reduced.

[0241] In addition, according to the third embodiment, the table 65 is housed inside the protective cover 37, but is not limited thereto. For example, the protective cover 37 can be provided so as to be supported by the table 65. Specifically, for example, the table 65 is configured to be raised and lowered by the table driving section. As shown in FIG. 6, the protective cover 37 is provided so as to be supported by the table upper face 651. For example, in the third embodiment, since the table 65 is raised inside the protective cover 37 supported by the second face 72, the distance between the upper end of the protective cover 37 and the table upper face 651 becomes small. Therefore, in the third embodiment, when the gantry main body 11 is moved, the subject P inside the opening inner space O is concerned to come into contact with the gantry main body 11. In contrast, according to the present modification example, the table 65 is raised in a state where the protective cover 37 is supported by the table upper face 651, and therefore the distance is constant. Therefore, in the present modification example, when the gantry main body 11 is moved, the contact of the subject P with the gantry main body 11 can be avoided. Thus, the safety of the protective cover 37 can be maintained when the table 65 is raised. Figure 23 As shown, the protective cover 37 is provided so as to be supported by the table upper face 651. For example, in the third embodiment, since the table 65 is raised inside the protective cover 37 supported by the second face 72, the distance between the upper end of the protective cover 37 and the table upper face 651 becomes small. Therefore, in the third embodiment, when the gantry main body 11 is moved, the subject P inside the opening inner space O is concerned to come into contact with the gantry main body 11. In contrast, according to the present modification example, the table 65 is raised in a state where the protective cover 37 is supported by the table upper face 651, and therefore the distance is constant. Therefore, in the present modification example, when the gantry main body 11 is moved, the contact of the subject P with the gantry main body 11 can be avoided. Thus, the safety of the protective cover 37 can be maintained when the table 65 is raised.

[0242] According to at least one embodiment of the above description, it is possible to suppress the height of a vehicle on which the standing CT is mounted during traveling.

[0243] The term "processor" used in the above description refers to, for example, a CPU, a GPU, or a circuit such as an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Programmable Logic Device (PLD) such as a Simple Programmable Logic Device (SPLD), a Complex Programmable Logic Device (CPLD), and a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), and the like. In the case where the processor is a CPU, the processor realizes the function by reading out and executing a program stored in a memory. On the other hand, in the case where the processor is an ASIC, instead of storing a program in a memory, the function is directly incorporated into the circuit of the processor. Furthermore, each processor of the present embodiment is not limited to the case where each processor is configured as a single circuit, but a plurality of independent circuits can be combined to configure one processor, and realize the function thereof. Also, a plurality of constituent elements in the above description can be integrated into one processor to realize the function thereof. Figure 7

[0244] In addition, in the apparatus, there are various types such as a Rotate / Rotate-Type (fourth-generation CT) in which an X-ray tube and an X-ray detector are integrally rotated around an object, a Stationary / Rotate-Type (fourth-generation CT) in which a plurality of X-ray detection elements arranged in a ring shape are fixed and only an X-ray tube is rotated around an object, and the like, and any of the types can be applied to each embodiment. In addition, each embodiment can be applied to an apparatus of a single-tube spherical type, and can be applied to an apparatus of a so-called multi-tube spherical type in which a plurality of pairs of X-ray tubes and detectors are mounted on a rotating ring. In addition, each embodiment can be applied to an apparatus that can scan an object in both a standing position and a lying position according to a scan mode.

[0245] Several embodiments have been described, but these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, combinations of embodiments with each other can be made within the scope of the invention without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and equivalents thereof recited in the claims.​

Claims

1. A vehicle-mounted CT apparatus characterized by comprising: Possessing: a first container that houses a gantry of an X-ray CT device; a second container that houses an operation table of the X-ray CT device; and a change driving section that changes a posture of the first container according to a photographing position of an object.

2. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 1, wherein the change driving section is provided to a carrier of a vehicle on which the first container is arranged, and includes: a standing and falling frame that extends from a rear end portion of the carrier on a rear side of the vehicle in a radial direction orthogonal to a vehicle width direction of the vehicle, and is provided to be able to stand up or fall down with respect to the carrier with the vehicle width direction as a rotation axis; at least one holding frame that is linked to the standing and falling frame, extends orthogonally to the vehicle width direction and the radial direction, and holds the first container; and a standing and falling cylinder that is linked to the carrier and the standing and falling frame in a telescopic manner, wherein the posture includes a standing posture in which the standing and falling frame is standing up, and a falling posture in which the standing and falling frame is falling down, and the change driving section changes the posture to the standing posture by elongating the standing and falling cylinder to make the standing and falling frame stand up, and changes the posture to the falling posture by contracting the standing and falling cylinder to make the standing and falling frame fall down.

3. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 2, wherein the standing and falling frame includes a radial cylinder that is telescopic in the radial direction, and the radial cylinder moves the holding frame in the radial direction by performing the telescoping.

4. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 3, wherein the radial cylinder ascends or descends the first container in a substantially vertical direction by performing the telescoping when the first container is in the standing posture, and the first container performs the descending until standing up with respect to the ground.

5. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 1, wherein the change driving section is provided to a carrier of a vehicle on which the first container is arranged, and includes: a standing and falling frame that extends from a rear end portion of the carrier on a rear side of the vehicle in a radial direction orthogonal to a vehicle width direction of the vehicle, and supports the first container to be able to slide in the radial direction, and is provided to be able to stand up or fall down with respect to the carrier with the vehicle width direction as a rotation axis; and a standing and falling cylinder that is linked to the carrier and the standing and falling frame in a telescopic manner, wherein the posture includes a standing posture in which the standing and falling frame is standing up, and a falling posture in which the standing and falling frame is falling down, and the change driving section changes the posture to the standing posture by elongating the standing and falling cylinder to make the standing and falling frame stand up, and changes the posture to the falling posture by contracting the standing and falling cylinder to make the standing and falling frame fall down.

6. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 5, wherein the standing and falling frame ascends or descends the first container in a substantially vertical direction by performing the sliding when the first container is in the standing posture, and the first container performs the descending until standing up with respect to the ground. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The first container is lowered until it is upright with respect to the ground.

7. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 2 or 5, wherein The first container in the fallen posture is detachably coupled to the second container.

8. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein The gantry includes: a gantry main body formed with an opening constituting a photographing space of the subject; at least one support post supporting the gantry main body in a direction in which a center axis of the opening is substantially parallel to the radial direction so as to be movable in the radial direction; and a support post drive generating a power for moving the gantry main body.

9. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 8, wherein The gantry further includes a supine posture tilting drive portion that rotates the gantry main body with respect to a direction orthogonal to the center axis and a direction passing through the side portion as a rotation axis when the first container is in the fallen posture.

10. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 8, wherein The gantry further includes a standing posture tilting drive portion that rotates the gantry main body with respect to a direction passing through the side portion as a rotation axis when the first container is in the upright posture.

11. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 8, wherein The vehicle-mounted CT device further includes a top plate extending in the radial direction from a portion of the first container through the opening to another portion of the first container and supporting the subject.

12. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 11, wherein The top plate is detachably provided.

13. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 8, wherein The vehicle-mounted CT device further includes an auxiliary portion extending in the radial direction from a portion of the first container through the opening and being detachably provided, and assisting the subject in a standing posture.

14. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 13, wherein The auxiliary portion supports a top plate on which the subject is placed when the first container is in the fallen posture.

15. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 8, wherein The vehicle-mounted CT device further includes a gripping portion provided inside an area through which the opening passes when the gantry main body is moved and grippable by the subject in a standing posture with respect to the photographing space.

16. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 8, wherein The vehicle-mounted CT device further includes a camera provided inside the first container and photographing the subject with respect to the photographing space.

17. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 8, wherein The side surface of the first container is a side surface orthogonal to the central axis, and includes a rear surface in the rear side in the laid-down posture, The vehicle-mounted CT device further includes a table disposed so as to extend in the radial direction from the rear surface inside a region through which the opening passes when the scan gantry body is caused to move, and the subject is placed on the table when the first container is in the upright posture.

18. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 17, wherein The table is disposed so as to be detachable.

19. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 17, wherein The vehicle-mounted CT device further includes a table drive that causes the table to move in the radial direction.

20. The vehicle-mounted CT device according to claim 17, wherein The vehicle-mounted CT device further includes a protective cover that is disposed so as to support the table and prevent the subject inside from contacting the scan gantry body.

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