License management method, management server, and x-ray imaging system

Abstract

To appropriately manage the use of an X-ray imaging device having an X-ray tube.SOLUTION: A license management method (first recommended license display processing, second recommended license display processing) by a management server for managing the license of an X-ray imaging device having an X-ray tube for emitting X-rays, includes an acquisition step (step S112) of acquiring license information related to the license of a user of the X-ray imaging device, and a control step (step S113) of outputting restriction information to the X-ray imaging device that places restrictions on or removes restrictions on imaging conditions related to the X-ray tube, on the basis of the license information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a license management method, a management server, and an X-ray imaging system. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, parts of X-ray equipment wear out with use, making maintenance such as part replacement and equipment inspection necessary. Considering the convenience and cost for users of X-ray equipment, it is better to have as long a period of time as possible before maintenance work is required. This is because it reduces the frequency of downtime, reduces opportunity loss, and reduces the frequency of costs. For example, maintenance work includes repairs and maintenance work for equipment failures, and often requires the equipment to be stopped. Patent Document 1 discloses an X-ray imaging device that, when a failure is predicted to occur in an X-ray generating device, can grasp driving conditions that will delay the occurrence of the failure.

[0003] In addition, X-ray equipment is very expensive. For this reason, a business model of renting out X-ray equipment on a subscription basis is being considered. With a subscription, users can freely use the X-ray equipment within the scope of the selected license. Depending on the license, users can also cover maintenance and repair costs within the subscription amount without having to pay for unexpected repairs. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-156785 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, proper maintenance work is also necessary for subscriptions. With subscriptions, the maintenance work is usually performed by the subscription provider. In other words, the subscription provider bears the cost of the maintenance work. Therefore, it is also preferable for the subscription provider to wait as long as possible before maintenance work is required. In particular, because the lifespan of an X-ray tube varies greatly depending on the imaging conditions, usage restrictions for imaging conditions should be set for each license, taking into account the benefits for both the user and the subscription provider. However, Patent Document 1 is based on the assumption that the X-ray imaging device is used by a single user.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to appropriately manage the use of an X-ray imaging device having an X-ray tube. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, the license management method according to the present invention comprises the steps of: A license management method by a management server that manages licenses for an X-ray imaging device having an X-ray tube for emitting X-rays, comprising: obtaining license information relating to a license of a user of the X-ray imaging device; a control step of outputting, to the X-ray imaging apparatus, restriction information for restricting or releasing a restriction on imaging conditions related to the X-ray tube based on the license information; has.

[0008] In addition, the management server according to the present invention includes: An administration server for administering licenses for an X-ray imaging device having an X-ray tube for emitting X-rays, an acquisition unit that acquires license information relating to a license of a user of the X-ray imaging device; a control unit that outputs, to the X-ray imaging device, restriction information for restricting or lifting a restriction on imaging conditions related to the X-ray tube based on the license information; Equipped with.

[0009] Further, the X-ray imaging system according to the present invention comprises: An X-ray imaging system comprising an X-ray imaging device having an X-ray tube for emitting X-rays, and a management server for managing licenses of the X-ray imaging device, The management server includes: an acquisition unit that acquires license information relating to a license of a user of the X-ray imaging device; a control unit that outputs restriction information for restricting or releasing a restriction on an imaging condition related to the X-ray tube based on the license information to the X-ray imaging device, The X-ray imaging device is The imaging control unit is configured to impose restrictions on imaging conditions related to the X-ray tube or to release the restrictions in accordance with the restriction information acquired from the management server. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, the use of an X-ray imaging device having an X-ray tube can be appropriately managed. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an X-ray imaging system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a license management server. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an X-ray imaging apparatus. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a terminal device. [Diagram 5] 13 is a ladder chart of the first recommended license display process. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram of a photographing condition restriction availability information selection process. [Figure 7] 13 is an example of a recommended license display screen. [Figure 8] 13 is an example of a recommended license display screen. [Figure 9]This is an example of a recommended license display screen. [Figure 10] This is an example of a recommended license display screen. [Figure 11] This is an example of a license. [Figure 12] This is a ladder chart of the second recommended license display process. [Figure 13] This is a ladder chart of the tubule management process.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to those described in the following embodiments and drawings.

[0013] <X-ray Imaging System> First, the configuration of the X-ray imaging system 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the X-ray imaging system 100 includes a license management server 1 that functions as a management server, an X-ray imaging device 2, a terminal device 3, and the like. The license management server 1, the X-ray imaging device 2, and the terminal device 3 are connected via a communication network N or the like and transmit and receive various information. Various information will be described later.

[0014] The license management server 1 is a device that manages the license of the X-ray imaging device 2. The license management server 1 is composed of an on-premises or cloud device. The license of the X-ray imaging device 2 is subscription license information. Note that the license management server 1 may operate physically within the same personal computer (PC) in the case of on-premises. The X-ray imaging device 2 is a device that acquires internal information of the test object. For example, the X-ray imaging device 2 is an X-ray tomosynthesis device, a radiation imaging device, or the like. The terminal device 3 is a device that presents various information to the user or allows the user to select various information. For example, the terminal device 3 is a terminal of the user of the X-ray imaging device 2 or a terminal of a service technician. The communication network N is a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), the Internet, or the like.

[0015] The X-ray imaging device 2 to be maintained is preferably an X-ray Talbot imaging device, because, for example, in an X-ray Talbot imaging device, the X-ray tube and the grid need to be positioned precisely, and the device downtime for maintenance is longer than that of a normal X-ray transmission device. In particular, the X-ray imaging device 2 is preferably an X-ray Talbot imaging device for non-destructive use rather than a medical use. In an X-ray Talbot imaging device for medical use, imaging conditions are determined taking into consideration the trade-off between accurate understanding of the internal state of the human body and patient exposure, and the patient's body movements. In an X-ray Talbot imaging device for non-destructive use, imaging conditions are determined taking into consideration understanding of the internal state of the subject and consumption of the X-ray tube. Therefore, in an X-ray Talbot imaging device for non-destructive use, it is possible to perform imaging over a long period of time by lowering the tube current and lengthening the exposure time or by lengthening the exposure pause time. However, if the exposure time or exposure pause time is long and the overall examination time is long, there is an issue of reduced efficiency, but this is acceptable if the imaging frequency is low.

[0016] <Test subject> Although the test object in this embodiment is not particularly limited, an example is a composite material (also called a composite material). Composite materials are used as components of various products, such as space and aircraft-related products, automobiles, ships, fishing rods, as well as electric, electronic, and home appliance parts, parabolic antennas, bathtubs, flooring materials, roofing materials, and the like.

[0017] <License Management Server> Next, the configuration of the license management server 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 2, the license management server 1 includes a control unit 11, a display unit 12, an operation unit 13, a communication unit 14, and a storage unit 15.

[0018] The control unit 11 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The CPU of the control unit 11 reads out various programs stored in the storage unit 15, loads them in the RAM, and executes various processes (such as a first recommended license display process, a second recommended license display process, and a tube management process, which will be described later) according to the loaded programs, thereby controlling the operation of each part of the license management server 1. The control unit 11 cooperates with various devices connected to the license management server 1 to execute various processes. The control unit 11 functions as an acquisition unit that acquires license information related to the license of the user of the X-ray imaging apparatus 2. The control unit 11 functions as a control unit that outputs, to the X-ray imaging device 2, restriction information for imposing restrictions on or removing restrictions on imaging conditions related to the X-ray tube, based on the license information. The control unit 11 functions as a selection unit that selects a license recommended to a user from a plurality of licenses with different usable imaging conditions, based on the user's usage history information of the X-ray imaging apparatus 2. The control unit 11 functions as a selection unit that selects a license recommended to a user from a plurality of licenses with different available imaging conditions, based on input information regarding the user's use of the X-ray imaging apparatus 2. The control unit 11 functions as a recommendation unit that recommends the selected license to the user. The control unit 11 functions as a management unit that manages the degree of wear of the X-ray tube.

[0019] The display unit 12 is configured with a monitor such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and displays various screens and the like according to instructions of a display signal input from the control unit 11.

[0020] The operation unit 13 includes a keyboard equipped with cursor keys, numeric input keys, various function keys, etc., a pointing device such as a mouse, a touch panel laminated on the surface of the display unit 12, etc. The operation unit 13 is configured to be operable by an operator. Further, the operation unit 13 outputs various signals based on operations performed by the operator to the control unit 11.

[0021] The communication unit 14 is capable of transmitting and receiving various signals and various data to and from other devices connected via the communication network N.

[0022] The storage unit 15 is composed of a non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, etc., and stores various programs executed by the control unit 11 and parameters necessary for the execution of the programs. The storage unit 15 has a customer information DB (Data Base), an X-ray usage history information DB, and a tube unit information DB. The customer information DB is a database for managing each user (customer) who uses the X-ray imaging apparatus 2 using a customer ID. Information such as customer ID, license information, and contract fees is stored in the customer information DB. The X-ray usage history information DB is a database for managing the X-ray usage history information of each X-ray imaging apparatus 2 using an apparatus ID, an X-ray tube ID, and a customer ID. Information such as apparatus ID, X-ray tube ID, customer ID, imaging conditions (tube voltage, tube current, exposure time, focal spot size, possible X-ray tube temperature during imaging, imaging accuracy, number of exposures during a predetermined period, etc.), number of uses, usage frequency, usage start date, operation time, rest time, number of arcing occurrences, X-ray tube temperature during imaging, etc. is stored in the X-ray usage history information DB. The tube unit information DB is a database for managing each X-ray tube using an X-ray tube ID. Information such as X-ray tube ID and degree of wear is stored in the tube unit information DB. The X-ray tube ID includes, for example, a serial number. Each DB is linked to each other using a customer ID, an apparatus ID, and an X-ray tube ID.

[0023] <X-ray Imaging Apparatus> Next, the configuration of the X-ray imaging device 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. As shown in Fig. 3, the X-ray imaging device 2 includes a control unit 21, a display unit 22, an operation unit 23, a communication unit 24, a storage unit 25, and an imaging unit 26. In the following, the X-ray imaging device 2 will be described as an X-ray Talbot imaging inspection device.

[0024] The control unit 21 is composed of a CPU, a RAM, etc. The CPU of the control unit 21 reads out various programs stored in the storage unit 25, loads them in the RAM, executes various processes according to the loaded programs, and controls the operations of each part of the X-ray imaging device 2. The control unit 21 can obtain various Talbot images such as a reconstruction image and an orientation analysis image by processing the moire fringe image described later, and can further obtain various internal information from the various Talbot images. The control unit 21 functions as an imaging control unit that imposes or removes restrictions on imaging conditions related to the X-ray tube.

[0025] The display unit 22 is configured with a monitor such as an LCD, and displays various screens and the like according to instructions of a display signal input from the control unit 21.

[0026] The operation unit 23 is a keyboard equipped with cursor keys, numeric input keys, various function keys, etc., a pointing device such as a mouse, a touch panel laminated on the surface of the display unit 22, etc. The operation unit 23 is configured to be operable by an operator. In addition, the operation unit 23 outputs various signals to the control unit 21 based on operations performed by the operator.

[0027] The communication unit 24 is capable of transmitting and receiving various signals and various data to and from other devices connected via the communication network N.

[0028] The storage unit 25 is configured with a non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or the like, and stores various programs executed by the control unit 11, parameters required for executing the programs, and the like. The storage unit 25 stores the customer ID, device ID, and X-ray tube ID of the X-ray imaging device 2, as well as the above-mentioned X-ray usage history information.

[0029] The imaging unit 26 is composed of an X-ray generating unit, a subject table, a first grating, a second grating, an X-ray detecting unit (FPD (Flat Panel Detector)), etc. The X-ray generating unit, the subject table, the first grating, the second grating, and the X-ray detecting unit are arranged in order in the X-ray irradiation axis direction. Note that a grating (G0 grating) may also be provided between the X-ray generating unit and the subject table.

[0030] The X-ray generating unit has an X-ray tube, generates X-rays using the X-ray tube, and irradiates the X-rays, for example, in the direction of gravity. As the X-ray tube, for example, a Coolidge X-ray tube or a rotating anode X-ray tube can be used. Note that, when the X-ray Talbot imaging inspection device is a vertical device, the X-ray generating unit irradiates X-rays in the direction of gravity, but when the X-ray Talbot imaging inspection device is a horizontal device, the X-ray generating unit irradiates X-rays in a direction perpendicular to the direction of gravity. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which imaging is performed using X-rays, but other types of radiation, such as neutron rays and gamma rays, may also be used.

[0031] The principle of the Talbot interferometer used in X-ray Talbot photography inspection equipment is explained below. When the X-rays emitted from the X-ray generator pass through the first grating, the transmitted X-rays form images at regular intervals in the X-ray irradiation axis direction. This image is called a self-image, and the phenomenon of forming a self-image is called the Talbot effect. The second grating is placed roughly parallel to the self-image at the position where the self-image is formed, and a moiré fringe image is obtained by the X-rays that pass through the second grating. That is, the first grating forms a periodic pattern, and the second grating converts the periodic pattern into moiré fringes. If a test object is present between the X-ray generator and the first grating, the phase of the X-rays is shifted by the test object, so the moiré fringes on the moiré fringe image are disturbed at the edge of the test object. This disturbance of the moiré fringes can be detected by processing the moiré fringe image, and the test object image can be visualized. This is the principle of the Talbot interferometer. In addition, by placing a G0 grating immediately after the X-ray generator, the apertures of the G0 grating act as a linear light source with multiple minute widths, and spatial coherence can be obtained even with a general-purpose X-ray source. Although the spatial resolution is inferior to that of a Talbot interferometer that does not use a G0 grating and uses a microfocus X-ray source, it is possible to use a high-output X-ray source, which allows for a significant reduction in imaging time. The X-ray generation unit generates radiation under the control of the control unit 21. The X-ray detection unit detects radiation under the control of the control unit 21, and obtains the moiré fringe image.

[0032] <Terminal device> Next, the configuration of the terminal device 3 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. As shown in Fig. 4, the terminal device 3 includes a control unit 31, a display unit 32, an operation unit 33, a communication unit , and a storage unit .

[0033] The control unit 31 is composed of a CPU, a RAM, etc. The CPU of the control unit 31 reads out various programs stored in the storage unit 35, loads them in the RAM, and executes various processes (such as a shooting condition restriction availability information selection process described later) in accordance with the loaded programs, thereby controlling the operation of each unit of the terminal device 3.

[0034] The display unit 32 is configured with a monitor such as an LCD, and is configured to display various screens (recommended license display screen D1) and the like according to instructions of a display signal input from the control unit 31.

[0035] The operation unit 33 is a keyboard equipped with cursor keys, numeric input keys, various function keys, etc., a pointing device such as a mouse, a touch panel laminated on the surface of the display unit 32, etc. The operation unit 33 is configured to be operable by an operator. In addition, the operation unit 33 outputs various signals to the control unit 31 based on operations performed by the operator.

[0036] The communication unit 34 is capable of transmitting and receiving various signals and various data to and from other devices connected via the communication network N.

[0037] The storage unit 35 is configured with a non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or the like, and stores various programs executed by the control unit 31, parameters required for executing the programs, and the like.

[0038] <First recommended license display process> Next, a first recommended license display process executed in the license management server 1 in cooperation with the X-ray imaging apparatus 2 and the terminal device 3 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. The first recommended license display process is a process for presenting recommended license information to a user of the X-ray imaging apparatus 2. The first recommended license display process is executed when a user enters into a license agreement for the X-ray imaging apparatus 2. In the following, the first recommended license display process for an X-ray tube is illustrated as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0039] First, the control unit 21 acquires the use history information from the storage unit 25, and transmits it to the license management server 1 (step S11). Next, the control unit 11 acquires the usage history information from the X-ray imaging device 2 (step S12). If there is no usage history information, steps S11 and S12 are omitted.

[0040] Next, the control unit 31 transmits the planned use information input by the user using the operation unit 33 to the license management server 1 (step S13). Next, the control unit 11 acquires the use schedule information from the terminal device 3 (step S14). The planned use information is information that indicates how the X-ray imaging device 2 is planned to be used. For example, the planned use information is imaging conditions, number of uses, frequency of use, operating time, imaging accuracy, etc. In addition, for example, the planned use information is the type, thickness, size, etc. of the test subject. In addition, for example, the planned use information may be a license fee that the user can pay. If no scheduled use information has been input, steps S13 and S14 are omitted.

[0041] Next, the control unit 31 selects the photographing condition restriction availability information selected by the user using the operation unit 33 (step S15). The process of selecting the photographing condition restriction availability information by the control unit 31 (the photographing condition restriction availability information selection process) will be described later. The imaging condition restriction availability information is information indicating imaging conditions for which the user may impose restrictions in the license for the X-ray imaging apparatus 2 and imaging conditions for which the user does not wish to impose restrictions.

[0042] Here, the photographing condition restriction information selection process executed in the terminal device 3 will be described with reference to FIG. First, the control unit 31 asks the user whether or not it is possible to limit the tube current (step S21). Specifically, the control unit 31 causes the display unit 32 to display a screen asking whether or not it is possible to limit the tube current. After that, the user transmits limit availability information to the control unit 31 using the operation unit 33 based on the displayed screen. If the tube current can be limited (step S21; YES), the control unit 31 advances the imaging condition restriction availability information selection process to step S22. If the tube current cannot be limited (step S21; NO), the control unit 31 advances the imaging condition restriction availability information selection process to step S23. In step S22, the control unit 31 sets the imaging condition restriction availability information to indicate that the tube current can be limited. Next, the control unit 31 asks the user whether or not it is possible to limit the tube voltage (step S23). Specifically, the control unit 31 causes the display unit 32 to display a screen asking whether or not it is possible to limit the tube voltage. The subsequent processing is the same as that described above. If the tube voltage can be limited (step S23; YES), the control unit 31 advances the imaging condition restriction availability information selection process to step S24. If the tube voltage cannot be limited (step S23; NO), the control unit 31 advances the imaging condition restriction availability information selection process to step S25. In step S24, the control unit 31 sets the imaging condition restriction availability information to indicate that the tube voltage can be restricted. Next, the control unit 31 asks the user whether or not it is possible to limit the focal size (step S25). Specifically, the control unit 31 causes the display unit 32 to display a screen asking whether or not it is possible to limit the focal size. The subsequent processing is the same as that described above. If the focal spot size can be limited (step S25; YES), the control unit 31 advances the photographing condition restriction availability information selection process to step S26. If the focal spot size cannot be limited (step S25; NO), the control unit 31 advances the photographing condition restriction availability information selection process to step S27. In step S26, the control unit 31 sets the photographing condition restriction availability information to indicate that the focal point size can be restricted. Next, the control unit 31 asks the user whether or not it is possible to limit the X-ray tube temperature (step S27). Specifically, the control unit 31 causes the display unit 32 to display a screen asking whether or not it is possible to limit the X-ray tube temperature. The subsequent processing is the same as that described above. If the X-ray tube temperature can be limited (step S27; YES), the control unit 31 ends the imaging condition limit availability information selection process. If the X-ray tube temperature cannot be limited (step S27; NO), the control unit 31 advances the imaging condition limit availability information selection process to step S28. In step S28, the control unit 31 sets the X-ray tube temperature limitable and sets the imaging condition limitable / unlimitable information. In the above description, the control unit 31 causes the display unit 32 to display a screen asking whether various shooting conditions can be restricted, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 31 may cause the audio output unit (not shown) to output a sound asking whether various shooting conditions can be restricted.

[0043] Next, the control unit 31 transmits the photographing condition restriction availability information to the license management server 1 (step S16). Next, the control unit 11 acquires the photographing condition restriction availability information from the terminal device 3 (step S17). It should be noted that if there is no selected photographing condition restriction availability information, steps S15, S16 and S17 are omitted.

[0044] Next, the control unit 11 selects recommended license information based on at least one of the use history information, the use schedule information, and the photographing condition restriction availability information (step S18; selection step). Here, a method for selecting the recommended license information will be described. For example, it is assumed that a selection of a plurality of licenses with different available shooting conditions is stored in the storage unit 15. It is assumed that a license fee is set for each license. The control unit 11 reads the usage history information and specifies, among the photographing conditions, items and limit values ​​that will not impede the user's photographing even if they are restricted. Next, the control unit 11 reads the usage schedule information and identifies items and limit values ​​that will not interfere with the user's photography schedule. Next, the control unit 11 reads the photographing condition restriction availability information and identifies the items on which restrictions can be applied. Next, the control unit 11 selects a recommended license from the above options according to the restricted item and the restriction value.

[0045] Here, a method for identifying items and limit values ​​that will not cause problems from the usage history information and / or usage schedule information will be described. For example, if a user plans to take an image of a test object with low X-ray transmittance (such as an object with a large atomic weight or a thick object), if the tube voltage and tube current are too restricted, the imaging results may not be satisfactory to the user. Increasing the tube voltage shortens the wavelength of the X-rays, making it easier for the X-rays to penetrate the test object. Increasing the tube current increases the amount of X-rays generated and their intensity. In order to obtain imaging results that satisfy the user, it is necessary to set optimal tube voltage and tube current conditions according to the test object, but if excessive restrictions are imposed, it may not be possible to set the desired conditions. Therefore, by acquiring the user's planned usage information, such a possibility is prevented. For example, the control unit 11 may identify items and limit values ​​that do not cause problems in the imaging conditions from the usage history information and / or the usage schedule information, and use the items and limit values ​​as they are. Specifically, when the control unit 11 determines that the user uses a tube voltage of 80 kV or less in the usage history information and that it is not necessary to increase the tube voltage in the usage schedule information, the control unit 11 recommends setting a limit value of 80 kV for the tube voltage. Alternatively, the control unit 11 recommends a limit value with some margin, such as 90 kV, instead of 80 kV. For example, the control unit 11 may specify items and limit values ​​that are not problematic in the imaging conditions from the usage history information and / or the usage schedule information, and then express the items and limit values ​​as other items and limit values ​​to specify items and limit values ​​that are not problematic. Specifically, the control unit 11 grasps the tube current, exposure time, and frequency of use used by the user from the usage history information and the usage schedule information. Next, the control unit 11 recommends lowering the tube current and extending the exposure time in terms of the amount of X-rays to be irradiated (tube current-time product: mAs). Even with the same tube current-time product of 1600mAs, a tube current of 40mA and an exposure time of 40s can suppress the filament current more than a tube current of 80mA and an exposure time of 20s, thereby reducing the wear of the X-ray tube. Therefore, a limit value may be set for the tube current by having the user accept that the imaging time will be longer.

[0046] Next, the control unit 11 transmits the recommended license information to the terminal device 3 (step S19; recommendation step). Next, the control unit 31 acquires the recommended license information from the license management server 1, and causes the display unit 32 to display it (step S110). For example, the control unit 31 causes the display unit 32 to display a recommended license display screen D1 as shown in FIGS. Here, the recommended license display screen D1 shown in FIGS. 7 to 10 will be described. Area A1 is an area for displaying items of the imaging conditions of the X-ray tube. Area A2 is an area that displays the imaging conditions of a standard X-ray tube. Area A3 is an area for displaying the imaging conditions (limit values) of the X-ray tube at the time of the restriction in the recommended license. The black circle B1 is an area for displaying the restricted shooting conditions. Note that, although there is one black circle B1 for each screen in Figs. 7 to 10, there may be multiple black circles B1. The OK button B2 is a button that allows the user to confirm the license information. The cancel button B3 is a button for interrupting the first recommended license display process. The user can change the shooting conditions displayed in area A3 on the recommended license display screen D1.

[0047] By the way, a subscription service is one in which the restrictions on shooting conditions and the price change depending on the license selected by the user. In the example of the recommended license display screen D1 shown in Figures 7 to 10, it is possible that the amount of money varies depending on the number of black circles B1. In other words, when there are many black circles B1 (more restrictions), the amount of money is set low. This allows the user to use the X-ray imaging device 2 for a long time, and the subscription provider can extend the interval between maintenance timings for the X-ray imaging device 2. One example of a license is a two-stage license with many restrictions at a low price and a few restrictions at a high price, but the restrictions / prices may be tiered. Also, for example, the license may be a license that does not add points for the number of times shooting is performed under shooting conditions below a limit value, but adds points for the number of times shooting is performed under shooting conditions that exceed a limit value, and restricts the shooting conditions according to the added cumulative points, such as a basic fee + pay-as-you-go system. Also, for example, the license may be a license that includes or does not include maintenance and repair costs, or a license with an option that allows the user to temporarily remove the restrictions when considering the license by paying a fee in addition to the basic fee. Here, a specific example of a license (plan) will be described with reference to FIG. 11. In the example of fee plan P1 shown in FIG. 11, the main examination objects and standard imaging conditions are presented. The usage fee is set to high, medium, and low for each fee plan. In addition, it is shown that CT (Computed Tomography) imaging can be performed as an option by paying an additional fee for every 10 times.

[0048] In addition to the recommended license display screen D1 shown in FIGS. 7 to 10, information that the cost can be further reduced by using a low-performance lamp may be displayed. A low-performance tube may be recommended to a user of a license with a lower license fee than a preset license fee. A low-performance tube is an X-ray tube whose wear rate, which will be described later, is higher than a predetermined reference value. The wear rate is calculated in a tube management process, which will be described later. When there are many restrictions on the imaging conditions, it means that the imaging conditions are not strict for the X-ray imaging device 2. Therefore, in such a case, by having the user use a low-performance tube, the user can use the X-ray imaging device 2 at a low cost, and the subscription provider can make effective use of the low-performance tube.

[0049] Next, when the user presses the OK button B2, the control unit 31 transmits the license information as final license information to the license management server 1 (step S111). Next, the control unit 11 acquires the final license information from the terminal device 3 (step S112; acquisition step).

[0050] Next, the control unit 11 transmits the restriction information included in the final license information to the X-ray imaging apparatus 2 (step S113; control step). Next, the control unit 21 acquires the restriction information from the license management server 1, and sets the restriction information in the configuration of the X-ray imaging apparatus 2, and then ends the first recommended license display process (step S114). Therefore, the control unit 21 of the X-ray imaging device 2 imposes or removes restrictions on the imaging conditions related to the X-ray tube based on the restriction information.

[0051] <Second recommended license display process> Next, a second recommended license display process executed in the license management server 1 in cooperation with the X-ray imaging apparatus 2 and the terminal device 3 will be described with reference to Fig. 12. The second recommended license display process is a process for presenting recommended license information to a user of the X-ray imaging apparatus 2. The second recommended license display process is executed when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the user signed a license agreement for the X-ray imaging apparatus 2. For example, the second recommended license display process is executed at the license renewal month, etc. In the following, the second recommended license display process for an X-ray tube is illustrated as an example, but is not limited to this. In the description of the second recommended license display process, the processes other than steps S33, S36, and S37 are similar to those in the first recommended license display process, and therefore the description thereof will be omitted. Step S33 differs from step S18 only in that the control unit 11 selects recommended license information based only on the usage history information. Steps S36 and S37 (acquisition steps) differ from steps S111 and S112 only in that the control unit 31 transmits and acquires license information as updated license information.

[0052] <Tube management processing> Next, a tube management process executed by the license management server 1 in cooperation with the X-ray imaging apparatus 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 13. The tube management process is a process for calculating the wear level of an X-ray tube and managing the wear level of the X-ray tube for each X-ray tube. The tube management process is automatically executed by the license management server 1 at predetermined intervals, for example. In the following, a tube management process for managing an X-ray tube will be exemplified, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0053] First, the control unit 21 transmits the use history information to the license management server 1 (step S41).

[0054] Next, the control unit 11 acquires the usage history information from the X-ray imaging device 2 (step S42).

[0055] Next, the control unit 11 calculates the degree of wear of the X-ray tube based on the usage history information (step S43). Here, a method for calculating the wear level of the X-ray tube will be described. For example, if the number of times an X-ray tube can be used is determined by the tube voltage, tube current, and exposure time, it is possible to calculate the degree of wear based on usage history information, indicating how many times the X-ray tube can be used.

[0056] Next, the control unit 11 updates the tube information DB in the storage unit 15 with the calculated wear level of the X-ray tube (step S44; management step), and ends the tube management process.

[0057] <Other> Although the above describes examples of limiting the tube current, the tube voltage, the focal spot size, and the X-ray tube temperature, the present invention is not limited to these. For example, the exposure time and the number of possible exposures in a certain period of time may be limited.

[0058] In the above, an example is shown in which the initial state is set to full function availability, and restrictions are imposed on the shooting conditions based on the restriction information in the license agreement, but this is not limiting. For example, the initial state may be set to full function unavailability, and the restrictions may be released based on the restriction information in the license agreement.

[0059] <Effects> As described above, the license management method is a license management method (first recommended license display process, second recommended license display process) by a management server that manages the license of an X-ray imaging device having an X-ray tube for emitting X-rays, and includes an acquisition step (steps S112, S37) of acquiring license information related to the license of a user of the X-ray imaging device, and a control step (steps S113, S38) of outputting restriction information that restricts or releases the restriction on imaging conditions related to the X-ray tube to the X-ray imaging device based on the license information. Therefore, the use of the X-ray imaging device having an X-ray tube can be appropriately managed. Specifically, in the case of a light user of the X-ray imaging device 2, the above-mentioned restrictions on the imaging conditions can be imposed, so that the user can use the device without being hindered, and wear on the X-ray tube can be reduced. In particular, the imaging conditions to be restricted are preferably the tube current, tube voltage, focal spot size, and the X-ray tube temperature at which imaging is possible. These are items that are unlikely to cause a user any inconvenience. For example, the number of exposures is an item that is likely to cause a user any inconvenience. When the tube current is low, the filament current is small, resulting in a longer life. When the tube voltage is low, arc generation is suppressed, resulting in a longer life. When a larger focal spot size is selected, the filament current is small, resulting in a longer life. When a lower X-ray tube temperature is selected, wear is suppressed, resulting in a longer life. It is preferable that the restriction on the imaging conditions is a restriction to the upper limit of the tube current. In this way, it is possible to extend the life while allowing the use of a high tube voltage. Since the required tube voltage often differs for each test subject, it is less likely that the user will feel disadvantaged if the tube current is restricted.

[0060] The management server is a management server (license management server 1) that manages the license of an X-ray imaging device (X-ray imaging device 2) having an X-ray tube for emitting X-rays, and includes an acquisition unit (control unit 11) that acquires license information related to the license of a user of the X-ray imaging device, and a control unit (control unit 11) that outputs restriction information that restricts or releases the restriction on imaging conditions related to the X-ray tube to the X-ray imaging device based on the license information. Therefore, the use of the X-ray imaging device having an X-ray tube can be appropriately managed.

[0061] The X-ray imaging system is an X-ray imaging system (X-ray imaging system 100) including an X-ray imaging device (X-ray imaging device 2) having an X-ray tube for emitting X-rays, and an administration server (license administration server 1) for managing the license of the X-ray imaging device, the administration server including an acquisition unit (control unit 11) for acquiring license information related to the license of the user of the X-ray imaging device, and a control unit (control unit 11) for outputting restriction information for restricting or lifting the restriction on the imaging conditions related to the X-ray tube based on the license information to the X-ray imaging device, and the X-ray imaging device including an imaging control unit (control unit 21) for restricting or lifting the restriction on the imaging conditions related to the X-ray tube according to the restriction information acquired from the administration server. Therefore, the use of the X-ray imaging device having an X-ray tube can be appropriately managed.

[0062] The present invention has been specifically described above based on an embodiment, but it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, in the above description, a hard disk or a non-volatile semiconductor memory is used as a computer-readable medium for the program according to the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to this example. As another computer-readable medium, a portable recording medium such as a CD-ROM can be used.

[0063] In addition, the detailed configuration and operation of each device may be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0064] 100 X-ray system 1 License Management Server (Management Server) 11 Control unit (acquisition unit, selection unit, recommendation unit, management unit) 12 Display section 13 Control section 14 Communications Department 15 Storage section 2 X-ray equipment 21 Control section (imaging control section) 22 Display section 23 Control section 24 Communications Department 25 Memory section 26 Photography Department 3 Terminal Equipment 31 Control Unit 32 Display section 33 Operation section 34 Communications Department 35 Storage section N Communication Network

Claims

1. A license management method by a management server that manages licenses for an X-ray imaging device having an X-ray tube for emitting X-rays, comprising: acquiring license information relating to a license of a user of the X-ray imaging device; a control step of outputting, to the X-ray imaging device, restriction information for restricting or releasing a restriction on an imaging condition related to the X-ray tube based on the license information; A license management method having the following features:

2. a selection step of selecting a license recommended to the user from a plurality of licenses with different available imaging conditions based on usage history information of the X-ray imaging device of the user; 2. The license management method according to claim 1, further comprising a recommending step of recommending the selected license to the user.

3. a selection step of selecting a license recommended to the user from a plurality of licenses having different available imaging conditions based on input information regarding the user's use of the X-ray imaging device; 2. The license management method according to claim 1, further comprising a recommending step of recommending the selected license to the user.

4. The license management method according to claim 1 , wherein the imaging conditions include a tube current, a tube voltage, a focal spot size, and an X-ray tube temperature at which imaging can be performed.

5. 2. The license management method according to claim 1, wherein the restriction is a restriction on an upper limit of a usable tube current.

6. The license management method according to claim 1 , wherein the license information is subscription license information.

7. The plurality of licenses each have a different license fee set, 4. The license management method according to claim 2, wherein the recommending step recommends a low-performance tube to the user of a license whose license fee is lower than a preset license fee.

8. a management step for managing the wear rate of the X-ray tube, 8. The license management method according to claim 7, wherein the low-performance tube is an X-ray tube the degree of wear of which is higher than a predetermined reference value.

9. A management server that manages licenses for an X-ray imaging device having an X-ray tube for emitting X-rays, an acquisition unit that acquires license information relating to a license of a user of the X-ray imaging device; a control unit that outputs, to the X-ray imaging device, restriction information for restricting or lifting a restriction on an imaging condition related to the X-ray tube based on the license information; A management server comprising:

10. 1. An X-ray imaging system comprising: an X-ray imaging device having an X-ray tube for emitting X-rays; and a management server for managing licenses for the X-ray imaging device, The management server includes: an acquisition unit that acquires license information relating to a license of a user of the X-ray imaging device; a control unit that outputs restriction information for restricting or releasing a restriction on an imaging condition related to the X-ray tube based on the license information to the X-ray imaging device, The X-ray imaging device includes: An X-ray imaging system comprising an imaging control unit that imposes restrictions on imaging conditions related to the X-ray tube or removes the restrictions in accordance with the restriction information acquired from the management server.

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