Medical support device, medical bed device, and x-ray diagnostic device

Abstract

To simply and appropriately support a subject.SOLUTION: A medical support device according to the embodiment supports a subject. The medical support device includes a movable part that operates in response to an operation on the inside of the medical support device. When an operation on the inside of the support device is being performed, the support force of the subject can be intuitively adjusted by the operation of the movable part in response to the operation, and when the operation is not being performed, the operation of the movable part can be regulated to maintain the support force. Therefore, an appropriate support force can be applied to a subject P by intuitively adjusting the support force by a simple operation on the inside of the support device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings relate to a medical support apparatus, a medical bed apparatus, and an X-ray diagnostic apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, in X-ray photography, when a subject is unable to maintain a correct position and posture, a radiological technologist (hereinafter referred to as a technologist) supports the subject using his / her hands or an auxiliary tool.

[0003] However, when the technician supports the subject by hand, the technician's exposure to radiation increases. In addition, due to a shortage of manpower, it may be difficult to support the subject by hand, and even if it is possible, it may waste the technician's physical strength.

[0004] On the other hand, when supporting a subject using an auxiliary device, in the past, auxiliary devices of various sizes or soft auxiliary devices made of foam or the like were used, but this could cause the subject to feel pain or move.

[0005] Therefore, it has been difficult to simply and appropriately support a subject during X-ray imaging. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2008-504847 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] One of the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings is to support a subject simply and appropriately. However, the problems to be solved by the embodiments disclosed in this specification and the drawings are not limited to the above problem. Problems corresponding to the effects of each configuration shown in the embodiments described later can also be positioned as other problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A medical support device according to an embodiment supports a subject. The medical support device includes a movable part that moves in response to an operation on the inside of the medical support device. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the arrangement of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of a medical supporting device according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a side view showing a support tool of the medical support device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front view showing a support tool of the medical support device according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a movable part of the medical support device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the medical support device according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing an example of operation of the medical supporting device according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] 8 is a perspective view showing an operation example of the medical supporting device according to the embodiment, following FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a medical support device according to a first modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a side view showing a medical support device according to a second modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a medical support device according to a third modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 12]FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a medical support device according to a fourth modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a movable part of a medical support device according to a fifth modified example of the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing an example of the arrangement of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to a sixth modified example of the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, an embodiment of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that, in the following, an X-ray diagnostic apparatus having an over-tube configuration in which an X-ray tube is located above a subject will be described as an example of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus, but the X-ray diagnostic apparatus may be configured as an under-tube type in which an X-ray tube is located below a subject. In the following description, components having substantially the same functions and configurations are given the same reference numerals, and duplicated descriptions will be given only when necessary.

[0011] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the embodiment includes an imaging device 10, a console 20, and a support device 30. The support device 30 is an example of a medical support device.

[0012] The imaging device 10 is a device that images the subject P using X-rays. The console 20 is a device that allows an operator to control the operation of the imaging device 10, for example, in an operation room that is separate from the examination room in which the imaging device 10 is placed. The imaging device 10 and the console 20 are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other. The support device 30 is a device that supports the subject P when imaging the subject P using X-rays. In other words, the support device 30 is a device that supports the subject P located between the X-ray tube 13 and the X-ray detector 19, which will be described later.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, the imaging device 10 includes a high voltage generator 11, an X-ray tube 13, an X-ray aperture 15, a bed device 17, an X-ray detector 19, and an X-ray control circuit 111. The X-ray tube 13 is an example of an X-ray generating unit. The bed device 17 is an example of a medical bed device. The bed device 17 includes a tabletop 171, a bed moving mechanism 172, and a bed mechanism control circuit 173. The console 20 includes an input interface 21, a display 23, a memory circuit 25, and a processing circuit 27. In the following description, the direction along the longitudinal direction of the bed device 17 is defined as the Y-axis direction, the direction along the lateral direction is defined as the X-axis direction, and the direction perpendicular to the X-axis and Y-axis directions is defined as the Z-axis direction.

[0014] The high voltage generator 11 is a device that supplies a high voltage and a filament current to the X-ray tube 13. The high voltage generator 11 has electric circuits such as a transformer and a rectifier, and a high voltage generating device. The high voltage generating device has a function of generating a high voltage to be applied to the X-ray tube 13 and a filament current to be supplied to the X-ray tube 13. The X-ray control circuit 111 controls the supply of the high voltage and the filament current by the high voltage generating device. The high voltage generating device may be of a transformer type or an inverter type.

[0015] The X-ray tube 13 irradiates the subject P with X-rays. The X-ray tube 13 is a vacuum tube that generates X-rays by irradiating thermoelectrons from a cathode (filament) to an anode (target) by application of a high voltage from the high voltage generator 11 and supply of a filament current. In the X-ray tube 13, X-rays are generated by colliding the thermoelectrons with the target. The X-ray tube 13 is, for example, a rotating anode type X-ray tube that generates X-rays by irradiating a rotating anode with thermoelectrons. The X-ray tube 13 is not limited to the rotating anode type, and any type can be applied. The X-ray aperture 15 narrows down the X-rays irradiated from the X-ray tube 13. The X-ray aperture 15 is provided in front of the X-ray radiation window in the X-ray tube 13. The X-ray aperture 15 has, for example, four aperture blades made of metal plates such as lead.

[0016] The X-ray tube 13 and the X-ray aperture 15 are movably supported on a stand (not shown) installed on the floor. The X-ray tube 13 and the X-ray aperture 15 can be rotated around a rotation axis along the X-axis and moved along the upper surface of the tabletop 171 by a moving mechanism (not shown) provided on the stand.

[0017] The X-ray detector 19 detects X-rays generated by the X-ray tube 13 and transmitted through the subject P. The X-ray detector 19 is, for example, an X-ray flat panel detector (hereinafter referred to as FPD). The FPD has, for example, a plurality of semiconductor detection elements. The semiconductor detection elements include a direct conversion type that directly converts X-rays into an electric signal, and an indirect conversion type that converts X-rays into light by a phosphor and converts the light into an electric signal. Either type may be used for the FPD. Electric signals generated by the plurality of semiconductor detection elements in response to the incidence of X-rays are output to an analog-to-digital converter (hereinafter referred to as A / D converter) not shown. The A / D converter converts the electric signals into digital data. The A / D converter outputs the digital data to the processing circuit 27. Note that an image intensifier may be used as the X-ray detector 19.

[0018] The bed device 17 is a device on which the subject P is placed. The bed device 17 is moved by a bed moving mechanism 172 under the control of a bed mechanism control circuit 173. The bed moving mechanism 172 adjusts the upright and downward movement of the bed device 17, for example, by rotating the bed device 17 around a rotation axis along the X-axis direction. The bed moving mechanism 172 has, for example, a driving source such as a motor provided on the stand described above, and a driving force transmission member that transmits the driving force of the driving source to the bed device 17.

[0019] The input interface 21 accepts various instructions and input operations of information from an operator. Specifically, the input interface 21 converts the input operations accepted from the operator into electrical signals and outputs the electrical signals to the processing circuit 27. For example, the input interface 21 is realized by a trackball, a switch button, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch pad that performs input operations by touching the operation surface, a touch screen in which a display screen and a touch pad are integrated, a non-contact input circuit using an optical sensor, a voice input circuit, a foot switch, and the like. Note that the input interface 21 is not limited to those that have physical operation parts such as a mouse and a keyboard. For example, an electrical signal processing circuit that receives an electrical signal corresponding to an input operation from an external input device provided separately from the device and outputs the electrical signal to a control circuit is also included as an example of the input interface 21.

[0020] The display 23 is a device that displays various information. For example, the display 23 converts image data sent from the processing circuit 27 into an electrical signal for display and outputs it. The display 23 is realized by a liquid crystal monitor, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) monitor, a touch panel, or the like.

[0021] The memory circuitry 25 is a non-transient storage device that stores various information, and is, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD), an optical disk, a solid state drive (SSD), an integrated circuit storage device, etc. The memory circuitry 25 stores, for example, a control program that controls the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 and various data used for executing the control program. The memory circuitry 25 may be a drive device that reads and writes various information between the memory circuitry 25 and a portable storage medium such as a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), or a flash memory, or a semiconductor memory element such as a random access memory (RAM), etc., other than an HDD or an SSD.

[0022] The processing circuitry 27 is a circuit that controls the operation of the entire X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 in response to an electrical signal of an input operation input from the input interface 21. For example, the processing circuitry 27 includes an imaging control function 271 and an image generating function 272.

[0023] Here, for example, each processing function executed by the imaging control function 271 and the image generation function 272 which are components of the processing circuit 27 shown in Fig. 1 is recorded in the storage circuit 25 in the form of a program executable by a computer. The processing circuit 27 is, for example, a processor. The processor constituting the processing circuit 27 realizes a function corresponding to each read program by reading the programs from the storage circuit 25 and executing them. In other words, the processing circuit 27 in a state in which each program has been read has each function shown in the processing circuit 27 in Fig. 1.

[0024] 1 shows a case where the imaging control function 271 and the image generation function 272 are realized by a single processing circuit 27, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the processing circuit 27 may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and each processor may execute a program to realize each processing function. Furthermore, each processing function of the processing circuit 27 may be realized by being appropriately distributed or integrated into a single or multiple processing circuits.

[0025] The imaging control function 271 controls the imaging operation of the subject P by the imaging device 10 based on, for example, an input operation received from an operator via the input interface 21. The imaging control function 271 controls the imaging operation of the subject P by controlling the X-ray control circuit 111, the bed mechanism control circuit 173, etc. More specifically, the imaging control function 271 reads out a control program stored in the storage circuitry 25, expands it on the memory in the processing circuitry 27, and controls each part of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the expanded control program.

[0026] The image generation function 272 generates image data based on the output from the X-ray detector 19. The image data is data of medical images including fluoroscopic images and photographed images of the subject P. The imaging control function 271 causes the display 23 to display the generated image data.

[0027] Fig. 2 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of the support device 30 according to the embodiment. Fig. 3 is a side view showing the support tool 35 of the support device 30 according to the embodiment. Fig. 4 is a front view showing the support tool 35 of the support device 30 according to the embodiment. Fig. 5 is a view showing the movable part 31 of the support device 30 according to the embodiment.

[0028] 1 to 5, the support device 30 includes a movable portion 31, a sensor 32, a memory circuit 33, and a processing circuit 34. The support device 30 further includes a support tool 35, an arm portion 36, and a fixing portion 37.

[0029] The support 35 has a shape that allows a hand to be inserted therein. Arrow A in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 indicates the insertion direction and removal direction of the hand H with respect to the support 35. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the support 35 has a shape of a five-fingered glove. That is, the support 35 has five branched parts 351 into which five fingers can be individually inserted. The support 35 is formed, for example, from a material that has a rigidity sufficient to maintain a shape that allows a hand to be inserted therein and a flexibility sufficient to allow the fingers to be bent therein. The support 35 may be formed from a resin material, a rubber material, or the like. The rigidity and flexibility of the joint part 35a provided at a position on the branched part 351 corresponding to the joint of the finger may be adjusted so that it is easier to bend than other parts of the branched part 351.

[0030] 2, the support 35 is fixed to the tip of an arm unit 36. A fixing part 37 for fixing the support device 30 to the bed device 17 is provided at the base end of the arm unit 36. The fixing part 37 detachably fixes the support device 30 to the tabletop 171 by a fixing method such as clamping or screwing.

[0031] 2, a joint 361 (i.e., a rotation axis) capable of changing the bending angle of the arm unit 36 ​​is provided between the tip end and base end of the arm unit 36. By changing the bending angle of the arm unit 36, the posture of the support tool 35 can be changed. The joint 361 of the arm unit 36 ​​changes the bending angle of the arm unit 36 ​​in response to, for example, an operator moving his / her hand while inserting the hand into the support tool 35. The joint 361 of the arm unit 36 ​​may be provided with a mechanical or electrical locking mechanism for maintaining the bending angle of the arm unit 36 ​​after the change.

[0032] The movable part 31 operates in response to an operation toward the inside of the support device 30. That is, the movable part 31 operates in response to a manual operation performed by an operator with his / her hand inserted inside the support tool 35. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the movable part 31 is provided inside the support tool 35.

[0033] In the example shown in FIG. 5, the movable part 31 has a plurality of plate parts 311A, 311B, 311C and a plurality of rotation restriction members 312A, 312B, 312C. The plurality of plate parts 311A, 311B, 311C are arranged adjacent to each other along the fingers. The plurality of plate parts 311A, 311B, 311C are rotatably connected at positions corresponding to the joints of the fingers. The plurality of plate parts 311A, 311B, 311C may be provided at positions in the support 35 where the pads of the fingers contact. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the plurality of plate parts 311A, 311B, 311C are provided along the index finger inside the branch part 351 corresponding to the index finger. A plurality of plate parts are also provided inside the branch part 351 corresponding to the fingers other than the index finger, similar to the index finger. However, the number of plate parts corresponding to the thumb is one less than the number of plate parts corresponding to the other fingers.

[0034] In the example shown in FIG. 5, the plate portion 311A ​​is provided along the distal phalangeal bone at a position corresponding to the distal phalangeal bone inside the support 35. The plate portion 311B is provided along the middle phalangeal bone inside the support 35. The plate portion 311C is provided along the proximal phalangeal bone at a position corresponding to the proximal phalangeal bone inside the support 35. The plate portion 311A ​​is connected (i.e., supported) to the plate portion 311B at a position corresponding to the DIP (Distal Inter Phalangeal) joint inside the support 35 so as to be rotatable around a rotation shaft 313A provided at the tip of the plate portion 311B as a fulcrum. The plate portion 311B is connected to the plate portion 311C at a position corresponding to the PIP (Proximal Inter Phalangeal) joint inside the support 35 so as to be rotatable around a rotation shaft 313B provided at the tip of the plate portion 311C as a fulcrum. The plate portion 311C is rotatably connected to the plate portion 311D around a rotation axis 313C on the plate portion 311D provided corresponding to the metacarpal bone at a position corresponding to the MP (Metacarpal Phalangeal) joint inside the support 35. The plate portion 311D may be rotatably connected to the tip portion of another plate portion.

[0035] The rotation restricting members 312A, 312B, and 312C restrict the rotation of each of the plate portions 311A, 311B, and 311C. The rotation restricting member 312A is provided at a position corresponding to the rotation axis 313A of the plate portion 311A, and restricts the rotation of the plate portion 311A. The rotation restricting member 312B is provided at a position corresponding to the rotation axis 313B of the plate portion 311B, and restricts the rotation of the plate portion 311B. The rotation restricting member 312C is provided at a position corresponding to the rotation axis 313C of the plate portion 311C, and restricts the rotation of the plate portion 311C. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the rotation restricting members 312A, 312B, and 312C have rotor portions 3121 that rotate integrally with the corresponding plate portions 311A, 311B, and 311C, and brake portions 3122 that restrict the rotation of the rotor portions 3121. For example, rotor portion 3121 may be a magnetic body, and brake portion 3122 may be an electromagnetic brake that generates an electromagnetic force by energizing to attract rotor portion 3121. Such an electromagnetic brake that restricts the rotation of the plate portion may also be applied to the lock mechanism of joint 361 of arm portion 36 described above.

[0036] The sensor 32 outputs a detection signal (i.e., an electrical signal) according to the presence or absence of a hand. Specifically, the sensor 32 outputs a detection signal when a hand is inserted inside the support 35, and does not output a detection signal when a hand is not inserted inside the support 35. The sensor 32 outputs a detection signal according to a hand's contact with the sensor 32 from inside the support device 30. The hand's contact with the sensor 32 may be a direct contact, or may be an indirect contact via the support 35 or the like. The sensor 32 may output a detection signal according to the hand's approach to the sensor 32. At least two sensors 32 are provided corresponding to the thumb and fingers other than the thumb. In the example shown in FIG. 2 to FIG. 3, the finger other than the thumb is the index finger. That is, the sensor 32 is provided at two locations, a branched portion 351 corresponding to the thumb and a branched portion 351 corresponding to the index finger. The specific embodiment of the sensor 32 is not particularly limited as long as it can output a detection signal according to the presence or absence of a hand. The sensor 32 may be either a contact sensor or a non-contact sensor. The contact sensor may be, for example, a piezoelectric sensor, etc. The non-contact sensor may be, for example, a photo sensor, a capacitance sensor, etc.

[0037] The memory circuit 33 of the support device 30 shown in FIG. 1 is a non-transient memory device that stores various information, such as an HDD, an optical disk, an SSD, or an integrated circuit memory device. The memory circuit 33 stores, for example, a control program that controls the movable part 31 and various data used to execute the control program. The memory circuit 33 may be a drive device that reads and writes various information between a portable storage medium such as a CD, a DVD, or a flash memory, or a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM, in addition to an HDD or an SSD. The memory circuit 33 may be provided in the support 35, for example, or in the fixed part 37.

[0038] The processing circuit 34 of the support device 30 is a circuit that controls the operation of the movable part 31 in response to an electrical signal input from the sensor 32. For example, the processing circuit 34 includes a detection function 341 and a motion control function 342. The detection function 341 is an example of a detection section. The motion control function 342 is an example of a motion control section. The processing circuit 34 may be provided in the support 35, or in the fixed part 37, for example.

[0039] Here, for example, each processing function executed by the detection function 341 and the operation control function 342, which are components of the processing circuit 34 shown in FIG. 1, is recorded in the storage circuit 33 in the form of a program executable by a computer. The processing circuit 34 is, for example, a processor. The processing circuit 34 may include an electric circuit other than the processor. The processor constituting the processing circuit 34 reads each program from the storage circuit 33 and executes it to realize a function corresponding to each program read out. In other words, the processing circuit 34 in a state in which each program has been read out has each function shown in the processing circuit 34 in FIG. 1.

[0040] 1 shows a case where the processing functions of the detection function 341 and the operation control function 342 are realized by a single processing circuit 34, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the processing circuit 34 may be configured by combining multiple independent processors, and each processor may execute a program to realize each processing function. Furthermore, each processing function of the processing circuit 34 may be realized by being appropriately distributed or integrated into a single or multiple processing circuits.

[0041] The detection function 341 detects the presence or absence of a hand based on the detection signal output by the sensor 32. The operation control function 342 controls the operation of the movable part 31 so as to support the subject P according to the detection result of the presence or absence of a hand by the detection function 341.

[0042] Specifically, the motion control function 342 allows the movable part 31 to move in accordance with the movement of the hand (i.e., manual operation by the operator) when the detection function 341 detects the hand. On the other hand, when the detection function 341 does not detect the hand, the motion control function 342 restricts the motion of the movable part 31 to cause the movable part 31 to support the subject P.

[0043] In the example shown in FIG. 5, when a hand is detected by the detection function 341, the motion control function 342 controls the rotation restriction members 312A, 312B, and 312C so as not to restrict the rotation of each of the plate parts 311A, 311B, and 311C, thereby allowing the motion of the movable part 31. For example, the motion control function 342 does not apply electricity to the brake parts 3122, thereby not generating an electromagnetic force that attracts the rotor part 3121 corresponding to each brake part 3122. On the other hand, when a hand is not detected by the detection function 341, the motion control function 342 controls the rotation restriction members 312A, 312B, and 312C so as to restrict the rotation of each of the plate parts 311A, 311B, and 311C, thereby restricting the motion of the movable part 31. For example, the motion control function 342 applies electricity to the brake parts 3122, thereby generating an electromagnetic force that attracts the rotor part 3121 corresponding to each brake part 3122.

[0044] When an electromagnetic brake is provided at joint 361 of arm unit 36, motion control function 342 may control the electromagnetic brake so as not to restrict rotation of arm unit 36 ​​when a hand is detected by detection function 341. Furthermore, motion control function 342 may control the electromagnetic brake so as to restrict rotation of arm unit 36 ​​when a hand is not detected by detection function 341.

[0045] Next, an operation example of the support device 30 according to the embodiment configured as above will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the support device 30 according to the embodiment. The flowchart in FIG. 6 is repeated as necessary. In the initial state of FIG. 6, it is assumed that the operator's hand is not inserted into the support tool 35. Therefore, in the initial state of FIG. 6, the sensor 32 does not output a detection signal, and the detection function 341 does not detect the hand. For this reason, the movable part 31 is in a locked state in which the operation is restricted by the operation control function 342. Then, from the initial state, first, as shown in FIG. 6, the detection function 341 determines whether the operator's hand is inserted into the support tool 35, that is, whether the hand is present, based on whether the detection signal is output from the sensor 32 (step S1).

[0046] When the operator's hand is inserted into the support 35 (step S1: YES), the motion control function 342 releases the locked state of the movable part 31 (step S2). Specifically, the motion control function 342 controls the rotation restriction members 312A, 312B, and 312C so as not to restrict the rotation of each of the plate parts 311A, 311B, and 311C, thereby allowing the motion of the movable part 31. For example, the motion control function 342 does not apply electricity to the brake part 3122, thereby not generating an electromagnetic force that attracts the rotor part 3121 to the brake part 3122. On the other hand, when the operator's hand is not inserted into the support 35 (step S1: NO), the detection function 341 repeatedly determines whether the operator's hand is inserted into the support 35 (step S1).

[0047] Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing an example of the operation of the support device 30 according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 7, when the operator's hand H is inserted into the support tool 35, the locked state of the movable part 31 is released, so that the operator can adjust the bending amount of the fingers in the support tool 35. Since the bending amount of the fingers can be adjusted, the supporting force (i.e., the gripping force) for supporting the part to be supported of the subject P (for example, the knee in Fig. 7) via the support tool 35 can be adjusted.

[0048] After the locked state of the movable part 31 is released, as shown in FIG. 6, the detection function 341 determines whether or not the operator's hand is inserted into the support 35 based on whether or not a detection signal is output from the sensor 32 (step S3).

[0049] When the operator's hand is not inserted in the support 35 (step S3: NO), the motion control function 342 locks the movable part 31 (step S4). Specifically, the motion control function 342 controls the rotation restriction members 312A, 312B, and 312C so as to restrict the rotation of each of the plate parts 311A, 311B, and 311C, thereby restricting the motion of the movable part 31. For example, the motion control function 342 applies electricity to the brake part 3122 to generate an electromagnetic force that attracts the rotor part 3121 to the brake part 3122. On the other hand, when the operator's hand is inserted in the support 35 (step S3: YES), the detection function 341 repeatedly determines whether the operator's hand is inserted in the support 35 (step S3).

[0050] 8 is a perspective view showing an operation example of the support device 30 according to the embodiment, which is continued from FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 8, in the locked state, the movable part 31 holds the operation state (for example, the rotation angle of the plate parts 311A, 311B, 311C) immediately before the operator's hand H is removed from the support tool 35. Therefore, the movable part 31 can hold the supporting force of the support target part of the subject P adjusted when the operator inserts the hand H into the support tool 35. As a result, the support device 30 can appropriately support the support target part of the subject P even after the operator removes the hand H from the support tool 35.

[0051] As described above, in the support device 30 according to the embodiment, the movable portion 31 moves in response to an operation of the support device 30 inward.

[0052] As a result, when the support device 30 is operated inward, the support force of the subject P can be intuitively adjusted by the operation of the movable part 31 according to the operation, and when the operation is not performed, the operation of the movable part 31 can be restricted to maintain the support force. Therefore, an appropriate support force can be applied to the subject P by intuitively adjusting the support force by a simple operation inward of the support device 30. As a result, the subject P can be easily and appropriately supported. In addition, by appropriately supporting the subject P, the imaging position of the subject P can be appropriately maintained. By appropriately maintaining the imaging position of the subject P, the subject P can be appropriately imaged. In addition, since the operator does not need to continue supporting the subject P during imaging, the amount of exposure can be reduced and the labor of the operator can be reduced. In addition, since the support and imaging of the subject P can be performed by one operator, it is possible to solve the labor shortage.

[0053] Moreover, in the support device 30 according to the embodiment, the sensor 32 outputs a detection signal according to the presence or absence of a hand H. Moreover, the detection function 341 detects the presence or absence of a hand H based on the detection signal output by the sensor 32. Moreover, the operation control function 342 controls the operation of the movable part 31 so as to support the subject P according to the detection result of the presence or absence of the hand H by the detection function 341.

[0054] This makes it possible to easily and appropriately determine whether or not an inward operation of the support device 30 is being performed based on the detection signal of the sensor 32, and to control the operation of the movable part 31, thereby making it possible to support the subject P more easily and appropriately.

[0055] Furthermore, in the support device 30 according to the embodiment, when the detection function 341 detects the hand H, the motion control function 342 allows the movable part 31 to move in accordance with the movement of the hand H. When the detection function 341 does not detect the hand H, the motion control function 342 restricts the motion of the movable part 31, thereby causing the movable part 31 to support the subject P.

[0056] This allows the operator to easily and appropriately switch between adjusting the supporting force and maintaining the supporting force by the movable part 31 based on the detection results of the detection function 341, making it possible to support the subject P even more easily and appropriately.

[0057] In addition, in the support device 30 according to the embodiment, the movable part 31 has a plurality of plate parts 311A, 311B, 311C and a plurality of rotation restriction members 312A, 312B, 312C. The plurality of plate parts 311A, 311B, 311C are adjacently arranged along the fingers and rotatably connected at positions corresponding to the joints of the fingers. The plurality of rotation restriction members 312A, 312B, 312C restrict the rotation of each of the plurality of plate parts 311A, 311B, 311C. When the hand H is detected by the detection function 341, the operation control function 342 controls the plurality of rotation restriction members 312A, 312B, 312C so as not to restrict the rotation of each of the plurality of plate parts 311A, 311B, 311C, thereby allowing the operation of the movable part 31. In addition, when the hand H is not detected by the detection function 341, the movement control function 342 regulates the movement of the movable part 31 by controlling the multiple rotation regulating members 312A, 312B, 312C to regulate the rotation of each of the multiple plate parts 311A, 311B, 311C.

[0058] As a result, when the hand H is detected by the detection function 341, the rotation of the multiple plate parts 311A, 311B, 311C along the fingers is not restricted, so that the operator can adjust the support force simply and more intuitively. Furthermore, when the hand H is not detected by the detection function 341, the rotation of the multiple plate parts 311A, 311B, 311C is restricted, so that the movable part 31 can simply and appropriately hold the support force adjusted by the operator. Therefore, the subject P can be supported even more simply and appropriately.

[0059] Moreover, in the support device 30 according to the embodiment, the sensor 32 outputs a detection signal in response to contact of a hand with the support device 30 from inside.

[0060] This makes it possible to simply and appropriately detect the presence or absence of hands, thereby making it possible to support the subject P even more simply and appropriately.

[0061] Moreover, in the support device 30 according to the embodiment, at least two sensors 32 are provided corresponding to the thumb and the fingers other than the thumb.

[0062] This allows the presence or absence of hands to be appropriately detected by at least two sensors 32 provided at appropriate positions, making it possible to support the subject P more appropriately.

[0063] In addition, in the support device 30 according to the embodiment, the finger other than the thumb is the index finger.

[0064] Thus, by providing the sensor 32 at positions corresponding to the thumb and index finger to support the subject P, it is possible to more appropriately switch between adjustment of the supporting force by the operator and retention of the supporting force by the movable part 31. Therefore, the subject P can be more appropriately supported.

[0065] Moreover, the support device 30 according to the embodiment further includes a support tool 35 having a shape into which a hand can be inserted.

[0066] This allows the operator to support the subject P through the support tool 35 with his / her hand inserted inside the support tool 35, and therefore allows the operator to adjust the supporting force more intuitively. Therefore, the subject P can be supported more simply and appropriately.

[0067] In the supporting device 30 according to the embodiment, the movable part 31 is provided inside the supporting tool .

[0068] This allows the operator to operate the movable part 31 according to the movement of the fingers while inserting the hand inside the support tool 35, so that the supporting force can be adjusted more intuitively. Therefore, the subject P can be supported more simply and appropriately.

[0069] Moreover, the support device 30 according to the embodiment is fixed to the top board 171 of the bed device 17.

[0070] This makes it possible to appropriately support the subject P during imaging in a supine position.

[0071] Various modified examples shown below can be applied to the embodiment.

[0072] (First Modification) First, a first modified example in which the shape of the support 35 is changed will be described. FIG. 9 is a plan view showing a support device 30 according to a first modified example of the embodiment. In the above-mentioned embodiment, an example of the support 35 having a shape of a five-fingered glove has been described. In contrast to this, in the example shown in FIG. 9, the support 35 has a mitten shape. That is, the support 35 has two branches 351 corresponding to the thumb and the fingers other than the thumb. Two sensors 32 are provided corresponding to the two branches 351.

[0073] According to the first modification, support 35 has a mitten shape, so that it is possible to easily put hands in and out of support 35.

[0074] (Second Modification) Next, a second modified example in which the subject P is supported with both hands will be described. Fig. 10 is a side view showing a support device according to the second modified example of the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 10, the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the second modified example includes two types of support devices 30A, 30B, a support device 30A for the right hand and a support device 30B for the left hand, so that the support force of the subject P by both hands of the operator can be maintained.

[0075] Support device 30A for the right hand has the same configuration as that illustrated in Fig. 2 etc. Support device 30B for the left hand has a shape that is mirror symmetrical to support device 30A for the right hand. Note that support tool 35 for the right hand and components 31, 32 provided on support tool 35 and support tool 35 for the left hand and components 31, 32 provided on support tool 35 may share fixed part 37 and part of arm part 36.

[0076] According to the second modification, the supporting force of the operator's right hand can be maintained by restricting the movement of the movable part 31 of the right hand support device 30A. Also, the supporting force of the operator's left hand can be maintained by restricting the movement of the movable part 31 of the left hand support device 30B. This allows the subject P to be supported more appropriately.

[0077] (Third Modification) Next, a third modified example in which the support device 30 is fixed to the ceiling will be described. Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing the support device 30 according to the third modified example of the embodiment. In the above-mentioned embodiment, an example of the support device 30 fixed to the top plate 171 of the bed device 17 has been described. In contrast to this, in the example shown in Fig. 11, the support device 30 is fixed to the ceiling.

[0078] Specifically, the fixed part 37 of the support device 30 is supported on a rail 115 provided on the ceiling so as to be movable along the Y-axis direction, which is the longitudinal direction of the rail 115. The support tool 35 and components 31, 32 (not shown) provided on the support tool 35 are suspended from the rail 115 via the fixed part 37 and an arm part 36. Also, an operation box 14 including an X-ray tube 13 and an X-ray aperture 15 is suspended from the rail 115 via a support part 119 supported slidably along the rail 115 and a support part 117 extending downward from the support part 119. An operator can freely set the distance and direction to the X-ray detector 19 by operating the operation box 14.

[0079] According to the third modified example, since the support device 30 can be fixed to the ceiling, the degree of freedom in installing the support device 30 can be improved.

[0080] (Fourth Modification) Next, a fourth modified example in which the subject P is supported during imaging in an upright position will be described. Fig. 12 is a perspective view showing a support device 30 according to the fourth modified example of the embodiment. In the above-mentioned embodiment, an example of the support device 30 that supports the subject P during imaging in a lying position has been described. In contrast to this, in the example shown in Fig. 12, the support device 30 supports the subject P during imaging in an upright position.

[0081] Specifically, the support device 30 is supported by a stand 121 installed on the floor surface. The X-ray detector 19 is supported on the stand 121 in a direction perpendicular to the floor surface. The direction of the operation box 14 is adjusted so that the subject P positioned in front of the X-ray detector 19 is irradiated with X-rays. The support device 30 supports the stand 121, i.e., the subject P positioned in front of the X-ray detector 19. In the example shown in Fig. 12, the support device 30 supports the elbow of the subject P.

[0082] According to the fourth modification, since the subject P can be supported during imaging in an upright position, the convenience and versatility of the support device 30 can be improved.

[0083] (Fifth Modification) Next, a modified example of the movable part 31 will be described. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the movable part 31 of the support device 30 according to the fifth modified example of the embodiment. In the above-mentioned embodiment, an example has been described in which the multiple rotation restriction members 312A, 312B, and 312C of the movable part 31 have the rotor part 3121 that rotates integrally with the corresponding plate parts 311A, 311B, and 311C, and the brake part 3122 that restricts the rotation of the rotor part 3121. In contrast, in the example shown in FIG. 13, the multiple rotation restriction members 312A, 312B, and 312C have the motor 3123 and the clutch part 3124 that connects or disconnects the motor 3123 to the corresponding rotating shafts 313A, 313B, and 313C. The clutch part 3124 is, for example, an electromagnetic clutch.

[0084] When a hand is detected by the detection function 341, the operation control function 342 causes each clutch unit 124 to disconnect the motor 3123 from the rotating shafts 313A, 313B, and 313C by not energizing the clutch units 3124. This allows the operator to adjust the supporting force for the subject P by moving his or her fingers, since the rotation of each of the plate units 311A, 311B, and 311C about the rotating shafts 313A, 313B, and 313C is not restricted.

[0085] On the other hand, when the detection function 341 does not detect a hand, the motion control function 342 energizes the clutch units 3124 to connect the motor 3123 and the rotating shafts 313A, 313B, and 313C to each clutch unit 124. In a state in which the motor 3123 and the rotating shafts 313A, 313B, and 313C are connected, the motion control function 342 controls the energization of the motor 3123 so that the motor 3123 is in a locked state. This restricts the rotation of each of the plate units 311A, 311B, and 311C, so that the movable unit 31 can maintain the supporting force adjusted by the operator. Note that, when the detection function 341 does not detect a hand, the motion control function 342 can also rotate the motor 3123 in a direction to grip the hand so as to apply an appropriate torque to the subject P.

[0086] According to the fifth modification, the degree of freedom in designing the movable part 31 can be improved.

[0087] (Sixth Modification) Fig. 14 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the X-ray diagnostic apparatus 1 according to the sixth modified example of the embodiment. In the above-mentioned embodiment, the support device 30 is provided with its own memory circuitry 33 and processing circuitry 34. In contrast, as shown in Fig. 14, the memory circuitry 33 and processing circuitry 34 of the support device 30 may be integrated with the memory circuitry 25 and processing circuitry 27 of the console 20. That is, the detection function 341 and the operation control function 342 may be provided in the processing circuitry 27 of the console 20. Furthermore, the operation control function 342 may remotely control the operation of the movable part 31 based on an electrical signal of an input operation from the input interface 21 in addition to the vibration detected by the sensor 32.

[0088] The term "processor" used in the above description means a circuit such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (e.g., a simple programmable logic device (SPLD), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA)). The processor realizes its function by reading and executing a program stored in a memory circuit. Instead of storing a program in a memory circuit, the processor may be configured to directly incorporate the program in the circuit. In this case, the processor realizes its function by reading and executing the program incorporated in the circuit. The processor is not limited to being configured as a single processor circuit, and may be configured as a single processor by combining multiple independent circuits to realize its function. Furthermore, the multiple components in FIG. 1 may be integrated into a single processor to realize its function.

[0089] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, the subject can be supported simply and appropriately.

[0090] Although several embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are presented only as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The novel device and method described in this specification can be implemented in various other forms. In addition, various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made to the forms of the device and method described in this specification without departing from the spirit of the invention. The appended claims and their equivalents are intended to include such forms and modifications that fall within the scope and spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0091] 1. X-ray diagnostic equipment 121 Stand 13 X-ray tube 17 Sleeping device 171 Tabletop 19 X-ray detector 30 Support device 31 Moving parts 311A, 311B, 311C Plate section 312A, 312B, 312C Rotation restriction member 32 Sensors 341 Detection Function 342 Motion Control Function 35 Supports

Claims

1. A medical support device for supporting a subject, comprising: A medical support device comprising a movable part that operates in response to an operation inwardly of the medical support device.

2. A sensor that outputs a detection signal according to the presence or absence of a hand; a detection unit that detects the presence or absence of the hand based on the detection signal output by the sensor; an operation control unit that controls an operation of the movable unit so as to support the subject in accordance with a detection result of the presence or absence of the hand by the detection unit; The medical support device of claim 1 further comprising:

3. 3. The medical support device of claim 2, wherein the movement control unit allows the movable unit to move in accordance with the movement of the hand when the hand is detected by the detection unit, and causes the movable unit to support the subject by regulating the movement of the movable unit when the hand is not detected by the detection unit.

4. The movable part is A plurality of plate portions arranged adjacent to each other along a finger, the plate portions being rotatably connected at positions corresponding to the joints of the finger; a plurality of rotation restricting members restricting rotation of each of the plurality of plate portions; having The medical support device of claim 3, wherein the operation control unit allows operation of the movable unit by controlling the multiple rotation regulating members so as not to restrict rotation of each of the multiple plate parts when the hand is detected by the detection unit, and restricts operation of the movable unit by controlling the multiple rotation regulating members so as to restrict rotation of each of the multiple plate parts when the hand is not detected by the detection unit.

5. The medical support device according to claim 2 , wherein the sensor outputs the detection signal in response to contact with the hand from inside the medical support device.

6. The medical support device according to claim 2 , wherein at least two of the sensors are provided corresponding to the thumb and the fingers other than the thumb.

7. The medical support device of claim 6 , wherein the finger other than the thumb is an index finger.

8. The medical support device according to claim 1 , further comprising a support tool having a shape into which a hand can be inserted.

9. The medical support device according to claim 8 , wherein the movable portion is provided inside the support tool.

10. The top plate and a medical support device for supporting a subject on the tabletop; The medical support device is a medical bed device having a movable part that operates in response to an operation to the inside of the medical support device.

11. The medical bed apparatus according to claim 10 , wherein the medical support apparatus is fixed to the tabletop.

12. An X-ray generating unit that generates X-rays; an X-ray detector that detects X-rays generated by the X-ray generating unit and passed through a subject; a medical support device for supporting the subject located between the X-ray generation unit and the X-ray detector, The medical support device is an X-ray diagnostic device having a movable part that moves in response to an operation to the inside of the medical support device.

13. The medical bed apparatus further includes a tabletop. The X-ray generating unit and the medical support device are supported by a ceiling, The X-ray diagnostic apparatus according to claim 12 , wherein the medical support device supports a subject positioned on the tabletop.

14. the X-ray detector and the medical support device are supported by a stand installed on a floor surface; The X-ray diagnostic apparatus of claim 12 , wherein the medical support apparatus supports the subject positioned in front of the stand.

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