Radiation imaging system, operation method thereof, and operation program thereof

Abstract

To provide a radiation imaging system, an operation method thereof, and an operation program thereof that can efficiently perform positioning of a radiation source.SOLUTION: A radiation imaging system includes: a radiation detection device; a radiation source; a moving device which can change at least any one position of a translation position and a rotation position of the radiation source with respect to the radiation detection device in a plurality of directions, and has a plurality of detection sensors for detecting the positions with respect to the plurality of directions of the radiation source; and a processor which controls the radiation source. On the basis of detection values by the plurality of detection sensors, the processor executes interlock control for performing interlocking to prohibit irradiation of a radiation ray by the radiation source when at least one of the positions with respect to the plurality of directions is not included in an acceptable range for a target position, and assist control for notifying the direction to move the radiation source or performing assist mechanically when interlocking is performed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The technology disclosed herein relates to a radiation imaging system, an operating method thereof, and an operating program thereof. [Background technology]

[0002] In a radiography system, particularly when performing fluoroscopy, it is necessary to accurately align a radiation source that irradiates radiation with a radiation detection device that detects radiation that has passed through a subject and generates a radiographic image. If radiography is performed when the radiation source and the radiation detection device are not accurately aligned, reimaging is required, resulting in unnecessary exposure of the subject to radiation.

[0003] Patent Document 1 does not describe fluoroscopic imaging, but discloses that radiation irradiation is permitted only when the radiation source and the radiation detection device are accurately aligned (i.e., interlock control). Patent Document 1 also discloses that when a user aligns the radiation source with the radiation detection device, the proximity to the target position is indicated by color or sound. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2008-506442 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] According to the technology described in Patent Document 1, a user can align the radiation source while referring to the color or sound to determine the proximity to the target position. However, with the technology described in Patent Document 1, once the positioning is performed, the user cannot instantly recognize the occurrence of misalignment even if a misalignment occurs. In fluoroscopy, radiation irradiation is prohibited if a misalignment occurs, so the user must start the alignment again from the beginning, which creates a problem in that the alignment cannot be performed efficiently.

[0006] An object of the technique disclosed herein is to provide a radiography system that enables efficient alignment of a radiation source, and an operating method and operating program thereof. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the radiography system of the present disclosure includes a radiation detection device that detects radiation and generates a radiographic image, a radiation source that irradiates radiation to the radiation detection device, a moving device that is capable of changing at least one of the translational position and rotational position of the radiation source relative to the radiation detection device in a plurality of directions and has a plurality of detection sensors that detect the positions of the radiation source in the plurality of directions, and a processor that controls the radiation source, wherein the processor executes interlock control that applies an interlock to prohibit the radiation source from irradiating radiation when at least one of the positions in the plurality of directions is not within an acceptable range for a target position based on detection values ​​detected by the plurality of detection sensors, and assist control that notifies or mechanically assists in the direction in which the radiation source should be moved when the interlock is engaged.

[0008] It is preferable that the processor determines whether a first imaging mode, which prioritizes alignment of the radiation source with respect to the radiation detection device, or a second imaging mode, which prioritizes rapid imaging over alignment, has been selected, and if it determines that the first imaging mode has been selected, performs interlock control and assist control.

[0009] It is preferable that the processor determines that the first imaging mode is selected when a fluoroscopic imaging switch for instructing the execution of fluoroscopic imaging is pressed.

[0010] It is preferable that the processor determines that the first imaging mode is selected when the imaging mode is switched from a general imaging mode for performing general imaging to a fluoroscopic imaging mode for performing fluoroscopic imaging.

[0011] It is preferable that the processor determines that the first imaging mode has been selected when a general imaging switch for instructing execution of general imaging is pressed in a fluoroscopy mode for executing fluoroscopy imaging.

[0012] It is preferable that a plurality of indicators corresponding to a plurality of directions are provided, and the processor, in assist control, lights up an indicator among the plurality of indicators that corresponds to a direction having a position outside the tolerance range.

[0013] It is preferable that the radiation source be provided with at least one brake mechanism that restricts movement of the radiation source in multiple directions, and an operating device provided with multiple brake release buttons for releasing the brake applied by the brake mechanism, and that the multiple indicators be provided in the vicinity of the multiple brake release buttons.

[0014] When lighting an indicator corresponding to a direction having a position outside the tolerance range, the processor preferably changes the color of the indicator depending on the amount of deviation between the position of the radiation source and the target position.

[0015] When the processor lights up an indicator corresponding to a direction having a position outside the tolerance range, it is preferable that the processor changes the blinking period according to the amount of deviation between the position of the radiation source and the target position.

[0016] In the assist control, the processor preferably causes the display unit to display an apparatus structure diagram that typically represents the radiation source and a direction in which the radiation source should be moved.

[0017] It is preferable that the radiation source be provided with at least one brake mechanism that restricts movement of the radiation source in multiple directions, and an operating device provided with multiple brake release buttons for releasing the brakes applied by the brake mechanism, and that the processor be capable of releasing only the brake corresponding to the direction having a position outside the acceptable range.

[0018] It is preferable that the device is equipped with at least one brake mechanism that restricts movement of the radiation source in multiple directions, and an operating device provided with multiple brake release buttons for releasing the brakes applied by the brake mechanism, wherein the multiple brake release buttons include a simultaneous release button for simultaneously releasing brakes corresponding to two or more of the multiple directions, and when the simultaneous release button is pressed, the processor releases only the brake corresponding to the direction having a position outside the acceptable range.

[0019] The processor preferably controls the brake mechanism such that the brake is released and a load is applied in a direction opposite to that towards the target position.

[0020] It is preferable that the processor drives the brake mechanism, whose brake has been released, with a pulse duty and changes the duty in accordance with the distance between the position of the radiation source and the target position.

[0021] It is preferable that the processor determines whether the fluoroscopy intended by the user is an upright fluoroscopy or a supine fluoroscopy based on whether the positions in multiple directions are more likely to fall within the acceptable range of the target position for upright fluoroscopy or the acceptable range of the target position for supine fluoroscopy, and performs assist control for directions having positions outside the acceptable range.

[0022] The radiation source may be provided with a brake mechanism that restricts movement of the radiation source in a rotational direction among a plurality of directions, and an operating device provided with a brake release button for releasing the brake applied by the brake mechanism, and it is preferable that the brake mechanism has a plunger for aligning the radiation source to a specific rotational position.

[0023] The processor It is preferable that the brake mechanism applies the brakes after a delay time has elapsed from the time when it is detected that the brake release button has been released.

[0024] The moving device preferably comprises a ceiling device or a floor device.

[0025] The operating method of the radiography system disclosed herein is a method for operating a radiography system including a radiation detection device that detects radiation and generates a radiographic image, a radiation source that irradiates radiation to the radiation detection device, and a moving device that can change at least one of the translational position and rotational position of the radiation source relative to the radiation detection device in multiple directions and has a multiple detection sensors that detect the positions of the radiation source in the multiple directions, wherein a processor executes interlock control that applies an interlock to prohibit the radiation source from irradiating radiation if at least one of the positions in the multiple directions is not within an acceptable range for a target position based on detection values ​​by the multiple detection sensors, and assist control that notifies or mechanically assists in the direction in which the radiation source should be moved when the interlock is engaged.

[0026] The operating program of the present disclosure is an operating program for operating a radiography system including a radiation detection device that detects radiation and generates a radiographic image, a radiation source that irradiates radiation to the radiation detection device, and a moving device that can change at least one of the translational position and rotational position of the radiation source relative to the radiation detection device in multiple directions and has multiple detection sensors that detect the positions of the radiation source in the multiple directions, and causes a processor to execute interlock control that applies an interlock to prohibit the radiation source from irradiating radiation if at least one of the positions in the multiple directions is not within an acceptable range for a target position based on detection values ​​by the multiple detection sensors, and assist control that notifies or mechanically assists in the direction in which the radiation source should be moved when the interlock is applied. Effect of the Invention

[0027] According to the technique of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a radiography system that enables efficient alignment of a radiation source, and an operating method and operating program thereof. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0028] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a radiology information system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a radiation irradiation device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of the operating device. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the radiation imaging system. [Diagram 5] 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a control unit; FIG. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an interlock control. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of irradiation control. [Figure 8] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of assist control. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example in which the position of the radiation source is shifted in the Z-axis direction. [Figure 10] 11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating examples of indicator lighting. [Figure 11] 11 is a diagram showing an example of displaying a device structure diagram on a display unit of a console. FIG. [Figure 12] 11 is a diagram showing an example of displaying a device structure diagram on a display unit of an operating device. FIG. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of assist control according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart showing an assist control according to a modified example of the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example in which the brake is released only in the left direction toward the target position. [Figure 16] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a brake mechanism. [Figure 17]FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating pulse duty driving. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for general photography. [Figure 19] 11 is a diagram showing an example of a target position for upright position fluoroscopic imaging and a target position for supine position fluoroscopic imaging; FIG. [Figure 20] 10 is a flowchart showing an assist control according to a modified example. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a side view of the radiation irradiation device. [Figure 22] FIG. 4 is a front view of the brake mechanism. [Figure 23] 11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating a plunger alignment function. [Figure 24] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a delay time for pressing a brake release button. [Diagram 25] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a floor device. [Figure 26] 11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating a rapid imaging priority mode and a positioning priority mode. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0029] An example of an embodiment of the technology of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0030] [First embodiment] Fig. 1 shows a schematic configuration of a radiation imaging system 10. Fig. 2 shows a configuration of a radiation irradiation device 11. The radiation imaging system 10 includes the radiation irradiation device 11 and a radiation detection device 12. The radiation imaging system 10 is capable of imaging in both an upright position and a lying position.

[0031] The radiation irradiation device 11 includes a radiation source 13 that generates radiation (e.g., X-rays) and a collimator device 14 having a movable aperture that limits the irradiation range of the radiation. The radiation source 13 is also called a radiation tube. The radiation irradiation device 11 also includes an operation device 20 that is operated by a user, and a movement device 30 for moving the radiation source 13.

[0032] In the present disclosure, the term "position" includes a position in a translational direction along a certain axis (i.e., a translational position) and a position in a rotational direction around a certain axis (i.e., a rotational position). In addition, in the present disclosure, the term "movement" includes changing the translational position (i.e., moving in a linear direction) and changing the rotational position (i.e., changing the angle). In other words, the moving device 30 can change at least one of the translational position and the rotational position of the radiation source 13 in a plurality of directions.

[0033] In the radiography room, an upright radiography table 40 used when performing radiography in an upright position and a supine radiography table 41 used when performing radiography in a supine position are installed. The space in front of the upright radiography table 40 is the radiography position 40A of the subject when performing radiography in an upright position. The space above the supine radiography table 41 is the radiography position 41A of the subject when performing radiography in a supine position.

[0034] The radiation detection device 12 is portable and can be attached to and detached from the upright position radiography stand 40 and the lying position radiography stand 41. For example, the radiation detection device 12 is an electronic cassette incorporating a flat panel detector (FPD). The upright position radiography stand 40 is provided with a holder 42 for mounting the radiation detection device 12. When radiography is performed in an upright position, the radiation detection device 12 is mounted on the holder 42 of the upright position radiography stand 40. When radiography is performed in a lying position, the radiation detection device 12 is mounted on the holder 43 of the lying position radiography stand 41.

[0035] The radiation detection device 12 absorbs radiation that has passed through a region of the subject to be imaged, generates electric charges, and generates a radiological image based on the generated electric charges.

[0036] The moving device 30 holds the position of the radiation source 13 so that it can be changed in the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions. Here, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions are perpendicular to each other, and the Z-axis direction is the vertical direction. The moving device 30 also holds the position of the radiation source 13 so that it can be changed in the α-direction and the β-direction. Here, the β-direction is a rotation direction about the Z-axis. The α-direction is a rotation direction about an axis extending horizontally (which depends on the rotation position in the β-direction).

[0037] The moving device 30 includes a rail 31, a traveling vehicle 32, a suspension unit 33, a radiation source holding unit 34, and a rotation support unit 35. The traveling vehicle 32 is held by the rail 31 so as to be movable in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction. For example, the rail 31 includes a fixed rail that extends in the Y-axis direction and is installed on the ceiling, and a movable rail that extends in the X-axis direction and is provided so as to be movable along the fixed rail. The traveling vehicle 32 is held by the movable rail so as to be freely movable.

[0038] The suspension unit 33 is disposed so as to be extendable and retractable in the Z direction, and has an upper end fixed to the traveling vehicle 32. The radiation source holding unit 34 is held at the lower end of the suspension unit 33 so as to be rotatable in the β direction about the Z axis. The radiation source 13 is held by the radiation source holding unit 34 via a rotation support unit 35. The radiation source 13 is supported by the rotation support unit 35 so as to be rotatable in the α direction. A collimator device 14 and an operation device 20 are fixed to the radiation source 13.

[0039] The running vehicle 32, the suspension unit 33, etc. may be configured to be electrically driven by a driving unit such as a motor. Hereinafter, the rail 31, the running vehicle 32, and the suspension unit 33 may be referred to as a ceiling device.

[0040] The user can change the position of the radiation source 13 by applying a force in a desired direction to the operation device 20. By changing the position of the radiation source 13, the irradiation position or irradiation angle of the radiation changes.

[0041] 3 shows a schematic configuration of the operation device 20. The operation device 20 includes a device body 21 and a grip part 22 fixed to the device body 21. The device body 21 is fixed to the radiation source 13. The grip part 22 is disposed around the device body 21 and is gripped by a user.

[0042] A display unit 23 for displaying various information is provided in the center of the surface 21A of the device body 21. For example, the display unit 23 is a display such as a liquid crystal display.

[0043] Brake release buttons 24A to 24F are provided on the sides of the surface 21A. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the brake release buttons 24A to 24E, they will simply be referred to as brake release buttons 24. The brake release buttons 24A to 24F are an example of the "plurality of brake release buttons" according to the technology of the present disclosure.

[0044] The brake release buttons 24A to 24F are operation buttons for releasing the brake applied to the radiation source 13 by the brake mechanism 36, which will be described later. The brake restricts the movement of the radiation source 13 by the movement device 30. While any of the brake release buttons 24A to 24F is being pressed, the brake applied by the brake mechanism 36 corresponding to the pressed brake release button 24 is released.

[0045] The brake release button 24A is an operation button for releasing the brake of the radiation source 13 in the X-axis direction. The brake release button 24B is an operation button for releasing the brake of the radiation source 13 in the Y-axis direction. The brake release button 24C is an operation button for releasing the brake of the radiation source 13 in the Z-axis direction. The brake release button 24D is an operation button for releasing the brake of the radiation source 13 in the α-direction. The brake release button 24E is an operation button for releasing the brake of the radiation source 13 in the β-direction. The brake release button 24F is an operation button for simultaneously releasing three brakes of the radiation source 13 in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction. Hereinafter, the brake release button 24F may be referred to as the "simultaneous release button 24F." Note that the simultaneous release button 24F may be a button that simultaneously releases two or more brakes.

[0046] Indicators 25A to 25E are provided near the brake release buttons 24A to 24E, respectively. The indicators 25A to 25E are lit when the radiation source 13 needs to be aligned with the radiation detection device 12 and the position of the radiation source 13 is outside the allowable range. The indicators 25A to 25E are, for example, LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes). Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the indicators 25A to 25E, they will simply be referred to as indicators 25. The indicators 25A to 25E are an example of "plurality of indicators" according to the technology of the present disclosure.

[0047] Indicator 25A lights up when the position of radiation source 13 in the X-axis direction is outside the allowable range. Indicator 25B lights up when the position of radiation source 13 in the Y-axis direction is outside the allowable range. Indicator 25C lights up when the position of radiation source 13 in the Z-axis direction is outside the allowable range. Indicator 25D lights up when the position of radiation source 13 in the α-direction is outside the allowable range. Indicator 25E lights up when the position of radiation source 13 in the β-direction is outside the allowable range.

[0048] The collimator device 14 is also provided with adjustment knobs 14A and 14B for adjusting the irradiation field of the radiation. By manipulating the adjustment knobs 14A and 14B, the size of the irradiation field can be changed in two directions perpendicular to the optical axis of the radiation. For example, by manipulating the adjustment knob 14A, the size of the irradiation field can be changed in a first direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the radiation. By manipulating the adjustment knob 14B, the size of the irradiation field can be changed in a second direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the radiation and perpendicular to the first direction.

[0049] 4 shows the electrical configuration of the radiation imaging system 10. The radiation irradiation device 11 has a radiation source 13, a collimator device 14, an operation device 20, and a moving device 30, as well as a control unit 50 that controls each part of the radiation irradiation device 11. A console 51 serving as a control device is connected to the control unit 50.

[0050] The console 51 is connected to the radiation detection device 12 by wire or wirelessly. The console 51 transmits synchronization signals to the radiation irradiating device 11 and the radiation detection device 12, transmits exposure conditions to the radiation irradiating device 11, receives and displays radiation images from the radiation detection device 12, etc. The console 51 also enables the user to select an imaging menu, switch between imaging modes, etc. The imaging modes include a general imaging mode and a fluoroscopic imaging mode.

[0051] A general radiography switch 52 and a fluoroscopic radiography switch 53 are connected to the control unit 50. The general radiography switch 52 is an irradiation start switch operated by a user to instruct execution of general radiography in the general radiography mode. General radiography means performing one radiation imaging in response to operation of the general radiography switch 52. For example, the general radiography switch 52 is a two-step motion switch. When a user presses the general radiography switch 52 to the first step, an anode (not shown) included in the radiation source 13 starts to rotate. Then, when a user presses the general radiography switch 52 to the second step, a tube voltage is applied between the anode and the cathode from a tube voltage generator (not shown), so that radiation is generated and irradiated to the radiation detection device 12.

[0052] The fluoroscopic imaging switch 53 is an irradiation start switch operated by a user to instruct the execution of fluoroscopic imaging in the fluoroscopic imaging mode. Fluoroscopic imaging means that radiation imaging is performed continuously while the fluoroscopic imaging switch 53 is being operated. For example, the fluoroscopic imaging switch 53 is a foot switch that the user presses with his / her foot. While the user is pressing the fluoroscopic imaging switch 53, the radiation source 13 generates continuous or periodic pulsed radiation, which is irradiated to the radiation detection device 12.

[0053] For example, the user can specify continuous irradiation or pulse irradiation as the radiation irradiation method for fluoroscopic imaging by operating the console 51. Continuous irradiation is an irradiation method in which radiation is continuously irradiated from the radiation source 13 during fluoroscopic imaging. Pulse irradiation is an irradiation method in which radiation is irradiated in pulses from the radiation source 13 in synchronization with the frame rate of imaging during fluoroscopic imaging.

[0054] The operating device 20 is provided with brake release buttons 24A to 24E, indicators 25A to 25E, and a display unit 23, as well as a speaker 26 for outputting sound.

[0055] The moving device 30 includes brake mechanisms 36A-36E and detection sensors 37A-37E in addition to the mechanism for moving the radiation source 13 described above. The brake mechanisms 36A-36E are each configured with, for example, an electromagnetic brake, and the operation is controlled by the control unit 50. The detection sensors 37A-37E are configured with a potentiometer, a microswitch, a photosensor, etc., and output position detection values ​​to the control unit 50. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the brake mechanisms 36A-36E, they will simply be referred to as brake mechanisms 36. The brake mechanisms 36A-36E are an example of the "plurality of brake mechanisms" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The detection sensors 37A-37E are an example of the "plurality of detection sensors" according to the technology of the present disclosure.

[0056] The brake mechanism 36A is a mechanism for restricting the movement of the radiation source 13 in the X-axis direction, and is provided, for example, between the rail 31 and the traveling vehicle 32. The brake mechanism 36B is a mechanism for restricting the movement of the radiation source 13 in the Y-axis direction, and is provided, for example, on the rail 31. The brake mechanism 36C is a mechanism for restricting the movement of the radiation source 13 in the Z-axis direction, and is provided, for example, on the suspension unit 33. The brake mechanism 36D is a mechanism for restricting the movement (i.e., rotation) of the radiation source 13 in the α direction, and is provided, for example, between the radiation source holding unit 34 and the rotation support unit 35. The brake mechanism 36E is a mechanism for restricting the movement (i.e., rotation) of the radiation source 13 in the β direction, and is provided, for example, between the radiation source holding unit 34 and the rotation support unit 35.

[0057] Detection sensor 37A detects the position of radiation source 13 in the X-axis direction. Detection sensor 37B detects the position of radiation source 13 in the Y-axis direction. Detection sensor 37C detects the position of radiation source 13 in the Z-axis direction. Detection sensor 37D detects the position of radiation source 13 in the α direction (i.e., the rotational position). Detection sensor 37E detects the position of radiation source 13 in the β direction (i.e., the rotational position).

[0058] 5 shows a configuration example of the control unit 50. The control unit 50 is composed of, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 60, a storage 61, and a memory 62. The storage 61 stores an operating program 63 and various data. The storage 61 is a non-volatile storage device such as a flash memory. The memory 62 is a volatile storage device such as a DRAM (Random Access Memory) and is used as a work memory. The CPU 60 realizes various functions by operating each unit based on the operating program 63. The CPU 60 is an example of a "processor" according to the technology of the present disclosure.

[0059] The configuration of the control unit included in the console 51 is the same as that of the control unit 50. The control unit of the console 51 is composed of, for example, a CPU, a storage that stores an operating program, and a memory. The console 51 also includes an operation unit such as a keyboard, and a display unit such as a display.

[0060] The control unit 50 executes interlock control, irradiation control, and assist control in the fluoroscopic imaging mode. The interlock control is a control that applies an interlock to prohibit radiation irradiation when at least one of the positions of the radiation source 13 in a plurality of directions is outside an allowable range in the fluoroscopic imaging mode. This is because in fluoroscopic imaging, it is required to accurately align the radiation source 13 with the radiation detection device 12 to prevent re-imaging. The irradiation control is a control that causes the radiation source 13 to generate radiation in response to the operation of the fluoroscopic imaging switch 53. The assist control is a control that notifies or mechanically assists in the direction in which the radiation source 13 should be moved when the interlock is applied.

[0061] 6 shows an example of the interlock control. In the interlock control, first, the control unit 50 judges whether the imaging mode is the fluoroscopic imaging mode (step S10). When the control unit 50 judges that the imaging mode is not the fluoroscopic imaging mode (step S10: NO), the process ends.

[0062] When the control unit 50 determines that the mode is the fluoroscopic imaging mode (step S10: YES), it detects the position of the radiation source 13 relative to the radiation detection device 12 based on the position detection values ​​input from the detection sensors 37A to 37E (step S11). Specifically, the control unit 50 detects the positions in the X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, Z-axis direction, α direction, and β direction.

[0063] Next, the control unit 50 judges whether or not there is a position outside the allowable range for performing fluoroscopy among the detected positions (step S12). There are upright fluoroscopy performed using the upright imaging platform 40 and lying-down fluoroscopy performed using the lying-down imaging platform 41. The target position of the radiation source 13 with respect to the radiation detection device 12 and the allowable range for the target position are different between upright fluoroscopy and lying-down fluoroscopy. The target position and the allowable range in the cases of upright fluoroscopy and lying-down fluoroscopy are stored as data in the memory 62. For example, in the case of upright fluoroscopy, the target position in the X-axis direction is SID (Source-to-Image Distance) (e.g., 1200 mm), the target position in the Y direction is 0 mm, the target position in the Z direction is the center position of the image receiving surface, the target position in the α direction is 90°, and the target position in the β direction is 0°. The allowable range is a range centered on a set value. The allowable range may be set to a different value for each of the target positions in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, the Z-axis direction, the α direction, and the β direction.

[0064] If there is a position outside the allowable range (step S12: YES), the control unit 50 applies an interlock to prohibit radiation irradiation by the radiation source 13 (step S13) and shifts the process to step S14. On the other hand, if there is no position outside the allowable range (step S12: NO), the control unit 50 shifts the process to step S14 without applying an interlock. In step S14, the control unit 50 determines whether or not the end condition is satisfied (step S14). If the end condition is not satisfied (step S14: NO), the control unit 50 returns the process to step S12. If the end condition is satisfied (step S14: YES), the control unit 50 terminates the process. For example, the end condition is that the console 51 accepts an end instruction issued by the user.

[0065] The control unit 50 may align the radiation source 13 while the user is pressing the brake release button 24, and perform the above-mentioned interlock control when the user releases the brake release button 24.

[0066] 7 shows an example of irradiation control. In the irradiation control, first, the control unit 50 judges whether or not the fluoroscopic switch 53 has been pressed (step S20). If the control unit 50 judges that the fluoroscopic switch 53 has been pressed (step S20: YES), it judges whether or not an interlock has been applied (step S21). If the control unit 50 judges that the interlock has not been applied (step S21: NO), it causes the radiation source 13 to irradiate radiation (step S22). On the other hand, if the control unit 50 judges that the interlock has been applied (step S21: YES), it ends the process without causing the radiation source 13 to irradiate radiation.

[0067] After causing the radiation source 13 to irradiate radiation, the control unit 50 determines whether the fluoroscopic switch 53 has been released (step S23). If the control unit 50 determines that the fluoroscopic switch 53 has not been released (step S23: NO), the control unit 50 shifts the process to step S22 and causes the radiation source 13 to continue irradiating radiation. On the other hand, if the control unit 50 determines that the fluoroscopic switch 53 has been released (step S23: YES), the control unit 50 causes the radiation source 13 to end irradiating radiation, and ends the process.

[0068] 8 shows an example of assist control. In assist control, first, the control unit 50 judges whether or not the fluoroscopic imaging switch 53 has been pressed (step S30). If the control unit 50 judges that the fluoroscopic imaging switch 53 has been pressed (step S30: YES), it judges whether or not an interlock has been applied (step S31). If the control unit 50 judges that the interlock has not been applied (step S31: NO), it ends the process.

[0069] On the other hand, when the control unit 50 determines that the interlock is engaged (step S31: YES), the control unit 50 turns on the indicator 25 corresponding to the direction in which the position is outside the allowable range, among the indicators 25A-25E, based on the position information of the radiation source 13 detected by the interlock control (step S32).

[0070] In this embodiment, the control unit 50 determines whether or not assist control is required based on whether or not the fluoroscopic imaging switch 53 has been pressed.

[0071] Fig. 9 shows an example of a case where the position of radiation source 13 is deviated in the Z-axis direction. When the position of radiation source 13 in the Z direction is outside the allowable range with the center of the image receiving surface of radiation detection device 12 as the target position, as shown in Fig. 9, the control unit 50 lights up indicator 25C corresponding to brake release button 24C, as shown in Fig. 10.

[0072] The user can know that the position of the radiation source 13 has shifted in the Z direction because the indicator 25C is lit. This allows the user to align the radiation source 13 in the Z direction by pressing the brake release button 24C and applying force to the operation device 20. The same applies to the cases where other positions are outside the permissible ranges.

[0073] As described above, according to the present embodiment, if the interlock is engaged when the fluoroscopy switch 53 is pressed, the indicator 25 corresponding to a direction that is outside the allowable range among the positions of the radiation source 13 in a plurality of directions is lit up. This enables the user to efficiently align the radiation source 13.

[0074] Various modifications of the first embodiment will be described below.

[0075] In the above embodiment, the control unit 50 lights up the indicator 25 corresponding to the direction in which the position is outside the tolerance range, but the color of the indicator 25 may be changed depending on the amount of deviation between the position of the radiation source 13 and the target position. For example, the control unit 50 changes the color of the indicator 25 to red when the amount of deviation is equal to or greater than a certain value, and changes the color of the indicator 25 to yellow when the amount of deviation is less than the certain value. This allows the user to grasp the magnitude of the amount of deviation.

[0076] Furthermore, the control unit 50 may blink the indicator 25 corresponding to the direction having a position outside the allowable range. In this case, the control unit 50 may change the blinking cycle of the indicator according to the amount of deviation between the position of the radiation source 13 and the target position. For example, the control unit 50 may reduce the blinking cycle as the amount of deviation increases. This allows the user to more accurately grasp the magnitude of the amount of deviation.

[0077] In the above embodiment, the control unit 50 assists the user in the alignment by turning on the indicator 25. Alternatively, the control unit 50 may assist the user in the alignment by displaying assist information on the display unit of the console 15 or the display unit 23 of the operation device 20. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, a device structure diagram 55 that typically shows the radiation source 13 may be displayed on a part of the display unit 51A of the console 15, and an arrow D indicating the direction of alignment may be displayed near the device structure diagram 55. FIG. 11 shows that the position of the radiation source 13 in the Z direction is outside the allowable range, and alignment is required in the Z direction. As shown in FIG. 12, the device structure diagram 55 may be displayed on a part of the display unit 23 of the operation device 20, and an arrow D indicating the direction of alignment may be displayed near the device structure diagram 55. FIG. 12 shows that the position of the radiation source 13 in the α direction is outside the allowable range, and alignment is required in the α direction. In this case, the indicators 25A to 25E may not be provided.

[0078] 11 and 12, the display form may be changed according to the amount of deviation between the position of the radiation source 13 and the target position. For example, the color of the arrow D may be changed according to the amount of deviation. Furthermore, the color of the arrow D may be made to flash, and the flashing cycle may be changed according to the amount of deviation.

[0079] The control unit 50 may also assist the user in positioning by controlling the speaker 26 to output sound. For example, the control unit 50 may assist the user in the direction to be aligned by outputting sound. In this disclosure, notification refers to conveying information to the user. Notification includes not only displaying information to the user, but also outputting sound to the user.

[0080] [Second embodiment] Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the above embodiment and each modification, the alignment is assisted by notifying the user of the direction having a position outside the allowable range. In this embodiment, the alignment is assisted by mechanically conveying the direction having a position outside the allowable range to the user.

[0081] The configuration of the radiation imaging system according to the second embodiment is similar to that of the radiation imaging system 10 according to the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the indicators 25A-25E do not necessarily have to be provided on the operation device 20. This embodiment differs from the above-described embodiment only in the assist control by the control unit 50. In this embodiment, the control unit 50 performs assist control by controlling the brake mechanisms 36A-36E instead of the indicators 25A-25E.

[0082] Fig. 13 shows an example of assist control according to the second embodiment. The assist control according to this embodiment differs from the assist control according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 8 only in step S32. In this embodiment, when the controller 50 determines that the interlock is engaged (step S31: YES), the controller 50 releases only the brake applied by the brake mechanism 36 corresponding to the direction in which the position is outside the allowable range, among the brake mechanisms 36A-36E, based on the position information of the radiation source 13 detected during the interlock control (step S32). This allows the user to know the direction in which the position is outside the allowable range.

[0083] 9, when the position of radiation source 13 in the Z direction is outside an allowable range with the center of the image receiving surface of radiation detection device 12 as the target position, the control unit 50 allows only the brake applied by brake mechanism 36C of brake mechanisms 36A to 36E to be released. That is, the user can release the brake only when pressing brake release button 24C of brake release buttons 24A to 24E, and can align radiation source 13 in the Z direction while pressing brake release button 24C.

[0084] As described above, according to the present embodiment, if the interlock is engaged when the fluoroscopy switch 53 is pressed, only the brake applied by the brake mechanism 36 corresponding to a direction that is outside the allowable range among the multiple positions of the radiation source 13 in the multiple directions can be released. This enables the user to efficiently align the radiation source 13.

[0085] Various modifications of the second embodiment will be described below.

[0086] FIG. 14 shows the assist control according to the modified example of the second embodiment. The assist control according to this modified example differs from the assist control according to the second embodiment only in that steps S33 and S34 are executed instead of step S32. In this modified example, when the control unit 50 determines that the interlock is engaged (step S31: YES), it determines whether the simultaneous release button 24F is pressed (step S33). When the control unit 50 determines that the simultaneous release button 24F is pressed (step S33: YES), it releases only the brake applied by the brake mechanism 36 corresponding to the direction that is outside the allowable range among the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction (step S34). This allows the user to grasp the direction that is outside the allowable range.

[0087] 9, when the position of the radiation source 13 in the Z direction is outside an allowable range with the center of the image receiving surface of the radiation detection device 12 as the target position, the control unit 50 releases only the brake applied by the brake mechanism 36C when the simultaneous release button 24F is pressed. In other words, the user can align the radiation source 13 only in the Z direction while pressing the simultaneous release button 24F.

[0088] In addition, instead of using the simultaneous release button 24F, when the brake mechanisms 36A to 36C are pressed simultaneously, the control unit 50 may release only the brake applied by the brake mechanism 36 corresponding to the direction that is outside the allowable range among the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction.

[0089] Furthermore, the control unit 50 may release the brake applied by the brake mechanism 36 corresponding to the direction having a position outside the allowable range only in the direction toward the target position. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, when the position of the radiation source 13 in the X direction is outside the allowable range, the control unit 50 may control the brake mechanism 36A to release the brake only in the left direction toward the target position and to apply the brake to the right side. In this case, the brake does not have to completely restrict the movement of the radiation source 13. For example, the brake mechanism 36A may be controlled to apply a load in the opposite direction to the direction toward the target position by pulse duty driving, which will be described later. This allows the user to easily grasp the direction toward the target position, and allows more efficient alignment.

[0090] Furthermore, the control unit 50 may change the load of the brake depending on the position of the radiation source 13 and the distance to the target position. As shown in Fig. 16, the brake mechanism 36A includes a brake pad 31A and an electromagnet 31B provided on the rail 31. The control unit 50 controls the on / off of the brake mechanism 36A by controlling the current flowing through the electromagnet 31B. The control unit 50 detects the position of the radiation source 13 and the distance L to the target position, and reduces the load as the distance L increases.

[0091] For example, the control unit 50 performs pulse duty driving as shown in Fig. 17. Pulse duty driving is a driving method in which the brake is turned on and off periodically and the load can be changed by changing the duty. If the on and off cycle is T and the on period is H, the duty is expressed as H / T x 100. The control unit 50 reduces the duty as the distance L increases. This pulse duty driving is not limited to the X-axis direction, but can also be applied to any of the Y-axis direction, Z-axis direction, α direction, and β direction.

[0092] In this way, by reducing the load as the distance L increases, the user can easily move the radiation source 13 when the distance L is large, but it becomes more difficult to move the radiation source 13 as the distance L decreases. This makes it possible to move the radiation source 13 to the vicinity of the target position at high speed and to perform accurate alignment near the target position.

[0093] The control of the brake mechanism 36 described using Figures 15 to 17 can also be applied to the case where the user presses the brake release button 24 to move the radiation source 13 in accordance with the assist control according to the first embodiment or each modified example.

[0094] [Other variations] Below, a modification common to the first and second embodiments will be described.

[0095] In each of the above embodiments, the control unit 50 determines whether or not assist control is required based on whether or not the fluoroscopic imaging switch 53 is pressed, but the control unit 50 may determine whether or not assist control is required based on whether or not the imaging mode is switched to the fluoroscopic imaging mode. For example, as shown in Fig. 18, when a mode switching button 57 is pressed on a screen 56 for general imaging displayed on the display unit 51A of the console 15 and the imaging mode is switched from the general imaging mode to the fluoroscopic imaging mode, the control unit 50 may determine that assist control is required and perform the above-mentioned assist control.

[0096] Furthermore, in many cases, whether the fluoroscopic imaging is an upright fluoroscopic imaging or a supine fluoroscopic imaging is not set in the imaging menu settings on the console 15. For this reason, the control unit 50 may determine whether the fluoroscopic imaging intended by the user is an upright fluoroscopic imaging or a supine fluoroscopic imaging, based on whether the positions of the radiation source 13 in a plurality of directions are more often included in the allowable range of the target position for upright fluoroscopic imaging or in the allowable range of the target position for supine fluoroscopic imaging.

[0097] FIG. 19 shows an example of a target position for upright fluoroscopy and a target position for lying position fluoroscopy. As shown in FIG. 19, the target position for upright fluoroscopy and the target position for lying position fluoroscopy are defined in five directions, namely, the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, the Z-axis direction, the α direction, and the β direction, respectively. The target positions and allowable ranges shown in FIG. 19 are stored as data in the memory 62. The control unit 50 compares the detection values ​​of the positions acquired by the detection sensors 37A to 37E with allowable ranges centered on the target values ​​in the five directions shown in FIG. 19. For example, when three of the positions of the radiation source 13 in the five directions are included in the allowable ranges for upright fluoroscopy and two are included in the allowable ranges for lying position fluoroscopy, the control unit 50 determines that the fluoroscopy intended by the user is upright fluoroscopy. In addition to the Y-axis direction, Z-axis direction, α direction, and β direction, the target values ​​and allowable ranges of the first and second direction widths of the irradiation field adjusted by the adjustment knobs 14A and 14B of the collimator device 14 may also be used as judgment parameters.

[0098] Furthermore, the control unit 50 may perform the above-mentioned assist control for a direction having a position outside the allowable range after determining whether the fluoroscopic imaging is an upright position fluoroscopic imaging or a prone position fluoroscopic imaging. FIG. 20 shows the assist control according to this modification. The assist control according to this modification is different from the assist control according to the first embodiment in that step S35 is executed before step S32 instead of step S32. In this modification, when the control unit 50 determines that the interlock is engaged (step S31: YES), as described above, the control unit 50 determines whether the fluoroscopic imaging intended by the user is an upright fluoroscopic imaging or a prone position fluoroscopic imaging based on the positions of the radiation source 13 in a plurality of directions (step S35). Then, the control unit 50 lights up the indicator 25 corresponding to the direction having a position outside the allowable range for the determined imaging (step S32). For example, if three of the positions of the radiation source 13 in five directions are within the acceptable range for upright fluoroscopy and two are within the acceptable range for supine fluoroscopy, the control unit 50 determines that the fluoroscopy intended by the user is upright fluoroscopy and lights up the indicator 25 corresponding to the direction that is outside the acceptable range for upright fluoroscopy.

[0099] In step S35, as described in the second embodiment, only the brake applied by the brake mechanism 36 corresponding to the direction having a position outside the allowable range may be released.

[0100] 21 and 22 show a modified example of a brake mechanism 36D that restricts movement of the radiation source 13 in the α direction. Fig. 21 is a side view of the radiation irradiator 11. Fig. 22 is a front view of the brake mechanism 36D. The brake mechanism 36D is provided in the housing of the radiation source holding unit 34.

[0101] The brake mechanism 36D includes a disk-shaped brake pad 70 and an electromagnet 71. The brake pad 70 is fixed to the rotation support part 35. The electromagnet 71 is provided near the brake pad 70 and is controlled by the control part 50. The control part 50 controls the current flowing through the electromagnet 71 to perform on / off control of the brake mechanism 36D.

[0102] The brake mechanism 36D is provided with a plunger 72 for positioning the radiation source 13 at a specific position in the α direction. The plunger 72 is composed of a ball 72A and a spring 72B that biases the ball 72A against the outer periphery of the brake pad 70. At least one notch 70A into which the ball 72A fits is formed on the outer periphery of the brake pad 70. The notch 70A is provided at a specific rotational position (α=0°, 90°, etc.) where alignment is frequently performed. The plunger 72 gives a clicking sensation to the user when the ball 72A fits into the notch 70A. The plunger 72 allows the user to easily align the radiation source 13 to a specific position. The clicking sensation allows the user to know that alignment has been completed.

[0103] In addition to the click feeling, the plunger 72 has a positioning function that physically aligns the radiation source 13 even if the ball 72A is slightly deviated from the target position during alignment. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 23, if the ball 72A is slightly deviated from the position at which the ball 72A fits into the notch 70A during alignment, the ball 72A vibrates in the α direction around the fitting position and then fits into the notch 70A. In this way, it takes a certain amount of time for the position to converge by the positioning function of the plunger 72. For this reason, if the user aligns the radiation source 13 in the α direction while pressing the brake release button 24D and releases the brake release button 24D before the position converges by the positioning function of the plunger 72, the brake mechanism 36D applies the brake at a position deviated from the fitting position, such as α=0°. For example, when the SID is 1800 mm, even a positional deviation of 0.3° will cause an interlock to be activated, making it impossible to perform fluoroscopic imaging.

[0104] For this reason, as shown in Fig. 24, it is preferable that the control unit 50 applies the brake by the brake mechanism 36D after the delay time TD has elapsed from the time when it is detected that the brake release button 24D has been released. The delay time TD is a time sufficient for the position to converge by the positioning function of the plunger 72, and is, for example, 0.5 seconds. It is preferable that the delay time TD is provided when the assist control is performed (i.e., in the case of the fluoroscopic imaging mode). In the case of the general imaging mode, while rapid imaging is required, a slight positional deviation is often not a problem, so it is preferable that the brake is applied immediately after the brake release button 24D is released without providing the delay time TD.

[0105] Furthermore, in each of the above-described embodiments, the radiation source 13 is moved by a ceiling device, but the radiation source 13 may be moved by a floor device. FIG. 25 shows an example of a floor device 80. For example, the floor device 80 is used together with the supine position imaging table 41. The floor device 80 is included in the above-described moving device 30. For example, the floor device 80 holds the radiation source 13 movably in the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction. Note that the floor device 80 may hold the radiation source 13 movably in the Y direction and the β direction in addition to the X-axis direction and the Z-axis direction.

[0106] That is, the movement device 30 of the present disclosure is not limited to the six directions of the X-axis, Y-axis, Z-axis, α-direction, and β-direction, but may be configured to be capable of moving the radiation source 13 in a plurality of directions.

[0107] In addition, in the above embodiment, a plurality of brake mechanisms are provided to restrict the movement of radiation source 13 in a plurality of directions, but at least one brake mechanism may be provided. In other words, one brake mechanism may restrict the movement of radiation source 13 in two or more directions.

[0108] In each of the above embodiments, the control unit 50 performs interlock control and assist control in the case of fluoroscopic imaging. However, even in general imaging, there are cases where strict alignment of the position of the radiation source 13 is required. For example, when evaluating the change over time of fracture treatment by general imaging, it is required to position the radiation source 13 at the same position every time. Also, for example, when imaging the head by general imaging so as to avoid the crystalline lens of the eye, it is required to strict alignment of the radiation source 13. This is because the risk of exposure increases if the radiation source 13 is misaligned. Thus, even in general imaging, there are cases where it is desired to move the radiation source 13 freely to perform imaging quickly, and cases where it is desired to perform imaging after strict alignment of the radiation source 13 even if it takes time.

[0109] In each of the above embodiments, the control unit 50 executes general photography when the general photography switch 52 is pressed in the general photography mode, and executes fluoroscopy when the fluoroscopy switch 53 is pressed in the fluoroscopy mode. The control unit 50 may execute general photography when the fluoroscopy switch 53 is pressed in the general photography mode and when the general photography switch 52 is pressed in the fluoroscopy mode.

[0110] Also, as shown in FIG. 26, when the general imaging switch 52 is pressed in the general imaging mode, the control unit 50 may determine that the "quick imaging priority mode" in which quick imaging is prioritized over alignment is selected, and when the fluoroscopic imaging switch 53 is pressed in the general imaging mode, and when the general imaging switch 52 or the fluoroscopic imaging switch 53 is pressed in the fluoroscopic imaging mode, the control unit 50 may determine that the "alignment priority mode" in which alignment is prioritized is selected. In the alignment priority mode, the control unit 50 performs the above-mentioned interlock control and assist control. In the fluoroscopic imaging mode, the "alignment priority mode" is determined whether the general imaging switch 52 or the fluoroscopic imaging switch 53 is pressed. Therefore, the control unit 50 may determine that the "alignment priority mode" is selected in response to the imaging mode being switched from the general imaging mode to the fluoroscopic imaging mode, as in the modified example described with reference to FIG. 18. In addition, the alignment priority mode corresponds to the "first imaging mode" according to the technology of the present disclosure. The rapid shooting priority mode corresponds to the "second shooting mode" according to the technique of the present disclosure.

[0111] Therefore, the technique disclosed herein enables selection between a rapid imaging priority mode and an alignment priority mode, and performs interlock control and assist control when the alignment priority mode is selected.

[0112] Furthermore, the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to X-rays, but can also be applied to a system that captures an image of a subject using other types of radiation such as gamma rays.

[0113] In each of the above-described embodiments and modifications, for example, the hardware structure of a processing unit that executes the processes of the control unit 50 and the like is various processors as described below.

[0114] Various types of processors include CPUs, programmable logic devices (PLDs), dedicated electrical circuits, etc. As is well known, a CPU is a general-purpose processor that executes software (programs) and functions as various processing units. A PLD is a processor whose circuit configuration can be changed after manufacture, such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). A dedicated electrical circuit is a processor with a circuit configuration designed specifically to execute specific processes, such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

[0115] One processing unit may be configured with one of these various processors, or may be configured with a combination of two or more processors of the same or different types (for example, multiple FPGAs, or a combination of a CPU and an FPGA). Also, multiple processing units may be configured with one processor. As an example of configuring multiple processing units with one processor, first, there is a form in which one processor is configured with a combination of one or more CPUs and software, and this processor functions as multiple processing units. Second, there is a form in which a processor that realizes the functions of the entire system including multiple processing units in one IC chip is used, as represented by a system on chip (SoC). In this way, the various processing units are configured using one or more of the above various processors as a hardware structure.

[0116] Furthermore, the hardware structure of these various processors is, more specifically, an electric circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0117] Two or more of the above-described embodiments and modifications may be combined with each other as long as no contradiction occurs.

[0118] The technology of the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and modifications, and various configurations may be adopted without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the technology of the present disclosure extends to a computer-readable storage medium that non-temporarily stores a program, in addition to a program.

[0119] The above explanation makes it possible to understand the following techniques. [Additional note 1] a radiation detection device that detects radiation and generates a radiation image; a radiation source that irradiates the radiation detection device with the radiation; a moving device capable of changing at least one of a translational position and a rotational position of the radiation source relative to the radiation detection device in a plurality of directions, the moving device having a plurality of detection sensors for detecting the positions of the radiation source in the plurality of directions; a processor for controlling the radiation source; Equipped with The processor, an interlock control that applies an interlock to prohibit irradiation of radiation by the radiation source when at least one of the positions in the plurality of directions is not included in an allowable range for a target position based on detection values ​​by the plurality of detection sensors; an assist control that notifies or mechanically assists in a direction in which the radiation source should be moved when the interlock is engaged; A radiography system that performs the above steps. [Additional note 2] The processor, determining whether a first imaging mode that prioritizes alignment of the radiation source with respect to the radiation detection device or a second imaging mode that prioritizes rapid imaging over the alignment has been selected; When it is determined that the first photographing mode is selected, the interlock control and the assist control are performed. Item 1. A radiation imaging system according to claim 1. [Additional note 3] The processor, determining that the first imaging mode has been selected when a fluoroscopic imaging switch for instructing execution of fluoroscopic imaging is pressed; Item 3. A radiation imaging system according to item 2. [Additional note 4] The processor, determining that the first imaging mode has been selected when a general imaging mode for performing a general imaging is switched to a fluoroscopic imaging mode for performing a fluoroscopic imaging; 4. The radiation imaging system according to claim 2 or 3. [Additional note 5] The processor, determining that the first imaging mode has been selected when a general imaging switch for instructing execution of a general imaging is pressed in a fluoroscopy imaging mode for executing a fluoroscopy imaging; 5. A radiation imaging system according to claim 2, wherein the radiation imaging system comprises: [Additional note 6] a plurality of indicators corresponding to the plurality of directions; The processor, In the assist control, among the plurality of indicators, an indicator corresponding to a direction having a position outside the allowable range is turned on. 6. A radiation imaging system according to claim 1, [Additional note 7] at least one brake mechanism that restricts movement of the radiation source in the plurality of directions; an operating device provided with a plurality of brake release buttons for releasing the brakes applied by the brake mechanism, The indicators are provided near the brake release buttons. 7. A radiation imaging system according to claim 6. [Additional note 8] The processor, when lighting an indicator corresponding to a direction having a position outside the tolerance range, a lighting color is changed according to an amount of deviation between the position of the radiation source and the target position. 8. The radiation imaging system according to claim 6 or 7. [Additional note 9] The processor, when lighting an indicator corresponding to a direction having a position outside the tolerance range, a blinking cycle is changed according to a deviation amount between the position of the radiation source and the target position. 9. A radiation imaging system according to any one of claims 6 to 8. [Additional Note 10] The processor, displaying, on a display unit, a device structure diagram that typically represents the radiation source and a direction in which the radiation source should be moved, during the assist control; 10. A radiation imaging system according to claim 1, [Additional Note 11] at least one brake mechanism that restricts movement of the radiation source in the plurality of directions; an operating device provided with a plurality of brake release buttons for releasing the brakes applied by the brake mechanism, The processor, Only the brake corresponding to the direction having a position outside the allowable range can be released. 7. A radiation imaging system according to claim 1, [Additional Note 12] at least one brake mechanism that restricts movement of the radiation source in the plurality of directions; an operating device provided with a plurality of brake release buttons for releasing the brakes applied by the brake mechanism, The plurality of brake release buttons include a simultaneous release button for simultaneously releasing brakes corresponding to two or more of the plurality of directions, The processor, when the simultaneous release button is pressed, only the brake corresponding to the direction having a position outside the allowable range is released; 7. A radiation imaging system according to claim 1, [Additional Note 13] The processor, controlling the brake mechanism from which the brake has been released, and applying a load in a direction opposite to a direction toward the target position; 13. The radiation imaging system according to claim 11 or 12. [Additional Note 14] The processor, The brake mechanism is pulse duty driven after the brake is released, changing a duty in accordance with a distance between the position of the radiation source and the target position; 14. A radiation imaging system according to any one of claims 11 to 13. [Additional Note 15] The processor, determining whether the fluoroscopic imaging intended by the user is an upright fluoroscopic imaging or a supine fluoroscopic imaging based on whether the positions in the multiple directions are included more in an allowable range of a target position for upright fluoroscopic imaging or in an allowable range of a target position for supine fluoroscopic imaging; executing the assist control for a direction having a position outside the allowable range; 15. A radiation imaging system according to any one of claims 1 to 14. [Additional Note 16] a brake mechanism that restricts movement of the radiation source in a rotational direction among the plurality of directions; an operating device provided with a brake release button for releasing the brake applied by the brake mechanism, the brake mechanism having a plunger for aligning the radiation source to a particular rotational position; 16. A radiation imaging system according to any one of claims 1 to 15. [Additional Note 17] The processor, applying the brake by the brake mechanism after a delay time has elapsed since it was detected that the brake release button had been released. Item 17. A radiation imaging system according to item 16. [Additional Note 18] The moving device includes a ceiling device or a floor device. 18. A radiation imaging system according to claim 1. [Explanation of symbols]

[0120] 10 Radiography system 11 Radiation irradiation equipment 12 Radiation detection equipment 13 Radiation source 14 Collimator device 15 Console 20 Operating device 21 Device body 21A surface 22 Gripping part 23 Display section 24A~24F Brake release button 25A~25E Indicator 26 Speaker 30 Mobile Device 31 Rail 31A Brake pads 31B Electromagnet 32 Vehicles 33 Pull up machine 34 Radiation source holding part 35 Rotation support part 36A~36E Brake mechanism 37A~37E Detection sensor 40 Standing photography stand 40A Shooting position 41 Recumbent photography stand 41A Shooting position 42,43 Holder 50 Control section 51 Console 51A Display section 52 General photography switch 53 Fluoroscopy switch 55 Device structure diagram 56 screens 57 Mode switching button 60 CPU 61 Storage 62 Memory 63 Operating Program 70 Brake pads 70A notch 71 Electromagnet 72 Plunger 72A Ball 72B Spring 80 floor equipment D Arrow L distance TD Delay Time

Claims

1. a radiation detection device that detects radiation and generates a radiation image; a radiation source that irradiates the radiation detection device with the radiation; a moving device capable of changing at least one of a translational position and a rotational position of the radiation source relative to the radiation detection device in a plurality of directions, the moving device having a plurality of detection sensors for detecting the positions of the radiation source in the plurality of directions; a processor for controlling the radiation source; Equipped with The processor, an interlock control that applies an interlock to prohibit irradiation of radiation by the radiation source when at least one of the positions in the plurality of directions is not included in an allowable range for a target position based on detection values ​​by the plurality of detection sensors; an assist control that notifies or mechanically assists in a direction in which the radiation source should be moved when the interlock is engaged; A radiography system that performs the above steps.

2. The processor, determining whether a first imaging mode that prioritizes alignment of the radiation source with respect to the radiation detection device or a second imaging mode that prioritizes rapid imaging over the alignment has been selected; when it is determined that the first photographing mode is selected, the interlock control and the assist control are performed. The radiation imaging system according to claim 1 .

3. The processor, determining that the first imaging mode has been selected when a fluoroscopic imaging switch for instructing execution of fluoroscopic imaging is pressed; The radiation imaging system according to claim 2 .

4. The processor, determining that the first imaging mode has been selected when a general imaging mode for performing a general imaging is switched to a fluoroscopic imaging mode for performing a fluoroscopic imaging; The radiation imaging system according to claim 2 .

5. The processor, determining that the first imaging mode has been selected when a general imaging switch for instructing execution of a general imaging is pressed in a fluoroscopic imaging mode for executing a fluoroscopic imaging; The radiation imaging system according to claim 2 .

6. a plurality of indicators corresponding to the plurality of directions; The processor, In the assist control, among the plurality of indicators, an indicator corresponding to a direction having a position outside the allowable range is turned on. The radiation imaging system according to claim 1 .

7. at least one brake mechanism that restricts movement of the radiation source in the plurality of directions; an operating device provided with a plurality of brake release buttons for releasing the brakes applied by the brake mechanism, The indicators are provided near the brake release buttons.

7. The radiation imaging system according to claim 6.

8. The processor, when lighting an indicator corresponding to a direction having a position outside the tolerance range, a lighting color is changed according to an amount of deviation between the position of the radiation source and the target position.

7. The radiation imaging system according to claim 6.

9. The processor, when lighting an indicator corresponding to a direction having a position outside the tolerance range, a blinking cycle is changed according to a deviation amount between the position of the radiation source and the target position.

7. The radiation imaging system according to claim 6.

10. The processor, displaying, on a display unit, a device structure diagram that typically represents the radiation source and a direction in which the radiation source should be moved, during the assist control; The radiation imaging system according to claim 1 .

11. at least one brake mechanism that restricts movement of the radiation source in the plurality of directions; an operating device provided with a plurality of brake release buttons for releasing the brakes applied by the brake mechanism, The processor, Only the brake corresponding to the direction having a position outside the allowable range can be released. The radiation imaging system according to claim 1 .

12. at least one brake mechanism that restricts movement of the radiation source in the plurality of directions; an operating device provided with a plurality of brake release buttons for releasing the brakes applied by the brake mechanism, the plurality of brake release buttons include a simultaneous release button for simultaneously releasing brakes corresponding to two or more of the plurality of directions; The processor, when the simultaneous release button is pressed, only the brake corresponding to the direction having a position outside the allowable range is released; The radiation imaging system according to claim 1 .

13. The processor, controlling the brake mechanism from which the brake has been released, and applying a load in a direction opposite to a direction toward the target position; 13. The radiation imaging system according to claim 11 or 12.

14. The processor, The brake mechanism is pulse duty driven after the brake is released, changing a duty in accordance with a distance between the position of the radiation source and the target position; 13. The radiation imaging system according to claim 11 or 12.

15. The processor, determining whether the fluoroscopic imaging intended by the user is an upright fluoroscopic imaging or a supine fluoroscopic imaging based on whether the positions in the multiple directions are included more in an allowable range of a target position for upright fluoroscopic imaging or in an allowable range of a target position for supine fluoroscopic imaging; executing the assist control for a direction having a position outside the allowable range; The radiation imaging system according to claim 1 .

16. a brake mechanism that restricts movement of the radiation source in a rotational direction among the plurality of directions; an operating device provided with a brake release button for releasing the brake applied by the brake mechanism, the brake mechanism having a plunger for aligning the radiation source to a particular rotational position; The radiation imaging system according to claim 1 .

17. The processor, applying the brake by the brake mechanism after a delay time has elapsed since it was detected that the brake release button had been released. The radiography system according to claim 16.

18. The moving device includes a ceiling device or a floor device. The radiation imaging system according to claim 1 .

19. a radiation detection device that detects radiation and generates a radiation image; a radiation source that irradiates the radiation detection device with the radiation; a moving device capable of changing at least one of a translational position and a rotational position of the radiation source relative to the radiation detection device in a plurality of directions, the moving device having a plurality of detection sensors for detecting the positions of the radiation source in the plurality of directions; A method for operating a radiography system comprising: The processor: an interlock control that applies an interlock to prohibit irradiation of radiation by the radiation source when at least one of the positions in the plurality of directions is not included in an allowable range for a target position based on detection values ​​by the plurality of detection sensors; an assist control that notifies or mechanically assists in a direction in which the radiation source should be moved when the interlock is engaged; A method of operating a radiography system that performs the above steps.

20. a radiation detection device that detects radiation and generates a radiation image; a radiation source that irradiates the radiation detection device with the radiation; a moving device capable of changing at least one of a translational position and a rotational position of the radiation source relative to the radiation detection device in a plurality of directions, the moving device having a plurality of detection sensors for detecting the positions of the radiation source in the plurality of directions; An operation program for operating a radiation imaging system comprising: an interlock control that applies an interlock to prohibit irradiation of radiation by the radiation source when at least one of the positions in the plurality of directions is not included in an allowable range for a target position based on detection values ​​by the plurality of detection sensors; an assist control that notifies or mechanically assists in a direction in which the radiation source should be moved when the interlock is engaged; An operating program that causes a processor to execute the above.

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