Radiographic apparatus, radiographic system, radiographic method, and program

Abstract

To improve convenience for an engineer with a simple configuration and reduce a burden in selecting a lighting field in imaging using a detection device mounted with an automatic exposure control (AEC) function inside.SOLUTION: A radiographic apparatus includes: display control means for displaying, in a display unit, a candidate of a lighting field for executing automatic exposure control in a radiation detection device for picking up a radiation image by detecting a radiation; and acquisition means for acquiring information at least including information on the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of arrangements of the lighting field in the radiation detection device, a site to be imaged, and past imaging information. The display control means displays, in the display unit, the candidate of the lighting field determined on the basis of the information acquired by the acquisition means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a radiation imaging apparatus that performs AEC control, a radiation imaging system, a radiation imaging method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Radiation imaging apparatuses using a sensor panel that detects radiation such as X-rays are widely used in fields such as industry and medicine. In recent years, multifunctionalization of radiation imaging apparatuses has been studied. As one of them, incorporating a function to monitor radiation irradiation has been studied. With this function, for example, it becomes possible to detect the timing when radiation irradiation from a radiation source starts, the timing when radiation irradiation should stop, and the radiation dose or integrated radiation dose. By detecting the integrated radiation dose of the radiation that has passed through a subject and stopping the radiation irradiation by the radiation source when the detected integrated radiation dose reaches an appropriate amount, automatic exposure control (AEC) is also possible. Generally, when performing automatic exposure amount control using an FPD (Flat Panel Detector), a plate-shaped AEC sensor separate from the FPD is arranged so as to sandwich the subject between the FPD. The AEC sensor measures the dose of radiation that has passed through the subject in a radiation detection region (light collection field) that monitors radiation at one or a plurality of predetermined locations, and controls the stop of X-ray irradiation when a predetermined dose is reached.

[0003] Imaging using a separate AEC sensor is generally used for stationary installations such as upright and lying-down imaging because it is difficult to carry the FPD and the AEC sensor. When an AEC function is incorporated inside the FPD, it becomes portable like a conventional FPD, and AEC imaging becomes possible in positions other than upright and lying-down positions. On the other hand, since the positional relationship between the subject and the FPD becomes arbitrarily installed or unintentionally installed, it becomes impossible to appropriately control the exposure. As a result, a radiation image with an appropriate density cannot be obtained, and there is a risk of re-imaging.

[0004] Therefore, Patent Document 1 discloses a method of fixing the light-receiving field to a single point at the center of the FPD by attaching and detaching from a stand used during shooting with a stationary installation such as standing and lying shooting, or a method of limiting selection candidates.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, in the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, in AEC shooting in positions other than standing and lying positions, it lacks versatility in the method of fixing the center and limiting selection candidates. In addition, Patent Document 1 assumes the use of only one FPD equipped with an AEC function inside, and does not consider the case where there are multiple FPDs equipped with an AEC function inside.

[0007] In particular, when there are multiple FPDs equipped with an AEC function inside, there is variation in the light-receiving fields to be set because the positions and numbers of the light-receiving fields of each FPD are different. In addition, when displaying all the selection patterns of the light-receiving fields, there is a complexity in the workflow such that it takes time for the operator to select the light-receiving field.

[0008] As described above, when there are multiple FPDs equipped with an AEC function inside, it is necessary to display selection candidates for the light-receiving fields according to the shooting purpose of each FPD, but the necessity has not been considered.

[0009] In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to improve the usability of technicians and reduce the burden in selecting a light-receiving field with a simple mechanism in shooting using a detection device equipped with an AEC function inside.

[0010] In addition to the above object, the effects derived from each configuration shown in the embodiments for carrying out the invention described below, which are effects not achievable by the conventional technology, can also be regarded as one of the other objects of the disclosure of this specification.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0011] The radiation imaging apparatus according to the present invention includes display control means for displaying, on a display unit, candidates for a light reception field for performing automatic exposure control in a radiation detection apparatus that captures a radiation image by detecting radiation, and acquisition means for acquiring information regarding the shape of the radiation detection apparatus, the number of light reception fields arranged in the radiation detection apparatus, the imaging region to be imaged, and information including at least the number of light reception fields arranged among past imaging information. The display control means is characterized in that it displays, on the display unit, the candidates for the light reception field determined based on the information acquired by the acquisition means.

Effects of the Invention

[0012] According to the present invention, in imaging using a detection apparatus equipped with an AEC function inside, a simple mechanism can improve the usability of technicians and reduce the burden in selecting a light reception field.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] [First Embodiment] The first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a radiation imaging system according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the radiation imaging system of the present embodiment includes a radiation imaging apparatus 1 and a HIS (Hospital Information System) 11 for managing the progress of an examination.

[0015] In addition, the radiation imaging system of the present embodiment includes a RIS (Radiology Information System) 12 for transmitting an examination order to the radiation imaging apparatus 1. Furthermore, in the radiation imaging system of the present embodiment, a PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication Systems) 13 for managing radiation images and a printer 14 for printing out radiation images are connected.

[0016] HIS11 is a hospital management system that includes a server for managing accounting information. When performing a radiograph, the operator inputs an examination instruction from the terminal (input unit) of HIS11. Then, HIS11 transmits the request information to the radiology department of the hospital that is the recipient of the radiograph request. This request information is called an examination order. The examination order includes the name of the department of the requester, the examination ID, the examination item, and patient information (subject information) regarding the subject.

[0017] When RIS12 receives the examination order, the radiology department adds imaging information related to the radiograph (such as the identification information of the examination item (examination ID), imaging site information, imaging direction information, and procedure information) to the examination order and transmits it to the radiograph apparatus 1. The radiograph apparatus 1 performs a radiograph according to the received examination order. The radiograph apparatus 1 acquires the taken radiographic image, generates examination information associating the radiographic image with the examination order, and outputs it together with the radiographic image.

[0018] PACS13 is a server mainly for image management. The inspection work, detailed post-processing, and diagnosis work of the radiographic image are performed by a high-definition monitor connected to PACS13. Thus, the radiographic image acquired by the radiograph apparatus 1 is transmitted to PACS13.

[0019] In addition, the implementation information of the examination in the radiograph apparatus 1 (such as the image ID and the imaging date and time) is transmitted to HIS11. The implementation information transmitted to HIS11 is used not only for the progress management of the examination but also for the accounting process after the examination.

[0020] The radiograph apparatus 1, HIS11, RIS12, PACS13, and the printer 14 are connected via a network 15 configured by, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0021] Each of these devices includes one or more computers. A computer is provided with main control means such as a CPU, and storage means such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory). Further, the computer may be provided with communication means such as a network card, and input / output means such as a keyboard, a display, and a touch panel. These respective constituent means are electrically connected by a bus or the like, and are controlled by the main control means executing a program stored in the storage means.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 1, in a photographing room 50, a radiation imaging apparatus 1 for performing radiation imaging is installed. In the photographing room 50, a radiation generating apparatus 4 for generating radiation, a detection apparatus 7 for detecting radiation transmitted through a subject 10 to capture a radiation image, and a photographing table 16 are installed.

[0023] The radiation imaging apparatus 1 includes a display unit 2 for displaying radiation images and various types of information, an operation unit 3 for an operator to perform operations, and a control unit 5 for controlling each component.

[0024] The radiation generating apparatus 4 sets the radiation imaging conditions in a radiation generating unit 6 and controls the radiation generating unit 6. The radiation generating unit 6 functions as a radiation source for generating radiation. The radiation generating unit 6 is realized by, for example, a radiation tube, and irradiates radiation toward the subject 10 (for example, a specific part of the subject).

[0025] The radiation generating unit 6 can irradiate radiation to a desired irradiation range. A diaphragm (not shown) for shielding radiation is installed on the irradiation surface of the radiation generating unit 6. The operator can adjust the irradiation range of the radiation irradiated from the radiation generating unit 6 by controlling the diaphragm for shielding radiation.

[0026] The radiographic system includes a detection device 7 that detects the radiation irradiated from the radiation generation unit 6. The detection device 7 detects the radiation that has passed through the subject 10 and outputs image data corresponding to the radiation. Note that the image data can be referred to as a radiation image.

[0027] Specifically, the detection device 7 detects the radiation that has passed through the subject 10 as electric charges corresponding to the amount of transmitted radiation. The detection device 7 uses a direct conversion type sensor that directly converts radiation such as a-Se that converts radiation into electric charges, or an indirect type sensor that uses a scintillator such as CsI and a photoelectric conversion element such as a-Si.

[0028] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the detection device 7. As shown in FIG. 2, the detection device 7 includes a radiation detector 100. The radiation detector 100 has a function of detecting the irradiated radiation. The radiation detector 100 has a plurality of pixels arranged so as to form a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns. In the following description, the region where the plurality of pixels in the radiation detector 100 are arranged is defined as a detection region.

[0029] The plurality of pixels include imaging pixels (hereinafter described as detection pixels for the purpose of explaining the use as radiation irradiation information acquisition in the present invention) 101 for radiation image acquisition or radiation irradiation information acquisition, and correction pixels 121 for removing dark current components and crosstalk components. The detection pixel 101 may be used only for the purpose of radiation image acquisition, or may be used only for the purpose of radiation irradiation information acquisition. Further, it may be selectively used for either one of radiation image acquisition and radiation irradiation information acquisition, or may be used simultaneously for the purposes of radiation image acquisition and radiation irradiation information acquisition.

[0030] The detection pixel 101 includes a first conversion element 102 that converts radiation into an electrical signal, and a first switch 103 disposed between the column signal line 106 and the first conversion element 102. The first conversion element 102 is composed of a scintillator that converts radiation into light and a photoelectric conversion element that converts light into an electrical signal. The scintillator is generally formed in a sheet shape so as to cover the detection region and is shared by a plurality of pixels. Alternatively, the first conversion element 102 is composed of a conversion element that directly converts radiation into light.

[0031] The first switch 103 includes, for example, a thin film transistor (TFT) in which an active region is formed of a semiconductor such as amorphous silicon or polycrystalline silicon (preferably polycrystalline silicon). The area where the detection pixels 101 for obtaining radiation irradiation information and the correction pixels 121 are arranged is disposed at an arbitrary position in the detection region of the detection device 7. For example, similar to a conventional separate AEC sensor, it may be arranged in a plurality of regions indicated by A to C, K to O, and AA to AI in FIGS. 3(a), 3(b), and 3(c).

[0032] The detection device 7 has a plurality of column signal lines 106 and a plurality of drive lines 104. Each column signal line 106 corresponds to one of a plurality of columns in the detection region. Each drive line 104 corresponds to one of a plurality of rows in the detection region. Each drive line 104 is driven by a driving circuit 221.

[0033] The first electrodes of the first conversion element 102 and the second conversion element 122 are connected to the first main electrodes of the first switch 103 and the second switch 123, and the second electrodes of the first conversion element 102 and the second conversion element 122 are connected to the bias line 108. Here, one bias line 108 extends in the column direction and is commonly connected to the second electrodes of a plurality of conversion elements 102 and 122 arranged in the column direction.

[0034] The bias line 108 receives a bias voltage Vs from the element power supply circuit 226. The bias voltage Vs is supplied from the element power supply circuit 226. The power supply control unit 301 is composed of a battery, a DC-DC converter, etc. The power supply control unit 301 includes the element power supply circuit 226 and generates a power supply for an analog circuit and a power supply for a digital circuit that performs driving control, communication, etc.

[0035] The second main electrodes of the first switches 103 of the plurality of detection pixels 101 constituting one column and the second switches 123 of the correction pixels 121 are connected to one column signal line 106. The control electrodes of the first switches 103 of the plurality of detection pixels 101 constituting one row and the second switches 123 of the correction pixels 121 are connected to one driving line 104. The plurality of column signal lines 106 are connected to the readout circuit 222. Here, the readout circuit 222 includes a plurality of detection units 132, a multiplexer 134, and an analog-to-digital converter (hereinafter referred to as an AD converter) 136.

[0036] Each of the plurality of column signal lines 106 is connected to a corresponding detection unit 132 among the plurality of detection units 132 of the readout circuit 222. Here, one column signal line 106 corresponds to one detection unit 132. The detection unit 132 includes, for example, a differential amplifier. The multiplexer 134 selects the plurality of detection units 132 in a predetermined order and supplies the signal from the selected detection unit 132 to the AD converter 136. The AD converter 136 converts the supplied signal into a digital signal and outputs it.

[0037] Based on the output of the readout circuit 222 (AD converter 136), the signal processing unit 224 outputs information indicating the irradiation of radiation to the detection device 7. Specifically, the signal processing unit 224 performs, for example, characteristic correction processing for removing the dark current component and crosstalk component of the detection device 7 using the correction pixel, radiation irradiation detection, calculation of the radiation irradiation amount and the integrated irradiation amount, and the like.

[0038] Based on the information from the signal processing unit 224 and the control command from the control device 310, the imaging device control unit 225 controls the driving circuit 221, the readout circuit 222, and the like.

[0039] Further, the detection device 7 is a cassette-type detection device that can be carried, and together with the radiation generation device 4, it is carried to the imaging room 50 where the inspection is performed. Depending on the size of the subject and the imaging site, different-sized detection devices 7a and 7b are used appropriately for radiation imaging.

[0040] The detection device 7 can attach information (image ID, shooting date and time, and transfer status of image data) to the image data and transfer it to the radiation imaging device 1 together with the image data.

[0041] The display unit 2 is realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display or the like, and displays various information to an operator (for example, a radiographer, a doctor, etc.). The operation unit 3 includes an input unit 28 and a designation unit 29, and operates the processing in the radiation imaging device 1. The operation unit 3 is composed of, for example, a mouse, operation buttons, etc., and inputs various instructions from the operator to each component. Note that the display unit 2 and the operation unit 3 may be realized as a touch panel in which they are integrated.

[0042] The control unit 5 of the radiation imaging device 1 is connected to the detection device 7 via a wireless LAN. Image data, control signals, etc. are transmitted and received between the control unit 5 and the detection device 7. That is, the image data stored in the detection device 7 by radiation imaging is output (transferred) to the control unit 5 via the wireless LAN.

[0043] The radiation imaging system of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 4. The radiation imaging device 1 includes a control unit 5 that performs image processing on the radiation images output from the detection devices 7a and 7b and generates images. The control unit 5 has an application function that operates on a computer. The control unit 5 controls the operations of the detection devices 7a and 7b, and outputs the radiation images to the display unit 2 or outputs a graphical user interface (GUI).

[0044] The control unit 5 includes a communication unit 20 that communicates with the detection devices 7a and 7b, a management unit 21 that manages the states of the detection devices 7a and 7b, a storage unit 22 that stores the radiation images output from the detection devices 7a and 7b and various information such as inspection orders output from external devices such as RIS.

[0045] The communication unit 20 includes a connection detection unit 30, an information acquisition unit 31, and an image acquisition unit 32.

[0046] The connection detection unit 30 detects the communication connection and disconnection between the radiation imaging apparatus 1 and the detection devices 7a and 7b. The information acquisition unit 31 receives information stored in the detection devices 7a and 7b (for example, information regarding a radiation image such as the imaging region, information regarding the shape of the detection device such as the size of the detection device, information regarding the light collection field, etc.). That is, the information acquisition unit 31 acquires information such as information regarding the radiation image, information regarding the shape of the detection device such as the size, and information regarding the light collection field from the detection devices 7a and 7b that capture a radiation image by detecting radiation.

[0047] Note that the information acquired by the information acquisition unit 31 does not necessarily have to be all of the information regarding the radiation image, information regarding the shape of the detection device such as the size, and information regarding the light collection field, and may be any information including at least the information on the number of arrangements of the light collection fields. That is, the information acquisition unit 31 corresponds to an example of an acquisition means for acquiring at least any one of the information regarding the shape of the detection device, the number of arrangements of the light collection fields in the detection device, the imaging region to be imaged, and past imaging information. Further, the information regarding the shape of the detection device may be a standardized size expression represented by a full size, a half size, or a large four-size, etc., or may be a numerical value represented by a width or a thickness. Further, it may be information representing a shape such as a square or a rectangle. Note that hereinafter, as an example, the information regarding the shape of the detection device is described as the size of the detection device.

[0048] The management unit 21 manages the information acquired by the communication unit 20. Further, this information is stored in the detection device information storage unit and is displayed on the display unit 2.

[0049] The light collection field information storage unit 33 stores, for example, a table that associates the size of the detection device with the light collection field pattern information as shown in FIG. 5(a) and a list of light collection field setting candidates corresponding to the light collection field pattern as shown in FIG. 5(d). Note that the light collection field information storage unit 33 may store the light collection field setting candidates in descending order of priority. This priority may be determined based on a case set in advance or the frequency of use in imaging.

[0050] The light field candidate management unit 35 selects a light field pattern by comparing, for example, the size of the detection device acquired from the information acquisition unit 31 with the table of the size of the detection device and the light field pattern information held in the light field information storage unit 33.

[0051] Next, the control unit 5 displays a display candidate for the light field on the display unit 2 based on the selected light field pattern and the number of light fields of the detection device according to the table in FIG. 5(d). That is, the control unit 5 corresponds to an example of display control means for displaying, on the display unit, candidates for light fields that perform automatic exposure control in a radiation detection device that captures radiation by detecting the radiation.

[0052] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the radiation imaging system of the present embodiment. FIG. 7 shows the display form of the display unit 2 of the radiation imaging system of the present invention. The display unit 2 includes a radiation image display unit 201, a patient information display unit 202, a imaging information display unit 203, a light field information display unit 204, an examination hold instruction unit 205, and an examination end instruction unit 206.

[0053] The imaging information display unit 203 includes an imaging protocol (207a, 207b, 207c in FIG. 7) in which the imaging site and detection device information to be performed in the examination are displayed.

[0054] The light field information display unit 204 includes a light field display unit 208 that displays the position information of the light fields of the connected detection device 7.

[0055] A wired or wireless connection is established between the radiation imaging device 1 and the detection device 7a (S101). The connection detection unit 30 detects the communication connection between the radiation imaging device 1 and the detection device 7a. When the connection detection unit 30 detects the communication connection with the detection device 7a, the information acquisition unit 31 acquires information regarding the detection device (S102). The management unit 21 acquires the information of the detection device 7a via the information acquisition unit 31 in response to the connection detection. The information regarding the detection device includes information such as the size of the detection device and the number of arranged light fields.

[0056] The information acquisition unit 31 acquires, as information regarding the detection device, information such as the size of the detection device and the number of arranged light collection fields. In the present embodiment, the size of the detection device is full size, and the number of arranged light collection fields is five. The management unit 21 acquires the currently set light collection field information and causes the display unit 2 to display it (S103). In FIG. 7(a), it is shown that two points on the upper side of the light collection field of the detection device 7a are set in the light collection field display unit 208.

[0057] Also, the light collection field display unit 208 that displays the current light collection field position information of the detection device 7a functions as an operation unit for performing a display instruction for other light collection field selection candidates. For example, the light collection field display unit 208 is displayed as a button, and when touched, a screen for displaying other light collection field candidates is displayed.

[0058] When changing the light collection field setting before irradiation, a display instruction for the light collection field candidates is given on the light collection field display unit 208 (Yes in S104).

[0059] When a display instruction for the light collection field candidates is given on the light collection field display unit 208, the light collection field candidate management unit 35 selects a light collection field pattern based on the related table of the size of the detection device and the light collection field position held in the light collection field information storage unit 33 in FIG. 5(a) and the size of the detection device acquired by the information acquisition unit 31. When the size of the detection device is full size and half size, two light collection field patterns are selected, and light collection field candidates are preferentially extracted from items with two light collection fields (S107). Also, if the size of the detection device is large four-size, one light collection field pattern is selected, and light collection field candidates are preferentially extracted from items with one light collection field (S108). If the size of the detection device is otherwise, candidates are all extracted without any particular selection (S109).

[0060] Then, the light collection field candidate management unit 35 displays the extracted light collection field candidates as display items on the light collection field candidate display unit 211 in FIG. 7(b).

[0061] The light-receiving field candidates 212a to 212d displayed on the light-receiving field candidate display unit 211 function as an operation unit for selecting a light-receiving field. For example, the light-receiving field candidates 212a to 212d are displayed as buttons, and when touched, a setting instruction for a new light-receiving field position is transmitted to the detection device to change the setting (Yes in S112).

[0062] Next, imaging is performed using a different detection device 7b. 207c in FIG. 7(c) is displayed as a button, and when touched, it gives an instruction to connect to the detection device 7b (S101). When 207c is selected, the connection detection unit 30 detects a communication connection between the radiation imaging device 1 and the detection device 7b (S102). In response to the connection detection, the management unit acquires information on the detection device 7b via the information acquisition unit 31.

[0063] The information acquisition unit 31 acquires information on the size of the detection device and the number of arrangements of the light-receiving fields as information on the detection device. In the present embodiment, the detection device 7b has a large four-size and the number of arrangements of the light-receiving fields is nine. The management unit 21 acquires the currently set light-receiving field position information and displays it on the display unit 2 (S103). In FIG. 7(c), it is shown that the light-receiving field of the detection device 7b is set at a point at the upper left end in the light-receiving field display unit 208.

[0064] When changing the light-receiving field setting before imaging, an instruction is given on the light-receiving field display unit 208 (Yes in S104).

[0065] When an instruction is given on the light-receiving field display unit 208, the light-receiving field candidate management unit 35 selects light-receiving field candidates based on the association table between the size of the detection device and the light-receiving field position held in the light-receiving field information storage unit 33 and the size of the detection device acquired by the information acquisition unit 31. Since the size of the detection device is the large four-size, one light-receiving field group is selected and light-receiving field candidates are preferentially extracted from items with one light-receiving field (S107).

[0066] Then, the light-receiving field candidate management unit 35 displays the extracted light-receiving field candidates on the light-receiving field candidate display unit 211 in FIG. 7(d).

[0067] In this way, depending on the number of lighting fields arranged, by displaying selection candidates according to the purpose of shooting based on the size of the detection device for the lighting field candidates that would otherwise be huge, it becomes possible to easily change the lighting field.

[0068] Also, in the present embodiment, even when setting the initial lighting field information in step S103, the management unit 21 may automatically select the lighting field candidate with the highest priority from among the extracted candidates in the extraction of lighting field candidates performed in steps S105 to S109.

[0069] [Second Embodiment] This is an example of extracting lighting field selection candidates based on the number of lighting fields arranged in the detection device in the control unit 5 having the configuration described in the first embodiment. Note that since the processing other than the lighting field candidate management unit 35 is the same, it is omitted.

[0070] The processing of the lighting field candidate management unit 35 according to the embodiment will be described according to the flowchart of FIG. 8. Steps S101 to S103 are the same as those in the first embodiment, so the description is omitted.

[0071] When changing the lighting field setting before shooting, a display instruction is given on the lighting field display unit 208 (Yes in S104).

[0072] When a display instruction is given on the lighting field display unit 208, the lighting field candidate management unit 35 selects lighting field candidates based on the association table of the number of lighting fields and the lighting field positions of the detection device held in the lighting field information storage unit 33, FIG. 5(a), and the number of lighting fields of the detection device acquired by the information acquisition unit 31. That is, the information acquisition unit 31 in the second embodiment corresponds to an example of acquisition means for acquiring information including at least the number of arranged lighting fields. When the number of lighting fields of the detection device is five, two lighting field groups are selected and lighting field candidates are preferentially extracted from items with two lighting fields (S107). Also, when the number of lighting fields is nine, one lighting field group is selected and lighting field candidates are preferentially extracted from items with one lighting field (S108). If the number of lighting fields is three or other cases, all candidates are extracted without any particular selection (S109).

[0073] Then, the light field candidate management unit 35 displays the extracted light field candidates on the light field candidate display unit 211 in FIG. 7(b).

[0074] [Third Embodiment] In the control unit 5 having the configuration described in the first embodiment, an embodiment of extracting light field candidates based on the imaging site information newly stored in the imaging site information storage unit 34 is shown in FIG. 9. Note that processes other than those of the imaging site information storage unit 34 and the light field candidate management unit 35 are the same and thus are omitted.

[0075] The processes of the imaging site information storage unit 34 and the light field candidate management unit 35 according to the embodiment will be described according to the flowchart of FIG. 10.

[0076] The radiation imaging apparatus 1 and the detection apparatus 7a are connected by wire or wirelessly (S301). The connection detection unit 30 detects the communication connection between the radiation imaging apparatus 1 and the detection apparatus 7a. When the connection detection unit 30 detects the communication connection with the detection apparatus 7a, the information acquisition unit 31 acquires information regarding the detection apparatus (S302). The management unit acquires the information of the detection apparatus 7a via the information acquisition unit 31 in response to the connection detection. The information regarding the detection apparatus includes information such as the imaging site and the number of light field arrangements. The information acquisition unit 31 acquires information regarding the imaging site and the number of light field arrangements (S303).

[0077] The management unit 21 displays the currently set light field position information on the display unit 2 (S304). In FIG. 7(a), it is shown that the two upper points of the light field of the detection apparatus 7a are set in the light field display unit 208.

[0078] In addition, the imaging information display unit 203 includes an imaging protocol (207a, 207b, 207c in Fig. 7(a)) in which the imaging site to be examined and the detector information are displayed. In Fig. 7(a), it is shown that the currently selected imaging protocol is 207a. The imaging protocol is categorized into 8 patterns: head, chest, abdomen, pelvis, spine, upper limb, lower limb, and unspecified, according to the imaging site. In this embodiment, the categories are 8 patterns, but they may be further divided in more detail.

[0079] Next, the light field display unit 208 that displays the current light field position information of the detector 7a functions as an operation unit for performing a display instruction for other light field selection candidates. For example, the light field display unit 208 is displayed as a button, and touching it displays a screen for displaying other light field candidates.

[0080] When changing the light field setting before imaging, a display instruction is given on the light field display unit 208 (Yes in S305).

[0081] When a display instruction is given on the light field display unit 208, the light field candidate management unit 35 selects a light field pattern from the related table of the imaging site category and the light field position (Fig. 5(c)) held in the imaging site information storage unit 34. Next, based on the table in Fig. 5(d), the display candidates for the light field are displayed on the display unit 2 based on the selected light field pattern and the number of light fields of the detector acquired by the information acquisition unit 31.

[0082] Based on the number of light field arrangements of the detector acquired by the information acquisition unit 31, the light field pattern light field candidates are selected. If the imaging category of the selected protocol is the chest, select the 2-light field pattern and preferentially extract the items with 2 light fields as the light field candidates (S307). If the imaging category is other than the chest, select the 1-light field pattern and preferentially extract the items with 1 light field as the light field candidates (S308). If the number of light fields is 3 or other cases, all candidates are extracted without particular selection (S309).

[0083] Then, the light-receiving field candidate management unit 35 displays the extracted light-receiving field candidates on the light-receiving field candidate display unit 211 in Fig. 7(b).

[0084] [Fourth Embodiment] In the control unit 5 having the configuration described in the third embodiment, an embodiment of extracting a light-receiving field candidate based on the shooting history information newly stored in the shooting history information storage unit 36 is shown in Fig. 11. Note that since the processing other than the shooting history information storage unit 36 and the light-receiving field candidate management unit 35 is the same, it is omitted.

[0085] The processing of the shooting history information storage unit 36 and the light-receiving field candidate management unit 35 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 12.

[0086] Each time shooting is performed in the radiation imaging system, the light-receiving field candidate management unit 35 holds the number of times of use of the light-receiving field pattern corresponding to the detection device information and the imaging region information in the imaging history information storage unit 36 (S402).

[0087] Thereafter, after steps S301 to S304 are performed in the same manner as in the third embodiment, when changing the light-receiving field setting before shooting, a display instruction is given on the light-receiving field display unit 208 (Yes in S305).

[0088] When a display instruction is given on the light-receiving field display unit 208, the light-receiving field candidate management unit 35 preferentially extracts those with a high usage frequency based on the frequency of the light-receiving field patterns used in the past for each detection device size or imaging region held in the imaging history information storage unit 36 (S403).

[0089] Then, the light-receiving field candidate management unit 35 displays the extracted light-receiving field candidates on the light-receiving field candidate display unit 211 in Fig. 7(b) (S309). Since the steps after S310 are the same as those in the third embodiment, the description is omitted.

[0090] [Fifth Embodiment] In the light-receiving field candidate management unit 35 having the configuration described in the fourth embodiment, an embodiment of automatically selecting a light-receiving field at the time of selecting a shooting protocol will be described with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 13.

[0091] According to the flowchart of FIG. 13, the processing of the imaging history information storage unit 36 and the light field candidate management unit 35 according to the embodiment will be described.

[0092] Each time imaging is performed by the radiation imaging system, the light field candidate management unit 35 holds the number of times of use of the light field pattern corresponding to the detection device information and the imaging site information in the imaging history information storage unit 36 (S402).

[0093] A wired or wireless connection is established between the radiation imaging device 1 and the detection device 7a (S501). The connection detection unit 30 detects the communication connection between the radiation imaging device 1 and the detection device 7a. When the connection detection unit 30 detects the communication connection with the detection device 7a, the information acquisition unit 31 acquires information about the detection device (S502). The management unit acquires the information of the detection device 7a via the information acquisition unit 31 in response to the connection detection. The information about the detection device includes information such as the size of the detection device and the number of light field arrangements. The light field candidate management unit 35 acquires, as information about the detection device, information regarding at least one of the size of the detection device and the number of light field arrangements.

[0094] The light field candidate management unit 35 extracts the one with the highest usage frequency based on the frequency of the light field pattern used in the past for each detection device size or imaging site held in the imaging history information storage unit 36 (S503). Then, the light field candidate management unit sets the extracted light field pattern as the currently used light field (S505).

[0095] [Other Embodiments] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiment to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit that realizes one or more functions.

[0096] The processor or circuit may include a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessing unit (MPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA). Also, the processor or circuit may include a digital signal processor (DSP), a data flow processor (DFP), or a neural processing unit (NPU).

[0097] The radiography system in each of the above embodiments may be realized as a single device, or may be in a form where a plurality of devices are combined to be communicable with each other to execute the above-described processing, and both are included in the embodiments of the present invention. It is also possible to execute the above-described processing using a common server device or a server group. The plurality of devices constituting the radiography system only need to be able to communicate at a predetermined communication rate, and do not need to exist within the same facility or the same country.

[0098] Embodiments of the present invention include a form in which a software program that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or device, and a computer of the system or device reads and executes the code of the supplied program.

[0099] Therefore, in order to realize the processing according to the embodiment by a computer, the program code itself installed in the computer is also one of the embodiments of the present invention. Also, based on the instructions included in the program read by the computer, an operating system or the like running on the computer performs part or all of the actual processing, and the functions of the above-described embodiments can also be realized by that processing.

[0100] Also, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications (including organic combinations of the respective embodiments) are possible based on the gist of the present invention, for example, applicable not only to still image shooting but also to moving image shooting, and these are not excluded from the scope of the present invention. That is, all configurations combining the above-described embodiments are also included in the embodiments of the present invention.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0101] 1 Radiographic imaging system 2 Display unit 3 Operation unit 4 Radiation generator 5 Control unit 6 Radiation generation unit 7 Detection device 11 HIS 12 RIS 13 PACS 14 Printer 15 Network 16 Imaging table 20 Communication unit 21 Management unit 22 Storage unit 30 Connection detection unit 31 Information acquisition unit 32 Image acquisition unit 33 Illumination field information storage unit 34 Imaging region information storage unit 35 Illumination field candidate management unit 201 Radiation image display unit 202 Patient information display unit 203 Imaging information display unit 204 Illumination field information display unit 205 Examination hold instruction unit 206 Examination end instruction unit 208 Illumination field display unit 211 Illumination field candidate display unit

Claims

1. a display control means for displaying on a display unit candidates for irradiation fields for which automatic exposure control is performed in a radiation detection device that captures a radiation image by detecting radiation; an acquisition means for acquiring at least one of information regarding the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of radiation measurement fields arranged in the radiation detection device, a body part to be imaged, and past imaging information; Equipped with The display control means displays on a display unit the candidate irradiation field determined based on the information acquired by the acquisition means and information on the currently set irradiation field.

2. the acquiring means acquires information regarding the shape of the radiation detection device; The radiographic imaging device of claim 1, characterized in that the display control means displays at least one of a first pattern for selecting one candidate irradiation field for automatic exposure control from among the arranged irradiation fields based on information about the shape, and a second pattern for selecting two candidate irradiation fields for automatic exposure control from among the arranged irradiation fields on the display unit.

3. 3. The radiation imaging device according to claim 2, wherein the information about the shape includes information about the size of the radiation detection device, and the display control means displays the second pattern when the size of the radiation detection device is full size or half-cut size, and displays the first pattern when the size of the radiation detection device is large four size.

4. The radiographic imaging device of claim 1, characterized in that the display control means displays at least one of a first pattern for selecting one candidate irradiation field for automatic exposure control from among the arranged irradiation fields based on information on the number of arranged irradiation fields, and a second pattern for selecting two candidate irradiation fields for automatic exposure control from among the arranged irradiation fields.

5. 5. The radiographic imaging apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the display control means displays the first pattern when the number of the measurement areas is nine, and displays the second pattern when the number of the measurement areas is five.

6. The acquisition means acquires information about the imaging region to be imaged, The radiographic imaging device of claim 1, wherein the display control means displays at least one of a first pattern for selecting one candidate irradiation field for automatic exposure control from among the arranged irradiation fields based on information about the imaging area, and a second pattern for selecting two candidate irradiation fields for automatic exposure control from among the arranged irradiation fields on the display unit.

7. 7. The radiographic apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the display control means displays the second pattern when the imaging region is the chest, and displays the first pattern when the imaging region is other than the chest.

8. The acquisition means acquires the past photographing information, The radiographic imaging device of claim 1, wherein the display control means displays at least one of a first pattern for selecting one candidate irradiation field for automatic exposure control from among the arranged irradiation fields based on the past imaging information, and a second pattern for selecting two candidate irradiation fields for automatic exposure control from among the arranged irradiation fields on the display unit.

9. the acquiring means acquires, as the past imaging information, information on at least one of information on the shape of the radiation detector, the number of arranged measurement fields, and the imaging region in imaging performed in the past, and information on candidate measurement fields selected in the imaging; 9. The radiographic imaging device according to claim 8, wherein the display control means displays on the display unit, among the candidate radiation fields corresponding to at least one of information regarding the shape of the radiation detector, the number of arranged radiation fields, and the imaging region in previous imaging, a candidate radiation field that is used more frequently.

10. further comprising a radiation detection field management means for managing a table that associates information on at least one of information on the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of radiation detection fields arranged in the radiation detection device, and information on the imaging region to be imaged with a pattern of the radiation detection fields; 10. The radiographic imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the display control means displays on a display unit the candidate irradiation fields determined based on the information acquired by the acquisition means and a table managed by the irradiation field management means.

11. 11. The radiation imaging device according to claim 10, wherein the radiation detection field management means manages candidate radiation fields determined based on information on at least one of information on the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of radiation detection fields arranged in the radiation detection device, and the imaging region to be imaged, and the pattern of the radiation detection fields, in descending order of priority.

12. 12. The radiation imaging device according to claim 10, wherein the radiation field management means automatically sets the most frequently used radiation field as the radiation field to be used from among candidate radiation fields determined based on information on the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of radiation fields arranged in the radiation detection device, and information on at least one of the body parts to be imaged, and the pattern of the radiation fields.

13. A radiation imaging system including a radiation detection device that detects radiation and generates a radiation image, and a radiation imaging device that communicates with the radiation detection device and controls its operation, a display control means for displaying on a display unit candidates for the radiation detection field for which automatic exposure control is performed in the radiation detection device; an acquisition means for acquiring at least one of information regarding the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of radiation measurement fields arranged in the radiation detection device, a body part to be imaged, and past imaging information; Equipped with The display control means displays on a display unit the candidate irradiation field determined based on the information acquired by the acquisition means and information on the currently set irradiation field.

14. a display control step of displaying on a display unit candidates for irradiation fields for which automatic exposure control is performed in a radiation detection device that captures a radiation image by detecting radiation; an acquisition step of acquiring at least one piece of information regarding the shape of the radiation detection device, the number of radiation measurement fields arranged in the radiation detection device, the imaging region to be imaged, and past imaging information; Equipped with A radiographic imaging method characterized in that the display control process displays on a display unit the candidate irradiation field determined based on the information acquired by the acquisition process and information on the currently set irradiation field.

15. A program for causing a computer to execute the radiation imaging method according to claim 14.

Images