Control program, control method, and dynamic analysis system

Abstract

To provide a control program, a control method, and a dynamic analysis system capable of preparing an analysis algorithm suitable for a dynamic analysis system beforehand according to a use environment of a dynamic analysis system for performing analysis of a dynamic image using a radiation image.SOLUTION: A control program causes a computer to execute a process for acquiring environment information on a use environment of a dynamic analysis system for executing analysis processing using a predetermined analysis algorithm for a dynamic image generated by the irradiation of a radioactive ray, and a process for generating a new analysis algorithm having a logic related to an existing analysis algorithm for analysis processing, in which a determination criterion used for the determination in the logic is different from a determination criterion in the existing analysis algorithm for analysis processing, on the basis of the environment information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control program, a control method, and a dynamic analysis system for performing analysis based on a dynamic image generated by irradiating a subject with radiation.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, still image photography techniques for imaging radiation transmitted through an examination target site of a subject using a film, a screen, a stimulable phosphor plate, etc., and radiation diagnostic techniques using the same have been widespread. On the other hand, dynamic imaging techniques have been developed in recent years in which radiation is continuously irradiated on an examination target site, and multiple images are taken per unit time using a semiconductor image sensor such as an FPD (Flat Panel Detector) for the transmitted radiation to generate a dynamic image of the examination target site.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a dynamic analysis apparatus that determines the type of dynamic analysis pre-associated with the image attachment information based on the image attachment information attached to a dynamic image, and performs the determined type of dynamic analysis using the dynamic image.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] There are multiple types of analysis processes using dynamic images. As the clinical use of the dynamic analysis system spreads, it is expected that the types of analysis processes using dynamic images will increase.

[0006] At the site where the dynamic analysis system is used, according to the state of the subject and the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system, etc., the user appropriately adjusts the parameters of the analysis algorithm used for the analysis process. However, it is difficult to appropriately adjust the parameters, which requires a great deal of effort from the user. Also, if the adjustment is not properly performed, there is a risk that the analysis accuracy will decrease. For this reason, it is desired to prepare in advance an analysis algorithm adapted to the state of the subject and the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system, etc.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a control program, a control method, and a dynamic analysis system that can prepare in advance an analysis algorithm appropriate for the dynamic analysis system according to the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system that performs analysis of a dynamic image using a radiation image.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] A control program according to an aspect of the present disclosure causes a computer to execute a step of acquiring environment information regarding a usage environment of a dynamic analysis system that executes an analysis process using a predetermined analysis algorithm on a dynamic image generated by irradiation with radiation, and a step of generating a new analysis algorithm that has logic related to the analysis algorithm of the existing analysis process and whose criteria for judgment used in the judgment within the logic are different from the criteria for judgment in the analysis algorithm of the existing analysis process, based on the environment information.

[0009] A control method according to an aspect of the present disclosure is a control method executed by a computer included in a dynamic analysis system that executes an analysis process using a predetermined analysis algorithm using a dynamic image generated by irradiation with radiation, and includes a step of acquiring environment information regarding the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system, and a step of generating a new analysis algorithm that has logic related to the analysis algorithm of the existing analysis process and whose criteria for judgment used in the judgment within the logic are different from the criteria for judgment in the analysis algorithm of the existing analysis process, based on the environment information.

[0010] A dynamic analysis system according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a dynamic analysis system that performs analysis processing using a predetermined analysis algorithm on a dynamic image generated by irradiation with radiation, and includes an environmental information acquisition unit that acquires environmental information regarding the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system, and an analysis algorithm generation unit that has logic related to the analysis algorithm of existing analysis processing and generates a new analysis algorithm in which the criteria used for determination within the logic are different from the criteria in the analysis algorithm of the existing analysis processing based on the environmental information.

Advantages of the Invention

[0011] According to the present disclosure, depending on the usage environment of a dynamic analysis system that analyzes a dynamic image using a radiation image, it is possible to prepare in advance the types of analysis processing appropriate for the dynamic analysis system.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

Figure 1

Figure 2

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Figure 8

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] <Summary> The present disclosure relates to a dynamic analysis system including a photographing device, a photographing control device, and an analysis device.

[0014] In the dynamic analysis system of the present disclosure, a radiation image data of a subject is photographed by a photographing device to generate a dynamic image, and various analysis processes on the radiation image data are performed in an analysis device. The photographing control device controls the photographing process in the photographing device. Hereinafter, the photographing process for generating a dynamic image is described as dynamic photographing.

[0015] In this specification, dynamic photographing means acquiring a plurality of images showing the dynamics of a subject. Dynamic photographing is performed by irradiating the subject with radiation such as X-rays in a pulsed manner at predetermined time intervals or continuously at a low dose rate without interruption. In this specification, each of the plurality of images constituting the dynamic image is described as a frame image. In this specification, various analysis processes performed using the dynamic image are described as dynamic analysis.

[0016] In the dynamic analysis system of the present disclosure, when each device constituting the dynamic analysis system is installed and the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system is determined, a plurality of types of analysis algorithms used for a plurality of types of sub-analysis processes predicted to be used in the dynamic analysis system are generated. The sub-analysis process has a logic related to the analysis algorithm of an existing analysis process registered in advance in the dynamic analysis system, and has a new analysis algorithm in which the judgment criteria used for the judgment in the logic are different from the judgment criteria in the analysis algorithm of the analysis process.

[0017] As a result, in the dynamic analysis system of the present disclosure, based on existing analysis processes that are commonly used, multiple types of sub-analysis processes corresponding to the usage environment are automatically prepared at the time of system installation. Therefore, when using the actual system, the user of the dynamic analysis system can utilize appropriate analysis processes according to the usage environment.

[0018] As a result, the following effects are obtained. Depending on the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system, there may be cases where only dynamic images that do not satisfy the conditions required by the existing analysis processes pre-prepared in the dynamic analysis system can be obtained. For example, depending on the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system, there may be cases where only dynamic images with a low frame rate and a low dose can be obtained. Even if an analysis process is performed using a dynamic image that does not satisfy the necessary conditions, it is difficult to obtain an accurate analysis result.

[0019] In the dynamic analysis system, multiple types of sub-analysis processes are pre-prepared for the existing analysis processes according to the usage environment. For example, in an environment where only dynamic images with a low frame rate and a low dose can be obtained, the dynamic analysis system generates an analysis algorithm for the sub-analysis process based on the premise of dynamic images with a low frame rate and a low dose. In this way, by using the sub-analysis process tuned to match the dynamic images with a low frame rate and a low dose, it becomes easier to obtain an analysis result with higher accuracy than the existing analysis processes that do not correspond to the dynamic images with a low frame rate and a low dose.

[0020] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0021] <System Configuration> FIG. 1 is a connection diagram showing the system configuration of an embodiment of the present disclosure. The dynamic analysis system 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes a photographing device 10, a photographing control device (console device) 20, an analysis device 30, an image management device 40, and a client terminal 50.

[0022] In the example shown in FIG. 1, the imaging device 10 is arranged in the imaging room, and the imaging control device 20 is arranged in the operation room. The imaging device 10, the imaging control device 20, the analysis device 30, the image management device 40, and the client terminal 50 are connected to each other via a communication network conforming to, for example, the DICOM (Digital Image and Communications in Medicine) standard or the like.

[0023] Based on the control of the imaging control device 20, the imaging device 10 performs dynamic imaging. The dynamic image generated by the imaging device 10 is transmitted to the analysis device 30 via the imaging control device 20. The analysis device 30 performs dynamic analysis based on the dynamic image. The dynamic image and the result of the dynamic analysis are transmitted to the client terminal 50 and viewed by medical staff such as doctors. The dynamic image and the result of the dynamic analysis are transmitted to the image management device 40 (for example, a storage device included in a PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System)) and managed.

[0024] The imaging device 10, the imaging control device 20, and the analysis device 30 each have a processor and a memory, and can realize a predetermined function by reading out and expanding a program stored in the memory and executing it. They are a kind of computer.

[0025] [Imaging device 10] As shown in FIG. 1, the imaging device 10 includes a control unit 11, a radiation irradiation device 12, an imaging table 13, a radiation detection unit 14, a display device 15, and an audio device 16.

[0026] The control unit 11 controls each component of the imaging device 10. The control unit 11 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like.

[0027] The radiation irradiation device 12 is arranged at a position facing the radiation detection unit 14 fixed to the imaging table 13. The radiation irradiation device 12 irradiates radiation (X-rays) toward the radiation detection unit 14 according to the control of the control unit 11.

[0028] The radiation detection unit 14 is composed of a semiconductor image sensor such as an FPD (Flat Panel Detector). The radiation detection unit 14 has a substrate on which a plurality of detection elements (pixels) that detect the radiation irradiated from the radiation irradiation device 12 according to its intensity, convert the detected radiation into an electrical signal, and accumulate it are arranged in a matrix. Each pixel of the substrate is configured to include a switching unit such as a TFT (Thin Film Transistor).

[0029] The radiation detection unit 14 controls the switching unit of each pixel based on control information, reads the electrical signal accumulated in each pixel, and outputs intensity information for each pixel to the image generation unit 112. The image reading conditions are, for example, frame rate, frame interval, pixel size, image size (matrix size), etc. The frame rate is the number of frame images acquired per second and coincides with the pulse rate. The frame interval is the time from the start of the acquisition operation of one image data to the start of the acquisition operation of the next frame image and coincides with the pulse interval.

[0030] The control unit 11 and the radiation detection unit 14 are connected to each other and exchange synchronization signals to synchronize the radiation irradiation operation and the image reading operation.

[0031] In this way, the imaging device 10 performs dynamic imaging of a radiation image by irradiating radiation with the radiation irradiation device 12 based on the control information of the imaging control device 20 and generating image data based on the radiation intensity irradiated to the radiation detection unit 14.

[0032] The display device 15 and the audio device 16 give instructions regarding the posture and physical state (such as the breathing state) that the subject M should assume when performing dynamic imaging of the subject M. The display device 15 is, for example, a display device such as a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), a liquid crystal display (Liquid Crystal Display), or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. The audio device 16 is, for example, an audio output device such as a speaker. The display device 15 and the audio device 16 may each give the same instructions to the subject, or only one of them may give the instructions.

[0033] Figure 2 is a block diagram for explaining the functional configuration of the control unit 11. The control unit 11 includes a shooting condition determination unit 111, an image generation unit 112, and a storage unit 113.

[0034] The shooting condition determination unit 111 determines the shooting conditions when performing dynamic imaging of the subject based on the control information acquired from the shooting control device 20.

[0035] The shooting conditions include various conditions such as, for example, the pulse rate, pulse width, pulse interval, number of shooting frames per shot, dose per unit time of radiation irradiation, and the physical state (such as the breathing state) of the subject. The pulse rate is the number of radiation irradiations per second and coincides with the frame rate of the image data. The pulse width is the radiation irradiation time per radiation irradiation. The pulse interval is the time from the start of one radiation irradiation to the start of the next radiation irradiation and coincides with the time interval (frame interval) between multiple pieces of image data. The shooting conditions may be automatically determined by the control unit 11 of the imaging device 10 based on the setting information. Alternatively, the shooting conditions may be determined by the analysis device 30 described later, and the imaging device 10 may acquire information indicating the shooting conditions from the analysis device 30 before shooting.

[0036] The image generation unit 112 executes dynamic imaging of the subject based on the determined imaging conditions, and generates a plurality of frames of radiographic images. Specifically, the image generation unit 112 controls the operations of the radiation irradiation device 12 and the radiation detection unit 14 based on the imaging conditions, and acquires intensity information regarding the radiation intensity transmitted through the subject from the radiation detection unit 14 for each pixel, thereby generating image data.

[0037] The image generation unit 112 associates the generated dynamic image with information regarding the imaging conditions at the time of imaging, and transmits the same to the imaging control device 20 and the analysis device 30 via the communication unit 35.

[0038] As described above, the storage unit 113 stores in advance information indicating the correspondence relationship between a plurality of types of combinations of dynamic analysis and the imaging conditions suitable for the combinations.

[0039] [Imaging Control Device 20] The imaging control device 20 is a computer such as a PC (Personal Computer) or a workstation. The imaging control device 20 may be a desktop computer as in the example shown in FIG. 1, or may be a portable computer, that is, a so-called notebook computer or a tablet computer.

[0040] The imaging control device 20 receives imaging order information from an RIS (Radiology Information System) or the like, and generates control information for controlling the dynamic imaging of the imaging device 10. The imaging order information includes various types of information regarding the dynamic imaging to be executed next, such as patient information, examination information (examination ID, examination target site (for example, chest, particularly lungs or heart, etc.), type of analysis (for example, ventilation analysis, pulmonary blood flow analysis, measurement of maximum ventilation volume, etc.), data attribute (emergency, outpatient general, in-hospital progress observation, etc.)). The imaging order information is generated, for example, when a doctor or the like requests dynamic imaging of the subject to the dynamic analysis system 100.

[0041] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the imaging control device 20. The imaging control device 20 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, an operation unit 23, a display unit 24, and a communication unit 25. Each component included in the imaging control device 20 is connected to each other by a bus 26.

[0042] The imaging control device 20 generates control information based on imaging order information and transmits the control information to the imaging device 10. Thereby, the imaging control device 20 controls the imaging process by the imaging device 10. The imaging control device 20 may receive a moving image generated by the imaging device 10 based on the control information and display it for the operator to confirm, for example.

[0043] The control unit 21 is composed of a CPU, a RAM, etc. In the control unit 21, the CPU reads out a system program and various processing programs stored in the storage unit 22 in response to an operation of the operation unit 23 and expands them in the RAM, and based on the expanded programs, controls the operations of each part of the imaging control device 20.

[0044] The storage unit 22 is composed of a non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, etc. The storage unit 22 stores various programs executed by the control unit 21, parameters necessary for executing processing by the programs, or data such as processing results. The various programs are stored in the form of readable program codes, and the control unit 21 sequentially executes operations according to the program codes.

[0045] The storage unit 22 stores image reading conditions for performing dynamic imaging. Further, the storage unit 22 stores imaging order information transmitted from an RIS or the like. When the imaging control device 20 controls the dynamic imaging of the imaging device 10, the storage unit 22 reads out and transmits the image reading conditions corresponding to the subject and the imaging order information.

[0046] The operation unit 23 is an operation device such as a keyboard equipped with cursor keys, numeric input keys, and various function keys, a pointing device such as a mouse or a trackball, and a touch panel. The operation unit 23 generates an instruction signal based on the operator's input and outputs it to the control unit 21.

[0047] The display unit 24 is composed of a display device such as a CRT, a liquid crystal display, or an organic EL display. The display unit 24 displays an input instruction from the operation unit 23, image data generated by the imaging device 10, etc. according to the instruction of the display signal input from the control unit 21.

[0048] The communication unit 25 performs data transmission and reception with the imaging device 10, the analysis device 30, the RIS, etc.

[0049] [Analysis device 30] The analysis device 30 is a computer such as a PC or a workstation. The analysis device 30 may be a desktop computer, or may be a portable computer, that is, a so-called notebook computer or a tablet computer, etc.

[0050] The analysis device 30 executes analysis processing based on the moving image captured by the imaging device 10. The analysis device 30 can execute a plurality of types of main analysis processing and a plurality of types of sub-analysis processing. The analysis device 30 executes appropriate analysis processing on the moving image received from the imaging device 10.

[0051] Figure 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the analysis device 30. The analysis device 30 has a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, an operation unit 33, a display unit 34, and a communication unit 35. Each configuration of the analysis device 30 is connected by a bus 36.

[0052] The control unit 31 is composed of a CPU, a RAM, etc. In the control unit 31, the CPU reads out the system program and various processing programs stored in the storage unit 32 according to the operation of the operation unit 33, expands them in the RAM, and based on the expanded programs, executes the operation control of each part of the analysis device 30, dynamic analysis, etc.

[0053] The control unit 31 includes an environment information acquisition unit 311, an analysis algorithm generation unit 312, an image acquisition unit 313, and an analysis process execution unit 314.

[0054] The environment information acquisition unit 311 acquires environment information regarding the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system 100. For example, the environment information acquisition unit 311 may acquire the environment information at the timing when the dynamic analysis system 100 is installed at an installation location such as a medical facility.

[0055] The usage environment of the dynamic analysis system 100 includes, for example, the attributes of the installation location of the dynamic analysis system 100, the attributes of the user who uses the dynamic analysis system 100, the usage of the dynamic analysis system 100, the predicted state of the subject in advance, and the performance of the computer that constitutes the dynamic analysis system 100, etc.

[0056] The attributes of the installation location include, for example, the type of facility where the dynamic analysis system 100 is installed, the classification of the installation location within the facility, etc. The types of facilities where the dynamic analysis system 100 is installed include, for example, medical facilities, or other facilities (such as research institutes), and among medical facilities, hospitals, clinics, or health examination facilities, etc. The classification of the installation location within the facility includes, for example, within a hospital, an intensive care unit (ICU), or a general ward, etc.

[0057] The attributes of the user include, for example, medical staff, or other persons (such as researchers), and among medical staff, doctors, or radiological technologists (imaging technologists), etc.

[0058] For use, it includes examinations for diagnosis or screening in hospitals or clinics, examinations for health check-ups, or use for research, and among the examinations for diagnosis or screening, it includes screening tests, confirmatory tests, or follow-up observations, etc.

[0059] The state of the subject predicted in advance is a state that the subject can take, which can be predicted in advance at the time of installation of the dynamic analysis system 100. The state of the subject predicted in advance includes, for example, whether the subject can be stationary or whether the allowable exposure dose is more than a predetermined threshold value. For example, when it is predicted that there are many children as the subject, such as when the installation location of the dynamic analysis system is a pediatric ward, it is predicted that the subject will be difficult to stay stationary during the examination. For example, when it is predicted that there are many pregnant women or newborns as the subject, such as when the installation location of the dynamic analysis system is an obstetrics and gynecology ward, it is predicted that the allowable exposure dose is smaller than the threshold value. The threshold value is, for example, the allowable dose of a general adult.

[0060] The computer constituting the dynamic analysis system 100 is, as described above, an arbitrary computer such as a PC or a workstation, and its performance may vary depending on the installation location and the like. Therefore, the computer constituting the dynamic analysis system 100 may have only the minimum operating performance capable of realizing the functions of the dynamic analysis system 100. Specifically, when there is no room for the installation location or when it is installed in a country or region where it is difficult to obtain a computer, a relatively low-performance computer such as a notebook computer or a tablet terminal may be used. The performance of the computer constituting the dynamic analysis system 100 includes the degree to which it exceeds the operating performance required by the dynamic analysis system 100.

[0061] The environmental information is input by the user of the dynamic analysis system 100 by hand at the time of installation of the dynamic analysis system 100, for example. In this case, the environmental information acquisition unit 311 acquires the environmental information input by the user via the operation unit 23.

[0062] The analysis algorithm generation unit 312 generates a new analysis algorithm based on environmental information at a predetermined timing according to the analysis algorithm of the basic analysis process set in the analyzer 30 in advance. The basic analysis process is an example of the existing analysis processes of the present disclosure.

[0063] The predetermined timing is, for example, the timing when the environmental information acquisition unit 311 acquires environmental information. That is, the predetermined timing is the timing immediately after the dynamic analysis system 100 is installed, or the timing when the dynamic analysis system 100 receives a new dynamic image associated with environmental information from the imaging device 10.

[0064] The basic analysis process is a process having an analysis algorithm prepared by the designer of the dynamic analysis system 100 or the like at the time of designing or manufacturing the dynamic analysis system 100. A plurality of types of basic analysis processes are prepared for each body part (such as the chest, abdomen, lungs, or heart) of the subject to be dynamically imaged. In the following description, the basic analysis process may be described as the main analysis process. That is, the main analysis process is an example of the existing analysis processes of the present disclosure.

[0065] The generation of the new analysis algorithm is performed, for example, by setting criteria for executing a new analysis process on the dynamic image based on the criteria in the analysis algorithm of the main analysis process. The generation of the new analysis algorithm may be further performed based on information indicating the imaging conditions associated with the dynamic image.

[0066] Examples of the main analysis process when the subject of dynamic imaging is the lungs include the BS mode, FE mode, DM mode, LM mode, LA mode, TD mode, PL mode, PH mode, PH2 mode, and the like.

[0067] The BS mode is a process of attenuating the signals of the ribs or collarbones in the lung field. By the BS mode, a lung field image in which the bones do not overlap and are displayed can be generated.

[0068] The FE mode is a process that emphasizes the movement of lung tissue with a specific frequency. By using the FE mode, the visibility can be improved by highlighting the edge portions of the tissue.

[0069] The DM mode is a process that tracks the up and down movements of the lung apex and the caudal part of the diaphragm. By using the DM mode, the movement of the diaphragm can be tracked and the amount of movement in the up and down directions can be quantified.

[0070] The LM mode is a process that tracks the signal value pattern including the blood vessel shadow in the lung field and displays the amount of movement of each region associated with breathing based on the maximum inspiration frame as a vector. By using the LM mode, the movement in the lung field can be visualized.

[0071] The LA mode is a process that extracts and determines the lung field contour and measures the lung field area.

[0072] The TD mode is a process that extracts the tracheal wall and measures the change in tracheal diameter associated with breathing.

[0073] The PL mode is a process that visualizes the signal changes in the behavior of lung tissue associated with breathing. By using the PL mode, the breathing state of the patient can be visualized.

[0074] The PH mode is a process that visualizes the signal changes in the lung field synchronized with the heartbeat. By using the PH mode, the movement of blood flow in the lung field can be visualized.

[0075] The PH2 mode is a process that visualizes the amount of change in the high-frequency signal in the lung field synchronized with the heartbeat. According to the PH2 mode, a change in blood flow volume that is more minute than that of the PH mode can be expressed.

[0076] The analysis algorithm of the secondary analysis process has logic related to the analysis algorithm of the primary analysis process, and is a new analysis algorithm in which the criteria used for judgment within the logic are different from those of the analysis algorithm of the primary analysis process. The logic related to the analysis algorithm of the primary analysis process is, for example, the same logic as that of the analysis algorithm of the primary analysis process. Also, the criteria are, for example, the threshold values of the parameters used for judgment within the logic of the analysis algorithm.

[0077] For example, based on the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system 100, the specifications (frame rate, dose, total number of frames, etc.) of the dynamic image obtained from the imaging device 10 may not meet the level required for accurately performing the primary analysis process. The secondary analysis process is an analysis process prepared to enable analysis with as high accuracy as possible even in such cases. For example, the secondary analysis process has a new analysis algorithm generated to be able to handle relatively low-performance dynamic images. In this case, when performing the secondary analysis process using a relatively low-performance dynamic image, it is expected that a relatively high-precision analysis result can be obtained compared to performing the primary analysis process using the same dynamic image.

[0078] A specific example will be described. FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram showing a first example in which the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 generates a plurality of analysis algorithms for secondary analysis based on the primary analysis based on environmental information. In FIG. 5, examples of a plurality of analysis algorithms for secondary analysis generated by the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 based on the analysis algorithm of the PL mode as the primary analysis are shown.

[0079] In the example shown in FIG. 5, when the environmental information indicates that the installation location of the dynamic analysis system 100 is a hospital and the application is examination or diagnosis, the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 generates the PL mode 502. The PL mode 502 has the same criteria (threshold values of parameters) as the PL mode 501 which is the analysis algorithm of the primary analysis process.

[0080] When the environmental information indicates that the subject of the dynamic analysis system 100 can be stationary and long-time shooting is possible, the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 generates a PL_Super mode 503 with relatively high image quality and high analysis accuracy based on the PL mode 502. The PL_Super mode 503 is an analysis algorithm generated assuming cases such as when accurate diagnosis is required in a hospital.

[0081] Also, when the environmental information indicates that the allowable exposure dose of the subject of the dynamic analysis system 100 is less than the threshold value, the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 generates a PL_Low-Dose mode 504 based on the PL mode 502. The PL_Low-Dose mode 504 is an analysis algorithm capable of analyzing dynamic images taken with a relatively low dose. The PL_Low-Dose mode 504 is an analysis algorithm generated assuming cases such as when it is desired to reduce the exposure dose to the subject even if the analysis accuracy decreases.

[0082] On the other hand, when the environmental information indicates that the installation location of the dynamic analysis system 100 is a clinic and the application is examination or diagnosis, the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 generates a PL_Light mode 505 based on the PL mode 501 which is the main analysis process. The PL_Light mode 505 is an analysis algorithm capable of analyzing dynamic images with relatively less information amount by relatively short-time shooting. In a clinic, it is assumed that there is a need to handle more patients in a shorter time compared to a large hospital. The PL_Light mode 505 is an analysis algorithm capable of handling such short-time shooting.

[0083] Furthermore, when the environmental information indicates that the installation location of the dynamic analysis system 100 is a clinic (also referred to as a medical clinic or a hospital) and the use is for examination or diagnosis, the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 generates a PL_S-Light mode 506 based on the PL_Light mode 505. The PL_S-Light mode 506 is an analysis algorithm that enables analysis using dynamic images with even less information volume than the PL_Light mode 505. In a clinic or the like, due to space constraints or budgetary reasons, a relatively inexpensive notebook computer or the like with relatively low operating performance may be used as the analysis device 30. The PL_S-Light mode 506 is an analysis algorithm that can be executed even on such a computer with relatively low operating performance.

[0084] On the other hand, when the environmental information indicates that the installation location of the dynamic analysis system 100 is a health examination facility, the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 generates a PL_Screening mode 507 based on the PL mode 501 which is the main analysis process. The PL_Screening mode 507 is an analysis algorithm that enables analysis using dynamic images with relatively less information volume obtained by relatively short-time and low-dose imaging. In health examinations, it is assumed that dynamic images with as short a time and as low a dose as possible are used because it is necessary to perform analysis processing on a large number of subjects and to reduce the health risks associated with health examinations. The PL_Screening mode 507 is an analysis algorithm that can meet such requirements.

[0085] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing a second example in which the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 generates a plurality of analysis algorithms for sub-analysis processes based on the analysis algorithm of the main analysis process according to environmental information. FIG. 6 shows examples of a plurality of analysis algorithms for sub-analysis processes generated by the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 based on the PH2 mode as the main analysis process.

[0086] In the example shown in FIG. 6, when the environmental information indicates that the installation location of the dynamic analysis system 100 is a hospital and the use is examination or diagnosis, the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 generates a PH2 mode 602 based on the PH2 mode 601. The PH2 mode 602 has the same judgment criteria (threshold values of parameters) as the PH2 mode 601 which is the analysis algorithm of the main analysis process.

[0087] Furthermore, when the environmental information indicates that the subject of the dynamic analysis system 100 can be stationary and long-time shooting is possible, the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 generates a PH2_Super mode 603 based on the PH2 mode 602. The PH2_Super mode 603 is an analysis algorithm with relatively high image quality and high analysis accuracy. The PH2_Super mode 603 is an analysis algorithm generated assuming a case where accurate diagnosis is required in a hospital.

[0088] Also, when the environmental information indicates that the allowable exposure dose of the subject of the dynamic analysis system 100 is less than the threshold value, the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 generates a PH2_Low-Dose mode 604 based on the PH2 mode 602. The PH2_Low-Dose mode 604 is an analysis algorithm capable of analyzing dynamic images taken with relatively low dose. The PH2_Low-Dose mode 604 is an analysis algorithm generated assuming a case where it is desired to reduce the exposure dose to the subject even if the analysis accuracy decreases.

[0089] On the other hand, when the environmental information indicates that the installation location of the dynamic analysis system 100 is a clinic and the use is examination or diagnosis, the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 generates a PH2_Light mode 605 based on the PH2 mode 601 which is the main analysis process. The PH2_Light mode 605 is an analysis algorithm capable of analyzing dynamic images with relatively less information amount by relatively short-time shooting. The PH2_Light mode 605 is an analysis algorithm capable of handling the case of shooting many subjects in a short time each.

[0090] Furthermore, when the environmental information indicates that the installation location of the dynamic analysis system 100 is a clinic and the use is examination or diagnosis, the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 generates a PH2_S-Light mode 606 based on the PH2_Light mode 605. The PH2_S-Light mode 606 is an analysis algorithm that enables analysis using a dynamic image with even less information content than the PH2_Light mode 605 and can be executed on a computer with relatively low operating performance.

[0091] The analysis algorithm generation unit 312 may store in the storage unit 32, in association with each of the generated sub-analysis processes, information indicating the specifications of the dynamic image appropriate for each sub-analysis process.

[0092] The examples described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6 are merely examples, and the dynamic analysis system of the present disclosure can generate various sub-analysis processes in addition to the sub-analysis processes described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. Depending on the combination of information regarding the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system 100 included in the environmental information, various analysis algorithms for sub-analysis processes can be generated based on the analysis algorithm of one main analysis process. However, in order to prevent the number of types of sub-analysis processes from becoming excessive, the number of analysis algorithms that can be generated by the analysis algorithm generation unit may be limited.

[0093] Returning to the description of FIG. 4. The image acquisition unit 313 acquires the dynamic image generated by the imaging device 10.

[0094] The analysis process execution unit 314 performs an analysis process using the dynamic image. The analysis process execution unit 314 selects, from among the main analysis process and the sub-analysis processes, an analysis process appropriate for the acquired dynamic image based on the information indicating the imaging conditions associated with the acquired dynamic image. The analysis process execution unit 314 performs the selected analysis process on the dynamic image.

[0095] A specific example will be given for explanation. When the analysis processing execution unit 314 determines, based on information indicating shooting conditions associated with the acquired moving image, that the moving image was shot for a long time and at a high dose, the analysis processing execution unit 314 selects, from the main analysis processing and the sub-analysis processing, the analysis processing appropriate for the moving image shot for a long time and at a high dose. For example, in the example of FIG. 5, the analysis processing appropriate for the moving image shot for a long time and at a high dose is the sub-analysis processing using the PL_Super mode 503.

[0096] The storage unit 32 is composed of a non-volatile semiconductor memory, a hard disk, or the like. The storage unit 32 stores various programs executed by the control unit 31, parameters necessary for executing the processing by the programs, or data such as processing results. The various programs are stored in the form of readable program codes, and the control unit 31 sequentially executes operations according to the program codes.

[0097] The storage unit 32 stores the environmental information acquired by the environmental information acquisition unit 311. When environmental information is transmitted from the imaging device 10 in association with a moving image, the storage unit 32 may store the new environmental information in addition to the environmental information originally stored.

[0098] The storage unit 32 stores information regarding the main analysis processing that can be performed by the analysis device 30, such as at the time of manufacturing the moving image analysis system 100. The information regarding the main analysis processing includes the analysis algorithm of the main analysis processing. The storage unit 32 stores information regarding the sub-analysis processing generated by the analysis processing execution unit 314. The information regarding the sub-analysis processing includes the analysis algorithm of the sub-analysis processing.

[0099] The storage unit 32 stores list information indicating patient information, examination information, and status (for example, progress status such as in reception, in moving image analysis, and analysis completed) related to each moving image for generating the moving image generated by the imaging device 10. Further, the storage unit 32 stores the analysis result in association with the moving image.

[0100] The operation unit 33 is a keyboard equipped with cursor keys, numeric input keys, and various function keys, a pointing device such as a mouse or a trackball, and an operation device such as a touch panel. The operation unit 33 generates an instruction signal based on the operator's input and outputs it to the control unit 31. Further, the operation unit 33 may include a touch panel on the display screen of the display unit 34. In this case, the instruction signal input via the touch panel is output to the control unit 31.

[0101] The display unit 34 is composed of a display device such as a CRT, a liquid crystal display, or an organic EL display. The display unit 34 displays an input instruction from the operation unit 33, image data generated by the imaging device 10, etc. according to the instruction of the display signal input from the control unit 31.

[0102] The communication unit 35 performs data transmission and reception with the imaging device 10, the analysis device 30, etc.

[0103] Note that the analysis device 30 may acquire setting information from the imaging control device 20 or the imaging device 10 and set imaging conditions based on the setting information and the environmental information. In this case, since imaging conditions considering the environmental information can be set, the imaging device 10 can generate a higher-precision image.

[0104] <Operation example> Next, an operation example of the entire dynamic analysis system 100 will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an operation example from when the dynamic analysis system 100 is installed at the installation location until it becomes usable.

[0105] As described above, after each component of the dynamic analysis system 100 is installed at the installation location, environmental information is input by the user's operation. In step S1, the environmental information acquisition unit 311 of the analysis device 30 acquires the environmental information input by the user.

[0106] In step S2, the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 of the analysis device 30 reads out the information regarding the main analysis process stored in advance in the storage unit 32.

[0107] In step S3, the analysis algorithm generation unit 312 of the analysis device 30 newly generates an analysis algorithm for sub-analysis processing for each main analysis process based on the environmental information.

[0108] In step S4, the storage unit 32 of the analysis device 30 stores information related to the sub-analysis processing including the generated analysis algorithm.

[0109] Through the above processing, in the analysis device 30, a plurality of analysis algorithms for sub-analysis processing are generated based on the analysis algorithm of the main analysis processing. Thereby, appropriate sub-analysis processing can be prepared according to the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system 100.

[0110] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation example when the dynamic analysis system 100 performs dynamic analysis.

[0111] In step S11, the shooting control device 20 generates control information for controlling the shooting device 10 based on the shooting order information received in advance.

[0112] In step S12, the shooting condition determination unit 111 of the shooting device 10 determines the shooting conditions based on the control information acquired from the shooting control device 20.

[0113] In step S13, the image generation unit 112 of the shooting device 10 performs dynamic shooting using the determined shooting conditions. The dynamic image generated by the dynamic shooting is transmitted to the analysis device 30 via the shooting control device 20.

[0114] In step S14, the analysis processing execution unit 314 of the analysis device 30 selects an analysis processing appropriate for the received dynamic image from among the main analysis processing and the sub-analysis processing based on the environmental information associated with the received dynamic image.

[0115] In step S15, the analysis processing execution unit 314 of the analysis device 30 performs the selected analysis processing on the dynamic image.

[0116] In step S16, the analysis device 30 causes the display unit 34 to display the analysis result. Further, the analysis device 30 stores the analysis result in the storage unit 32. The analysis result may include information regarding the analysis process used.

[0117] <Function, Effect> As described above, the dynamic analysis system 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes an environment information acquisition unit 311 that acquires environment information regarding the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system 100, and a new analysis algorithm that has logic related to the analysis algorithm of the existing analysis process and has a judgment criterion used for judgment within the logic different from the judgment criterion in the analysis algorithm of the existing analysis process. The analysis algorithm generation unit 312 generates the analysis algorithm based on the environment information.

[0118] According to the dynamic analysis system 100, an analysis algorithm for sub-analysis processing corresponding to the specifications of a dynamic image that is expected in advance according to the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system 100 can be generated based on the analysis algorithm of the main analysis process. Thereby, for example, even if the generated dynamic image is a relatively low-specification (low frame rate or low dose) image that does not satisfy the conditions required for the execution of the main analysis process, a sub-analysis process tuned in advance according to the low-specification dynamic image can be prepared.

[0119] <Modification Example> In the above-described embodiment, a preferred example of the present disclosure has been described, but the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment. The present disclosure can be variously modified within the scope of the claims.

[0120] In the above-described embodiment, as an application example of the dynamic analysis system of the present disclosure, the case where a dynamic image of the chest is taken and dynamic analysis of the chest is performed has been described. The dynamic analysis system of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and may perform dynamic imaging and dynamic analysis of other parts.

[0121] In the above-described embodiment, the analysis device 30 acquires environmental information and generates an analysis algorithm for secondary analysis processing. The dynamic analysis system of the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, a shooting control device may acquire environmental information and generate an analysis algorithm for secondary analysis processing. In this case, the shooting control device transmits the analysis algorithm for secondary analysis processing generated at a predetermined timing to the analysis device. The analysis device stores the received analysis algorithm in the storage unit, and when receiving a dynamic image, may read out an appropriate analysis algorithm and perform dynamic analysis.

[0122] In the above-described embodiment, the environmental information was input by the user when the dynamic analysis system 100 was installed. The present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the environmental information may be generated based on information regarding shooting conditions associated with a dynamic image when the shooting device actually performs dynamic shooting of a subject after the installation of the dynamic analysis system. In this case, when newly acquiring a dynamic image, the analysis algorithm generation unit may generate environmental information indicating the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system based on the shooting conditions associated with the dynamic image. In this case, environmental information is generated each time the analysis device newly acquires a dynamic image, and a new analysis algorithm for secondary analysis processing may be generated based on the newly generated environmental information.

[0123] In the above-described embodiment, the dynamic analysis system 100 had the imaging device 10, the imaging control device 20, and the analysis device 30 as separate configurations. The present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the dynamic analysis system may be realized by one device in which a part of the imaging device (such as a control unit, a storage unit, a communication unit, etc.), the imaging control device, and the analysis device are integrated.

Industrial Applicability

[0124] The present invention is suitable for a dynamic analysis system capable of executing various analysis processes using dynamic images.

Explanation of Signs

[0125] 100 Dynamic analysis system 10 Imaging device 11 Control unit 111 Shooting condition determination unit 112 Image generation unit 113 Memory unit 12 Radiation irradiation device 13 Shooting table 14 Radiation detection unit 15 Display device 16 Audio device 20 Shooting control device 21 Control unit 22 Memory unit 23 Operation unit 24 Display unit 25 Communication unit 26 Bus 30 Analysis device 31 Control unit 311 Environment information acquisition unit 312 Analysis algorithm generation unit 313 Image acquisition unit 314 Analysis process execution unit 32 Memory unit 33 Operation unit 34 Display unit 35 Communication unit 36 Bus 40 Image management device 50 Client terminal

Claims

1. A step of acquiring environmental information regarding the usage environment of a dynamic analysis system that executes analysis processing using a predetermined analysis algorithm on dynamic images generated by radiation irradiation; A step of generating a new analysis algorithm that has logic related to the analysis algorithm of existing analysis processing and whose criteria for judgment used in the judgment within the logic are different from the criteria for judgment in the analysis algorithm of the existing analysis processing, based on the environmental information; A control program for causing a computer to execute the above.

2. The judgment criteria are threshold values of parameters in the analysis algorithm. The control program according to Claim 1.

3. The generating step includes: A step of setting imaging conditions for imaging the dynamic images to be the subject of new analysis processing using the new analysis algorithm, based on the environmental information; A step of setting the judgment criteria for executing the new analysis processing on the dynamic images imaged under the set imaging conditions. The control program according to Claim 1.

4. The generating step is executed when the dynamic analysis system is installed and the usage environment is determined. The control program according to Claim 1.

5. The generating step is executed when the dynamic images imaged under arbitrarily set imaging conditions for generating the dynamic images are acquired by the dynamic analysis system. The control program according to Claim 1.

6. The generating step includes a step of setting the judgment criteria for executing new analysis processing using the new analysis algorithm on the acquired dynamic images, based on the imaging conditions acquired by the dynamic analysis system together with the dynamic images. The control program according to Claim 5.

7. A control method executed by a computer included in a dynamic analysis system that executes analysis processing using a predetermined analysis algorithm using dynamic images generated by radiation irradiation, the method comprising: A step of acquiring environmental information regarding the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system; A step of generating a new analysis algorithm that has logic related to the analysis algorithm of existing analysis processing and whose criteria for judgment used in the judgment within the logic are different from the criteria for judgment in the analysis algorithm of the existing analysis processing, based on the environmental information. A control method having the above steps.

8. A dynamic analysis system that executes analysis processing using a predetermined analysis algorithm using dynamic images generated by radiation irradiation, an environment information acquisition unit that acquires environment information regarding the usage environment of the dynamic analysis system, and an analysis algorithm generation unit that generates a new analysis algorithm that has logic related to the analysis algorithm of existing analysis processing and whose criteria used for judgment within the logic are different from the criteria in the analysis algorithm of the existing analysis processing, based on the environment information. A dynamic analysis system comprising the above.

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